Wretched Beginnings 1813 – Chapter 13
Tuesday, June 1, 1813
"Miss Anne…"
"Yes, Aveline…"
"Please listen to these suggestions. They will improve your looks, and attitude."
"Very well," Anne sighed, thinking this would be another of Mother's fault-finding conversations.
"You have too many perfumes…most of them have gone off because they are so old. Some of them are not appropriate for you. Your soaps should match your scents. You are a young, petite woman. You need a light floral fragrance. One which is easy to find and purchase…perhaps a single scent like rose, jasmine, violets or lavender. I sent everything inappropriate to the housekeeper to share with the maids. I sent the empty perfume flasks to be cleaned for you to use again."
'I'm sorry ladies,' Anne thought. 'At least I appreciate the cleaned perfume flasks and Aveline's efforts.'
"Always carry a book and a parasol with you. Wear dainty jewelry, sized for a petite woman like you. You deserve to wear silk petticoats, stockings, nightrails, wrappers and gloves when the occasion is appropriate. Wear a pretty day gowns when you are at Rosings. Dress your hair daily. Speak softly. Remember your manners. Don't reveal anything about your life which you would not want your mother or the ton to know."
Anne pulled a face.
"There is more…" Aveline continued. "Your suite was a disgrace. I sent a dozen bottles of god-knows-what-medicine down to the stillroom to be emptied. I ordered the bottles washed and given to Mrs. Mary to be used again. I replaced your old bed linens with better. I added two small silk pillows to your bed, just to look pretty. I replaced six pictures of ancestors with landscapes. I moved larger night tables to your room with silver candlesticks and four-hour candles of the best beeswax. I requested fresh flowers for your sleeping quarters, dining room and drawing room every few days. I moved your journal, writing set and quills to a small writing desk in the sitting room attached to your sleeping room. I put your cream cashmere shawl on the chaise at the end of your bed. I put cream silk pillows on the chaise also. I put a small table beside the chaise with a candlestick and a book. Your room looks like a lady resides in it."
"It didn't before?" Anne's surprise encouraged Aveline.
"Was it a guest room? Were the occupants reminded of the rank of your family? If I offended…I apologize for the impression."
"My Aunt Anne used the suite," Anne admitted. "When I became ill at five and ten, Mother moved me into the suite near her suite."
"Your mother lorded her family connections over her sister by marriage?"
"Perhaps…I believe it would explain the pictures. Mother desired the preservation of rank. She married a peer for his title. Aunt Anne married a wealthy country gentleman for love."
"I sent the odd china which you use for your tea to the servants' common room. You'll be using a complete set from now on. I've left orders for cook to provide you with a pretty tea tray each day. If you are entertaining, your guests will be spoiled. Tea time is a respite for you. If you are not entertaining, read poetry, arrange flowers or write in your journal." Aveline intended to take excellent care of Miss Anne. "I must make changes to your sitting room at the de Bourgh House. There are a few changes to make to your suite there also."
~X~
"Aunt Phillips, thank you for the tea. Lizzy and I just came from the modiste. We brought materials and fashion plates from London with us. She was thrilled to have new fashion plates! Everything will be ready before the end of June. After tea on Sunday, when the banns will be read the first time, we will show you our wedding gowns and our ball gowns." Jane was grateful she and Lizzy walked to Meryton alone. The walk allowed them to discuss work needing to be done at Netherfield.
"I'm surprised Franny isn't with you," Mrs. Phillips remarked.
"She is sleeping this morning, because it will be a late night. Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy are coming to dinner," Lizzy noted wryly. "Hill attempts to keep the house quiet so Mama can rest. Kitty works with staff and in the kitchen today. Mr. Hill works with Lydia in the gardens on the main farm."
"So, tell me news of Brother Gardiner and his family." Mrs. Phillips would rather hear about everything from Franny, but she would wait to ask. Neither Jane or Lizzy gossiped like Franny or Lydia. However, they were better company than Mary, who wouldn't gossip even if the devil set fire to her toes.
It had been a busy fortnight, between shopping and social obligations. Both Darcy and Bingley showed their London homes to their prospective brides. Jane and Lizzy explained about the houses and the possible changes they would affect after the wedding tour ended. Netherfield was different. Charles and Jane planned to redecorate and rearrange the master suite which Louisa and Hurst had used at Netherfield. Jane drew plans to change the drawing room and the dining room using furniture which they shipped from the Bingley House, London. Lizzy recommended updated upholstery for two worn chairs in the Darcy House library. Lizzy loved the Darcy House in London. Darcy could not wait to take her to Pemberley.
Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy enjoyed the relative quiet at Netherfield. They would go to Longbourn for dinner. Mr. Bennet agreed to keep it from being a late night. The banns would be read the next three Sundays. The birthday ball was the Saturday after. Then it was three short days until the wedding.
Darcy and Bingley purchased dark blue topcoats and pale grey trousers in London, with fine white shirts and cravats. Bingley chose a light blue brocade for his waistcoat which matched the blue brocade of Jane's wedding cloak. Darcy selected a sapphire blue brocade with tiny gold stripes. The sapphire blue matched the color of his eyes. They both had new black walking boots and black tophats. Darcy's valet and Bingley's valet had been hard at work, with open trunks lining the walls in the dressing rooms. Darcy had a travel trunk to hold his writing slope, dressing case, portable tantalizer, portable chess board and a dozen books to read on the honeymoon. They both had separate sporting trunks to hold riding clothes, shooting clothes, and fishing clothes. Guns and fishing gear had their own storage and transportation cases.
~X~
After dinner, the engaged couples wrote wedding invitation letters. Bingley did not write; he helped Jane with the letters to his family members. Aunt Cordelia's letter explained Bingley would arrange rooms for Aunt Cordelia and Caroline at the best inns between Scarborough and London. Departing on the third Monday in June, Aunt Cordelia and Caroline would pause their travel at the Hurst House in London on Saturday before the wedding. He would write Louisa and Hurst, relating the wedding event itinerary to them. Louisa and Hurst should meet Aunt Cordelia and Caroline in London at the Hurst House. Bingley recommended they come forward to Netherfield on Monday before the wedding. Aunt Cordelia and Caroline were invited to stay at Netherfield until July first. The Hursts would return to London with them.
Bingley's letter to the Hursts invited them to the wedding. He explained the guest list and a full Netherfield and Longbourn. He arranged rooms for the Hursts at the Meryton Inn Monday before the wedding to Thursday morning after. The Hursts were invited to tea and dinner at Netherfield Park on Monday. Hurst was invited to a shooting party on Tuesday morning with breakfast and a midday meal served at Longbourn. Louisa was welcome to visit Aunt Cordelia and Caroline at Netherfield at any time. He hoped she would help decorate the ballroom on Tuesday afternoon after three and before dinner. Both Louisa and Hurst were invited to dinner Tuesday evening, although Bingley allowed it would be an early night before the wedding. The wedding would be at nine at St. Albans on Wednesday, June thirtieth. The wedding breakfast would be at Netherfield after the wedding. Aunt Cordelia and Caroline would be ready to return to London Thursday morning. The Hursts would return to London with them.
Bingley's letter to Caroline was cordial at best. She was invited to travel with Aunt Cordelia to Netherfield by Monday before the wedding. He explained the details of the travel and visit, ensuring she knew she would depart on Thursday after the wedding. She would stay with Aunt Cordelia or she would stay with Louisa. She would not remain at Netherfield. He did not reveal he planned to give Caroline her freedom. Before the wedding he would tell Caroline to present herself at the family solicitor's office on Thursday, when the four family returned to London. He would give her a copy of the letter of permission to the family solicitor to allow Caroline to receive her quarterly funds, minus of course, any of Caroline's bills or invoices which had been presented. Charles would remind Caroline she could not access her funds until the first of July.
Darcy wrote letters of invitation to the Earl and Countess of Matlock, Viscount and Lady Fitzwilliam, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and Anne de Bourgh. He invited them to Netherfield Park the week before the birthday ball until Friday after the wedding. He penned a longer letter to Georgiana, asking her and Mrs. Annesley to come with Uncle Reggie and Aunt Constance to Netherfield Park the week before the birthday ball. He sent letters forward to Houghton, Hardy and Mrs. Reynolds at Pemberley explaining about the house party. Miss Darcy and Mrs. Annesley would be in residence at Pemberley in July to oversee the preparations for the house party.
Darcy sent a letter forward to Mr. and Mrs. Behrens, the butler and housekeeper at Darcy House in London, explaining he and Mrs. Darcy, along with Mr. and Mrs. Bingley would rest at the Darcy House on June thirtieth and would depart for their wedding tour on July first. He sent letters forward to his stewards at Pembriar, Pembrook, and Pemwood to announce the travel plans for the wedding party. He explained the arrival of Miss Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley and the arrival of the Fitzwilliams the week following the wedding. He explained the arrival and departure of guests the last week of July and first week of August as everyone came forward for the Pemberley house party. He explained the arrival and departure of guests at the end of August.
Lizzy wrote a letter of invitation to Mary and Mr. Collins, explaining they would stay at Netherfield for the wedding events. She penned an invitation to the Gardiners, explaining they would be housed with Mr. and Mrs. Phillips for the wedding events. She wrote an invitation to Sir and Lady Lucas, including Charlotte, John, William and Maria for the birthday ball, wedding, and wedding breakfast. She wrote ball and wedding breakfast invitations to Mrs. Long, including her nieces. She wrote ball and wedding breakfast invitations to the Gouldings, including their three sons and their daughter Grace. She wrote wedding breakfast invitations to Mr. and Mrs. Woodley, the bookstore owners who also ran the circulating library in Meryton. She wrote birthday ball and wedding breakfast invitations to Mr. Jones and Mr. Locke and their families, explaining Mary looked forward to renewing their acquaintance. She wrote wedding breakfast invitations to Vicar and Mrs. Nelson. She wrote unaddressed wedding breakfast invitations for Mama to give to acquaintances who called at Longbourn.
As Mrs. Bennet interrupted them with names which must be put on the invitation lists, Jane reminded her the wedding was limited to fifty people, and the other four and twenty families of their society would be invited to the wedding breakfast. Darcy defused Mrs. Bennet's irritation by suggesting she personally invite people to the wedding breakfast each Sunday after the banns were read. He knew as much as she liked to gossip and chatter, she would probably ask everyone in Hertfordshire two or three times.
After writing his family letters Bingley and Jane concentrated on writing the invitations to the birthday ball. Bingley kissed Elizabeth's cheek at the end of the evening when he and Darcy were leaving. "Thank you," he whispered. "I'm so glad to gain an amiable sister."
Lizzy laughed. "I think you find Mary and Kitty amiable sisters."
"I am heartily sorry for my sisters," Bingley apologized.
"Not to worry," Lizzy retorted. "I'm quite lucky; I have Georgiana as a sister and I'm willing to share her with you."
Bingley laughed. "But not with Caroline and Louisa?"
Lizzy's saucy laugh made Bingley laugh more.
~X~
"Miss Anne…you seem at sixes and sevens." Aveline noted.
"I am in a mood," Anne agreed. "I am tired of cleaning, arranging and inventorying rooms. Please ask the cook for a decadent but restorative tea."
"Let me ring for a hot bath for you tonight…a long soaking hot bath. We can begin work again tomorrow after you dress in a comfortable day gown. You should order green tea for breakfast with some of your favorite brioche and lemon marmalade."
"I should have realized it would take time to clear Rosings Park, and the de Bourgh House and the Dower House."
"We should discuss the music room at the de Bourgh House. I suggest white and gold décor. Gold gilt, filigree frames on your landscapes. Eliminate the gold cherubs. Place the white busts on the mantle. Gold candelabra with the best four or six hour candles. Gold and white striped damask on the furniture. Burnished gold carpets with burnished gold velveteen drapes. White marble columns for white jardinières. White roses in vases…always white roses. Recreate the room as needed for Rosings Park and the Dower House."
"I'm writing this down," Anne reached for her everyday books. "However…changes to the music room means visiting warehouses. We must discuss the rooms which reflect Rosings Park. The pretentious and overdrawn must be eliminated. Where do we start?"
"View every room and write a plan. Some rooms can just be rearranged now," Aveline encouraged Anne to make the de Bourgh House reflect her style and tastes. "Each Friday when you go to London, take a wagon filled with furniture to sell, supplies for the de Bourgh House, and speak with your aunt about your diary. You don't want Lady Fitzwilliam overfilling your weekend. You have too much to do…providing her with a shopping companion is not necessary."
June 4
Caroline wept when she saw the social pages of Aunt Cordelia's London papers.
Mr. D. of P, Derbyshire, escorted his betrothed, Miss B. of Hertfordshire to dinner at the Matlock House…to revels at Vauxhall…Presentation Hour in Hyde Park… tea at Gunter's Ices…book shopping at Hatchard's Books… the theatre… dinner at the de Bourgh House…
Miss B. of Hertfordshire, fiancé of Mr. D. of P, Derbyshire, was seen shopping with the Countess of M., the Viscountess F., Miss de B. of RP, Kent and Miss D. of P, Derbyshire at various shops on Bond Street.
"I wish with all my soul that she will plague his heart, his homes and his society. Worthless chit!" Caroline's tears fell unfettered on the newspaper. 'You have shown Mr. Darcy how well you conduct yourself in society, how adept you are as a hostess, and how accomplished you are. Mrs. Bennet will put Darcy on the River Tick, expecting clothes and jewels befitting the mistress of Pemberley. He will be expected to provide a town house for Mrs. Bennet, furnish it, pay the servants, stock the cellars and pay for the very bread in her mouth. I guarantee once the blush of the honeymoon wears off…he will send the old chit back to her rightful place in Hertfordshire. He will abandon Eliza in the country and will be a free man in London to resume his more exalted friendships.' Caroline dried her tears and plotted.
~X~
"I cleaned each piece and checked prongs, clasps and settings." Mr. Edwards brought a tray of pink jewelry to the table where Anne waited. "This is the set I recreated from the large pink paste broach. This bracelet is gold with pink French paste diamond-shape stones. This floral bar pin has pink French paste stones, set in silver. Because it was crafted so well, I think it is a replica of a family heirloom. These triple drop flower earrings were probably made for a young lady. They are petite and silver. They were probably worn with this silver embossed pin, which has excellent quality pink French paste. This necklace and bracelet set with oval stones is gold and pink paste. I repaired the clasp on the bracelet. The stones are a rare deep pink color, prong set on the front, bezel set on the back."
"Thank you for the cleaning and repair," Anne observed how cleaning restored the sparkle to many of the pieces. Fitzwilliam admired the work done to the pieces.
"I believe this set is pink topaz in gold. This pendant has a round stone, set above an oval stone. The earring stones are round on the ear and drop by gold chain to oval dangling stones. Quite simple, but the stones and the gold setting are quality. This is a gold and pink topaz closed-back ring. The stone is a beautiful pink color, set in a floral etched band. The last piece is a set of French sterling silver and gold hair combs, in excellent condition. The floral scrolled band across the comb is set with pink topaz stones." Mr. Edwards produced an invoice. Anne gladly paid the amount he named.
"Have you examined the new pieces I had delivered to you," Anne inquired.
"The pieces found in Lady Catherine's crates from the Matlock House?" Mr. Edwards checked carefully.
"Yes, I've never seen them before. I don't know how long Mother owned them."
Mr. Edwards set a lockbox on the table, opened it and removed a tray of jewelry.
Fitzwilliam grinned. "You don't remember these because Aunt Catherine bought them from me in January. They are pieces I brought back from my tour of the continent. My regular buyers, like Mr. Edwards, could not match what I paid for them. Aunt Catherine could meet my price."
"Indeed, I thought I had seen these before," Mr. Edwards smiled. "Bracelet, Venetian, late 1700s – probably a family heirloom. Gold, set with twelve rose-cut round diamonds and a larger oval cut diamond set in the clasp. The bracelet is fashioned in sections which alternate –diamond set links with floral motif gold links. I repaired the chain on the clasp."
Edwards indicated the next piece. "Silver, gold and diamond earrings. Made in Portugal, about thirty years ago. Made in three sections: marquis-shaped silver ear mount, bow-shaped gold center and an elongated pear-shaped silver drop. Excellent quality diamond chips for the smaller stones in each section." He eyed Colonel Fitzwilliam speculatively. "Will you tell me what you paid for them?"
"A gentleman, the second son of an earl, does not kiss and tell," Fitzwilliam smiled. "However, the lady left with the matching hair ornament because I did not have the blunt to buy it."
"This last ring and bracelet set was made in Italy," Edwards watched Fitzwilliam's face for agreement. "Gold, emeralds and diamonds. Square cut center emerald on the ring, surrounded by a square of diamonds, surrounded by a square of emeralds. The bracelet is square-cut emeralds interspaced with round-cut diamonds. I think the set was worn to court. I don't believe it was something lower peerage or gentry might own."
"They are beautiful, and I want them." Anne gladly paid the price he named for cleaning and evaluating the pieces.
Mr. Edwards estimated he would have the remainder of Anne's jewelry cleaned and recreated by the first of September. The pieces to be sold would be cleaned, repaired and put to sale by the end of the month. He made her the same offer as the clothing store. He would sell on commission and settle her account at Midsummer, Michaelmas and Christmas. Anything not sold by Twelfth Night would belong to his store. He understood his priority was cleaning and restringing the Fitzwilliam pearls. Anne had need of them before the month ended.
June 5
Breakfast was not pleasant at Longbourn. Mr. Bennet announced the rules of conduct for the Saturday lawn parties at Netherfield Park. He reminded Mrs. Bennet and Lydia not to embarrass Jane or Lizzy. He reminded them not to be rude to any guest or importune Bingley and Darcy. He highly recommended they drink only cider today. If they drank too much iced wine punch and were foxed, he would call for the carriage and they would depart. He did not threaten pin monies…Mrs. Bennet and Lydia knew what was at stake
Today's lawn party included Longbourn and Netherfield tenants, along with tradespeople from Meryton. Lizzy and Jane worked diligently on the guest lists, separating them into the social classes which Mrs. Bennet considered when making or accepting callers.
Mr. Bennet insisted there was no need to wear silk day dresses, as they were not entertaining the ton. Jane and Lizzy both wore very pretty cotton afternoon gowns, and minimal jewelry. They dressed one another's hair and carried parasols to screen them from the sun. Kitty wore a pretty pink sprigged gown and carried the pink silk parasol given her by Miss Anne. Mrs. Bennet wore a wine afternoon gown…and was surprised when Jane and Lizzy gave her a wine silk parasol. Lizzy knew Mama detested the outdoors. The parasol was a bribe…Mama would probably use it to move from the carriage to the Netherfield ballroom. Lydia wore a white muslin gown with a new wine ribbon. Jane surprised Lydia with a pair of short wine cotton gloves…offering them as a bribe to behave herself today. Mr. Bennet escorted an appropriately subdued Mrs. Bennet and Lydia to the carriage. Bingley and Darcy greeted the Bennet carriage at the bottom of the stairs leading to the terrace at Netherfield Park.
Grooms were at the ready to help move equipage to the open courtyard by the stables. Musicians prepared to play concert music on the terrace with rows of chairs for observing. Footmen stood at the ready by the ballroom sideboards where bowls of cold claret wine punch or pitchers of cold apple cider awaited. Footmen attended the loaded sideboards which held a cold collation. Dining tables were set near the food, with French doors open to the terrace. Card tables were set for those who did not want to engage in lawn games.
The receiving line was Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, Jane and Bingley, and Lizzy and Darcy. Eventually everyone assembled in the ballroom to hear Mr. Bennet's welcome to the summer soirée. He praised Mrs. Bennet for teaching their daughters how to be good hostesses like their Mama. Mrs. Bennet blushed furiously. The praise had the correct effect. Mrs. Bennet, rather than denigrating her daughters for arranging the lawn parties without her, praised Jane. She lauded Jane and her future as the mistress of Netherfield Park. She expressed regret no one would see how well Lizzy managed, since she was moving to the wilds of Derbyshire.
The two couples circulated the room, urging their guests to enjoy themselves. Kitty circled the crowd, speaking to everyone. Kitty enjoyed the lawn games and the archery contests. She enjoyed sitting with friends to observe the musicians. She was determined to send Miss Anne a letter thanking her for the lawn parties at Rosings. Anyone could spot Kitty by looking for her pink parasol.
Lydia retreated to the card tables with her Aunt Phillips. She felt the Saturday lawn parties were planned to ease Mr. Darcy's discomfort at dancing. She abused him quite dreadfully to her aunt's eager listening ears.
June 6
"I publish the banns of marriage between Fitzwilliam George Darcy of the parish of Kympton, Derbyshire and Elizabeth Emily Bennet, of this parish. If any of you know cause or impediment why these persons should not be joined together in Holy Matrimony, ye are to declare it. This is the first time of announcement."
"I publish the banns of marriage between Charles Arthur Bingley of the parish of St. Andrew, Scarborough and Jane Francis Bennet, of this parish. If any of you know cause or impediment why these persons should not be joined together in Holy Matrimony, ye are to declare it. This is the first time of announcement."
Vicar Nelson smiled after reading the banns. If Mrs. Bennet could have sat taller and beamed with heavenly light…she would have. Mrs. Bennet called on him during the week, reminding him about the banns, and extended a personal invitation to the wedding breakfast. She received his permission to personally distribute invitations to the churchgoers on Sunday after the banns were read. Her reticule held several written invitations to the wedding breakfast.
When Vicar and Mrs. Nelson were invited to dinner at Longbourn the first Sunday in May, Mrs. Bennet tried to secure his counsel. She wanted the couples to set their weddings for September. The couples were adamant June thirtieth was the latest wedding date they would consider. Vicar Nelson resorted to the lowest form of refusal. He explained he abhorred long engagements. If the couple could afford to marry and establish a household, then they should. So many young people anticipated their vows before the wedding when there was a long engagement. He felt long engagements were temptations from the devil.
Vicar Nelson would not delay publishing banns in Miss Jane and Miss Elizabeth's community church once he had approval from Mr. Bingley's and Mr. Darcy's home parishes. Vicar Nelson would be honored to marry the two Miss Bennets. He had known them since they were small. He did not want the Miss Bennets rushing off to London, acquiring a special license and marrying. He reminded Mrs. Bennet about Miss Mary's marriage to Vicar Collins. They had married quickly in London and she moved away. The community, which admired Mary so much, had no time to wish her joy.
Mrs. Bennet wanted a longer engagement period to revel in her daughters' situations, and shop. When she had moments of self-doubt, she remembered Mama Bennet watching her for the first few months of her marriage to Thomas. Mama Bennet was certain Thomas and Francis had anticipated their vows. When they announced the impending birth of their first child, early summer after their first anniversary at Easter, Francis Gardiner Bennet felt Mama Bennet's disapproval wane.
Vicar Nelson did not know how the lovely Jane and the clever Elizabeth dealt so calmly with their flighty mother. He wrote the banns three times before Mr. Bennet stopped Mrs. Bennet from interfering with the process. Mr. Bennet suggested everything Mrs. Bennet wanted in the banns was more appropriate for the wedding announcements in the paper. Vicar Nelson knew Darcy and Bingley discussed the wedding announcements. The men planned to handle them with help from Darcy's aunt, the Countess of Matlock.
June 12
The second lawn party included twelve of the four and twenty families who dined with the Bennets. The entertainments, food, musicians and arrangements were the same as the first lawn party. Mrs. Bennet and Lydia were appropriately chastised and appropriately dressed before they departed Longbourn. Jane and Lizzy bribed their Mama and sister with fine wine silk handkerchiefs this week.
This week was a repeat of last week, with Lydia regaling her Aunt Phillips. She tired of Kitty's new attitude and complained about the lack of dancing. Lydia offered the musicians a shilling (provided by Aunt Phillips) to play dance music. They demurred because Mr. Darcy paid them handsomely to play for the Saturday lawn parties. He requested classical music. Dance music would wait until the wedding breakfast. She was grateful for the card tables, set in the cool of the ballroom, especially since there was no dancing.
"I imagine Jane will help Kitty call on our Longbourn tenants. Kitty needs to learn how to make tenant calls. I imagine Kitty will assume some of the stillroom tasks from Sarah since she is at home now," Mrs. Bennet spoke with Mr. Jones and Mr. Locke. Their oldest sons were home from Cambridge for the summer and worked with their fathers. Mrs. Bennet hoped Kitty's new, more serious mein would attract one of the sons. When they finished university, one of them could court Kitty. Mrs. Bennet would like to have a surgeon or apothecary as a son who lived near her and who controlled Kitty's irritating cough which grated on her nerves!
June 15
Today was busy for the post at Longbourn. Mrs. Gardiner sent news regarding the delivery of gowns and trousseau items. She would bring them to Longbourn the day before the ball. Mary sent a letter stating they were arriving on Monday before the wedding. They would not attend the birthday ball as Mr. Collins had church business to attend before he departed. They were bringing birthday gifts which her sisters might want to pack for their wedding tour.
Kitty and Lizzy each received a package and letter from Miss Anne. Not sent by post, it was delivered by a Rosings guard who rode to Longbourn. Lizzy sent him to the kitchen with suggestion he take a rest until they penned a reply to Miss Anne. Mrs. Hill promised to feed him well before he and his rested horse would return to Rosings Park.
~X~
June 14
Rosings Park, Kent
Dear Kitty,
Please open the package now, before reading the rest of the letter. Did you open it?
Thank you for helping me sort the de Bourgh jewels and for the sketches you made for me. I was able to give them to Mr. Edwards so he knew exactly what I wanted completed for certain pieces. Wait until you see the sapphire choker which Mr. Edwards is recreating into a silver and sapphire bandeau for my hair. I plan to wear it to Elizabeth's wedding.
I had the large pink paste broach recreated as a necklace and earbobs for you. I hope you wear them to the ball and wedding breakfast. Again, I appreciate your help with the sketches. I enjoyed having you reside at the de Bourgh House while shopping in London for the wedding.
I won't be at the birthday ball. There is a longer explanation in Elizabeth's letter.
I cannot wait to see all of you again.
Take care,
AdB
~X~
Lizzy and Jane admired Kitty's necklace and earbobs. Mrs. Bennet ignored Kitty's gift. She wanted to see the contents of the large package delivered to Lizzy.
~X~
June 14
Rosings Park, Kent
Dearest Elizabeth,
Please open the package now, before reading the rest of the letter. Did you open it?
These are the Fitzwilliam pearls, worn by generations of Fitzwilliam brides. The Fitzwilliam pearls have been in the family since the First Earl of Matlock. He commissioned the pearl necklace with gold and diamond clasp for his bride. The Second Earl of Matlock added the pearl and diamond earbobs and plain pearl earbobs.
I had the pearl necklace cleaned and restrung, so it will last for a few generations. Once you return the necklace and earbobs, the Fitzwilliam pearls will be given to The Sixth Earl and Countess of Matlock to hold in safekeeping for many generations to come. The Third Earl of Matlock purchased the set of pearl and gold hair combs, and a pearl hair ornament. The Fourth Earl Matlock increased the set with two pearl and diamond broaches. The Fifth Earl Matlock purchased a pearl and diamond bracelet and plain pearl bracelet. The Sixth Earl Matlock added a pearl and diamond diadem. Viscount Fitzwilliam commissioned the creation of the rosewood casket to house the collection. There are additional drawers in the casket to house future purchases by Matlock earls.
Augusta, Aunt Constance and Mother were the last Fitzwilliam brides to wear the pearls. Aunt Anne did not wear them as she and Mother had a double wedding with George Darcy and Lewis de Bourgh. I don't know why Mother has them. Uncle Reggie should have possession. (I suspect Mother acquired them when she was in London in the spring.) I found this casket hidden in a closet in Mother's suite at Rosings Park.
Although I cannot attend the birthday ball, I would like you to wear these. I cannot wait to see you wear them to the wedding where you become Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy!
The Collinses will ride with me to Netherfield on the Monday before the wedding. He has been asked to christen a set of twins for one of the tenants of Rosings. Mr. Collins married them the first Easter he was at Hunsford Rectory. Mary helped Midwife North birth the babies. We are pleased about this happy turn of events. We should arrive at Netherfield before three o'clock.
I enjoyed having the Collinses and Kitty stay with me in London while shopping for the wedding. If you and William ever need to be in London and cannot stay at the Darcy House or Matlock House, please feel free to call upon the de Bourgh House. I have instructed my butler and housekeeper, Mr. and Mrs. Shepherd, to welcome you. There is a large suite of rooms on the second floor which would suit William and you. Unfortunately, the suite faces the street and not the gardens behind de Bourgh House! It was Mother's but I had it cleaned and rearranged.
I cannot wait to see you again, Elizabeth. We shall be a merry party! Happy Birthday, my newest cousin!
Take care,
AdB
~X~
"I don't think you should wear them for the wedding," Mrs. Bennet sniffed in disdain. "It was Jane's wedding date first. She and Mr. Bingley have been very generous to allow you and Mr. Darcy to impose on their wedding day. Your guests will outrank anyone invited by Jane or Mr. Bingley. I do not think you need to overshadow Jane with jewels from Mr. Darcy's family."
"You are being quite unfair to Lizzy," Kitty protested. "Should Lizzy refuse to ride in Mr. Darcy's carriages because they are finer? Should Lizzy refuse to live at Darcy House in London because it is finer than the Bingley House? Should Lizzy refuse to live at Pemberley because it is finer than Netherfield Park? Should Lizzy cut the Matlocks, Fitzwilliams and de Bourghs because none of Mr. Bingley's family has peers in its lineage?"
"We are not enjoying the dinners and parties which Jane and Bingley's engagement encouraged because Darcy is not as amiable as Bingley. The Friday evening dinners have been changed to Saturday lawn parties. If you insist on putting yourself forward, Lizzy, I suggest you and Mr. Darcy pick a different wedding date," Mrs. Bennet announced.
"The Saturday lawn parties offer us a larger society than just the four and twenty families who dine with us. We have been able to invite tenants, tradespeople and the Meryton community. Bingley and I prefer these lawn parties to events held every evening in our honor." Jane cast a stern eye at Mama. "The date has been settled between Bingley, Darcy and Papa. Vicar Nelson has already called the first banns. Mr. Bingley and I want to share the day with my favorite sister and his particular friend. Colonel Fitzwilliam will stand guard for us that day. If more than sixty people have been invited to the wedding, he will turn the excess away. We want a small wedding. If more than two hundred guests attempt to attend the wedding breakfast, he will turn them away. Lizzy, the Fitzwilliam pearls are lovely and will look quite well on you. I do not know how a single strand of pearls and simple pearl earbobs would overwhelm. I insist you show them to Mr. Darcy the next time you see him. Until then, I suggest Papa secure the Fitzwilliam pearls in the safe."
"Wait…it's my turn to show off my letter and gift! Kitty and Lizzy aren't the only ones to get a letter and a gift today! Your marriages are supposed to improve our chances at a larger society…but they aren't! Shopping for your wedding was boring! Your lawn parties are boring! I can't wait for you to get married and leave!" Lydia dashed from the room to stomp up the stairs and slam her bedroom door. She was as loud, or louder than Mrs. Bennet when sobbing for attention.
"I won't do it!" Kitty refused to beg Lydia to return to the parlor and read her letter to her interested Mama. "I have a letter to write to Miss Anne. Her express rider is awaiting responses from Lizzy and me. If you are desperate for Lydia's lively companionship, order Hill to fetch her for you."
While Lizzy gave the pearls to Papa to put in the safe, he and Jane revealed a secret. Jane opened a jewel case which held a sapphire necklace and earbobs for her to wear to the ball and the wedding. "Mama doesn't know, and I don't want her to know until the ball. They belonged to Bingley's mother. They are a wedding gift from Charles."
"Your Mama may insist I mortgage Longbourn to purchase a handsome set of pearls for you to wear, Jane." Mr. Bennet teased.
"Lizzy, I am not now, or will I ever be jealous of your new family or social position…" Jane insisted.
"However, she cannot guarantee the Bingley sisters will be so understanding." Mr. Bennet teased Lizzy. "Pen your reply to Miss Anne. Then you best slip out of the house for your modiste appointment while Lydia and your Mama have the house in uproar."
When Lydia was given a glass of wine to calm her tears, and begged several times by Mama, she read Sophia Forester's letter aloud. She knew to leave out the paragraph about sea bathing unless she wanted it snatched from her hands and burnt! Lydia insisted her Mama admire and exclaim over the beautiful, crimson velvet ribbon which Sophia sent as a gift.
~X~
Thursday, June 10
15 Sea Cliff Drive
Brighton
Dearest Lydia,
I wish you were here to share the sights of Brighton with me. Several of the other militia wives traveled to Brighton but they are so terribly dull. The assembly rooms are fine, much finer than the ones in Bath which we saw on our wedding tour. We have dances every Monday and Thursday evening. I know when it is time to go home, for that is the only set the Colonel will dance with me. There are lectures, concerts or musicales on Tuesday and Saturday evening. There are card parties on Wednesdays and Fridays at the Assembly Rooms or on Saturday evenings in private homes.
We attend church on Sunday, enjoy a cold collation and have a short rest. Then the Colonel takes us to the large public promenade and tea on Sundays at the Assembly Room. Tuesdays, we go to the circulating library. We can borrow or buy books, sketching supplies, and tickets for events at the Assembly Rooms. After visiting the library, several of the ladies and I go to the pavilion and sit together.
There is a multitude of shops along the Steyne…tea, confections, china, jewelers, silversmiths, cobblers, drapers, lacemakers, modistes, milliners and apothecaries. The modistes and milliners are as talented as those on Milsom Street in Bath. St. James Street has as many fine shops as Bond Street in London, but it is not as noisy, hot and dirty! I'm sending a fine crimson velvet ribbon from Brighton to entice you to visit me.
We have been sea bathing twice. The ladies' beach is on one side of Brighton and the men's beach is on the other. I have heard rumors that some of the men swim without bathing clothes!
I miss you, my dearest friend. I hope your papa will change his mind and let you visit me in Brighton.
As ever,
Sophia Forester
~X~
Longbourn rang with constant whining from Lydia. She felt she should be allowed to visit Brighton after the weddings. She felt she needed a new seaside wardrobe. Mr. Bennet announced unless Lydia left off with her scheme to spend the summer in Brighton with her silly friends, she would not attend the birthday ball. Lydia almost argued with him…but fell silent. There would be time to write Sophia and have Colonel Forester work on Papa.
June 16
"What was today's fitting?" Mrs. Bennet barely paused while listening to local gossip from Mrs. Phillips.
"Riding habits," Lizzy thanked Aunt Phillips for the cup of tea.
"Riding habits?" Mrs. Bennet huffed and fanned herself. "I knew I should have taken charge of your trousseaus. You don't understand how important it is to have silk evening gowns for events, invitations or amusements. Your gowns lack flounces and lace, and the bodices are too modest! They must be of the first stare!"
"I need new riding habits. Pemberley has tenants who cannot be reached unless one drives a one-horse gig or rides." Lizzy took her tea cup to a corner table, away from Mama.
"I ordered two new riding habits. The spring/summer is made of medium weight linen. The fall/winter one is made of light wool. Mine have a medium blue, full-skirted gown, with a dark blue spencer which has a lovely, small, stand up, ruffled collar. I have new black riding boots, top hat, leather gloves and riding crop." Jane entered the conversation. "Bingley enjoys riding, and tenant calls are easier when using a gig or riding."
"Mine are the same pattern as Jane's riding habits, except mine are medium green, with a dark green spencer. I have black boots, top hat, gloves and riding crop like Jane's. We think we will not get black leather reticules, but instead get black leather saddlebags." Lizzy's comment set Mama's nerves on edge.
"Get the reticule!" Mrs. Bennet ordered, flapping her handkerchief and nodding at her sister for agreement. "You might wear the riding habits for a riding party. Saddle bags are inelegant!"
"Both," Lizzy and Jane chorused. "Then we have the option for dressing for tenants or for a riding party."
"If it's a riding party, you'll need a matching parasol also," Mrs. Phillips brought slices of walnut cake to her nieces. "Parasols to protect you from the sun when you mount and dismount. Parasols to protect you from the sun if there is a lawn party after the ride. Most hostesses would not put their lawn party in direct sun, but you must be prepared."
"The reticule is important because you need to carry coins to pay a child to hold the reins while you call on the tenants." Mrs. Bennet persisted.
"I wonder if Mary could design riding gloves which have a coin pocket?" Jane pondered.
"I think we should have a pocket in our spencers, like men have in their waistcoats. We can put coins in the pocket." Lizzy suggested.
"Oh you and your pockets!" Mrs. Bennet grumbled. "You are not a maid, wearing a garden smock with pockets, or an apron with pockets!"
"Saddlebags," Lizzy's eyes lit up. "They could hold a reticule and parasol. They can hold brushes to remove the dust from our riding habits."
Mrs. Bennet groaned.
June 17
Mr. Bennet brought a letter to breakfast. "Listen to this Lydia. Heather Hall, Glasgow, Scotland, is a progressive seminary for young ladies. We offer education in classical literature, grammar, history, geography and globes, science and mathematics along with modern languages, and instruction in art, music, sewing and needlework. We emphasize studies in decorum, accomplishments and classical education. Our seminary rivals any seminary in London." He laid his letter down and observed Lydia. "You would have no need for ball or evening gowns. You would need kerseymere or stuff dresses, heavy flannel petticoats, woolen stockings, wool redingotes and thick shawls for the cold Scotland winters. You would need thick-soled walking boots instead of satin dancing slippers. I believe Mary, Jane and Lizzy would donate their portions to ensure you receive an education. I shall write Heather Hall directly, inquiring about cost and availability." He tucked his letter in his overcoat pocket. "I will contact the retreat we discussed during the trousseau shopping trip if you do not check her!" He informed Mrs. Bennet.
The threat of Scotland did not deter Lydia. She was determined to wait until after the wedding to work on Mama. Lydia knew if she petitioned Mama enough, Mrs. Bennet would intercede on her behalf with Mr. Bennet. She would harangue him until the beleaguered man gave in for the sake of quietly ensconcing himself in his study.
~X~
"What are you doing?" Jane observed the pile of crumpled paper and Charles' ink stained fingers.
"Writing…attempting to write an…advertisement for Caroline…" Charles sighed.
"I am not understanding," Jane admitted. "Are you seeking an establishment to rent or purchase in London, to establish her own…"
"A husband…" Charles frowned. "A woman of considerable accomplishments and independency seeks man of respectable independency, connections and family lineage for marriage."
"You are advertising for a husband for Caroline?" Shocked…Jane sat immediately. If there was a time for her to swoon…it would be now. Except, she wore her prettiest blue sprigged muslin with a festive blue ribbon which matched the trio of ribbons in her hair. "Can't you make discreet inquiries at your club? Surely someone has a nephew, a cousin, or a ward or a…"
"With our background in trade…no landed or titled man wants her. The ones who do want her are seeking funds to continue their dissolute ways. She doesn't want respectable business men who would build a life and a future with her and her funds. While Hurst and Louisa opening their house to Caroline would be advantageous to all three, Hurst doesn't want the responsibility of her. He knows both my sisters overspend their funds. Once they understand I will not give you up…that my happiness is tied to my future with you…I believe it will destroy any family harmony which my sisters and I might have." Charles bitterly gathered all the pages, laid them in the fireplace and lit them. He and Jane watched as his efforts were reduced to ash.
"Are there many men and women who advertise for marriage?" Jane felt astonished at the thought of marriage as a cold business agreement. She knew from her marriage-minded Mama about marrying advantageously. Frances Gardiner, the daughter of a solicitor, married a landed gentleman, Thomas Bennet. The Bennet family lived at Longbourn for over two hundred years.
"Men's clubs are more than a place for a man to have a drink, read the paper, arrange shooting parties or riding parties. Men share their desire to find a suitable husband for a family member for whom they are responsible. Men would rather give as large a dowry or a dowry with a per annum living to marry off a family member than be required to care for them. Some men request a suitable husband who is not too old to sire children." Charles sighed again. "Consider our situation…we are about to be married. Caroline is not the type of woman who would willingly give up her status as mistress in the house to another woman. She did not go willingly to Aunt Cordelia."
"We cannot resolve the issues with Caroline right now." Jane rang for a footman. "Please bring a bowl of lemon juice and a towel to Mr. Bingley. He needs to soak ink off his fingers before everyone gathers for tea."
June 20
"You are mistaken, Lydia," Kitty responded quietly. "Aunt Gardiner, Jane, Lizzy and Mary all say this color looks good with my hair. I must finish these ribbon roses for the new hairpins I'm wearing to Jane and Lizzy's birthday ball. Then I must create shoe roses. No shops are open on Sunday, especially in Meryton. I do not feel like walking in this heat. In a few days, it is Midsummer, which is quarter day when Papa will distribute pin money. You owe me a guinea for things you had to buy in London which were not included in your wedding clothes. If you think to delay paying me, I shall ask Papa to pay me before he releases your pin money to you."
"Kitty, I order you to walk out with Lydia. Your arguments are vexing my nerves! Why have I been burdened with such an intractable child! I blame your sister Mary for this. You used to be fun and enjoy discussing fashion! Now you're becoming a bluestocking…and it is not pleasing!" Franny Bennet cried, fluttering her handkerchief. Since Kitty returned to Longbourn from Hunsford Parsonage, she concentrated on her studies, reading, drawing, practicing pianoforte, speaking French, and improving her sewing. However, she had not spent time in the herb garden and stillroom with Sarah…which Franny Bennet desired.
"I am quite weary of hearing how my presence is a burden to you. I shall take myself upstairs to my room. I can ignore you as easily as you ignore me." Kitty pertly flounced out of the parlor, with her sewing items and her workbox.
"Catherine," Mr. Bennet appeared in the hall. "I know your Mama's nerves are strained by your sisters' upcoming nuptials. I know Lydia constantly puts herself forward. However, I cannot allow you to talk to your Mama in such an unkind manner."
"Papa, I have turned the other cheek for over half a decade. I can only turn the other cheek so many times before my head is twisted off my neck. I am not at fault because I was born before Lydia, but I am tired of giving way to her. I am sure Lydia will endeavor to usurp my standing and title of Miss Bennet when Lizzy and Jane marry. By the way, Lydia owes me one guinea from her pin money. I know I was not to loan her any money, but Mama insisted. I did not want to cause a public scene. You will find it noted in my ledger but probably not hers. You should insist Lydia begin balancing her ledger now, or it will be a week after quarter day before it is balanced and presentable. Before Jane leaves, please ask her to provide a list of Lydia's clothing needs for each quarter. I will not engage in such a battle with Lydia or Mama." Kitty fled up the stairs.
Kitty wanted to slam the door to her room and jar Mama's delicate nerves but she was the daughter of a gentleman. If she shut the door quietly, like a lady, perhaps her actions would speak the volumes she was not allowed to utter. To prevent being disturbed, she locked the door behind her. She was determined to complete her tasks before tonight's birthday dinner for Lydia. She was also determined to hide her best things so they would not disappear before the birthday ball and wedding.
While in London, Jane and Lizzy requested Kitty join with them for Lydia's birthday present – a pair of carnelian red dancing slippers. They were a perfect sixteenth birthday gift for their little sister and might prevent her from borrowing their things for the birthday ball.
The problem was…Lydia expected to be feted all day…and her sisters didn't have a problem saying no when their parents wouldn't.
Wednesday afternoon, June 23
"A delivery from your modiste?" Mrs. Bennet's eyes gleamed.
"This is a dark green redingote of medium weight wool. You like it, it's copied from that fashion plate." Lizzy attempted to leave the drawing room without exhibiting her purchase.
"Which fashion plate?" Mrs. Bennet curiously eyed the package.
"The one with the white muff and tippet. The muff was so large it went from my bodice to my knees." Lizzy explained.
"Oh that one! I adore that white fur muff and tippet! Did you buy those? I so want to see them!" Mrs. Bennet almost danced over to Lizzy.
"No, I didn't commission the white ones. Miss Darcy recommended I wait until fall. I believe a brown muff and tippet will be more appropriate for the redingote."
"I supposed you just commissioned it with plain dark green buttons instead of the gold frogs?" Mrs. Bennet's argumentative tone set Lizzy's teeth on edge.
"Gold frogs would be fine if I were in London, attending Little Season. This redingote is to attend church in the fall and winter of Derbyshire." Lizzy held the package to her chest and raced up the stairs to her room. She unwrapped the redingote and tried it on. She would want a winter weight bonnet of the same dark green. 'Muffs and tippets.' Lizzy scoffed. 'Not even if I was in London!'
Lizzy and Jane arranged for their trunks and crates to go to Netherfield on Saturday. Flora and Solange would ensure they were packed appropriately for their wedding trip. Lizzy's other items would be transported to the Darcy House in London before shipping to Pemberley. The maids conferred with Bingley's valet and Darcy's valet about what to pack, ensuring the ladies traveled with appropriate clothes and items to entertain themselves during the tour.
~X~
Mr. Collins worked with Mr. Knowles to purchase two horses for the parsonage at Midsummer. Mr. Collins sold the older one horse gig to Curate Stevenson. Mr. Knowles discussed the glebe with the Collinses. They planned to increase the pigs they raised to two farrows twice a year, acquire another dairy cow, acquire more geese, ducks and turkeys, and another two and ten setting hens. Mary had space to raise chicken pullets to roast for Saturday dinners. Mary wanted two more butts of bees. Knowles recommended waiting until spring to acquire another dairy cow, more poultry and more bees. While Mary would have enlarged their livestock and bees now, she understood she would be busy with the gardens until harvest. Mr. Knowles reminded her the harvest from their part of the acreage would provide for two horses, one cow, and two piggy sows. She might consider increasing the acreage needed for feeding their livestock before acquiring more.
Friday afternoon, June 25
Friday afternoon Mrs. Bennet and the Bennet girls gathered in the drawing room at Longbourn. Mrs. Phillips arrived with Mrs. Gardiner, who transported deliveries for Lizzy and Jane. Mr. Gardiner and Mr. Phillips arrived in Mr. Phillips carriage. They were currently in Mr. Bennet's study, talking and drinking good port when they heard a quarrel between Franny and Lizzy.
"Mama, thank you for your generous offer to stay at the Darcy House with Georgiana until Darcy and I finish our wedding tour. However, Georgiana is returning to London with the Fitzwilliams after the wedding. There is no reason for you and Lydia to stay at the Darcy House in London while we are on our wedding tour. There is nothing to do in London during the summer! When the wedding tour ends, we are at Pemberley with Georgiana. Darcy wants to be there for late summer and the harvest season. We plan to spend our first Christmas together at Pemberley. We do not return to London until January, when we leave Georgiana with the Fitzwilliams. The Countess of Matlock will guide Georgiana and Cousin Anne through their coming out and first Season."
"Marriages are planned to be beneficial to both families! Your marriages will put your sisters…" Mrs. Bennet began to say.
"DON'T FINISH THAT SENTENCE," Mr. Bennet almost roared from the doorway of the drawing room. "Frances Gardiner Bennet…you make me feel like an ogre when I must penalize your pin money."
"I would like the opportunity to finish that sentence, Papa. My marriage to Mr. Darcy has been a profound benefit to sister Mary." Lizzy announced. "Because I will be Miss Anne's cousin, she considers Mary a cousin also. I don't know all the particulars but I know Miss Anne raised the living for Mr. Collins and expanded the glebe at the parsonage. I am proud my marriage was advantageous to Mary."
"I would like to comment also. Miss Bingley has seen several Little Seasons and several Seasons in London. Knowing Mr. Darcy put her in the path of wealthy men. However, she is still unmarried because one must be a lady and be worthy of being courted." Jane contradicted Mama before guests for the first time in her life.
"Bravo, Jane! I believe that is the first unkind word you have ever said about anyone!" Lizzy cried her delight.
A blushing Jane turned to Lydia. "Will you help me pack my trunks?"
"Kitty, will you help me pack my trunks," Lizzy offered. "Aunts, please forgive us, but we really need to pack. What better use of our time between now and dinner?" She led her sisters from the drawing room.
Lately, Lizzy used packing as an excuse to avoid Mama. The clothes she ordered from the Meryton modiste were delivered yesterday. She had the accessories for her riding habits. She needed to crate things she would not wear on the wedding tour. She had a crate of books and personal items ready to ship to the Darcy House in London.
"I feel bad," Lizzy whispered to Kitty. "Jane has to deal with Lydia. Papa has to deal with Mama. I've sorted everything I'm leaving," she indicated a chair with folded clothes and bonnets. "Please help yourself. If there is nothing you want, please take those clothes to Sarah."
"I want the two poke bonnets. Why are you leaving them behind?" Kitty examined the bonnets more closely.
"The crowns are a little tight," Lizzy explained. "When I walk, I feel hot or constricted with them."
"I will change the crowns and the trim," Kitty assured Lizzy. "Thank you for them. They are perfect for summer wear." Kitty took the bonnets to her room, locking them in. She rang the bell for Sarah and gave her the clothes from Lizzy, urging her to take them to her room while everyone was occupied.
Kitty helped Lizzy open packages from London. Lizzy and Kitty discussed her list of clothes to take on the wedding tour. Kitty sent a message to Flora and Solange to come to Longbourn at dinner time. They would enter the kitchen and Mrs. Hill would take them up to Jane and Lizzy's rooms by the servants' stairs. There were items to pack for the wedding tour, and items to send to the Darcy House.
~X~
"No, Lydia," Jane opened her packages brought by Aunt Gardiner. "These new things are for my trousseau. My crates go to Netherfield tomorrow morning. And no…you cannot have my ballgown from the Netherfield Ball last November. I wore it once. I am not ready give it away. I've set aside the things I'm not taking. There are no bandboxes for the two summer bonnets. Anything you don't want, you can give to Sarah or Emma." Lydia took the pile of things from Jane's room to hers. She didn't care for Jane's blue bonnets…and planned to tear them apart to remake with white materials and vivid red ribbons and flowers. Jane shook her head. Lydia was still a little girl in so many ways. She appreciated diverting Lydia from coveting her new purchases with cast-offs. Lydia would be busy for hours planning or recreating the summer bonnets.
Aunt Gardiner delivered Jane's day gowns ordered by Anne. Jane was surprised at the number of day gowns created of materials other than silk. She was delighted by a white gown with printed rows of blue swirl dots, with a blue bodice and sleeves with blue lace trim. Anne commissioned five plain linen gowns in white, cream, light blue, medium blue and sky blue. They were delivered with several lengths of blue and white ribbons in different fabrics and styles. They came with two summer bonnets decorated with blue flowers and ribbons, blue kid leather walking boots, a blue parasol, pairs of blue cotton gloves. There were also two summer weight spencers in medium blue and dark blue.
Jane was grateful Flora would pack things before Lydia or Mama could scold her for buying such plain gowns. Flora would know which gowns were sturdy for travel and excellent for the heat of summer in an enclosed carriage.
Jane kept two of her favorite evening gowns, created by Mrs. Gardiner's modiste, for wearing to dinners at Netherfield Park before the wedding. One of her favorites was a pale blue silk, with a dark blue gauze overlay. The neckline, hem and sleeve edges bore a dark blue silk ribbon embroidered with tiny white roses and emerald leaves. A wider, matching ribbon accented the empire waist. The V-neck bodice was a little wider and deeper than Jane's day dresses. Jane purchased darker blue-ribbon to make roses for hairpins and shoe roses. Her second favorite evening gown was lavender silk, with a sash of purple ribbons and lace, and purple embroidered violets on the bodice, sleeves and hem. Matching thin ribbon was purchased for winding through her hair in a Grecian style.
~X~
Aunt Gardiner brought Lizzy's clothes. Anne commissioned day gowns in primrose and Pomona green in stripes, checks and florals. Anne choose plain dresses in light primrose, dark primrose, ivory, cream, Pomona green, and spring green. With summer spencers of dark primrose and dark green, Lizzy would travel very well. Both her summer bonnets for travel were decorated in ivory. She had ivory kid leather walking boots, pairs of ivory gloves, an ivory reticule and an ivory parasol for travel.
Lizzy was unsure about the light primrose silk evening gown. Deep gold lace trimmed the neckline and sleeves. A matching lace and silk sash accompanied the gown. A coordinating deep gold silk bandeau, a reticule, and dancing slippers finished the ensemble. The gown came with a waist length, deep gold satin capelet with gold frogs for evening wear.
Lizzy liked the new green sarsenet evening gown. The hem of the gown, including a small train, was decorated with deep green lace. The square-necked ruched bodice was finished with straight short sleeves. The gown was finished with a long wrap made of the green sarsenet. Anne purchased long dark green silk gloves, and dark green satin slippers.
Anne claimed the gowns would be perfect for a summer evening at the theatre or opera.
~X~
"A present for you, and for you." Mrs. Gardiner handed packages to Lizzy and Jane. They unwrapped the most scandalous thin silk nightrails and wrappers they had ever seen. "My modiste made them from your measurements. Every woman needs the best thin silk, silk lace and silk ribbons for her wedding night and wedding tour. These nightrails and wrappers will be very pleasing to your new husbands. Please do not show these to your mama. I don't want her to lecture about wifely duties and enduring the marriage bed."
Jane blushed and Lizzy bit back a nervous giggle. "You are too generous," Jane blushed again. She eyed the neckline. "The nightrails are very…low cut."
"You must look your best on your wedding night," Aunt Gardiner suppressed a smile. "Your nightrail and wrapper are like the wrapping on a gift. The enjoyment of the marriage bed is a gift to share with your husbands for the rest of your life. Your mama loves you both, dearly, but she is easily alarmed and prone to hysterics. Don't let her fears color your lives with the men you love. Set a good table, make a comfortable home, and spend some pin money on good perfume and thin silk nightclothes. The rest of your marriage will sort itself." She kissed them both, gently, before she departed.