Wretched Beginnings 1813 – Chapter 14
June 26 – Birthday Ball
"What are you wearing?" Lydia demanded when Kitty descended the stairs.
Kitty wore her new ballgown of the Madame Pompadour pink silk with a matching gauze sash and overskirt. The modest, scoop bodice, puff sleeves and overskirt were edged in small ribbon rosettes which matched the underskirt. Her dancing shoes were white with ribbon roses, in addition to her new white silk fan and silk reticule. She wore the pink paste pendant and earbobs from Miss Anne. "My new ballgown," Kitty admitted. "I decided to wear my pink silk from Hunsford to the wedding. Therefore, I spent my wedding clothes funds on a new ballgown and cloak. No one in Hunsford has seen my pink silk, so it will be like wearing a new gown to the wedding."
"That is not fair!" Lydia cried. "I didn't know you were purchasing a new ballgown! You never tell me anything anymore!"
"When was I supposed to tell you? You and Mama were so busy looking at different materials, laces, trims and accessories. Neither of you had the time during the wedding clothes shopping to ask about my choices. You never noticed I sketched a ballgown for me when I sketched one for Jane and one for Lizzy."
"I suppose Miss Anne and the Fitzwilliam ladies encouraged your purchase," Mama joined the argument. She was vexed because Kitty never once consulted her during the shopping trip.
"I decided to purchase the ballgown. Jane and Lizzy agreed with my decision. Aunt Gardiner helped pick the materials and trims. I had fittings at Mme. Charette." Kitty drew on her white, opera length silk gloves. "I had the same amount of funds you had Lydia. However, I'm wearing the silk petticoats from my pink gown for the wedding. I'm using the silk accessories I purchased at Hunsford for my pink gown. I used the accessories funds for my wedding clothes to purchase a summer cloak. I take care of my things so I don't have to buy new every quarter day. Careful control of my funds and informed decisions allows me a larger wardrobe."
"Lydia, you look lovely and are always in demand as a dance partner. You won't sit out dances like other young women." Mama assured Lydia she would be quite popular at the ball.
Lydia wore Jane's old cream satin ballgown, remade with three layers of flounces. She wore a wine silk sash and long cream silk gloves. She wore her new carnelian red dance slippers. She borrowed Mama's gold combs for her hair and Mama's wine silk shawl and reticule. However, for the first time in her life…Lydia did not feel confident.
"We need to go ladies. Mr. Bingley sent an extra carriage so no one's gown is crushed. Lydia and Mrs. Bennet will ride with me in our carriage. Jane, Lizzy and Kitty will ride in the Bingley carriage." Mr. Bennet's voice eliminated any further argument or discussion. He escorted Jane, Lizzy and Kitty to Bingley's carriage and returned to his. Mrs. Bennet and Lydia were already seated as Hill assisted them. He took a place on the rear facing seat and addressed the two women when the carriage lurched into motion. "I insisted we journey separately, as I do not wish for Jane, Lizzy or Kitty to hear me. You will not comport yourself with silliness, as is your usual wont while in public. The five Fitzwilliams are first in the receiving line, followed by Darcy, Lizzy and Miss Darcy. Then Bingley and Jane and then the Bennet."
Mrs. Bennet fluttered a handkerchief. "We should be at the beginning of the receiving line as we know everyone who plans to attend."
"I…will…turn…this…carriage…around…right…now. We will return home immediately if you attempt to put yourselves forward tonight. We will return home immediately if either of you embarrass Jane or Lizzy this evening. We will return home immediately if you fuss at any of our daughters. We will return home if either of you imbibe too much. We will return home if you cannot moderate your voices. Not only will you return home, but you will not have callers nor make calls until Michaelmas."
Both women were silent.
"Am I understood?" Mr. Bennet inquired and doubted their veracity as they affirmed they heard and understood.
~X~
Jane's summer blue silk ball gown had a wide V-neck and offset small puff sleeves. Narrow silver, rose-patterned lace edged the neckline and sleeves. A silver sash, embroidered with roses in silver threads, matched the embroidered roses around the hem of the gown. Her delicate dark blue dancing slippers were decorated with embroidered ribbon roses. Her hair was dressed with a sapphire and silver hair ornament which Charles purchased for Jane's birthday. Jane wore the sapphire necklace and earbobs from the Bingley family jewelry. Mama might object, but Jane agreed to first, supper and last sets with Charles.
Lizzy's gown, of Isabella cream satin with dark cream silk gauze overlay, accented her skin, hair and eyes. The scoop neckline was trimmed in dark cream lace. Lizzy wore the Fitzwilliam pearls, long dark cream silk gloves, and her pearl hairpins. Candlelight danced across Elizabeth's face, and her expressive eyes danced merrily also. She sparkled with every step and literally took Darcy's breath away. He did not know how he would survive waiting for their wedding day.
Colonel Fitzwilliam squired Miss Kitty to the floor for the opening dance. "Thank you for accepting my request. The opening dance is a waltz. I have permission from your father, as do Bingley and Darcy." He and Miss Kitty smiled at one another as they took their place on the floor.
A gasp of surprise from several parts of the room was ignored by the three couples as the waltz began.
At the end of the opening dance, the dancers turned toward the mezzanine and clapped politely to thank the musicians. Then the men offered their arms to their partners and escorted them from the floor. "Bingley, we must attend Lord and Lady Matlock and Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam. I am due to dance with Georgiana, Kitty, Jane, Augusta and Aunt Constance." Darcy knew they all had a full dance card until the supper set. Darcy did not escort Elizabeth to Mrs. Bennet. He noticed Miss Kitty, who danced with Colonel Fitzwilliam, was already greeting his Fitzwilliam family.
Mrs. Bennet suggested she and Lydia stroll the perimeter of the ballroom, hoping to force a dance invitation for Lydia. However, Mr. Bennet kept them stationary. "Allow your acquaintances to come to you." They stood on one side of the ballroom entry door. The Fitzwilliams and their group occupied the other side. The fireplace wall had chaperone chairs in double rows. Across from the ballroom entry doors were the doors to the terrace. The refreshment tables were located between the doors.
"I cannot," Samuel Jones responded to Kitty Bennet's request. "The young men of Meryton have been talking. Miss Lydia disdained the young men of Meryton by ignoring them in favor of flirting with the militia. The young men of Meryton are glad to see the militia go…but we aren't very forgiving of the young women who slighted us to favor redcoats. We are not dancing with the flirts tonight. There are enough amiable young women at the ball to keep a young man dancing every set."
"You mean to cut her?" Kitty's voice trembled.
"No, none of us will give her the cut direct. However, we simply will not be in Miss Lydia's company. We will not give her the opportunity to insult or cut us. You are kind to consider Miss Lydia's situation, but she would not do the same for you. Miss Kitty, you are quite changed since you spent the spring with your sisters in Hunsford. I hope you have a set which I might have."
"I do," Kitty held out her card with the pencil attached by a ribbon.
Jones picked one of the two open sets. "Locke would appreciate the other set…" he hinted before Kitty nodded. Jones waved Locke over to sign Kitty's dance card. "Before the supper set, you should tell Mr. Bennet about Miss Lydia having no dance partners. Perhaps while we are all at supper, he can spirit Miss Lydia away."
After signing her dance card, Kitty curtseyed to the two young men and approached Papa. They had a quiet conversation which neither Lydia nor Mrs. Bennet overheard because they were busy gossiping with Lady Lucas and Maria.
June 27
"So, you have joined us at last!" Mrs. Bennet almost slammed her tea cup down on the saucer when Lizzy appeared. Mr. Bennet glanced at her while sipping his coffee…which quelled Mrs. Bennet's voice. She knew his censorious look and decided to keep her opinions to herself…until he was sequestered in his study.
Thump…thump…THUMP.
"What is that noise?" Mrs. Bennet cried. "My head is too fragile for you girls to be so noisy this morning."
"Since Jane, Kitty and I are present at the table with Papa and you, I believe Lydia is making the noise," Lizzy set her cutlery down carefully.
"What do you think she's doing?" Mr. Bennet cut his ham.
"Kicking our bedroom doors because they are locked." Kitty accepted the black butter from Jane. "I'm not in the mood to search Lydia's room for my best things. Especially since it is just a few days to the wedding."
"Did you dance every dance last night? I'm sorry I was so busy with Darcy and his family…I didn't have time to check on you." Lizzy innocently asked Kitty.
"Every dance except the supper set. I caught my breath, waiting for Colonel Fitzwilliam. He danced with Miss Georgiana and insisted on serving Miss Georgiana and me at supper. He has such good conversation, but we laugh when he mangles his French verbs!"
Mrs. Bennet choked on her tea. "I refuse to discuss the ball, especially since Mr. Bennet became indisposed and insisted we leave with Lydia when everyone assembled for dinner. I'm glad the knocker is down. I have no intention of listening to Lady Lucas nor Mrs. Long brag about how delightful the ball was, no matter how sorry they are because we missed the second half."
"Everyone rest today, for we are at Evensong tonight." Mr. Bennet applied himself to his breakfast; noting a subdued Lydia finally arrived at the table. Mr. Bennet observed the angry flush of Lydia's face while her sisters ignored her in favor of their breakfast.
"I need another dozen wedding breakfast invitations," Mrs. Bennet announced. "Someone might attend Evensong who I have not invited."
"There are no invitations remaining, nor paper to write an invitation," Lizzy remarked. "Sixty people will attend the wedding when we wanted fifty. We wanted two hundred guests for the wedding breakfast, and now have an additional four and twenty guests. I simply do not know anyone who has not been invited two or three times. Lady Lucas returned three invitations to us. You pressed one upon her every Sunday the banns were read, and at the lawn party the Lucases attended."
"I wanted to insure they were invited….Mr. Darcy is not as social as Mr. Bingley…and Charlotte is a particular friend of yours." Mrs. Bennet sniped.
"Which is why the Lucases, Nelsons, Lockes, and Joneses were on the wedding and wedding breakfast lists before anyone else." Lizzy applied herself to her breakfast.
"Three Saturday lawn parties allowed us to share our joy with the entire community. We cannot invite all of Hertfordshire to the wedding breakfast. We're glad the militia left the community so we were not required to invite two and ten officers to the wedding breakfast." Jane joined the conversation.
"I'm not glad they are gone!" Mrs. Bennet cried. "Lydia had no dance partners at your birthday ball. You must ensure she has dance partners for the wedding breakfast. If you were any kind of sisters to Lydia, you would have sat out dance sets so Lydia could dance."
"Why should that be?" Mr. Bennet sipped his coffee. "Lydia never sits out dance sets. Perhaps the ball last night was her turn to sit out dances."
"I don't understand how Lydia had no dance partners," Lizzy argued. "Kitty danced every dance except the supper set which she chose to sit out so she could join Colonel Fitzwilliam and Miss Darcy at supper time."
"Your Colonel Fitzwilliam has been very cavalier about dancing with everyone except Lydia!" Vexed, Mrs. Bennet busily buttered a hot roll.
"Colonel Fitzwilliam must dance with his mother, his sister-by-marriage, his two cousins, three Bingley ladies, and four Bennet ladies before he can dance with Lydia at the wedding breakfast. She cannot claim a dance with him until the twelfth dance set. She cannot expect precedence for two sets before Colonel Fitzwilliam does his duty." Lizzy countered.
"Enough…" Mr. Bennet announced. "I want to enjoy my breakfast and not discuss laces, gowns, balls, and dancing." He pondered how to keep Lydia from importuning the men of Meryton for dances before the wedding breakfast began. Chaperoning Mrs. Bennet and Lydia was more than Mr. Bennet could bear. He knew he should have been a better chaperone when he was younger, and more energetic. Now…since he opened all the mail, he realized how many invitations they received. He felt heartily ashamed of letting this situation develop because he preferred quiet and a good book to socializing.
Monday, June 28
"Thanks to Darcy, I learned to avoid compromise and side step the women Caroline tried to foist on me. Caroline grew deceitful in her plan to marry me off to some debutante daughter. She did not understand my resolve to return to Netherfield and to you. I don't want a debutante for a wife. I want you…your serenity, your grace, your kindness. London and my sisters taught me a lesson I will never forget. I intend to be more vigilant about establishing a future for us, and for our family." Charles blushed.
"Do you think I will have difficulties with the staff at Netherfield Park?" Jane asked Charles.
"I don't believe so," Charles replied honestly. "Mrs. Nichols knows how you treat staff. Since the birthday ball is over, Mr. and Mrs. Nichols know you and I are the only ones allowed to issue orders to Netherfield Park staff…household, grooms, gardeners, etc. Caroline may be in a temper when they arrive today. Aunt Cordelia sent an express stating Caroline's current maid fled from the Hurst House in London on Friday night while everyone slept. Moyer has only been with Caroline since Christmas when Louisa's and Caroline's maids gave notice. Aunt Cordelia recommends hiring a girl in the area who is desperate to advance as a lady' maid if none of the housemaids are available to assist Caroline. I will recommend my solicitor find Caroline's latest maid and provide her with character and wages. We should ask why she fled, however I believe Caroline herself is reason enough."
"The staff know not to take orders from Mama?" Jane's question made Charles laugh.
"Yes, your mama, Lydia and Mrs. Phillips were included in the edict." Charles pulled Jane into his arms and planted a hasty kiss on her before they were interrupted by the arrival of more guests.
~X~
"Netherfield is lovely, Jane," Kitty admired the comfortable furnishings and the bright, airy rooms. "Less heavy furniture and less excessive color. The décor is much calmer."
"We have more spring and summer colors than autumn. The halls and rooms reflect quiet country living instead of London drawing rooms. We refurbished the gardens and grounds at Netherfield Park before the lawn parties." Jane replied. "Mr. Bingley has good taste."
"I should say so," Lizzy laughed. "He's marrying the prettiest Bennet sister."
~X~
"Excuse me, Miss Bingley," Mr. Collins stepped up to the carriage blocking her entry. "Mrs. Collins, as a married lady, has precedence. You go lower."
"But we're Miss de Bourgh's guests," Caroline protested.
"As are we," Mr. Collins handed his wife into the carriage. Mary took the last seat next to Miss de Bourgh on the forward-facing seat. Anne sat in the middle with Mrs. Stafford on her right and Mary on her left.
"Why don't you ride forward?" Caroline suggested to Mr. Collins.
"Mr. Collins will not ride forward like a servant or a passenger on a post coach. I had my largest carriage prepared for our trip. We have space for six." Miss de Bourgh commented.
Miss Bingley entered the carriage with help from a Rosings footman. She frowned at Mary Collins and sat herself across from her aunt on the rear facing seat. Once she settled, the footman closed the door next to Miss Bingley.
Mr. Collins opened the door next to Mary and entered the carriage. He seated himself across from Mary, causing Miss Bingley to frown at both the Collinses.
"Mr. Hurst hired a cart to follow behind, transporting your luggage to Netherfield. He would have waited for Mr. Bingley to send a wagon or carriage, but he felt you would want to refresh yourselves when you arrive at Netherfield." Mr. Collins viewed his wife and Miss Anne. "A bit tired, Miss Anne?"
"A little, but we will be at Netherfield for tea, and can rest before dinner." Anne patted Mary's hand, who nodded in agreement.
"I'm sorry there was an issue with your carriage Mrs. Stafford. I'm glad Mrs. Collins recognized Miss Bingley as we passed the Meryton Inn." Mr. Collins commiserated with the elderly lady.
"I'm grateful for Miss de Bourgh's offer to convey us to Netherfield. Heavens knows how Charles and Darcy are coping without a proper hostess. What are your plans after the wedding?" Caroline Bingley asked Miss de Bourgh.
"I understand Lady Matlock, Lady Fitzwilliam and Miss Darcy have been in residence for a week now. I believe they will stand as hostesses until the wedding events are completed. I can't wait to ask Miss Darcy about the birthday ball. She helped Lady Matlock and Lady Fitzwilliam with the arrangements. After the wedding, Colonel Fitzwilliam and I are conveying Mr. and Mrs. Collins back to Kent. Resting for a few days will put us right." Anne smiled. "I will travel to London on Fridays for a while to visit Mother and then return to Rosings on Mondays."
"Your carriage will be repaired before Wednesday, will it not, Mrs. Stafford? I understand you are anxious to return to Scarborough after the wedding." Mr. Collins looked away from the view outside the window and observed the conversation.
"Oh yes," Mrs. Stafford confirmed. "Hurst and Louisa are staying at Meryton Inn. The livery will bring the repaired carriage forward in a day or two. After the wedding, we will travel to London. We will stay at the Hurst House until Monday. Then I will return to my estate in Scarborough. I am quite well now, so Caroline may remain with the Hursts."
Anne and Mary shared secret smiles with one another. Anne had a plan for cutting the legs out of any machinations of Miss Caroline Bingley until the wedding was over. Anne found the letter which Miss Bingley sent to Lady Catherine. She shared it with Mary, who suggested they pray longer when they retired for the night. Both of them harbored unkind thoughts about Caroline Bingley. When Darcy and Lizzy needed a good laugh, Anne would share it with them.
"We are sorry you couldn't attend the birthday ball, Miss Bingley. I've had the most marvelous express from Miss Darcy. She described the new ballgowns created by Mme. Charette of London which were worn by the Bennet girls. Miss Elizabeth wore my Grandmother Fitzwilliam's pearl necklace and earbobs for the evening. I understand Miss Bennet wore your mother's sapphires to the ball. I understand Miss Jane is wearing your mother's sapphires for the wedding. I am anxious to see the sapphires against her white silk wedding gown." Anne delighted in the conversation.
"Miss Eliza wore a family heirloom?" Mrs. Stafford asked Anne.
"Elizabeth," Mary interrupted. "Only Elizabeth's particular friend, Miss Charlotte Lucas, daughter of Sir William Lucas, is allowed to call my sister Eliza."
"Yes," Anne admitted. "They have been worn by generations of Fitzwilliam brides. The collection began with the First Earl of Matlock. Each earl added to the collection. Mother, as the oldest Fitzwilliam daughter, wore the pearls the day she married Father…Sir Lewis, Third Baronet de Bourgh. Aunt Constance wore them at her marriage to Uncle Reginald, He is the Sixth Earl of Matlock. Lady Augusta Elburn wore them at her wedding to Viscount Robert Fitzwilliam. I loaned them to Miss Elizabeth for the ball and her wedding. Miss Elizabeth will return them to the Countess of Matlock who will share them with future Fitzwilliam brides."
"I understand you were betrothed to Mr. Darcy but gave him up for Miss Elizabeth," Mrs. Stafford commented.
"Darcy and I never had an understanding nor a betrothal, no matter how much Mother desired one. I felt ill for a long time, until my particular friend, Mrs. Collins, healed me. I owe my health to her efforts. I would never have met such amiable ladies as Miss Elizabeth, Miss Kitty or Miss Lucas if they had not been guests at Hunsford Parsonage this spring." Anne smiled at Mary.
"I look forward to becoming reacquainted with the Darcys and meeting Colonel Fitzwilliam's family," Miss Bingley sighed.
"Colonel Fitzwilliam is still nursing an injured knee, which limits his dancing." Anne announced, with fake disinterest. "Since we missed the birthday ball, I look forward to dancing at the wedding breakfast. Colonel Fitzwilliam is escorting Miss Georgiana and me to the church and afterwards to the wedding breakfast. He traveled with his parents, brother and sister, and Miss Georgiana to Netherfield last week. He danced the opening set at the birthday ball with Miss Kitty. He met Miss Lucas at your Netherfield ball." Anne de Bourgh viewed Netherfield Park with a knowing smile. Anne would caution Richard and William to lock their bedroom doors at night, and ensure they were companions to one another until the wedding. Miss Bingley had time to attempt a compromise before the wedding.
"Miss Anne de Bourgh, Mr. and Mrs. William Collins, Mrs. Cordelia Stafford, Miss Caroline Bingley," the footman announced the new arrivals to Netherfield.
Bingley and Jane with Darcy and Elizabeth greeted the newest arrivals. The Earl and Countess of Matlock, the Viscount and Viscountess Fitzwilliam, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Miss Darcy occupied the top step.
"Aren't you glad to see us, Charles? Miss de Bourgh found us at the Meryton Inn where our carriage is being fixed. She offered to convey Aunt Stafford and myself to Netherfield. I didn't know you had been here alone since the first of March," Caroline scolded her brother. "You should have sent for me sooner. I could have been your hostess while you were here."
"Aunt Stafford needed you more than I did. I know how much you dislike Hertfordshire. I would not insist on your discomfort. I have not had need of a hostess. The tenants and I have been quite busy with planting and repairs. Between the Countess of Matlock, Lady Fitzwilliam and Miss Darcy, wedding events have been handled excessively well." Bingley soothed.
"Well, I am here now, so your guests may take their leisure." Caroline announced.
"Thank you for the offer, but Aunt Stafford, as the senior Bingley lady in the manor, has the honor of hostessing. She will consult with the Countess of Matlock and Miss Darcy." Bingley lowered his voice and spoke directly to Caroline. "If arrangements are not to your liking Caroline, I can have you removed to the Meryton Inn with the Hursts until the wedding at St. Albans and the wedding breakfast here."
'You may borrow my carriage if you like.' Anne's impertinent thoughts did not reflect in her person. She hugged Elizabeth and Darcy. "Hello cousins." She moved to hug Richard. "You look well," she greeted him with an affectionate kiss on his cheek. "Have you been resting?"
"I have, but I've been anxious for your arrival. I may have paced holes in Bingley's rugs." Richard kissed Anne's cheek also. "Bingley and the livery at Meryton Inn have horses. I can give you, Georgiana and Miss Kitty riding lessons."
"Mrs. Collins will scold you if you don't take care. Uncle, Aunt," she greeted them with hugs also. She turned to curtsey to Robert and Augusta, and Georgiana. "Cousins."
"You are looking well. After you have a chance to freshen up, we're having tea in the drawing room. I saw your mother before we left London. She is doing well. I know it is not easy splitting your time between Rosings Park and the de Bourgh House. You are taking excellent care of her and the de Bourgh House." Uncle Reginald offered his arm and patted Anne's hand as they entered Netherfield Park.
Richard offered his arm to his mother. Robert and Augusta followed behind. Darcy offered his arms to Elizabeth and Georgiana. Bingley offered his arms to Jane and Mrs. Stafford. Mr. Collins offered his arm to Mrs. Collins and then offered his free arm to Miss Bingley. Shocked, Caroline found herself at the end of the procession with the Collinses.
Inside, Mrs. Nichols led the new guests to their rooms. "This room is for you, Miss de Bourgh." She opened the door to the suite Caroline claimed when the Bingleys and Hursts first came to Netherfield. Mrs. Nichols carefully avoided Caroline's glare. "Mrs. Collins, you are next to Miss de Bourgh. Mr. Collins, your room is next. Miss Bennet felt you would like the excellent view of the rose gardens from this room, Mrs. Stafford. Miss Bingley, you are in the lavender room at the end of the hall. If you didn't bring maids and valets with you, staff from Netherfield Park are in your rooms, seeing to your trunks. When you are finished, there are footmen at the top and bottom of the stairs to guide you to the drawing room."
"Who assigned the rooms?" Caroline's bare civility did not endear her to any of the staff.
"Mr. Bingley and Miss Bennet. Currently we have Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy, Miss Darcy, Mrs. Annesley, five Fitzwilliams, and the five of you. All of our rooms are spoken for." Mrs. Nichols had orders from Mr. Bingley.
"Who is in the blue suite?" Caroline asked. "Hurst and Louisa usually stay there. My aunt and I will take the blue suite with two bedrooms, two dressing rooms and the connecting sitting room."
"I'm sorry Miss Bingley. The blue suite is unavailable, which is why Mr. and Mrs. Hurst are staying at Meryton Inn. The suite has been refurbished for Mr. and Mrs. Bingley. Miss Bennet's possessions have been placed in the mistress's room. Mr. Bingley will move into the master bedroom the day of the wedding." She viewed Caroline's frown. "The only other available rooms are at Meryton Inn. Netherfield Park and Longbourn are full. Miss Bennet's uncle and aunt from London are staying with her uncle and aunt in Meryton."
Caroline would not be happy in the small guest room, but Jane needed the larger rooms and suites for guests of higher rank or who were married. Caroline Bingley would receive an unspoken lesson on the true level of her society. Jane arranged for trusted staff from Netherfield to act as maid for Caroline.
~X~
"Mr. Bennet, Mrs. Bennet," Mr. Collins greeted them. "It is ever so pleasant to see you again. Cousins," He bowed to Jane, Lizzy, Kitty and Lydia.
"Papa, Mother, sisters," Mary greeted them, receiving warm hugs from Mr. Bennet, Jane, Lizzy and Kitty and cool acknowledgement from Mrs. Bennet and Lydia. Curtseys and bows were exchanged between the Collinses and the Fitzwilliams and Miss Darcy. Bingley stepped up to introduce his aunt and sister to the assembled group.
Lizzy would be civil, but she had given Aunt Constance, Augusta, Georgiana and Anne leave to be indignant and cutting on her and Jane's behalf. Lizzy felt it unchristian, but she had not forgiven the Hursts' cold manners and Arrow's not so subtle snubs.
Bingley took his aunt and sister on a quick tour of rooms he and Jane changed before the wedding. The heavy furniture and floral rugs in the hall were replaced by classic mahogany furniture and plain rugs with interesting borders of complimentary colors. The hall walls were no longer wine red but were repainted in cool cream. The heavy gold gilt framed pictures were removed and mirrors added to provide light in the wide hall. Caroline's dark plum dining room was replaced by cool cream walls, burgundy linen drapes, and burgundy and cream striped upholstery on a new mahogany dining set for four and twenty. The celery and gold music room was repainted cream also. Chairs and settees were covered in shades of blue silk from an almost ice blue to indigo. They encircled the musicians' dais in graduated waves. Bingley led them to the drawing room. "I hope you like the changes we've made to the drawing room."
"Dearest Georgiana, allow me to sit next to you and teach you how to serve tea properly," Caroline cooed at Georgiana when everyone began taking seats in the drawing room. Caroline changed from her orange travel attire into a silk gown which was more appropriate for dinner, rather than tea.
"Dearest Georgiana practiced serving tea properly to first and second circles in Bath from January through April. Georgiana excelled in hostessing plans and duties at the birthday ball." Lady Matlock maintained a low, calm, and steady voice. She would not be roused to anger by this social climbing chit.
"Miss Bingley should be aware of Miss Darcy's schedule. I advised her Miss Darcy could not correspond while attending her masters and lessons." Mrs. Annesley's voice could be heard in all corners of the room.
"Let's sit by Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. I have much conversation with them about acquaintances I have not seen since your father and mother died." Mrs. Stafford clasped Caroline's arm and almost dragged her to a settee near the Gardiners.
Charles and Jane redecorated the Netherfield Park drawing room with classic mahogany furniture upholstered in shades of green and blue. Cushions were botanical prints in blue and green. The room felt cool, refined and elegant on a warm summer afternoon. The sumptuous velveteen drapes were replaced with lightweight warped linen in soothing summer blue. A long case clock from the hallway at Bingley House occupied a wall between the windows. Picturesque landscapes and mirrors in simple wooden frames replaced the previous large floral pictures and mirrors in gilt frames. The large, overstuffed furniture Mr. Hurst preferred for napping became part of the furniture shipped to the Bingley House.
Finally, Caroline viewed the tea service and china. White china with a gold gilt band replaced the floral china preferred by the Bingley sisters. Caroline observed the changes to Netherfield Park, silently fuming because she could not act as hostess for Charles. 'Is this what Charles wants? Country simplicity? Nothing in this room boasts the richness or opulence of the Bingley House. God, how plebian Charles has become.'
Constance Fitzwilliam observed Miss Bingley's frowns. She did not know if Miss Bingley objected to the furnishings of the drawing room…or because she could not sit near Georgiana or William. She did not engage in conversation with Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, or Mr. and Mrs. Phillips who conversed with Mrs. Stafford. Miss Bingley's position on the settee with her aunt prevented her from engaging in other conversations in the room.
William and Elizabeth shared a corner table with Richard and Anne. Bingley and Jane shared a corner table with Lydia. The Collinses shared a corner table with Kitty. Viscount and Lady Fitzwilliam shared the settee across from Georgiana and the Matlocks.
"Mr. Collins, did you share Owen Collins' message with Miss Bingley?" Mr. Gardiner sipped his tea… the ruse hid his smile.
"No," Mr. Collins blushed. "I had quite forgotten. Martin Collins asked to be remembered to you, Mr. Bingley. He had many business transactions with your father and grandfather."
"I remember him, excellent gentleman. He secured many excellent bottles of Italian wine for my grandfather." Bingley smiled. "Is he in good health?"
"He is indeed," Collins remarked. "However, he released his position at the Collins' Warehouses and is now a gentleman of leisure."
"If we are ever in London, with a free afternoon, I shall call." Bingley declared.
"My cousin, Mr. Owen Collins, asked to be remembered to you, Miss Bingley. Although it has been a few years since he had your acquaintance, he swore he had not forgotten you." Mr. Collins smoothly moved the conversation along.
"I don't know Mr. Owen Collins," Caroline Bingley brushed an imaginary crumb from the skirt of her gown and sipped her tea. Her comment quieted all other conversation in the room.
"Of course, you do," Bingley protested. "He was one of your most ardent suitors the first Season you were in London. I liked him a great deal."
"Obviously he must not have been a most ardent suitor as I don't remember him." Caroline's voice chilled the warmth of Bingley's voice.
"He offered for you, but you refused due to his roots in trade," Cordelia Stafford protested Caroline's feigned ignorance. "He wrote you pretty little verses. I remember him because I stood in your mother's place as chaperone your first Season."
"Is Owen Collins in health also?" Bingley asked.
"Yes, quite hale and hearty," Collins explained. "He married Miss Harriet Crowell of Liverpool and works for her family's shipping firm."
"Didn't she come out the same year as you, Caroline?" Cordelia Stafford asked.
"She came out the same Season as Caroline," Bingley explained. "Miss Crowell was vigorously pursued for her beauty, brains, and substantial dowry. She had £50,000 pounds."
"Didn't you consider pursuing her?" Mrs. Stafford asked Bingley. "I remember many a landau ride in Hyde Park during Presentation Hour, so you could catch a glimpse of her."
"I received constant reminders of my duty to family. I knew I must become a landed gentleman. " Bingley's sharp words did not cut Caroline as he desired.
"Pish posh," Mrs. Stafford scoffed. "Between her dowry and your legacy, you would have had enough funds to purchase an estate the size of Pemberley."
"Not quite. However, Bingley could have owned an estate half the size of Pemberley. He could have been landed gentry years ago. However, I'm glad you waited for a love match rather than yield to a business arrangement." Darcy's eyes glinted with mischief.
"There's no sense discussing Owen Collins," Caroline snapped. "I don't remember him."
While Constance Fitzwilliam enjoyed Caroline Bingley's sudden shrill voice and high color, she knew the upstart would attempt retribution on the Bennet family. Caroline Bingley did not like being reminded of her roots in trade.
Mrs. Stafford observed Mr. Collins quite carefully. "You don't look like your Collins' cousins."
"William Collins has a great deal of the Bennet family in his coloring and features." Mr. Bennet observed his son-by-marriage. "You remind me of my grandfather. Before you leave, you and Mary must come to Longbourn for tea or dinner. I would like to show you the family portraits."
"Great," Mrs. Bennet muttered to Mrs. Phillips. "Why don't you let them measure up the rooms while they are there?" The Saturday lawn parties planned by Jane and Lizzy, and the birthday ball planned by Lady Matlock, Lady Fitzwilliam and Miss Darcy displeased Franny. She whined excessively to her sister Deborah, who agreed with Franny about the injustice of not being the hostess for all the pre-wedding and wedding amusements.
Deborah felt ill-used also. The Phillips were not invited to Netherfield Park for tea or dinner the week before the ball. The Fitzwilliams and Miss Darcy did not accept invitations to Longbourn the week before the ball, citing the work and planning needed. No one called at Netherfield Park during the week due to the absence of the knocker. Deborah keenly felt the loss of bragging about their improved social status to the matrons of Meryton.
Four footmen from Netherfield stood at the ready to carry silver trays of refreshments among the guests. The kitchen staff prepared lovely trays of chilled, sugared green grapes; fresh strawberries, savories, scones and sweets. The fresh flower arrangements boasted the best Netherfield's hothouse could offer. Constance Fitzwilliam drew everyone's attention to Miss Bennet's elegant arrangements.
The Fitzwilliam men took the lemon shortbread, lemon and berry tarts, and the lemon zest rout cakes from the circulated trays. Lizzy laughed at Darcy's frustration. "You will have to beg my aunt or Bingley's aunt to let you near those trays." She indicated the trays held by the two footmen stationed near them.
"I deserve them," Darcy whispered back at her. "I'm feeling rather tart today. Your mother kept you from visiting earlier. Did she examine every wedding detail and question every decision?"
"Hush," Lizzy turned to the footman. "I would like some of the cherry almond tea cakes. There are none on the trays I have been offered." The Netherfield footman ignored Miss Bingley as he took the full tray on the table before Miss Bingley and Mrs. Stafford. He left a ravaged one in its place.
After tea, the guests staying at Longbourn or Meryton departed for a rest before dressing for dinner. The guests staying at Netherfield engaged in a short stroll through the gardens before resting for dinner. Caroline sought out Georgiana and managed, by slowing her gait, to separate Georgiana from the clusters of guests walking in the garden.
"I hope your new sister will bring joy to you and Mr. Darcy. I hope she learns to be a good mistress to Pemberley and the Darcy House without too many false steps which will embarrass your family. Of course, Miss Eliza can always depend on guidance from the Countess of Matlock and Lady…" Caroline's insincere compliments were thinly disguised insults.
"Elizabeth makes William very happy," Georgiana interrupted Caroline's venom. "He makes her happy also."
"Who would not be incandescently happy married to Fitzwilliam Darcy?" Caroline demanded.
"I imagine women who would marry my brother just for his name, money, connections to peerage, and property would be incandescently happy." Georgiana did not back down. "However, no one could love my brother as much as Elizabeth. No one, except William, could love Elizabeth as she deserves to be loved. I'm very aware how much you dislike Elizabeth. If you do not change your airs and attitudes around the Fitzwilliam, de Bourgh and Darcy families…you will be cut." Georgiana left Caroline Bingley standing alone, viewing Darcy smiling down at his future bride as they walked the gardens.
~X~
"I leased a fine house in the country where I could learn to run an estate. I needed an estate where I could hunt, fish and entertain. London's social scene exhausted me. I learned what cruel, uncaring sisters I really have. I learned I'm only valuable to Brother Hurst for the funds I have, the entertainments I provide, and the wine, brandy and food which flow in abundance. If you wonder what I see in Jane Bennet…she is warm, kind and caring. I know Jane loves me, and not my funds; no matter what my shrewish sisters say." Bingley relaxed in his library with his aunt.
"I approve of your intended. I know your mother and father would approve of Jane also. Do you know why Caroline is not in a better attitude about the wedding?" Cordelia Stafford asked her only nephew. When Charles finished relating the tale of how Caroline set her cap at Darcy and her attempt to compromise him, Cordelia required a second small glass of sherry.
"I am decided," Cordelia announced. "I think Lady Matlock has things well in hand. I shall, as the senior Bingley lady in the house, defer to her excellent administrations."
Charles eyes twinkled. "If anyone can put Caroline and Louisa in their place, it will be the Countess of Matlock. I feel my sisters will court her acceptance, hoping to earn first circle introductions to the ton."
~X~
"Thank you for the compliments on my gown," Constance Fitzwilliam thanked Caroline Bingley during the assembly of the guests before dinner. "My modiste, Mme. Charette, made the gown. I purchased the gold sarsenet from Gardiner's Emporium."
"Miss Eliza's uncle in trade?" Caroline's surprise overrode her urge to sneer. She overdressed for dinner. A cloud of expensive perfume announced her arrival in a costly peach silk evening gown. She wore an emerald pendant on a gold chain with emerald eardrops which looked well with the off-the-shoulder, deep décolletage, and frothy lace bodice. Her hairstyle featured emerald brilliants which sparkled against her dark brown hair. She wore apricot colored satin slippers, with long apricot silk gloves, and carried a peach and apricot tipped white ostrich fan.
"The Fitzwilliam family calls her Elizabeth. I believe the only person allowed to address her as Eliza is Miss Lucas, who is her particular friend. Indeed, Mr. Gardiner has the loveliest fabrics. He had a new shipment of Florentine and Italian cottons, India muslins and Chinese silks. He bought the inventory of a draper going out of business. The draper had French silks, satins and lace. Mr. Gardiner closed the warehouse for the morning and allowed our group to have first choice of the French fabrics. This gold sarsenet enthralled me. I could not wait to purchase it. I also found a crimson silk, and an emerald brocade. Mme. Charette's shop now offers the best of Gardiner's fabrics."
"You are kind to patronize Gardiner's Emporium…" Caroline tried to offer a criticism veiled as an insincere compliment.
"Not only did I patronize him, so did Augusta, Anne, and Georgiana. Augusta's silver silk, Anne's blue brocade, and Georgiana's fine white linen came from Gardiner's Emporium." Constance indicated the gowns. They were made at Mme. Charette's modiste shop. "Augusta, Anne and Georgiana all purchased fabrics to update their summer wardrobes. Elizabeth found the loveliest fine gold linen with gilt threads at Gardiner's Emporium. Miss Bennet found silver linen with silver gilt threads. Mme. Charette made elegant dinner gowns for them. Imagine how rich their gowns will appear in a candlelit room." Constance sighed with happiness at discomposing Caroline Bingley.
"I am sorry to have missed wedding clothes shopping," Caroline sought appointments with Mme. Charette for three years to launch herself into the first circles. 'Eliza Bennet visited the modiste I want and is marrying the man I want. I could slap her face, scratch her fine eyes out, and yank those chestnut curls from her head.'
Constance observed Mary Collins speaking with Anne and Richard. She moved away from Caroline Bingley's fawning. "I understand we have you to thank for Miss Anne's and Colonel Fitzwilliam's recovery," Constance addressed Mary.
"I did not heal them by myself. They wanted to get well and allowed me to help. I admit I enjoyed giving orders to Colonel Fitzwilliam. I have three bottles of dandelion tissane for when your knee is swollen. I also have three more bottles of the peppermint lotion to work into your knee when it is sore. Please don't let me forget to give them to you." Mary smiled at Colonel Fitzwilliam.
"Lord Matlock and I have something for you, to thank you for bringing Miss Anne and Colonel Fitzwilliam back to health." Constance Fitzwilliam handed Mary a jewelry box.
Mary was shocked to see a jeweler's box from one of the finest jewelers in London.
"We are thrilled because Anne has recovered her health. However, if you could recommend Colonel Fitzwilliam not return to the continent, we'd be ever so grateful." The Earl of Matlock joined the group.
"We need good men of strong character to become soldiers," Colonel Fitzwilliam protested. "I cannot, in good conscience, abandon my king and country."
Mary examined a chocolate brown and cream agate cameo pendant set in a gold frame with gold chain. The cameo feature the profile of a young lady with beautiful curls and a bandeau of flowers in her hair. "Oh, it is lovely! However, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Miss Anne's friendships are payment enough for me."
Everyone toasted Richard and Anne's returns to health and raised a glass to toast Mary's abilities.
Caroline quietly fumed in a corner, ignored by everyone until Hurst and Louisa appeared for dinner. They were followed by Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner and Mr. and Mrs. Phillips.
Mr. Collins appearance shocked Mrs. Bennet into silence. Attired and acting as a gentleman who would inherit Longbourn, he no longer appeared as the bumbling, stout curate the family first met. She had been desperate to have him marry one of her daughters to keep herself from starving in the hedgerows. He dressed as fashionably as Darcy and Bingley, and certainly much better than Mr. Bennet or Mr. Phillips. Mary worked wonders with him…his hair was not greasy or unkept, and he lost at least three stones in weight.
Mrs. Bennet could not believe how exceedingly good Mary looked in a new cinnamon silk dinner gown. A modest, rounded neckline, edged with cream silk lace, revealed little décolletage. Intricate four-inch wide cream lace accented the bottom of the short, straight sleeves and the jointure of the modest bodice to the gathered skirt. A long cream silk wrap and long cream silk gloves finished the ensemble. Mary wore a lovely gold cross, which Mr. Collins gave her as a Christmas gift. The richness of the cinnamon silk caught the glow of the candles and brought out blonde highlights in Mary's normally nondescript brown hair. Her elaborately arranged hair featured her gold combs. Cream satin slippers peeked out from under her gown. Mary's modest dress was made of quality silk and quality silk lace. 'Who taught Mary to dress better?'
"Will you be staying at Netherfield for your entire trip?" Mrs. Bennet asked Mr. Collins. "For if you are, perhaps you could come to breakfast in the morning while the other men are shooting." 'I truly do not want him at Longbourn, but an invitation to breakfast might reveal his and Mary's future plans.'
"Thank you for the invitation. However, I plan to go shooting with the men. Lord Matlock has a new hunting rifle. He offered me the use of his second-best gun. Mr. Bennet, do join us. We will be a merry party." Collins might not be a crack shot like Darcy or Fitzwilliam, but he enjoyed hunting, fishing and riding with them at Rosings after he became more proficient. He felt loath to do so at first, but Mary explained he needed to learn to be a gentleman especially because of Elizabeth's new connections. His marriage to Mary Bennet made him a brother to Darcy and Bingley, and a cousin to Colonel Fitzwilliam and Miss Anne. He would not embarrass them. Colonel Fitzwilliam promised to help him purchase his own gun, riding tack, and fishing equipment when Fitzwilliam returned to Rosings. "Will you take breakfast with your mother and sisters?" Collins consulted Mary.
"I think not. I promised Jane I would tour and inventory the Netherfield stillroom. I promised Bingley I would meet with Mr. Mason to discuss the main farm and make recommendations. I promised to show Mrs. Annesley my botanical drawings for embroidery. I promised to visit Mrs. Nelson at the parsonage. I shall be quite busy with my current schedule." Mary smiled at Mr. Collins. They discussed staying away from Longbourn during this trip since Mother expressed displeasure about Mary and Kitty staying at the de Bourgh House during the wedding clothes trip.
~X~
Dinner began with a subdued air. The Countess of Matlock offered to accede her hostess duties to Mrs. Stafford. The lady insisted the Countess of Matlock continue as hostess as the leading lady in residence. Mrs. Stafford proposed a toast of thanks for Lady Matlock's excellent attention to detail.
Caroline found herself sitting across from Mrs. Phillips, Hurst and Louisa and between Kitty and Lydia Bennet. She observed the Countess of Matlock with thinly veiled anger. If Caroline had known she would be seated so low, she might have claimed a headache. However, there was no advantage to eating a tray in her tiny guest room.
Caroline's small guest room did not contain a proper dining table. A writing desk served as a desk, dining table and a dressing table. The guest room lacked an attached dressing room. A dressing screen hid the commode tucked in a corner. Along that wall sat a petite wash stand, a small armoire, a chest of drawers, and the writing desk with chair. Her single person bed with one night table hugged the other wall. The insignificant seating area held a wing chair with a side table. Caroline was glad she did not need the small fireplace; she doubted it could warm the room. The short mantle barely held a single candlestick reflected in the small mirror hung above it. The fireplace screen and tools seemed as simple as the room. The plain lavender walls matched the plain lavender velveteen drapes and bed linens. Her trunks could not be emptied, as the room lacked enough space in the armoire or chest of drawers for her wardrobe. Her trunks and bandboxes were stacked on top of one another at the end of the bed.
'I have never been treated so low in my entire life. I curse Lady Catherine's collapse. I gained nothing from warning the lady about Eliza Bennet except censure from Charles and banishment in Scarborough with Aunt Stafford. And how, pray tell, did the quietest, plainest Bennet girl become the particular friend of Anne de Bourgh?'
"Mary, can you discuss building an ice house with Mr. Mason? We don't have one at Netherfield. We must consider building one if we continue to stay at Netherfield." Jane addressed Mary with nods from Bingley.
"I've found the best time to create an icehouse is in late October after harvesting is completed. After harvesting, it is an excellent use of your laborers' time. You want it to be ready if there is a cold period in November to create ice." Darcy offered. "I can look at your land map and suggest possible locations for you."
"We're putting fire pits in the orchard," Bingley sounded excited. "I saw the ones you created at Longbourn."
"Sounds dangerous!" Caroline sniffed. "You really want to set fires near trees?"
"They are useful for keeping cold air away from the trees in the spring," Lizzy explained. "You don't want your harvest blighted by unexpected cold weather. Think of your ball in November, you had special fires set on your terrace to warm the air if anyone wanted to step out of the ballroom."
"The terrace fires weren't near trees," Caroline insisted.
"Summer of 1794 was hot, dry and produced a drought. Winter 1794 was severe. Late Spring of 1795 experienced a series of frosts which killed one crop after another. Fall 1795, Father and his steward introduced firepits to all orchards, gardens and fields located on Pemberley lands. The firepits ensure Pemberley is never affected by frosts like that again. Firepits are something which estate owners utilize, like crop rotation, and companion gardening for kitchen and herb gardens." Darcy firmly ended the discussion. "Before we go, I'm sure Viscount Fitzwilliam and I can discuss fire pits with your steward." He advised Bingley.
"We needed fire pits the last ten days of April this year. I daresay without them, it would be a blighted harvest." Anne countered Caroline's comments. "If you should need to cover gardens, we found Holland cloths worked exceptionally well. We did not have enough old blankets at Rosings, but we had forty rooms of Holland cloths from the Dower House."
~X~
"I appear before the medical board in August. Once I return to full status instead of half pay, I expect a fortnight of training before reporting to the War Office in early October. I will ship to Brussels first and then be ordered to parts unknown." Richard warned his father.
"Take the snuff box with you, and keep it over your heart," Reggie warned his son. "An inside pocket of your uniform will protect. Remember to keep gold pieces about you to bribe a doctor, or to find a safe haven or a way home."
"Mrs. Collins recommended a regimen of riding and walking to strengthen my leg. She provided more suggestions than the army doctor. She recommended soaking, and leaches to remove the fluid from my knee. She created a tissane for icing my knee, and lotion to draw the pain without making me use laudanum."
~X~
"Thank you for the offer, Caroline." Jane would not be irritated because Caroline interrupted her enjoyment of the music provided by her guests. "Netherfield may be larger than Longbourn, but I do not need help to plan my household, select menus, or handle staff. Mama taught me how to manage a home. Papa taught me to manage accounts and ledgers, tenants and charity. Changes were ordered for the master suite before Charles and I occupy it. We will never entertain the Prince Regent, so we are redecorating Netherfield to provide a comfortable home for us."
"Fine, I do not have to make my home with you and Charles. I don't want to be stuck in this backwater shire. I will rent the Bingley House from you." Caroline offered magnanimously.
"No, you won't. My solicitor drew a new catalogue for the Bingley House. We have a tenant taking possession at Michaelmas in time for Little Season. I don't need Bingley House as Netherfield Park is close to London." Bingley entered the music room. The separation of sexes lasted as long as a morning visit, mostly because Bingley didn't trust Caroline's post dinner conversation. Thwarting Caroline's plans and machinations rose above all other considerations. "You are in Scarborough with Aunt Stafford, or at the Hurst House with Louisa." At the flash of fire in Caroline's eyes, Bingley spoke quietly. "Behave yourself. Perhaps Hurst will let you live with them if you buy him enough good wines and brandy. He can worry about paying off staff you treat badly. As a warning, I penalized your pin money to pay the family solicitor to find Moyer, pay her wages and give her a character reference. You need a new lady's maid…which I will not provide." Bingley moved off to join the other men.
~X~
Uncomfortable conversations punctuated card playing planned by Lady Matlock and Jane.
"You must be with child when you return from your wedding tour," Mrs. Bennet counseled Jane. "Although you and Lizzy made excellent matches and will want for nothing…I cannot rejoice in your situations if I am forced to give up Longbourn when Mr. Bennet dies. You must convince Mary and Mr. Collins to allow me to stay near my first grandchild!"
Mary overheard Mother's conversation with Jane. Mother greedily wanted to stay at Longbourn as its mistress, continuing the society which she led for over twenty years. Mary would not have it. Forced to economize, Mother would accept the level of living her marriage articles provided or she would do without. She would not run up debts and expect Mr. Collins to pay them. Once moved to the Steward's House, Mother would not entertain lavishly at the Collins' expense.
Anne watched Mary's frown disappear, to be replaced by a serene look which mirrored the one Jane Bennet had before Mrs. Bennet spoke to her. Anne thought about her relationship with Mother. "Do you think your parents are vexed by the change in me?" Anne questioned Richard when he brought her a small glass of sherry during one of their interludes. "Before, I just existed. I learned I had no opinion. I learned to give way. I'm not a sick, submissive girl any longer. I cannot be faulted if I learned patience. I feel there is more to life than shopping, worshiping the ton, and hoping for the best invitations of the Season."
"You have become a healthy young woman, despite your mother's neglect. You need to discover who you are, what you want, and what you can do. Darcy, Georgie and I will be your champions." Richard agreed.
"Don't worry about me. Let's worry about Miss Bingley. She's not a shelf sitter and should not be desperate. However, if she can compromise Darcy before the wedding, she would attempt it…even if his engagement were already announced." Anne inclined her head in the direction of Caroline Bingley. Richard observed Miss Bingley's eyes sweep the room and gleam when they alighted on Fitzwilliam Darcy.
Georgiana talked with Anne about her masters. Augusta bragged about her fluency in French and Italian. She revealed she played the pianoforte and the harp and sang. She studied English history when she became engaged to Robert, Viscount Fitzwilliam. Lizzy wondered at the strange vein of this conversation, until she realized Miss Bingley overheard Anne's comment."Your father was a baronet, and your mother is the daughter of an earl…yet you never had a Season? No masters for education? Drawing, dancing? Playing musical instruments or singing? Riding? Languages? Did your father and mother not think it important for you to have the best education possible? A fashionable and accomplished wife elevates a man's status," Miss Bingley lectured Miss de Bourgh while watching Darcy.
Richard wanted to throttle Caroline Bingley. He would enlist Augusta's help. Caroline Bingley would be compromised, wed and gone before William and Elizabeth married.
"I fell ill for the first time at age ten. Father passed when I turned five and ten. A putrid fever took his life, and left me weakened for a decade. Mother asserted I do not need accomplishments because I have a large dowry and Rosings Park. Mother hired a governess/companion for me." Anne commented. "However, I embarked on a health regime since January thanks to Mrs. Collins. She healed me and Colonel Fitzwilliam. I hired my own masters for general education, music, art, French, sewing and dancing. I have Aunt Constance and Cousin Augusta to teach me those delicate female arts such as setting a good table, conducting conversations, and planning events. I believe my desire to keep Rosings Park financially solvent and enlarge my holdings will be the best of my accomplishments."
"Darcy, why don't you and Augusta join Anne and me for the next round of cards?" Fitzwilliam requested. "Robert can partner with Elizabeth." He flashed a fake smile at Anne. "We can discuss hiring more masters for you."
~X~
"Good night," Darcy addressed the group. "Important correspondence arrived for me. I must handle it before bed to ensure these next few days are free with my bride. I will retire to the Netherfield library to not importune anyone." He bid everyone goodnight, kissed Elizabeth's hands and strode out of the Netherfield drawing room. In the library, he traded jackets with Roberts.
"Go out these doors, and down the side of the manor to the back. Enter through the kitchens. Mrs. Nichols will take you to Colonel Fitzwilliam's room by the servants' stairwell. She will let you know when Miss Bingley leaves her room." Roberts indicated the glassed doors in the library which led to the gardens.
"When do you think she will make her move?" Darcy asked.
"Last time Miss Bingley waited an hour after everyone had gone to bed." Roberts reminded him. "I don't believe it will be a late night, as the men plan to shoot in the morning. I estimate it will be after midnight." Darcy's open writing slope rested on the desk beside a single candle. Roberts sat in the chair with the back to the door. He poured a little brandy in a glass and set a book beside it. He did not know if this would work, but he wanted to help Mr. Darcy.
Two hours later, a nightclothes clad Caroline Bingley quietly entered the library. She could see the top of Darcy's head over the back of the chair. Obviously Darcy dozed, as he didn't move when she entered. She tiptoed into the room and threw herself into Mr. Darcy's lap as he sat before the fire place. "Oh my darling," she cooed at him. "Make me the happiest woman in the world…"
Roberts pushed her to the floor, pinning her beneath his strong body. "You must agree to marry me tomorrow." He whispered hoarsely before kissing her breathless. Neither of them heard the library door open.
"Caroline! What are you doing out of bed…and rolling around on the floor with a man?" Bingley held his candlestick high. His valet warned him Caroline left her room.
"Saying yes to Mr. Darcy's proposal of marriage…" Caroline announced. "I am the happiest woman…" her voice faltered as Bingley lit candles in the library, shedding light on who she kissed. "Roberts! What are you doing here?" She attempted to shove him away. Roberts would not let her up.
"Protecting me from your continuous compromise attempts." Darcy laughed from the doorway of the library. His own lit candlestick added to the glow in the room.
"I offered for her and she said yes, sir. I apologize I must give my notice. We will marry in the morning. Mr. Bingley, tomorrow we can exchange information on how to transfer Miss Bingley's dowry to my bank in Bath. Drawing the marriage settlement will not take long. I have £5,000 pounds to settle on her…" Roberts would use the payment from the last time she attempted to compromise Darcy to fund her marriage settlement.
"I WON'T MARRY YOU!" Caroline yelled. "No one knows about this! I don't have to marry him!"
"Oh, but I'm afraid you do," Bingley counseled his sister as the Earl of Matlock, Viscount Fitzwilliam, and Colonel Fitzwilliam entered the library. Their lit candlesticks brightened the situation even more. "Roberts, do get off my sister…it is unseemly."
"I will when you ring for footmen to restrain her. I don't want her to run away before we can marry in the morning." Roberts commented.
"If she runs away, I will give you her portion. Are you sure you don't want her to run away?" Bingley appeared immensely amused.
"I will not be blackmailed into marrying a servant!" Caroline shrieked.
"Careful now…" Darcy's eyes narrowed. "You called him Mr. Darcy. This isn't the first time you've called someone 'Darcy' while in a state of dishabille. I think you are delusional and should be admitted to Bedlam to determine if you are of sound mind."
Wisely, Caroline ceased talking.
"Will you marry him…or will I have you transported to Bedlam for an examination? I might leave you there for a several weeks while I'm on a wedding tour with my bride." Bingley stared at his sister. "I'm waiting for a reply."
"Charles…" Caroline warned him.
"Very well, laudanum it is, followed by doctor's examination. I really think you must be insane if you mistake Mr. Darcy's valet for Darcy not once, but twice. At least this time you were not in bed with the man," Bingley sighed.
"Marriage! You are the one who is delusional!" Caroline snapped. "I will not settle for £5,000! I'll pay him off again and I keep my freedom!"
"Oh, no my dear…this is not how we are starting our marriage. I asked you to marry me and you said yes. You told your brother we were to be married. This is the second time you have been caught in a compromising position with me. I suggest if you want pin money, you take the £5,000 marriage settlement. I will not buy you silk gowns or pay for excessive modiste invoices." Roberts announced.
"Two hundred pounds a year as pin money? I can't live on such a paltry amount!" Caroline screeched.
"After our marriage, we travel to Bath. I will invest your £30,000 in our future. My family has an estate in Bath which has been in the family for two centuries. The manor house is the size of Netherfield. We have six farms attached to the estate and oversee four more. With my brother's guidance, I will establish a country estate for us adjacent to my brother's estate. I will purchase the four farms he currently oversees and make offers for additional farms in the area. What I don't spend on land will be spent on farm supplies, livestock, poultry, wagons and farm helpers. I estimate our estate will eventually be larger than Netherfield Park and might yield £5,000 per annum. Once we reach the goal of £5,000 per annum, I will increase your marriage settlement by five percent each year until your funds reach £10,000."
"How am I to fill my time while you are busy playing gentleman farmer?" Caroline sniped. "I need funds to establish a house in the better circles of Bath for us. I need trips to London to interview and hire quality, dependable servants. I need trips to London to purchase paints, wallpapers, and furniture."
"We will not live in Bath. We will live at the Steward's House on my brother's estate until I buy or build a house. The Steward's House will be cleaned and prepared for us. Servants from Bath will be hired. Supplies are acquired in Bath. I've seen how you arranged Netherfield Park, and do not want uncomfortable furniture or vile paint colors in my comfortable country home."
"Not live in Bath! Am I to have no society?" Caroline whined.
"You, as a gentleman farmer's wife, will be of no interest to first and second circles visiting Bath. You will accompany my brother's wife when she calls on the tenants. You will engage in charitable works for the church. You will call on Mother who lives at the Dower House on the Roberts Estate. Be of good cheer Miss Bingley. My family name is well known in all circles of Bath. The Roberts Estate supplies meat, milk, eggs and garden stuff to all circles of Bath society." He turned to Bingley. "Please lock my future wife in her room tonight. I don't want her running away before we depart for the church tomorrow morning. If Miss Bingley does run away, I will announce her shame to all and assundry. I believe the Fitzwilliams and Miss de Bourgh will help spread the cause of Miss Bingley's ruin. She will be considered a lightskirt and shunned by decent society. Before you leave on your wedding tour, Bingley, please transfer Miss Bingley's funds to me."
"I will ask Mr. Phillips to come for an early breakfast. He can draw the marriage articles before the wedding. We must settle things early tomorrow before you wed." Bingley commented. "I will send an express to Mr. Phillips now."
"Can't we delay our trip to Bath? I want to watch Charles get married," Caroline begged.
"No you don't," Roberts shook his head. "You want to weep and wail while Mr. Darcy marries Miss Elizabeth. Then you want to throw yourself at him and beg him to be your protector. He doesn't want you, Miss Bingley. We will marry tomorrow, and travel to Bath. The Fitzwilliam, Darcy, de Bourgh and Bennet families will not endure your presence at the double wedding or wedding breakfast."
"I will send an express to Louisa and Hurst to appear at St. Albans by nine so Louisa can stand up for you. I will stand for Roberts. Aunt Cordelia will be your wedding guest. There will be no wedding cake, or punch or wedding breakfast to delay your journey to Bath." Bingley grabbed his sister by the arm and pulled her into a standing position. "Roberts will purchase a common license from Vicar Nelson and you will wed immediately as you both are of age."
"Be sure to wear your traveling clothes," Roberts warned Caroline. "We haven't time for you to delay while determining your wardrobe for the day. Bingley, please ensure she does not send express letters, demanding someone save her. You may invite the Hursts and Mrs. Stafford to the ceremony tomorrow. However, you might have a word with the Hursts. I will not support them. They will not live with us."
~X~
Before departing the library, Darcy gave Bingley and Roberts liberal use of his writing slope. He poured drinks for the three of them as the Fitzwilliam men ensured adequate guards were stationed in the hall and on the grounds outside Caroline Bingley's locked room. Roberts wrote an express to the Meryton Inn, requesting a carriage, horses, coachman and groom for departure from Meryton before ten in the morning. He wrote an express for two rooms and sleeping quarters for two servants for tomorrow night at the inn midway to Bath. Bingley sent an express to Louisa and Hurst, requesting their company at St. Albans at nine o'clock tomorrow morning. Bingley sent an express to Vicar Nelson to be prepared to issue a common license to Andrew Roberts and Caroline Bingley tomorrow, followed by a quick marriage. Bingley sent an express to Mr. Phillips to bring materials to write a marriage settlement between Andrew Roberts and Caroline Bingley. Breakfast and coffee would be provided at dawn for him.
~X~
"What do you think of Mr. Bingley's sisters?" Constance asked Reginald when the furor died down and everyone retired to their rooms.
Reginald made a disgusting noise. "I think they are the most avid social climbers I have ever met in my life. I think Caroline Bingley is despicable, attempting to compromise William just days before his wedding. What do you think of them?"
"Oblivious," Constance laughed. "They both need to learn the truth of their social status. I'm sincerely sorry Catherine is ill. She placed so much emphasis on distinction of rank. She would have been a great teacher for them."