Wretched Beginnings 1814 – Chapter 1
A/N: WB 1814 will update every few days (two or three).
New Year's Eve, 1813
"The parsonage is scrubbed down and polished up. I gave the help from Rosings a coin for their hard work." Mary poured green tea for them and served apple nut pound cake.
"We've been invited to the Engagement Ball for Miss Anne and Mr. Fitzwilliam on Twelfth Night." Mr. Collins handed Mary the written invitation. "The invitation means nothing to me, but I will take you if you wish to go."
"We attended the Christmas Ball and the engagement announcement. If you want to go to London and condole with Lady Catherine, I will go with you. However, I would prefer to remain in Hunsford. I would not mind resting in our snug home after entertaining over Christmas. We should not expose George to the cold weather this winter. I think it is important for me to spend a few days in the stillroom, creating tonics and cough syrup. I used a great many of our supplies on Boxing Day. This weather may be difficult for our church families, and the men and women who labor outside." Mary sipped her tea.
"I will send a letter of regret to Mr. Fitzwilliam. Mr. Knowles and his sons will go first footing through Hunsford tonight. We should expect to greet one of them." Collins applied himself to the fine tea.
"Mrs. Manning will make wassail punch and we will have honey biscuits to serve. Barlow intends to draw the first pail of water at a minute past midnight. She will make a pot of tea. Although she didn't offer it to young Isaac Knowles last year, she is determined to try again this year if one of his oldest brothers appear." Mary shook her head, but felt amused.
"I'm sorry to hear she is anxious to marry and leave us," Mr. Collins pulled a face. "Her father is exceedingly pleased you are teaching the girls. Are you up at dawn tomorrow to burn your hawthorn bush?"
"Yes, Papa brought me a large bush from Longbourn. We'll burn it in the kitchen garden. Mr. Manning will mix the ashes with the compost pile. After we burn it at dawn, I think I will have a lie in until George wakes. He's a month old tomorrow."
January 1, 1814
"How is Mother?" Anne arrived late, and Mother had fallen asleep. Anne sorted a basket of mail. She had ledgers to review, and staff to interview. Perhaps they lingered too long at The Bell in Bromley, waiting for the coach bricks to warm before continuing their journey. Or perhaps wishing Richard goodbye as he departed for Matlock House, took more time than it should. Aveline and Catherine were upstairs, unpacking her before unpacking Catherine.
"Lady Catherine missed you at Christmas," Mrs. Jenkinson chided.
"Did you explain I hosted a Christmas Ball to announce my engagement to Mr. Fitzwilliam?" Anne frowned.
"The Fitzwilliams visited Lady Catherine before they departed for Rosings on Christmas Eve morning. They informed Lady Catherine about your engagement. They explained they will host an Engagement Ball on Twelfth Night at the Matlock House." Mrs. Jenkinson stiffened in her chair. "I believe you should arrange for Lady Catherine to attend the ball."
"Lady Matlock is concerned it will be overwhelming for Mother," Anne prevaricated.
"Overwhelming?" Mrs. Jenkinson pried.
"Lady Matlock does not wish for her sister-by-marriage to make a scene at the Engagement Ball. Mother has not forgiven me for not marrying Darcy. She has not forgiven Darcy for marrying Elizabeth. I'm sure she hasn't forgiven me for refusing to follow her orders anymore." Anne stopped sorting the pile of correspondence which came to the de Bourgh house in her absence.
Mrs. Shepherd sat a tea tray for three before Anne. "Shall I serve?" Mrs. Shepherd planned to join this discussion. Mrs. Jenkinson was not forthcoming with information Miss Anne should know. "Half the de Bourgh House staff took Christmas Day off, as you asked. The other half took Boxing Day off."
Anne nodded to Mrs. Shepherd to serve. "Are we fully staffed?"
"Mrs. Jenkinson released one of the caregivers," Mrs. Shepherd announced. "The remaining staff have taken on her duties. However, she needs to be replaced."
"Why was she released?" Anne drizzled a bit of Mary's spiced honey in a perfectly brewed cup of green tea.
"She vexed Lady Catherine," Mrs. Jenkinson held her tea cup with whitened knuckles, refusing to meet Anne's eyes.
"Did Mother say so?" 'Perhaps Mother regained some ability to talk?'
"Lady Catherine still can't speak. She became agitated when the caregiver entered her suite. I preferred to dismiss the caregiver, rather than dose Lady Catherine quiet with laudanum." Mrs. Jenkinson slowly sipped her tea.
"How did the caretaker agitate Mother?" Mrs. Jenkinson spoke like a slow fire when Anne needed a brisk blaze of conversation.
"Miss Kettering is petite and dark haired like Elizabeth Bennet," Mrs. Shepherd retorted.
"Ah," Anne understood immediately. "Lucky young lady as Elizabeth Darcy is quite pretty. However, it is unlucky for us to lose a qualified caregiver because Mother is so intractable."
Mrs. Jenkinson gasped.
"Mrs. Jenkinson, I will hire two more caregivers. Qualified caregivers are not easy to find. I will not refuse to hire qualified petite brunettes. They will have the same opportunity as any other qualified staff. Also, I will not allow you to dismiss any more caregivers because Mother seems to be difficult. Have the brunette caregivers observe at night when Mother is asleep." Anne paused, sipped her tea and gathered her thoughts.
"Mother is unable to talk. I do not understand how she can browbeat staff. Jenkinson, you will explain to Mother. This is her life now – doctor, nurses, caregivers, Adams and you. The Fitzwilliams, Darcys and I will visit Mother as often as possible. However, there is so much which needs attention – Rosings Park, the de Bourgh House, the tenants, the staff. I do not have time to be bullied or chivvied into sitting by Mother's bedside every moment she is awake. Do we understand one another?"
"Yes, Miss Anne," Mrs. Jenkinson set her cup in the saucer with a little huff.
"Did we give Miss Kettering a reference? Her earned wages?" Anne asked.
"I gave Miss Kettering a character and a year's wages, although she wasn't house staff. You will find it reflected in my ledger. She did nothing wrong, except offend with her looks." Mrs. Shepherd glanced sideways at Mrs. Jenkinson and then her eyes slid back to her tea cup.
"Giving Miss Kettering a year's wages seems excessive," Mrs. Jenkinson protested. "I'm sure Lady Catherine objects to her funds being wasted so."
"I'm sure it was less expensive to pay off Miss Kettering than to buy a position for Mr. Wickham with the militia. Do you feel you receive fair wages for keeping Mother's caregivers in good order?" Anne asked.
"Adams and I are fairly compensated…" Mrs. Jenkinson admitted.
"The de Bourgh House will not have a reputation of being intractable with its servants. If you will not give character and wages earned, then I must; especially when you break a contract without justification. If you will not allow me to do so; I will importune the Earl of Matlock who has final word on finances when Miss Anne is absent." Mrs. Shepherd calmly set aside Mrs. Jenkinson's protests.
"I don't believe I was fair to either of you…I should have discussed this with you. Mr. and Mrs. Shepherd, as the butler and housekeeper of the de Bourgh House, have the final word in all things when I am not here. Mr. and Mrs. Shepherd will maintain the lockbox and the ledger. Only Lord Matlock, Mr. Fitzwilliam and I have review rights of the ledger. Mrs. Shepherd is guided by Dr. Acton and me. Mr. Shepherd is guided by Mr. Fitzwilliam and me. Mrs. Shepherd is in charge of all the females in this house. Mr. Shepherd is in charge of all the men." Anne held up her hand to stay Mrs. Jenkinson's arguments. "I know companions, nannies, and governesses believe they are above other servants. You answered to Mother when you were my companion and nurse. You answer to me now that you are Mother's companion and oversee the medical staff. However…when I am not here, both you and Adams answer to Mrs. Shepherd or Dr. Acton."
"Finances are not now, nor in the future, topics of discussion with Mother. Staff does not discuss finances with Lady Catherine. If finances require discussion – the Earl of Matlock or I will conduct those discussions with Mother. I will examine the ledgers while I am here; Mother does not review ledgers. Staff who gossip with Mother will be terminated." Anne rebuked both women. "Are there any other problems with staff?"
Neither lady spoke. Anne employed one of Mother's tell me all looks.
"Some of the maids don't care for the footmen Mr. Fitzwilliam hired," Mrs. Shepherd explained. "They don't feel comfortable around them."
"Have the men been inappropriate or lacking in manners in any way?" Anne frowned.
"Our previous footmen were replaced with ex-military men who are more adept at securing the house and providing protection than looking handsome in a dining room. They guard me when I shop. However, they don't care to walk out with the maids, caretakers or nurses on their days off," Mrs. Shepherd suppressed a smile.
"I won't pay taxes to have twelve footmen at the de Bourgh House and at Rosings Park who do little to nothing to deserve wages. Also, we don't pay the female staff to sigh over handsome but useless footmen. If the female staff must work for a household with handsome, worthless men in livery…they should seek employment elsewhere. Mrs. Shepherd, please inform all female staff – they have no coin in the hiring of staff for the de Bourgh House. There may be additional staff changes by Lady Day." Anne firmly dismissed the topic. Mrs. Jenkinson left to sit with Lady Catherine. Anne nodded at Mrs. Shepherd to close the door to the study so they could speak without an audience.
"Miss Kettering thanked you for her wages for a year. However, if Mrs. Jenkinson believes we will never see her again…Mrs. Jenkinson is quite mistaken." Mrs. Shepherd tried not to smile. "I believe Miss Kettering will become Mrs. Acton before Michaelmas."
"Really?" Anne was astonished.
"She was upset, naturally, when Mrs. Jenkinson dismissed her, and refused to give character or pay. She came to see me. I sent for Dr. Acton to see her…she was quite distraught. He helped calm her by suggesting I write the character and provide wages. He offered to transport her to where she needed to go. Miss Kettering went to pack her things while Dr. Acton helped me write her character. I realized, when I watched him offer his arm as they left…I believe there will be a courtship and a marriage."
"Should you receive a wedding invitation, I would like the de Bourgh House to give them a wedding gift which exhibits how pleased we are for them." Anne wished them joy.
"Mr. Noland, who is the unofficial leader of the men, requests another man. They would like someone who is adept with horses. That man would accompany Mrs. Jenkinson, Adams, the maids or myself when we must go shopping. Additionally, they can help with coachmen and grooms of carriages which visit us. That man could relieve the other men as needed." Mrs. Shepherd explained. "Thank you for the uncrested carriage."
"I will have Mr. Fitzwilliam speak with Mr. Noland. They will interview and hire someone," Anne promised. "I examined the catalogue you created for the de Bourgh House. This is a list of furniture and furnishings which I would like sent to Rosings Park by the end of the month. Books, furniture and furnishings will be exchanged between Rosings and the de Bourgh House. Mr. Noland needs to hire four outriders to guard the dray wagons which transport items to Rosings, and items from Rosings to the de Bourgh House and Matlock House. This is the list of the items which will be sold. They will be transported to the warehouse Mr. Timsdale arranged. Timsdale will coordinate an auction just after Twelfth Night. I would like one final auction of Rosings and de Bourgh House items just after Lady Day."
Anne knew when Mrs. Shepherd reached the part about leaving two silver candelabra, two silver candlesticks, two silver serving trays, one silver flower bowl and one silver epergne at the de Bourgh House. The second best set of silver cutlery would stay. The rest of the plate would be packed and shipped to Rosings. "I do not want Mrs. Jenkinson to know about the silver being removed. Best to pack it when she is busy with Mother, or out of the house. I'm shipping portraits from Rosings and the de Bourgh House to the Matlock House. I'm also sending portraits from here to the Matlock House. I will send pictures of Pemberley from Rosings Park and the de Bourgh House to the Darcy House. Since I am not and will not be the mistress there, I see no reason to keep them about. Perhaps Mother thought such pictures would cause me to desire Pemberley. I truly do not."
"Mr. Fitzwilliam and I are recreating the Dower House as Rosings House for us. Rosings Park manor house will become the de Bourgh Recovery House for injured soldiers and sailors. The Rosings Park Steward's House will become Rosings Place. We have not decided what to do with it. We may have a boarding house where people stay while they visit family members at the de Bourgh Recovery House. We may lease it to a group of widows. We will recreate catalogues for all the de Bourgh properties in September, before Michaelmas. I apologize, but there will be lists for rooms which require rearrangement. Mr. Fitzwilliam and I cannot live as Mother has lived. Rooms will be cleared; décor will change; menus will change; staff will change."
January 3
Darcy and Elizabeth kissed Georgiana goodbye and urged her to come home to Pemberley if she became homesick. Darcy left funds for Georgiana to hire masters and for she and Mrs. Annesley to shop, attend lectures, museums, etc. Darcy promised to come back to London for Richard and Anne's wedding. The engagement ball would begin the festivities. Aunt Constance would make their wedding breakfast and wedding ball two highlights of the Season in London. Augusta hoped Richard and Anne would be in London from time to time to attend the soirees the ton would host in their honor. Augusta was frustrated because Georgiana decided to skip the Season to help with Richard and Anne's wedding preparations.
~X~
"I need an early night," Constance confided in her husband. "The tea for James Townsend Oswald exhausted me. In addition to the miserably cold weather outdoors, I felt discomposed to be near the other Parliament wives. They fretted about losing their place in society if and when their husband dies. They are concerned with how they will live on their jointure funds."
"You are not worried about the future?" Reggie dropped a kiss to the top of Constance's head.
"I will regret not having my best friend and husband if you pass before me." Constance squeezed his hand.
"Yes, but, you will inherit Catherine…and Augusta," Reggie teased.
Constance shuddered. "I will be thrilled when the Engagement Ball for Richard and Anne is over. I am also glad there is time to rest between now and when the Season opens. Augusta and I will only work on wedding plans when Richard and Anne are in town to give us their opinions. While Augusta regrets Georgiana will not come out this Season, I am pleased to be able to concentrate on Richard and Anne this year. Georgiana is correct…taking on her first Season with Richard and Anne's wedding might overwhelm me."
January 5 – Matlock House
The ballroom at Matlock House boasted several alcoves. One side of alcoves held the chaperone chairs. The other side held serving sideboards manned by liveried footmen. Footmen were tasked to serve champagne punch to celebrate. The musicians occupied the mezzanine. The ball decorations were magnificent; the liveried servants looked well; and musicians were the best money could hire. Enormous bouquets, straight from the hothouse, were arranged in the largest Matlock vases.
Each generation of earls added to the crystal, dinner service and cutlery in the Matlock House until they could feed three hundred at one event. One large, locked pantry held the silver. One large, locked pantry held the dishes and table linens. One room, half the size of the ballroom, held the tables and chairs needed for a large event. The Countess of Matlock, not to be outdone by Mrs. Bennet, commissioned fifty new tablecloths made of the finest white damask. Additionally, she examined the serviettes and ordered three hundred new ones sewn before the ball. Ten seamstresses sewed enough new table linens, beginning two days before Christmas and finishing one day before the Engagement Ball.
~X~
"Behave…" Constance warned Reginald. "Don't muss me."
"I know it's against ton fashion, but I love my wife," Reginald dropped a kiss to Constance's shoulder.
"I'm glad our sons followed in your footsteps." Constance was a proud mother; who consistently showed her sons how much they were loved.
"I'm glad you ran off the competition." Reginald jested with his wife.
"I'm thrilled you were such an easy mark," Constance muttered. "Let's go. We have members of the ton attending a private Engagement Ball for our second son and our wonderful niece. Darcy's absence will disappoint several young ladies. There will be disappointed men who wished they had a chance to get Anne, Rosings Park, the de Bourgh House, and her funds."
"I trust Richard will put the disappointed men in their place. I trust he and Anne will put the disappointed women in their place." Reginald sobered. "I want a footman to stand guard near Georgiana and Anne. I will not allow Anne or Georgiana to be importuned by fortune seekers."
~X~
Richard watched as Anne floated down the stairs. Richard winked at her…causing Anne to pause on the stairs. She gave him a look…which meant she intended to punish him for his cheekiness. He could not wait until her punishments took a more marital form.
Gasps were heard throughout the ballroom as Richard led his future bride through the steps of a Viennese waltz. Richard noted her sparkling eyes before he noticed the dress. She wore that wonderful gold and sapphire bandeau she purchased from Edwards. She wore the beautiful blue gown which she wore Christmas Eve. Richard wore a fairly new evening kit. His knotted cravat boasted his gentleman status, and the addition of a finely trained valet to his staff.
"Ladies and gentlemen…I have the honor of announcing the engagement of my beloved niece, the Honorable Miss Anne de Bourgh, daughter of Sir Lewis and Lady Catherine de Bourgh, to the Honorable Richard Anthony Fitzwilliam, my son," the Earl raised his glass. "Be upstanding all…the happy couple have set Saturday, April thirtieth as their wedding date. They will marry by special license at St. George's Cathedral in Hanover Square."
A cheer went up as Richard kissed Anne's diamond and sapphire engagement ring which had been in the Fitzwilliam family since the third earl. One afternoon, Reginald displayed the Fitzwilliam family jewels catalogue and gems to Robert and Augusta. Constance swore she witnessed real avarice in Augusta's eyes as Reginald laid out the family pearls. An additional four parures were catalogued. Constance didn't wear the gems, as the settings were too old. She did not want to spend funds to make the antique jewels wearable.
A dismayed Augusta learned the jewelry Constance wore was not included in the Fitzwilliam family jewelry. Constance wore jewelry from her family and pieces given her for birthdays, anniversaries and Christmases by Reginald for the last thirty years. Those pieces belonged to Constance, and were referenced in her will.
The Fitzwilliam family jewels would be held for future generations of Fitzwilliams. However, the sapphire and diamond ring had been entered separately on the Fitzwilliam family jewels list. The Fifth Earl of Matlock intended to gift the ring to his first granddaughter, Anne de Bourgh. The Fifth Earl passed before the gift was presented. Reginald and Constance gave the ring to Richard for Anne. Changes would be made in the inventory list to note gifting the ring to Anne, noting the Christmas Eve Engagement Ball and date.
Constance knew Anne inherited a sultan's bounty of jewels from Catherine. She advised Anne not to discuss family jewelry with Augusta. Constance understood when Anne had de Bourgh family jewelry, listed in Sir Lewis's will, recreated for her to wear. Catherine's taste in jewelry was ostentatious like her home décor. Constance understood when Anne sold jewelry she did not plan to wear.
~X~
Mr. Hamilton escorted Miss Bennet to supper. They had excellent seats at the first table with Miss Anne, Mr. Richard, and the Fitzwilliams. Catherine wore her rose gown from the Christmas Ball, and promised her first and supper sets to John. She planned to retire to her rooms after supper. He planned to have an early night also.
Hamilton danced with Miss Bennet and Miss Darcy. He offered to dance with Miss Anne, Lady Constance and Lady Augusta but their dance cards were full. They had first circle partners for the evening. He chose three young ladies who stood at the periphery of the ball. Although they were grateful to be asked to dance, they were not interested in an academic from Oxford. Hamilton was aware he should not announce the possession of his estate nor the portion he received quarterly from it.
Catherine Bennet, the fourth daughter of a country squire, knew she had a small dowry before Miss Anne's generous bequest. She remembered Lizzy's comment about how they must rely on their charms to secure a husband. She esteemed John Hamilton greatly. He was worthier than any man she had ever known; and certainly worthier than one hundred of the militia which Lydia fawned over. Catherine could only hope her connections to the Darcys would be a connection in her favor. Mama and Lydia had not impressed at Christmas. However, like Lizzy and Jane, she would not marry without love.
~X~
"How did you manage to collect an heiress?" Gilbert Gramercy drank a large gulp of champagne punch before addressing Fitzwilliam. Gramercy, second son of the Duke of Lockland, had the reputation as a known rake, fortune hunter, gamester and muslin chaser. No man of the first set wanted Gramercy to pursue his darling daughter. Bets had been laid in the books at White's suggesting Gramercy would marry a nouveau riche tradesman's daughter. With enough funds he could purchase one of the smaller estates which the Duke of Lockland had heavily mortgaged over the years to keep the slates intact on the Lockland Estate manor house.
"I didn't collect her, she came willingly," Fitzwilliam sipped his champagne punch.
"I thought she was intended for Darcy," Gramercy sniped. "Is it true he jilted Miss de Bourgh for a country miss?"
"Lord preserve us from ton on dits. Miss de Bourgh didn't want Darcy; Darcy didn't want Miss de Bourgh. The whole cradle engagement ensued because Lady Catherine did not want to relinquish her hold on Rosings Park." Fitzwilliam remarked. "Darcy has plenty of money and connections to the Fitzwilliam family. His heart was not engaged with Anne. He is a better man because his heart is engaged with the new Mrs. Darcy."
"Perhaps I will pursue one of this Season's debutantes. I hear your cousin, Miss Georgiana Darcy, comes out this Season." Gramercy hinted.
"Alas, she is not. Miss Darcy will help with wedding plans. Miss de Bourgh invited her to travel with us on our wedding tour." Fitzwilliam took pleasure in Gramercy's fallen face. Gramercy would have to ensnare an heiress somewhere else.
"Who is the pink confection to whom you've been speaking? Another Fitzwilliam or Elburn cousin?" Gramercy leered at Miss Bennet.
"Alas, no. Miss Catherine Bennet is the sister of Mrs. Darcy. She will also join Miss Darcy on our wedding tour. She might come out next Season with Miss Darcy…but her father owns a small estate in Hertfordshire which is only worth a few thousand pounds a year and is entailed to a distant cousin. Miss Bennet has no dowry, and few connections." Fitzwilliam wanted to punch Gramercy in his smarmy mouth.
~X~
"So, what are your plans, Miss de Bourgh? Are you in London for the Season? Are you refurbishing the de Bourgh House for you and Mr. Fitzwilliam?" One of last Season's debutantes inquired. "I can't imagine how you feel. You've been engaged to the wealthy and handsome Mr. Darcy for half a decade. He breaks your engagement for an unknown country chit with no dowry. We're all speechless."
"I wish that were true…" Fitzwilliam muttered when he approached. "I have been listening to men who insist I buy you a new carriage, since I'm not buying you a new house." He noted the looks exchanged between the young women who importuned Anne for delicious gossip to share in ton drawing rooms.
"I have enough carriages already. I don't need to pay taxes on another carriage. You might buy me some horses…riding horses, sport horses, racing horses, etc. There is an empty farm near the Dower House with plenty of pasture. Darcy and your father would be thrilled to help us establish new stables. We could go to Tattersalls after Midsummer…make a day of it with a picnic…and champagne." Anne only had eyes for Fitzwilliam.
"Your wish is my command, milady," Fitzwilliam tucked her hand into his arm. "I requested another waltz for our last dance of the evening."
"Such scandalous behavior!" Anne laughed at the looks of shock on various faces in the ballroom. "I believe you and William are attempting to change society by choosing to dance three dances."
"Three dances are not banned if one is in love and plans to marry one's partner," Richard winked as he escorted her to the dance floor.
January 5 – Bath
"I am not understanding," Roberts addressed Caroline's nasty retort. "Have I ever ordered you to emulate Mrs. Bingley or Mrs. Collins?" He waited for an answer. "No I have not. Mrs. Bingley is an example of a kind and Christian woman. Mrs. Collins attempts to improve livings for those around her. Cecily is an excellent mistress of the Roberts Estate, cares for Mother and the tenants. However, I married you. I know you are more than the selfish, vain woman who made Bingley's life a misery. You are married now…there is no need to act like a desperate shelf sitter who relies on silk gowns and inane chatter to garner admirers. You were educated and attended seminary…there is no need to act stupidly about our situation. If you spend more time becoming the woman I believe you are capable of being…perhaps you would not feel so constrained. I am purchasing farms to increase our living. I will not allow you to put us to ruin. You will become the mistress of our estate this year."
'Perhaps when we finally entertain, I can show off my skills at arranging flowers, setting menus and determining entertainments.' Caroline's eyes might have flashed with impatience, but she did not speak her discontent at spending her days managing household and personal ledgers, dealing with farming families, or visiting tenants and her family-by-marriage. Perhaps she spoke hastily when she claimed Roberts wanted her to act like one of the Bennet girls, or the quiet Cecily. That claim gathered nothing other than a lecture from Roberts. She felt grateful he had not penalized her pin money for her ill feelings toward those she deemed her lessors.
"I left a Twelfth Night gift on your dressing table." Roberts quit the dining room for his study. He planned to interview stewards for the new estate. He wanted contracts for staff to sign by Lady Day.
Caroline waited a few moments before going to her dressing room. Roberts left her a set of cream accessories – a silk shawl, a set of short silk gloves, a silk fan and a silk reticule. 'The cream accessories will complement all my gowns.' Caroline admitted she loved the silk items…even if they were not peach, or plum. She would not wear them to church…but planned to save them for entertainments at the Assembly Rooms. She did not regret leaving two older books about travel in France and Italy for Roberts for Twelfth Night. She would continue to purchase travel book…hoping to entice him to travel.
January 6
"I have never experienced such inelegant country manners as last night. You really must speak to Richard." Augusta nagged at Robert. "Opening the ball with a waltz? Another waltz as the closing dance! Three dances? I hope he doesn't continue this silly practice after they marry. The ton is wild with gossip about Anne's portion, and possessions. I like your brother and I like Anne, but I believe they need lessons about society if they plan to be regular visitors to London. Richard hates the ton, and Anne seems disinterested in the first and second circle guests who attended last evening."
"They will never be like Darcy and Elizabeth who might come to London during the Season and Little Season after Georgiana has her presentation. While Lady Catherine is ill and at the de Bourgh House, I anticipate Richard and Anne will come to London at least every fortnight." Robert poured more coffee from the tray brought to them this morning. "You haven't considered Anne has trousseau fittings. I know they gave Mama carte blanche to plan the wedding, wedding breakfast and wedding ball. Richard is amiable to all, but I don't believe Anne likes crowds."
"Is it true your Mama will give her parents' £20,000 legacy to Richard for settling on Anne?" Augusta primly sipped her coffee. "I truly hoped it would be settled on our first son."
"Your parents will not leave a legacy to our heir. Our first son inherits a title, the Matlock funds, and the Matlock holdings. The legacy from Mother's parents is not part of the Matlock estate. Mother could have kept the percents for herself, but she divided them between Richard and me since I turned six and ten. The percents supported Richard for a decade while he was a soldier. Richard, although he is a second son, deserves something, Augusta. He can't go from being a colonel in His Majesty's Army to becoming a man kept by his wife." Robert tapped his spoon sharply against his coffee cup.
"Richard wouldn't be the first man to marry for a portion. Why shouldn't Anne share with him? Her portion is quite large for a Fitzwilliam grandchild. We don't have a house in London until you inherit the title." Augusta sipped her coffee.
Augusta's petulant voice irked Robert. He loved his wife…but felt he ran a poor second to her desire to be the Countess of Matlock. He never courted anyone or expressed an interest in anyone until he knew his mind and heart belonged to Augusta. They had a great deal of fun and conversation in the early days of their marriage. As the years passed, and they failed to produce an heir, Robert felt discontented.
"We must encourage your parents to advise Richard and Anne on their marriage settlement. This must be an advantageous marriage for all of us, not just Richard." Augusta applied her attention to her breakfast tray.
"Anne believes she has responsibilities with Rosings Park and the de Bourgh House. Richard understands and supports her. Why should Anne to leave everything to our first born if she should die without issue? Richard doesn't inherit any Matlock holdings, investments or funds. If Anne passes, Richard might marry a second wife for an heir and a spare. Until we have an heir…Richard stands as the spare until we do." Robert slid on his banyan and removed himself from Augusta's chambers to dress for the day. 'I might go to the club. I am in desperate need of sensible conversation. The men might discuss the economy of the nation…but I believe only fortune hunters would ask about Anne's or Georgiana's portions.'
~X~
The engagement was published in the London Times the day after the ball. The announcement vexed many fortune hunters. The engagement of the Honorable Richard Fitzwilliam to the Honorable Anne de Bourgh was keenly lamented by marriage minded mamas or profit procuring papas with sovereign scant sons. Many hoped to gain information from the Earl and Countess of Matlock or the Viscount and Viscountess Fitzwilliam. Everyone knew there was a fortune…in addition to a large country estate, a townhouse, and desirable connections. Since both Mr. Fitzwilliam and Miss de Bourgh were both off the marriage market, false friends would ebb away to encircle the next plump in the pocket person.
~X~
"There is so much to be decided," Constance informed Reginald. "Anne must have time with her mother and ensure the de Bourgh House runs properly. However, please support me when I demand time with them. Saturday dinners with important guests, cards or music afterward. Church, midday where we can discuss wedding plans, salon and tea, rest, dinner together on Sunday."
"Ask, do not demand," Reginald suggested. "The Season hasn't started yet. We must arrange a marriage settlement before making wedding plans."
"I wish Anne would remember her gentle manners when they discuss the marriage settlement." Constance sighed. "I worry Anne will exhibit Catherine's dominating traits."
"I hope Richard remembers his gentleman's manners. Guiding Anne to a marriage settlement is not like leading his troops or providing riding instruction to Anne and Georgiana." Reginald retorted.
~X~
"Forgive me if I think there should be more to a man than being well-tailored and the owner of a splendid chaise and matching four." Anne set aside her list of things to do. "I want someone with whom I can exchange ideas and conversation. I want someone who listens to my opinions because I am his wife. I don't want someone who dismisses my opinion because I am a woman."
"I would prefer a small, elegant wedding; however, Rosings Park and Hunsford Rectory will not suit. Mother wants a London wedding, wedding breakfast and wedding ball. Neither of us care for a ton wedding, but it's good for the family. Since we are settling holdings of Rosings Park…I truly do not mind if Mother and Augusta determine guest lists, write invitations, order champagne, and determine menus for the wedding breakfast and wedding ball, etc."
"I wonder if Mrs. Havens and Mr. Knowles will conduct the Rosings and Hunsford celebrations for us." Anne fretted.
"I'm sure they will." Richard noted the ideas they discussed. "I want us to host a wedding celebration in the Rosings ballroom for the servants and tenants. We'll plan a buffet to feed everyone. We provide music for dancing."
"I recommend a lawn party instead. The ballroom will be full of furniture and décor from the Dower House and Rosings manor house. I don't know if it can be cleared in time for Easter or the wedding if the weather does not permit a lawn party." Anne fretted.
"Lawn party or use the Hunsford Assembly Hall. We can make it a community event," Richard settled one thing on their list.
"Richard…I want to discuss the de Bourgh House with you. Once…when…Mother passes, I would like to rename it as the Fitzwilliam House." Anne bit her bottom lip. "Our heirs will be Fitzwilliams…"
"I believe the discussion can wait until Lady Catherine passes…and once we have an heir and a spare." Richard pulled Anne into his lap. He knew she cared for her mother…but he might have a discussion with Mrs. Jenkinson about acting as proxy for Lady Catherine and nagging at Anne.
January 8
"Reginald and Constance Fitzwilliam, the Sixth Earl and Countess of Matlock, announce the engagement of their son, The Honorable Richard Anthony Fitzwilliam to The Honorable Miss Anne Catherine de Bourgh, daughter of the late Sir Lewis de Bourgh, Third Baronet de Bourgh and Lady Catherine de Bourgh, London. An April wedding is planned at St. George's Cathedral, Hanover Square, London. The couple were feted at an engagement ball at the Matlock House, London. The couple will split their time between Rosings Park, Kent and the de Bourgh House, London after the wedding." Mr. Bennet read the society page to Mrs. Bennet and Lydia at breakfast.
"Did Darcy and Lizzy attend? Did Jane and Bingley attend? I suppose Mary attended since she is Miss de Bourgh's particular friend. Of course, Kitty attended since she's Miss Anne's companion. I wonder if Kitty will deign to return to Longbourn after Miss Anne marries, or does she plan to stay with Mary?" Mrs. Bennet could not constrain her thoughts.
"I would not know," Mr. Bennet folded the paper and tucked it under his arm. "I will be in my library, balancing ledgers…which includes your household ledger, Mrs. Bennet and your personal ledger, Lydia."
Mrs. Bennet and Lydia lingered at the table discussing Miss Anne's ball gown on Christmas Eve. The Fitzwilliam ladies wore blue gowns made from expensive silk with minimal lace and trim, and absolutely no flounces. Mrs. Bennet bemoaned Mary's friendship and Kitty's connection to Miss Anne. Mary didn't share dance partners, and Kitty refused to share her connection to the first set of society with her family. Why were she and Lydia so slighted?
"I thought Lizzy would throw me in the path of wealthy men!" Lydia complained. "I did not dance a single dance with a wealthy man at the Christmas Ball. Now I've missed the Engagement Ball. You must write Lizzy, Mama. She must open the Darcy House for the Season. I must have an invitation to Colonel Fitzwilliam's wedding events. I need a new ball gown…and new wedding clothes! I will need a new wardrobe for the Season! If I am seen at shopping and entertainments with the Darcys…surely there will be invitations to shopping, teas, dinners, dances and card parties for the remainder of the Season!"
Mrs. Bennet concurred. They had until Lady Day to work on Mr. Bennet and Lizzy.
January 10, 1814
London experienced low, thick fog. It choked the life out of the city while choking the life out of the unfortunate who could not escape it. London felt bitterly cold; the news announced the Thames froze over. Public inn common rooms were filled to capacity with the poor who sought shelter. Charities were overrun by people in need. Workhouses were filled with people who could not live on the streets any longer. Because the rich remained behind closed doors in warm homes, beggars died on the streets for wont of coin to purchase warm clothes, food, drink or a warm place to sleep. Before Anne and Fitzwilliam left for Rosings, Anne left coins for Mr. and Mrs. Shepherd and the de Bourgh House staff to give to beggars on the streets. She did not want Mother or Mrs. Jenkinson to object to spending Lady Catherine's jointure funds on people they deemed unworthy. Anne urged Mrs. Shepherd to support the Sword and Shield Society with Lady Matlock. She would provide any necessary funds from her own portion.
Anne appreciated leaving London. She ignored the skating party invitations on the Serpentine in Hyde Park. She ignored invitations for the festival on the Thames. She tasked a footman to deliver the invitations to Augusta. Anne imagined Augusta attending a skating party in her fur trimmed cloak and matching fur trimmed bonnet with her ridiculously overlarge fur muff. Although, Anne would consider using an overlarge fur muff as a pillow if her feet flew out from under her.
~X~
January 10, 1814
10 Morning Song Road
Oxford, England
Dear Miss Catherine,
I am safely returned to Oxford. Matlock House offered many amenities and delicious food. I sent a letter of appreciation to the Earl and Countess of Matlock for their hospitality. I feel I have never appreciated my staff as much as I do on this return. It is so comfortable to be home. I have not missed the fog in London.
My atlas from Hatchard's Booksellers arrived. I burned through a four-hour candle examining each page, cherishing each map. Part of me is impatient for the war to end and for countries to rebuild. I want to tour the continent, and see lands which are foreign to me. I enjoy touring England, but part of me wants to see the world. I marked the map of Italy with a deep pink ribbon bestowed on me by a pretty lady.
A new term does not start until the first of March. However, there is work to be done on my farms; preparing for the planting season. Mr. Darcy gave me ideas for the farms. Mrs. Collins gave me ideas for the kitchen and herb gardens. I hope to plant new trees for the orchard on the main farm, and enlarge the kitchen and herb gardens.
Thank you for braving the censure of society to exchange missives with me. I feel it will be the only way we can become fully acquainted with one another while we are parted. My candle gutters; my hand trembles to hold the quill; yet I want to keep writing my thoughts, my hopes, my plans.
I enjoyed dancing with you, Miss Catherine. I enjoyed talking to you. I enjoyed playing cribbage with you. I enjoyed listening to you play the pianoforte. I enjoyed discussing books with you. I smiled when you struggled to conjugate verbs in French with Miss de Bourgh. I will picture you at music lessons, art lessons, French lessons…and if the day is warm, I will think of you at riding lessons. I am determined to refine my French skills and my music skills.
Sleep well, Miss Catherine Bennet, and know you are in my dreams,
John Hamilton
~X~
"Elizabeth! Where do you think you are going?" Darcy's voice stopped Lizzy in her tracks.
"I'm desperate for a walk," Lizzy held a winter bonnet in her gloved hands.
"You won't stay warm very long…it's bitterly cold," he chided her. "Could you wait one more day? Jane and Bingley will be settled today, and we can return to Pemberley tomorrow. I'm not as familiar with the grounds or walking paths here at Landers End. I don't know which paths are perpetually in the shadow where the ice never melts in the winter. Please, dearest Elizabeth?"
"Oh, very well." Lizzy handed her bonnet, gloves and redingote to Solange. "Promise me we can walk the orangery if the weather is too cold at Pemberley for a walk in the gardens."
"We will take a long walk…followed by a long nap," Darcy promised.
"I am grateful Bingley decided to release Netherfield Park and seek an estate in Nottinghamshire. I am glad for their ballroom where furniture and furnishings can reside until they finish rearranging rooms. I am grateful for their conservatory also." Lizzy took Darcy's arm. She was grateful Jane shared their plans for Landers End.
Bingley planned work to be done at Landers End before spring. He wanted to enlarge rooms. He and Jane wanted to change the room layout of Landers End to improve the use of the manor house. Landers End would be a fine home for the Bingleys once it was cleaned, painted and furnished. They anticipated the work on the house would be completed by Lady Day. Landers End was well situated and overlooked a parkland which needed refreshed with new hedges and plantings. The Bingleys would finish decorating Landers End with simple, comfortable furniture with elegant lines.
"I believe Bingley made an excellent decision. I am pleased he considered his and Jane's future happiness. I believe he will be an excellent master of his own estate." Darcy patted Elizabeth's hand on his arm.
"I'm thrilled to have Jane only thirty miles from Pemberley…especially since we are both increasing." Lizzy laid her head on Darcy's shoulder.
"Breakfast is ready," Darcy kissed her hair. "After breakfast, Bingley and I are meeting with his steward. We're riding out to the sheep barns to look at the livestock. You and Jane…"
"Can occupy our time discussing babies? Nurseries? Hiring nannies? Sewing layettes?" Lizzy's contempt stopped Darcy in his tracks.
"Are you unhappy about your condition?" Darcy eyes sought her face.
"No," Lizzy sighed and leaned into Darcy, grateful for his strength. "I love you. I will love our child. I'm just…"
"Restless," Darcy finished her statement. "Tomorrow…we'll leave Landers End at dawn if you wish. We'll be at Pemberley before midday. We can have a walk around Pemberley or the orangery. Once you are too tired to walk, we will eat, and rest, and be thankful to be home."
"I am a silly woman," Lizzy wiped the slight tears from her eyes.
"You are my silly, sensible, sweet, sensitive woman," Darcy kissed her forehead. "If you do not want to sew the baby's layette, please hire a seamstress. She can sit in your study and sew, while you read and oversee her tasks. You can embroider a blanket or a piece of clothing as you please. You can rearrange the nursery. You can walk the halls. You can order pots of green tea and ginger biscuits. You can do anything which does not harm you or the child." He cleared his throat. "Elizabeth…I do not feel sure…sure I could go on if anything happened to you or the child."
"I feel the same for you…and Georgiana," Lizzy admitted, hugging her husband.
January 12
The London Times announced the impending Saturday auction for a warehouse of furniture and furnishings. Timsdale placed the advertisement in the paper. He used two drawings of Miss Bennet's to draw interest. Several people visited Timsdale's Treasures to receive a listing of the items to be auctioned. Timsdale was pleased at the great amount of nouveau riche who planned to attend. However, Timsdale knew purchasing items previously owned by the sister of the Sixth Earl of Matlock did not raise the nouveau riche into first circle society. Timsdale understood his tasks: auction on Saturday, delivery of goods on Monday and Tuesday, preparing the ledger on Wednesday, and discussing the sale with Miss de Bourgh and Mr. Fitzwilliam when they returned to London in a sennight.
January 22
Mrs. Bennet hovered over the daily mail delivery after Twelfth Night. She anticipated invitations to London. Surely Lydia's sisters would not leave her at Longbourn, devoid of society. Mr. Bingley and Jane had not met their neighbors. Perhaps summer would be better for Lydia to travel to Jane's new home. Pemberley would be the best in the summer, but Darcy was not as amiable as Bingley. Mrs. Bennet did not believe his dour friends would appreciate Lydia and her liveliness.
However, London would do for visits now, before the Season started. Dinners, cards, shopping on Bond Street, Hyde Park…these amusements were available via Kitty through her connection to Miss de Bourgh and the Fitzwilliams. Franny Bennet believed the Countess of Matlock would enjoy hosting a guest as lively as Lydia to lighten the mood of any Parliament members. Lydia would shine at a ton dinner table or in a ton drawing room.
Unfortunately, neither Mrs. Bennet nor her frayed nerves could change her intractable husband. 'The weather is abysmal. We just finished traveling. I have work to do on the farms.' Mr. Bennet was content to fill his days with tenants and farms; or working on his ledgers or reading in his study. Truthfully, he would always be a country gentleman who had little use for London. After twenty years, Mrs. Bennet would not change him now. 'I am frustrated because Lydia's fate depends on the whims of others. I wish I were rich; I would travel; I would shop. I would have a house in London, and plenty of servants. Lydia must marry well, so I receive important invitations to the ton. I would not need Longbourn until summer when no one stayed in London.'
Mr. Bennet, however, was not a stupid man. He learned nothing about agriculture or estate management at Cambridge. Currently he was engrossed in books regarding crop rotation and soil enrichment, recommended by Darcy to Bennet, Bingley, Fitzwilliam and Hamilton. He was aware the house was silent. Calls could not be made for a few hours. Mrs. Bennet must be plotting as she had not called for the carriage to take her to Meryton to shop. 'But plotting what is the question. Mrs. Bennet is displeased because I'm using available capital to make the main farm more prosperous. Reviewing the household books with Mrs. Bennet dissolves into a diatribe about the entailed estate. I'd rather wait to review the ledgers when she is above stairs with a nervous headache.'
When Mr. Hill informed him Mrs. Bennet ordered travel trunks brought down from the attic, it was time for Mr. Bennet to reveal his plan. He would not allow Mrs. Bennet or Lydia to impose themselves on the Darcy, de Bourgh or Matlock Houses in London. He knew Mrs. Bennet and Lydia would not travel in a post coach to Jane or Lizzy. Although, he owned, it might be amusing to hear Mrs. Bennet complain about the travel and the poor food and horrible accommodations at the inns along the way.
"I know you are not happy here," Mr. Bennet announced at the midday meal. "I know you think you'll be happy in London. However, we simply do not have funds to make you a figure of consequence in town. I conferred with Mr. Gardiner and Mr. Phillips. We are sending you four ladies to Bath until Lady Day. Mr. Gardiner arranged for a house and servants in a safe part of Bath. Mr. Phillips will provide carriage and horses for transport the four of you to Bath and while you are in Bath. I will send food and wines to fill the cellars in Bath. Because of the expense to give you a tour to Bath, I will only provide minimal pocket money."
Mrs. Bennet contained her joy, waiting for the rest of Mr. Bennet's proclamation. He handed her a piece of paper with the arrangements. Mr. Phillips determined the travel arrangements which could not be changed by anyone but him. He arranged two rooms for the ladies at the inn halfway between Meryton and Bath. Mr. Gardiner leased the house and hired the servants. Mrs. Gardiner would act as the hostess, set the menus and supervise the staff. Mr. Bennet tasked Mrs. Bennet to chaperone Lydia in Bath and ensure the Bennet name would not be ruined by Lydia's frivolous actions.
Once Lydia learned of their impending trip to Bath, she reread all of Kitty's letters regarding Bath. She created a list of places to see and things to do. Mr. Bennet smiled to himself…noting Lydia read and reread her sister's letters.
~X~
Mr. Collins became quite busy visiting parishioners during this cold snap. Mary created healing tissanes and cough medicines for him to take while making calls. The staff at Rosings created soups and breads for him to take during calls. Mr. Collins appreciated the stews or soups and breads kept warm for him when he returned home from visiting parishioners. When he was not busy with parishioners or rectory matters, he appreciated evenings with Mary and George. Perhaps it was wrong of him…but he often skipped the gentleman lessons by reading to George. Sunday afternoons while the staff was gone, he often played with the Noah's Ark. He showed George the different animals, and made the sounds for each. He related the story of Noah to George. While George was in leading strings, there wasn't a great deal he could teach the boy. However, he wanted George to know he was loved, and wanted. George would never grow up to wonder if he were in the way. Collins could have spent his life as a warehouseman or clerk until he inherited Longbourn. However, becoming a vicar raised him above trade. Someday when George was older…Mary would take them both to task…and insist they learn about managing Longbourn.
January 28
As head of the Fitzwilliam family, Reginald had access to all the Fitzwilliam marriage settlements for over a century. He knew Augusta and her father expressed an interest in Constance's marriage articles when Augusta's marriage articles were written. Augusta's marriage settlement would never be the equal to the marriage settlement Robert, the Fifth Earl of Matlock, signed for Reginald and Constance. Constance's pin money equaled the percents from her £20,000 marriage settlement. Additionally, she received £10,000 for the birth of Robert Fitzwilliam, heir, and £5,000 for the birth of Richard Fitzwilliam, spare. Reginald consolidated Constance's funds after the birth of Richard and moved it into the highest earning percents. Constance supported two charities through her pin monies, and paid wages for two maids. She managed to save ten percent of her pin money since Richard's birth and currently had £50,000 in her marriage settlement account.
Once Reginald passed, Constance's marriage articles provided access to the Dower House on the Matlock Estate and a Dower Suite at the Matlock House. Her servants and upkeep would be provided at both. Additionally, Constance's marriage articles entitled her to one-fifth of the living of Matlock Estate upon the passing of Reginald Fitzwilliam, Sixth Earl of Matlock. Currently the Matlock Estate, with its farms and investments made a tidy £8-10,000 per annum. Constance's per annum was the plan of Robert Fitzwilliam, Fifth Earl of Matlock. He prevented Catherine from lording her marriage settlement over Constance.
Constance's current will left her funds in equal portions to all her grandchildren, payable to all when the youngest became eight and ten. Until the funds were distributed, they would gather percents after Constance's death.
Robert would assume possession of the holdings, funds and investments when he became the Seventh Earl of Matlock. Currently Robert and Richard split the percents (£400 each per year) from a £20,000 legacy created by Constance's parents. Augusta gleaned a little information regarding Constance's marriage settlement over the years. Augusta would learn of Constance's guarantee of a home, servants, and an annuity.
"We must complete your marriage settlement," Reginald advised Richard and Anne during dinner at the Matlock House. The marriage settlement had been the topic of discussion with and without Richard and Anne since the Christmas Ball.
"I'm heartily ashamed of both of you!" Augusta seized the moment to make her feelings known. "Marriage settlements should not take weeks to determine. You aren't the Prince Regent – trying to determine the royal settlement, castles, or titles. Family suggestions to create an entail, or advise on articles to include in the marriage settlement or your wills, should not be dismissed. There's no reason to be this intractable."
Anne gravely considered Richard over her wine glass. "Richard Anthony Fitzwilliam."
"Anne Catherine de Bourgh," Richard sipped his wine.
"Care to elucidate?" Reginald glanced between Anne and Richard several times.
"No one's opinions, except Anne's and mine, count." Richard explained to concerned looks on his family's faces. "Anne and I acknowledge most marriages and marriage settlements are intended to benefit both families. However, Sir Lewis is not here to argue for more funds for Anne, and Lady Catherine is indisposed. We could wait until she is no longer angry at Anne for William and Elizabeth marrying. Anne and I have no intention of waiting We are marrying for love. Might we please discuss something else, since Anne and I so dislike this topic of conversation?"
"Are you free to shop tomorrow?" Augusta planned to counsel Anne while shopping for the Season.
"Only if we patronize bookstores. The libraries at Rosings Park and the de Bourgh House have not had new books since Father died. Mother rarely read. I insist Mrs. Jenkinson read the newspaper headlines and the social page to Mother daily. The staff reads the Bible to her on Sunday."
"Thanks, but I will pass. I have an appointment with Mme. Charette." Augusta hoped the name of their modiste would entice Anne to change her plans. "I plan to visit a cobbler, milliner and apothecary."
~X~
"Cribbage?" Richard inquired of Anne after dinner.
"Chess," she replied. "Kitty can take notes. When you capture a piece, you create a rule for our courtship, marriage or life."
"Enough," Kitty snapped. "Arranging accounts for Rosings Park and the de Bourgh House was sensible. Moving the percents on quarter days to the operating accounts is sensible. Using the extra funds from percents, rents, and crop sales to maintain and enlarge holdings for Rosings Park is sensible. I esteem both of you, but basing the foundation of your lives on the outcome of a game is inappropriate."
Richard and Anne observed Kitty.
"Fitzwilliam wants to give you the £20,000 from his family legacy. Anne demands she gives you her £50,000 dowry. Neither of you wants each other's funds, because you just want to be with one another. The sensible thing is to put your legacy with her dowry, and split the funds in half. Both of you live off the five percents of your individual £35,000. Anne can buy gowns and jewels, books and music, confections and silk stockings if she desires. She can hire and pay for as many personal servants as she desires. Fitzwilliam can buy gentleman's clothes, excellent brandy, good cigars and purchase a horse, or gamble on horses. He can pay wages for his personal staff."
They looked at one another. "Any other suggestions?" Anne tried not to smile but couldn't restrain her delight at Kitty's sensible suggestions.
"Write the marriage settlement so that all the Rosings Park funds, property, holdings, etc. remain with Anne if Fitzwilliam dies, and become Fitzwilliam's if Anne dies. Write wills so the property, upon the surviving spouse's death, goes to the oldest son, or eldest daughter." Kitty observed her friends with fondness, not impatience.
"What do you suggest if we have no children? I don't want to leave anything to Robert. He inherits the title, funds, Matlock Estate, and the Matlock House in London. If we have no children, Mother's settlement will give all her funds to Robert's children." Richard watched as Anne took notes.
"If you don't have an heir; and I believe you will; leave Rosings to Georgiana's second son. Leave the de Bourgh House to Darcy's second son. If neither have a son, leave the properties to Georgiana with directives to provide an education for each female with Fitzwilliam lineage. They can move to Rosings when they turn three and ten, and share governesses and masters with one another. When they turn six and ten, they can attend seminary in London while living at the de Bourgh House. Do not follow Lady Augusta's recommendation to establish an entail. As a young woman who grew up with an entail affecting my family, I don't recommend it to anyone." Kitty provided the most sensible plans.
"We move into the Dower House, renaming it Rosings House. We both have several hundred pounds in our personal accounts which we can combine to furnish Rosings House to our tastes. I suggest the Rosings Park operating fund pay the operating expenses for the Rosings House and the Steward's House." Anne explained as she wrote.
"We refurbish the Rosings manor house, renamed the de Bourgh Recovery Home, for wounded soldiers and sailors," Richard suggested. "I have £5,000 of my own funds, and £20,000 from my grandparents' legacy. We can use my £25,000 to establish a de Bourgh Recovery House operating fund. The percents would maintain the Recovery House. You and I divide your dowry, giving us £25,000 each, which we put in separate accounts. We use the percents from those accounts as our pin/pocket moneys. We don't take funds from the Rosings Park operating funds."
"What do we do with the Steward's House? Mr. Knowles lives on his farm and doesn't use it. We could lease it, which would keep the house from falling into disrepair." Anne wrote suggestions. "Possibly, we could rent rooms to people who visit their relatives at the Recovery Home."
"There are six bedrooms at the Steward's House. They could be set with a sleeping, dressing and sitting area. We can put individual locks on doors, like at an inn, for leasing to individuals visiting men at the de Bourgh Recovery House. Funds from the Steward's House provide for servants and upkeep. Do you have any changes?" Anne offered Richard a good look at the list she composed.
"We rename the Steward's House as Rosings Place or Rosings Park Place. I would hire a finance officer to determine how much to charge the men who stay at the Recovery House and determine rent for the Steward's House. Your finance officer will be in charge of ordering supplies. He should work with your house steward and Mr. Knowles. You need medical staff, and a curate for the men's spiritual health." Kitty watched as the couple wrote ideas to consider.
"We spend weekends in London, checking on Mother, and keeping your family happy. We empty Rosings House so we can rearrange the layout and determine paint, wallpaper and rugs. We can list the furniture we need for each room. We move into Rosings House after the wedding."
"I'd like the Recovery House to be prepared for soldiers and sailors by Michaelmas." Richard commented, reading the written suggestions. "I'll send an express to our solicitors…" he started to say.
"No," Anne insisted. "My solicitor is the de Bourgh solicitor. Your solicitor is the Fitzwilliam solicitor. I believe we should have our own solicitor. Perhaps Darcy's solicitor?"
"I think that is an excellent suggestion. You do not want the de Bourgh solicitor to argue for more concessions from the Fitzwilliam/Matlock solicitor and vice versa. If we have everything written, it's a matter of Darcy's solicitor drawing the paperwork and notifying the other two to supply copies of all their paperwork for the files. Fitzwilliam knows Darcy's solicitor." Kitty explained. "In a fortnight, you can go to London on a Thursday and visit the solicitor on a Friday. Send an express to Darcy, asking him to notify his solicitor to expect the two of you."
~X~
Richard entered Anne's study at the de Bourgh House. "Augusta believes you need a proper courtship period."
Anne arched her eyebrow at him. "Augusta ignores the fact Mother is ill?"
"Augusta believes every engaged woman needs to announce her impending happiness at various social engagements through the Season. She thinks you need modiste visits for an expanded trousseau, and jeweler appointments. She recommends touring equipage warehouses for a new carriage dedicated to your particular use." Richard poured a brandy for himself and a sherry for Anne. "Augusta requests we not open our wedding breakfast or ball with a waltz."
"What ever shall I discuss with your sister-by-marriage since I plan to ignore her suggestions? I believe she is desperate to know my marriage settlement. Augusta did not say anything, but I don't like her attitude regarding Aunt Constance giving you the legacy from your grandparents. She will be distressed when we do not create an entail. She will be distressed when we change solicitors." Anne laughed. "Augusta is distressed because I do not want a court presentation. I have no time to obtain a gown and practice my curtsey in addition to preparing for our wedding and preparing Rosings House. I use the excuse I am almost a shelf sitter…and usually only debutantes are presented."
"I have no problem if you never want to be presented," Richard commented. "However, you could join Georgiana and be presented. There's safety in numbers, so I'm told."
"Speaking of safety in numbers, we should attempt to spend more time with Georgiana when we are in London. Augusta has too much to say which neither we, nor Georgiana, wants to hear." Anne commented.