December 1811 - February 1812
Darcy was restless, the last three months in London had passed in a blur. He had been very busy, and if he was honest with himself, deeply unhappy.
During the first fortnight after his return, he met with his solicitor to change his will, and make some investments in steam machines. He knew the world was changing, he was an avid reader and patron of the Royal Society. He was fascinated by the industrial development of the country and wanted to be prepared for the change.
His uncle, the Earl, was adamant that he should attend some social events and meet some ladies. At first, he was reluctant to participate, as he hated being the center of attention and subject of their tales, but the Earl told Darcy that nobody was talking about him or his sister's scandal because there were new rumors to occupy the gossip. The Earl was convinced that probably in another year or two nobody would remember Georgiana. On the other hand, his aunt, the Countess of Matlock, held every December one of the balls which highlighted the season and he was informed that, as a member of the family, he should attend.
He tried to enjoy the evening but with little success, he danced with every single woman his uncle introduced to him but unconsciously, he compared all the ladies to Miss Bennet. None of them had Miss Bennet's beautiful eyes, their conversation wasn't as engaging and they didn't have her spark. During the ball, it was evident some acquaintances and former friends were still whispering about his misfortune behind his back.
He had an uncomfortable discussion with Lady Victoria and her new husband during supper, and she asked him some subtle and malicious questions about Georgiana, likely seeking new information to share with her friends.
He wanted to return to Hertfordshire. After meeting many ladies and participating in balls, he had already convinced himself that his happiness was more important than money and connections; but he had promised the Earl that he would try first to restore his family's reputation and his place in society before taking the next step. He should stay in London for at least two or three more months and continue to attend balls and parties before he would be free to talk to Miss Bennet.
He knew it wasn't the match his family expected, and in some moments, he still felt he was lowering himself by marrying a gentlewoman so far below him in consequence. However, Elizabeth was an amazing lady and he was convinced that after meeting her, his family would be charmed and approve of his choice. They could have a long engagement, and, with the Earl and Countess's help, she could be introduced to and accepted by polite society, before they married.
The days passed as if they were all the same. A party, a concert, a ball, the same questions, the same insipid conversation, nothing really interesting. His nights were filled with dreams of Miss Bennet and a happy future.
In January, his cousin, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, was very badly injured in battle and returned to England. His face was disfigured, his leg and arm were broken, and he would probably never return to battle. This was a terrible blow to the Colonel; he loved his profession and to perform his duty to defend the country. The Colonel was used to being an active person and, therefore, during his convalescence, he was restless and gloomy. Darcy visited him frequently, during which they played chess and talked about the Colonel's time on the continent, Darcy's time in Hertfordshire, and Miss Bennet in particular.
In February, Darcy was preparing for his trip to Hertfordshire when he received a letter from his aunt, Lady Catherine, demanding his presence in Kent.