Chapter 11 – In Company Again
"It is beautiful," Elizabeth stated.
She meandered down a lane from the parsonage toward the main road, Charlotte at her side and Maria trailing behind. Eyes flicking from left to right, Lizzy admired the spring flowers and green trees against the clear blue sky. The entire prospect set off with a scattering of fluffy white clouds made this day perfect. Mrs. Collins smiled at the whimsy, enjoying the solitude without the sound of her husband.
"I do believe I could grow almost as fond of these woods and hills as you have, Charlotte," Elizabeth remarked, a twinkle in her eye. Personally, she wondered if her friend used the peace and tranquillity to calm her mind after managing her household.
"Lizzy," Maria called, out of breath. Stopping to pick the delicate white orchards growing wild in the shade, Miss Lucas missed the quiet conversation between old friends. She'd run to catch up with the other ladies, her mind on all that occurred in the previous weeks. Youthful enough to still be impressed by the opulence of Rosings Park and her current surrounding, she offered, "we have been here three weeks and already we have dined at Rosing's Park six times! I would never have expected it to be so many."
Considering the conversation rather absurd, Lizzy smiled ironically. "No," she offered, watching for Charlotte's reaction to the innocent words, "nor I."
At the satirical statement, Charlotte shared a look of amusement with her friend. Between them they spoke of living under the condescension of Lady Catherine de Bourgh and what it meant in reality. Mr. Collin's had little idea of the restrictions that great house placed on his wife's ability to be mistress of her own home. Elizabeth quickly understood the invitations to Rosings came because the great Lady either dismissed everyone else or they refused to visit the controlling matriarch. The simpering Clergyman both annoyed the woman and played to her vanity, making the perfect companion.
"My dear!" Mr. Collins's cry broke into the lady's solitude, his tone all astonishment. The gentleman, new to such exercise, had run from the cottage in a somewhat odd fashion. Out of breath, the Parson had little respect for the conversation he interrupted, or his wife's quite discourse with her guests. Turning, the three ladies watched as he hunched over, panting and waving his hat in great distress. "Maria! Cousin Elizabeth!" he managed when the wind returned to his chest. "Mr. Darcy has arrived at Rosings, and with him, his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, the youngest son of the Earl of Matlock. And the gentlemen have vouchsafed us the greatest honour. They are coming to call on us at the parsonage."
Shocked, Charlotte requested, "when, my dear?"
"Even now, Mrs. Collins," the man stepped from one foot to the other in his agitation, suggesting the party should know how to act and do so immediately. "Even now they are hard upon my heels. Make haste! Make haste!" he demanded, beginning to run back the way he came. Maria followed him rapidly with an astonished and frightened expression on her innocent face.
"I think," Charlotte chuckled as she turned to walk with her friend at a more sedate pace, "this must be due to you, Lizzy. Mr. Darcy would never have come so soon to wait upon me."
"No, you are mistaken, Charlotte," Elizabeth offered with a confused expression entering her brown eyes.
Elizabeth had been about to announce Mr. Darcy disliked her as much as she disliked him. However, the words stuck in Lizzy's throat. The last time I saw Mr. Darcy, she recalled, we danced together at Netherfield in late November. That was four months past. He told me of his dealings with Mr. Wickham and then left the district within a day. I am sure he meant to place me on guard against the man. However, that issue has passed due in no small part to Mr. Darcy's intelligence and with it a cascade of others. If the man truly disliked me, he would never open the actions of his sister to such scrutiny and possible exposure. No, Mr. Darcy must have some regard for me and my thoughts on his character. Still I cannot believe it enough to call.
Could there have been more behind his words as Charlotte is suggesting, Elizabeth suddenly wondered as her friend continued a speculative smile.Knowing the truth improved my opinion of Mr. Darcy. However, he and the entire party left the very next day. I thought I would never meet him again. We move in such different society, yet here we are together in Kent. Lady Catherine is his aunt and therefore explains his appearance, but what of his impending visit to Hunsford? How do I account for that and at the same time I am in attendance with my friend?
I cannot think upon the last time I saw him without regret and modification. My parents and sisters acted without decorum, embarrassing Jane and I. Both Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley noticed the vulgar, ill-mannered behaviour and want of all propriety. I am sure the Superior Sisters used their lack of dignity to remove Mr. Bingley from My Dearest Jane. Which begs the question, why would he call upon me as Charlotte supposes? Besides, Mr. Darcy left Hertfordshire before my plans to come into Kent were made. He would not know I am staying with my cousin.
"Indeed, I believe I am not mistaken," Charlotte begged to differ, her smile increasing at the thoughts clearly crossing Eliza's open countenance.
"What possible reason could Mr. Darcy have to call on me?"' Elizabeth questioned with disbelief and surprise shining in her eyes. "I am certain he does not know I have left Longbourn. No, you must be misdirected."
"Do not act so shocked, Lizzy," Charlotte scolded. "Mr. Darcy may have wounded your pride with his comments at the Meryton Assembly, but his behaviour towards you last November was noticed by many in Hertfordshire. I remember he paid you a great honour one evening at Lucas Lodge. My father said you refused to stand up with him, although Mr. Darcy seemed willing enough to engage in an amusement he rarely practiced. He looked to you all night, Elizabeth and continued to do so as your acquaintance improved. Then again at the Netherfield Ball, he singled you out while you lamented over Mr. Wickham absence. You would be a simpleton indeed to slight a man of his consequence when he has paid you such attentions."
"Charlotte," Lizzy looked uncomfortable, "did you really think Mr. Darcy looked at me a great deal, and without disapproval?"
"Indeed, I did," she stated simply.
"What do you think he can mean by it?" Confused by this new idea, Elizabeth gave her companion a sideways glance filled with concern. The thought that Mr. Darcy might think well of her caused an odd sensation, one she'd never felt before. Unsure if she liked it or it produced discomfort, Lizzy determined to put it out of her mind.
"I think we shall soon find out," Charlotte teased, "for I see the horses approaching. Come, we must make haste. I will go directly to the kitchen and speak with the cook while you and Maria wait in the parlour. I shall only be a few minutes before joining you."
~~ooOOoo~~
"Stop fidgeting, Darcy," Richard berated the man sitting opposite in the carriage.
Allowing his displeasure to openly show, Richard frowned. Since climbing aboard Darcy's well sprung coach almost four hours previously, his cousin became increasingly sullen and withdrawn as each mile passed. Colonel Fitzwilliam witnessed the annual effect of drawing ever closer to Rosings Park since the death of Darcy's father five years previously. This time an edge of apprehension accompanied them in the carriage. Unfortunately, Richard knew to what, or rather who, this apprehension tended.
"I am not fidgeting," Darcy glared, suddenly sitting rigidly in his seat.
"No," Richard agreed, humour sparkling in his light brown eyes, "you are not, now. Tell me, Cousin, what concerns you so particularly on this visit to our esteemed aunt?"
"Why," Darcy continued to glower, "do you ask when you already know and have done so for several months. Do I need to repeat myself? Did we not speak of the reason when you visited Pemberley? Indeed, I have heard little else from my Uncle, the Earl of Matlock since you deemed it necessary to share my hopes."
Chortling easily, the Colonel couldn't keep his amusement contained. "My cousin Georgiana tells me your humour only improved when you discovered Mrs. Charlotte Collins had an acquaintance visiting from Hertfordshire and that the lady would be in residence for the entire month of April. Such a pity I was not able to see you snatch away her letter and read it. I hear your sister became very amused at your reaction."
Continuing to glare, Darcy declined to answer, at least in words. However, Richard could not help but take his meaning.
"So, your secret prayers have been answered," Richard continued to tease. "It appears Miss Bennet will be in Kent and available to receive your attentions for it is her friend that married the rector. I thought we were to use this time in consideration of a campaign to win her affections, not brood over what has past!"
Darcy's temper increased at his cousin's suggestion. "I am quite capable of seeing to my future," he stated conceitedly.
"So, I see," Richard managed to keep his enjoyment to a smirk. "There are still miles to go before we come in sight of Rosings. Then we must brave our Aunt's effusive greetings before we make social calls. In the meantime, if you wish the young lady to actually like you, Darcy, you need to remove the poker from the orifice you are currently sitting on and use is for its intended purpose, to stoke a fire. In this case, the fire of passion in Miss Bennet for I fear you have almost snuffed it out."
At the frown Darcy levelled his way, Colonel Fitzwilliam chuckled. He'd read that sour look many times in the last months and knew its reason. Darcy believed Miss Bennet to be indifferent to him because he had not taken the trouble to demonstrate his regard. Learning of this behaviour toward Miss Elizabeth Bennet since the Meryton Assembly, Colonel Fitzwilliam took to teasing his cousin at every opportunity.
"Come now man," Richard tried to keep his expression neutral and failed dismally, "we left London and my parent's townhouse early this morning. I've scares had time to break my fast before you called for the carriage, such was your rush. Yet not once have you asked me if I have a plan of such military precision which will win the heart of your fair maiden."
"Fitzwilliam," Darcy warned in a hard tone, "Miss Bennet is hardly a campaign to be fought over and won."
"Oh, really. Is that what you truly believe, Darcy," Richard tormented with a knowing smirk. "'Mark my words, calling upon her in that attitude will not a pleasant visit make. It appears you know nothing of a woman's desires or the way into her heart. I tell you now, Cousin, you must no longer conceal you struggles."
"You wish me to flatter the young woman," Darcy almost spat, "when you know I abhor deceit in any form."
"Your, flatter a woman, impossible," Richard cried, trying to stop his laughter. "You told me yourself of the comments Miss Bennet overheard the night you were first introduced. That was flattery indeed. Be still my beating heart," the Colonel placed on hand over his chest and tried to cease his amusement. "I know it goes against your very nature to be effusive with words, Darcy, after all they have always been few and far between. Really Cousin, if you want the young lady to know you, to take measure of your character and come to see your admiration, then you must talk to her."
"This is your plan?" demanded the seriously displeased man.
"It has worked for many others over the centuries," Richard stated ironically. "I do not see why it could not work for you."
Making a rude noise, Darcy turned to the carriage window. Watching the scenery outside, he knew they were rounding the last bend to Rosings drive. As much as he hated Richard's advice, Fitzwilliam knew it to be sound. Still I have a quarter of an hour to find something we have in common so I may at least exchange pleasantries with Miss Elizabeth when we finally meet again.
"How," Darcy finally asked as the carriage rolled to a stop, "does one speak to a young lady or start a conversation with her?"
"Watch, my dear cousin," Richard shook his head with regretful amusement, "and learn. I will show you the way."
And so, Darcy and his cousin underwent the initial interview with Lady Catherine on entering her house. Severe in his countenance, Fitzwilliam Darcy looked to his long-suffering cousin Anne several times. She simply smiled and averted her eyes, as if secretly amused by him. It appeared she also laughed at his predicament which meant Georgiana had been open in the extreme. He fleetingly wondered what Anne made of Miss Elizabeth and if that formed her humour. Further increasing his ire, The Colonel's mouth held an ever so slight smirk. What Richard found entertaining in the hour-long meeting, Darcy would never know. He seemed to be of a gregarious nature, finding enjoyment in almost anything. In this respect Richard reminded Darcy of Elizabeth.
Finally set free, the trunks had been delivered to their rooms. Darcy hurried his valet through a refreshing toilet. Changed into suitable attire, he harassed Colonel Fitzwilliam to make haste and sent his valet to have the horses saddled. After sitting in one attitude for an extended period, he needed the exercise before meeting with Miss Elizabeth.
"I am delighted to make your acquaintance at last, Miss Bennet," Colonel offered after Mr. Collins made the introduction. True to form, Mr. Darcy retreated to a seat on the outskirts of the party to listen but not preform to the crowd.
Taking a chair opposite the young woman, Richard sized her up. Almost immediately he could see the attraction his cousin felt. Yet for those who did not know the reticent man, the glare he gave Miss Bennet might be mistaken for haughty pride instead of admiration.
"At last, sir?" enquired a confused Elizabeth. After her earlier thoughts, she wondered at the attentions paid by this man.
"Well," Richard smiled disarmingly, his eyes flicking between Darcy and the lovely creature before him. He wanted to tease the former and put the latter at ease. "I've heard much of you, and none of the praise has been exaggerated, I assure you."
"Oh," unsure how to answer that, Lizzy tried for teasing. But what to say in such a situation?she wondered. In truth, she barely knew Mr. Darcy and he could be the only source of information for the Colonel. Averting her eyes, Elizabeth noticed Mr. Darcy watching her. A frown marred her features as she forgot to answer.
"I hope we shall see you frequently at Rosing's while we're there," Richard increased the curve of his mouth in an attempt to rescue the conversation. "I am fond of lively conversation."
"This you do not find at Rosings Park?" Elizabeth finally found the courage to answer. The young man's amused countenance brought a sparkle to her eyes.
I will ignore Mr. Darcy completely,Lizzy decided, and concentrate on the good Colonel. His manners are lively and engaging. And,her subconscious added, he does not make me feel so at odds with myself as his cousin.
"Well," Richard managed a chuckle, "my aunt does talk a great deal, but seldom requires a response." Once again glancing at Darcy, he noted Miss Bennet's eyes followed his. Her countenance changed ever so slightly as to be almost unnoticeable. To the battle hardened worrier, he could see the uncertainty playing at the back of her expression and knew there was hope for his cousin. "My friend there speaks hardly a word when he comes into Kent," offered Richard in explanation, "though he is lively enough in other places. Nobody plays, nobody sings. I believe you play and sing, Miss Bennet."
"Oh, a little," Lizzy answered surprised, "and very ill. I wouldn't wish to excite your anticipation. I believe Mr. Darcy has only every heard the single composition I have ready for company."
Eyes filling with amusement at the subtle self-criticism, Richard coxed, "I am sure you are too modest, but any relief would be profoundly welcome, I assure you."
Finally feed up with Mr. Darcy's continued glare, Elizabeth allowed her orbs to glance his way once again. The gaze always gave her much unease, but now another emotion, uncertainty, joined the maelstrom and made her feel uncomfortable. She felt as though the man looked to her soul and beyond.
"C—can," Lizzy stuttered, finally finding the words, "you tell me why Mr. Darcy keeps staring at me?"
"Do you not know," Richard offered with smiling eyes and a teasing tone. He could see the wariness and insecurity playing about Miss Bennet's mind. Yes, you will come to care for my cousin, if only he can learn to express himself. I believe he has chosen well. A woman worthy of his affections.
Turning his head, Richard gave Darcy a prearranged signal. Finally standing, Mr. Darcy rudely left Mr. Collins in the middle of a sentence. He'd been ignoring the pastor since he started his monologue which barely required anything but the occasional grunt. It left Darcy able to watch his cousin charming the woman he'd come to admire above all others. He did not notice the entire room fall into silence.
"I hope you family is in good health," Darcy enquired when he came close enough.
"I thank you, yes," Lizzy gave him a curious look. She could not ask after Miss Darcy as they had not met nor been introduced.
Cursing himself for not finding something to say, Richard entered the conversation to save Darcy from himself. "I believe you have quite an extensive family, Miss Bennet."
"Four sisters," she offered. "My eldest sister, Jane, has been in town these three months." At this Lizzy returned her attention to Mr. Darcy, "have you never happened to see her?"
"No," he responded astonished. It appeared he may have miss interpreted Miss Bennet's affections for his friend. To the best of Darcy's knowledge, Miss Bennet had not called on Miss Bingley or Mrs. Hurst. After the dinner at his London Townhouse, he could be under no illusion about their feelings for Miss Bennet. "No, I have not had that pleasure. I did see others of your acquaintance, Mr. Bingley and his sisters. I believe Miss Bennet and Miss Bingley correspond, but Miss Bingley did not inform me of Miss Bennet's tenure or I would have called."
"My Aunt and Uncle live in Cheapside," Lizzy goaded the man.
"So, I understand," Darcy returned her stare with one of his own.
Realising war could break out at any moment, Richard cut in. "Are you to return to your Aunt and Uncle before going back to Hertfordshire, Miss Bennet?"
"Yes," smiling, or at least attempting to, Elizabeth answered as politely as possible. "I am to stay in London until we tour the North Country in July."
"Will you be coming to Derbyshire?" Darcy broke in, capturing the attention of both Richard and Elizabeth.
"Yes, Sir," Lizzy answered in wonderment. His expression changed completely with the mention of his home county. "My Aunt came from a small market town called Lambton. We are to visit for a few days on our tour."
"Then I hope you will do me the very great honour of calling at Pemberley with your family. My estate is situated but five miles from that town," Darcy announced. "Many visitors come to tour the house and gardens during the summer. I would be most displeased if you did not stop and take tea or dine with us."
"Thank you," Elizabeth answered breathlessly, shocked to the core at the invitation. She became unable to rise to the challenge when Mr. Darcy walked around the table, pulled out a chair and sat down.
"Please," he requested, "tell me about this tour? Are you to take in the moors? They are known for their breathtaking beauty at that time of year."
AN: a huge thank you to everyone who is following, reading, re-reading and those who have left a review. It truely makes an authors day to open up the email and realise people care enough about your work to comment.