Chapter 162

Well at least that was over with. Such a stroke of good luck to meet Lizzy first, and by herself. Oh, all right, with Manners and Miss Anne, who was now Manners' wife, but they had their own affairs to worry about, they wouldn't make trouble. And the guard? Mr Bennet believed his daughter when she said the fellow was just someone she liked and respected, with experience on subjects she and her disgustingly admirable husband were just starting to explore. It was a good thing to know one's own limits, wasn't it? But to turn to a servant for advice... Though he did seem rather astute, and a lot happier than that one time at the concert when that idiot lieutenant proposed to Miss Anne in public.

Imagine Lizzy knowing instantly that her father had allowed himself to stoop to adultery, it almost had to be exposure to folks like that Fowler, and Manners of course, that had given her the knowledge of the world to direct her keen natural intelligence. Well, nothing could put that cat back into the bag, there was nothing to be done but hope Darcy'd be reasonable about it. And then the entertainment could begin, Lady Catherine and the Prince of Wales in one room, together with Mr Collins and not in the last place, Lizzy. The possibilities for a display of fireworks were endless, better change quickly, spend a few moments to reason away Mrs Annesley's feelings of shame and guilt, then join the fun as long as it lasted.

Poor Mrs Annesley, they'd had a good trip so far but she was such a righteous soul, dire need had driven her into their affair and now she was most likely very sorry she'd let her feelings overcome her good sense this once. But Mr Bennet wouldn't stand for it, they were good for each other, he'd convinced her to come with him and he would take full responsibility for every possible consequence. If Darcy was angry, let him be angry at his father-in-law, let him think Mr Bennet had seduced his housekeeper. As for himself, he didn't feel all that guilty. He'd lived more than half his life with a woman barely worthy of the status of being an adult, and though he knew that was mostly his own fault for letting his youthful urges convince him that his lust for a pretty girl was love, he no longer blamed himself for falling for a featherhead. Besides his two eldest daughters and sister-in-law he had never met a sensible woman, and a smart, narrow-minded woman or a dumb indolent woman would have left his marriage as unfulfilled as his own unlucky choice. Maybe more so. A few days each month spent in Mrs Annesley's company gave them both the heart to bear with their fate, and since most men in town had a mistress and were a lot less discrete about it, he'd forgive himself and instead use his energy to make life a little easier for Mrs Annesley.

Lizzy had given him directions from where they'd parted company on the first floor, he was to go up one flight higher then turn right and look for the housekeeper, or choose a room on the side facing the front of the house, if the good lady wasn't in sight.

'Mr Bennet?'

An elegant woman of middle years was waiting for him at the end of the hall. He supposed this was Mrs Reynolds, but how had she already known he was coming? Quickly enough to be so far ahead of him? Too bad, if he met Mrs Annesley now they'd have to pretend to be strangers.

'Indeed, and I suppose you are Mrs Reynolds? Pray, how did you know I was here?'

The housekeeper was in an excellent humour and curtseyed respectfully.

'News travels fast, Mr Bennet. Someone mentioned a carriage arriving to our butler, as well as who were its occupants and Mrs Darcy's instructions on which rooms to provide you with. I'm sorry to have missed Mrs Annesley so far, I cannot wait to see her again, we're in the same profession now, you see. As soon as I heard of your arrival I rushed upstairs to make the preparations needed to bring these rooms up to Mr Darcy's standards of hospitality. The house staff has already taken your belongings inside, they're in the room I deem most suitable for immediate occupation, but it if you like another room better we will move some furniture around until it is to your liking.'

'Thank you very much, Mrs Reynolds, I'm impressed with the efficiency of your staff. Any room will do, as long as it's airtight and has a little fireplace. Oh, and I suppose my daughter will want me to wash every so often since I hear you have important visitors.'

Mrs Reynolds did indeed have a sense of humour for she laughed kindly and observed, 'Those are very modest wishes, Mr Bennet, and I am certain we can throw in a bed and some curtains for good measure. Will you please follow me? I do wonder where Mrs Annesley went, you don't suppose she got lost?'

'She left Mrs Darcy and myself in the company of a man named Fowler, whom Mrs Darcy seemed to trust entirely.'

'With Fowler, yes, that is what the butler told me.'

The lady seemed a bit surprised but not disconcerted or put out.

'Well, he has behaved admirably all his time here, and since it was Mrs Annesley who wrote to warn me of his reputation with the fair gender, I suppose we do not need to fear her being surprised by his charms. She will turn up sooner or later. And she has been here before. First-time guest have been known to get lost, Mr Bennet, it is rather a large house.'

'So it is, so it is. My daughter did tell me there was one visiting maid in particular who had a tendency to roam halls where she had no business being.'

Now the good lady showed some irritation.

'Indeed there is, Lady de Bourgh's maid has a remarkably poor sense of direction. Lord Chester found her wandering on this floor yesterday and had to help her find her way back to her mistress' room.'

'Lord Chester, yes, I've heard of him, a very respectable gentleman I gather. Mr Darcy may count himself very fortunate to have gained such an important connection.'

Mrs Reynolds looked surprised and more than a little confused, how could Mr Darcy's father have heard of this gentleman when the name was an alias, not a real person? Proving she wasn't stupid or devoid of humour the lady now once again showed a sincere smile and replied conspiratorially, 'Ah, Mrs Darcy told you who he is. And you're making fun of me, I should have known, you have quite the reputation yourself, Mr Bennet, at least among Mr and Mrs Darcy's staff. Nothing really bad, sir, please don't worry. Just that you like to put people on the wrong foot.'

Well, that was a truth if ever someone had told him one, so he nodded politely. Mrs Reynolds would not be a problem even if she did find out what Mrs Darcy's father was up to in the small hours. She was inclined to like him, and she liked Mrs Annesley, she would not cause a woman in a similar situation to her own trouble.

'I wonder what is keeping Mrs Annesley, I hope it isn't Fowler,' Mrs Reynolds mused out loud, and Mr Bennet couldn't help himself, he just had to prove the gossip about him right.

'With a husband and three sons almost grown I suppose the good lady knows how to handle a mere man, Mrs Reynolds. I wouldn't worry.'

He knew exactly what kind of man Mrs Annesley was attracted to, and Fowler wasn't it. Her husband had provided her with enough brawn to last a lifetime, her life's experiences had taught her to seek company with those of her own disposition instead of the exact opposite. Mild and scholarly was her thing these days, a tendency towards the indolent no problem, she had energy for two herself. But of course he couldn't tell Mrs Reynolds that her friend had already made an excellent choice of partner to commit adultery with, and that Fowler would not be tempted by a lady half again his age. He had caught an even bigger fish in the brand-new Mrs Manners. Beautiful, intelligent, kind, and undoubtedly already with Prince George's sights set on her.

'I suppose you're right, Mr Bennet, she wrote to warn me of Fowler's reputation but he's meek as a lamb and totally appropriate under any circumstance. Goodness knows Mrs Annesley's husband and sons have put her patience to the test at times, don't all male relatives?'

'Not just the males, if you please, Mrs Reynolds. I have five daughters, and living in a household as only man amidst six females has had its challenges. We all have our moments of weakness I'm afraid.'

'Sadly, I have no children of my own, but I saw Mr Darcy grow up, and neither he nor Miss Darcy ever gave me any vexation...'

She left a little pause there, as if someone had given her plenty, and Mr Bennet instantly realised who.

'They left that to Mr Wickham, my favourite son-in-law. I'm afraid he has little mischief left in him, Mrs Reynolds, these days he sets a shining example for his men in the Rifle Corps. He is an outstanding officer and very courageous, but I suppose only as long as he is kept very, very busy. Have you been keeping Fowler busy?'

'His master does, and now you mention it, he makes himself useful wherever he can, I suppose he chooses to be busy himself. You think...?'

'I think that's him right there, with Mrs Annesley, in perfect shape.'

'Will you tell me about Mr Wickham one of these days, Mr Bennet? I do worry about him sometimes, he was a nice boy and maybe he didn't deserve what people said of him.'

'It's Lieutenant Wickham now, you know, and I will tell you all I know. He writes sometimes, he doesn't have many people left to keep informed. But Mrs Reynolds, he was as bad as they said, your worry was not wasted on him.'

'Thank you, sir. Shall I show you to your room now?'

'Yes, please, and Mrs Annesley looks tired, she will be glad to have a place to rest a little.'

She had been with Fowler, but not as Mrs Reynolds had implied. Her eyes were slightly reddened, and her calm was the calm after a storm, emotional fatigue. Better be very careful or she might break down right before Mrs Reynolds' eyes. He had made a mistake bringing her along, he'd meant to make her feel better but instead she was worse, and all he could do now was try to keep the damage contained. And if Darcy sent for her he'd accompany her, make certain the blame landed where it was due.

'Grace, I was so sorry to hear about your husband! How was he when you left?'

Mrs Reynolds and Mrs Annesley were that informal? First name and a close embrace? Maybe she hadn't just come along to Pemberley to be with Mr Bennet. Or to discuss something to do with sewing. Maybe she needed a friend, a friend who lived three days away.

Soon, the two women were talking away whilst viewing a perfectly proper room on the right side of the long hallway. As soon as they were out of sight, Nick very cautiously approached Mr Bennet, obviously wanting to discuss something he considered of importance but reluctant to intrude on a visiting gentleman, the father of the lady of the house.

'Never mind, Fowler, if it's important to Mrs Annesley, out with it.'

'Thank you very much, sir, I think it is.'

Another nod was needed to get the fellow to spill what he'd learned.

'She is very afraid to lose her position, sir. Please refrain from putting any pressure on her or she will crack and turn away from you. It's not your fault, it's mostly guilt and fear of being found out, and I'm certain she will get over it when nothing untoward happens. You know what is going on under this roof, don't you? Mr Darcy knows and accepts it though he doesn't like it. He will not hold Mrs Annesley responsible for what you two are doing, at least I don't think so. Good afternoon.'

He bowed and turned away, telling this is what he had accompanied Mrs Annesley for.

'Fowler?'

The burly guard turned around, still respectful but in no way afraid to be berated.

'Yes, sir?'

'Thank you. I will do as you say, I had not expected her to be this discomposed. Did you talk?'

'She did, mostly, sir. A sad story. She needs you. I'll keep an eye on her in the back of the house, better you stay in front. Prying eyes, you see.'

'I will restrain myself and be good. Thank you.'

And with one more bow Fowler was gone, leaving Mr Bennet to join the two housekeepers to check out his room. He managed to catch Mrs Annesley's eye just once, and Fowler was right, he would have to be very careful not to lose what had grown between the woman he had come to love and himself. One wrong move and she'd denounce him, not only breaking his heart but also robbing herself of something that had become precious to her.

'Well, I thank you for this lovely room, Mrs Reynolds, it's just perfect. I suppose I'd better clean up and change and present myself to my son-in-law and Lord Chester and Lady de Bourgh. Ladies, please enjoy yourselves catching up, if you're not too tired, Mrs Annesley. I've had a really pleasant trip, best one in years actually, I hope you don't mind my being honest with you. Maybe we'll see each other in passing during your stay here?'

He tried to be subtle but he had to express his feelings, he could not just pretend that their time together meant nothing to him.

Her reaction made his heart jump, for she did not turn away from him but rather looked him straight in the eye and said, 'I enjoyed travelling together as much as you did, Mr Bennet. And I certainly hope your relatives won't claim all your time, though I suppose that is up to you in a large measure: no-one I know has ever been able to tell you what to do, least of all your favourite daughter.'

He bowed his head in acknowledgement, then looked up and admitted, 'You have seen through me, Mrs Annesley. In that case, until later.'

'Until later, Mr Bennet. I expect a full report on Lord Chester. Lady de Bourgh I've seen plenty of myself.'

He was forgiven. Only with the utmost control could he keep himself from smiling at her or worse, trying to kiss her, but at least all was not lost as of yet. With a mere nod for both women, not the way he wanted to take leave from Mrs Annesley but befitting the difference in rank between her and him, he turned on his heels and made his way to his room to wash and dress.

When Elizabeth finally came in she had no idea of what had happened between Anne and aunt Catherine first and aunt Catherine and Prince George as a result. So when the latter addressed her with, 'Ah, Mrs Darcy you have returned, looking all the brighter for your exertions on horseback. Did you have an enjoyable lesson?' she replied playfully and honestly.

'I most certainly did, Lord Chester, though it was very straining as well as great fun. Have you ever ridden carousel? You did tell me you have beautiful riding accommodations at your house.'

'Riding carousel? Isn't that the providence of the cavalry, my dear Mrs Darcy?'

The prince threw one slightly alarmed look at Darcy, to see how his host bore with his flattering, but since Darcy thought he was onto Prince George's game here he didn't move a muscle, facial or otherwise. Let him praise Elizabeth sky-high, show aunt Catherine she was as beloved in the highest circles as with her nephew.

Prince George didn't let Elizabeth answer his question but rather continued, as usual, his critics would say. But Elizabeth somehow knew he was making a point.

'Just joking, Mrs Darcy, I have had my share of riding lessons and I think I still remember how they made my leg muscles hurt the next day. And since my brothers and I actually had a colonel as our instructor we rode carousel regularly. I loved it, I suppose I always preferred working together over trying to outdo each other, but sadly most of our education consisted of doing just that, and as eldest I couldn't let my younger brothers beat me. So I have to admit I went to school well-prepared to win any challenge I was set, and I still don't give in without a fight or graciously. Except here, with all of you in your warm and friendly household. I've had a marvellous time and I hope I will be welcome again, rest assured I will not abuse that privilege by returning too soon, for my advisor is not pleased with me right now. He wants me back in London yesterday.'

Elizabeth was a bit surprised by his feeling words, but rose to the occasion beautifully.

'I'm glad we succeeded in giving you what we had hoped to give you, Lord Chester. And we're not entirely done, for I'm counting on you this afternoon to convince Fitzwilliam to let me have a Gothic conservatory built on his ancestral grounds. I really want one, preferably before you manage to have yours realised.'

See, Darcy wasn't the only one to love Elizabeth's cheek, Prince George relished her banter and clearly let his admiration show. Darcy could not see whether the prince gauged his reaction once again since he stole a look at his aunt himself, to see hers. Incomprehension mostly, no, wait, was that some hint of disgust? She really hated seeing Elizabeth distinguished, and by Prince George! Whilst she was being exactly what aunt Catherine despised, playful, frank and seemingly bereft of anything resembling proper respect for her betters.

'And you will have it, my dear. I will send you the first two trees to plant in it, an orange for yourself and a bergamot for Mrs Brewer. You don't mind giving her the fruit of one tree, do you?'

'I will do so with pleasure, she deserves the best. But I will secretly enjoy the smell of her bergamot's blossom when no-one is watching, though she may want some of those flowers to make into a condiment. That scent is good enough to eat.'

'Mrs Darcy, you are a prize. I will order my overpaid and underworked confectioners to start experimenting with orange blossoms. There will be a profusion of them any day now, and my men's creativity tends to be stuck to the fruit and its rind. I'm looking forward to our little excursion this afternoon. And I hope you will introduce me to your father, since I have heard he has just arrived?'

'It will be my pleasure and my honour, my lord.'

'Good, I cannot wait to see him, and congratulate him on raising my ideal of a woman. If only you were a bit older...'

He didn't even mention the fact that she was married, but Darcy knew that was meant for his aunt, not for him. There was no anger or jealousy rising in his breast, because Prince George didn't mean what he said. And when Elizabeth had accepted the prince's compliments in the spirit in which they were offered, with a playful smile and courteous curtsey, she walked straight towards Darcy and entered his embrace, kissing him right there and then without the slightest hesitation or sense of shame. She was indeed his ideal of a woman, whatever she really was to Prince George.

'You're not angry, or jealous,' she observed quietly.

'I'm not. He was just riling up aunt Catherine because she deserved it, trying to give Anne a dressing-down in front of everyone. The prince pulled rank on her with who he really is, too.'

'So they told you about my father? His companion, too?'

'Yes, I understood instantly but no-one else will have, they were very cryptic. Aunt Catherine only noticed Anne's riding skirts and threw a tantrum. Prince George berated her none too gently. We all saw the real heir to the throne and he was more than a little impressive, we've seen his kind face so far.'

'Your aunt does bring out the worst in people. In me, too. Will she still give us the letters?'

'Yes, this afternoon after our outing with the prince. Will Mr Bennet join us soon?'

'As you can imagine, he is looking forward very much to meeting Lady Catherine and seeing his nephew again and in the company of none other than the Prince of Wales. He is thrilled with the very prospect.'

'Well, your cousin has behaved perfectly all morning, somehow the prince seems my aunt's opposite where Will Collins is concerned, he brings out the best in him. We've had a surprisingly enjoyable morning, until my aunt spotted those riding skirts. I don't understand, I quite like them.'

'I think that may be the problem, they invite licentiousness. Oh well, let's just wait what your uncle and uncle Gardiner think of them. And my aunt. Then we'll know whether they really are scandalously indecent. Which does not mean I won't wear them if they are, mind you.'

'Elizabeth, I love you.'

'I know, my love, and I love you as much. Now, shall we mind our visitors?'

Having recently felt like a much younger man on a regular basis, Mr Bennet still wasn't too happy to find himself fidgety and nervous like an adolescent boy on his way to a deserved scolding. The way he felt young when on his way to a tryst was markedly different from his current apprehension. He was an adult, for goodness' sake, and Darcy and Lizzy were certainly nothing like his parents had been. And where was that confounded drawing-room, this house was a maze. Maybe he should just find the library and pretend to be lost. But then he'd miss the Prince of Wales.

'Can I help you, sir?' a polite voice asked to his right. A servant in a magnificent livery was standing to attention as if this was Carlton House itself.

'Yes, please. I'm looking for the drawing-room, it should be on this floor.'

'Yes, sir, it's on the other side of the staircase. Shall I lead you to it?'

'If you please. I'm Mr Bennet, Mrs Darcy's father, and you are?'

'I'm the butler, sir. Bates, at your service.'

'Thank you, Bates. Do you mind telling me where the library is? I'm planning to spend some time there as soon as I can.'

'My pleasure, sir. It's actually quite close, just follow this hall the way you were going and take the first door to your left. It's actually two stories high, which means the first floor only has bedrooms in the wing to the left. If you want a tour of the building you can ring the drawing-room bell, there is always someone free to lead you around for half an hour.'

The brisk pace the butler set kept Mr Bennet from further worrying, and before he knew it he was ushered into a large, richly decorated room looking out over the driveway to the house and the lawn beyond, sloping down towards the stream, which was actually almost large enough to be called a river.

'Papa!'

At least Lizzy was glad to see him this time, but he didn't plan on spending much time with her right now. While he dressed he had made an important decision and now was the time to implement it: he was not going to wait for whatever Darcy was going to do with regards to Mrs Annesley, he would address the matter immediately, by himself. As soon as the general greetings were over with he'd seek out his son-in-law, it was the right thing to do.

'Papa, let me introduce you to Fitzwilliam's aunt and to Lord Chester. The others you already know.'

Lizzy had always been rather averse to distinctions of rank, and had in fact been rewarded for it by having a man significantly above her fall for her, but introducing her father to the Prince of Wales was a bit too audacious even for a devoted parent to ignore. He gave her a little nudge to gain her attention and made sure to keep his voice low.

'Lizzy, you can't just take liberties with the Prince of Wales! He's royalty for goodness' sake!'

She smiled benignly and with a rather superior attitude said, 'But papa, he asked specifically to be introduced to you. I cannot refuse and why should I, you're not shy, are you?'

The Prince of Wales wanted to be introduced to him? Why?

'Don't look so surprised, papa. It's because you're my father. He said he wanted to meet the man who.. you know, he'll tell you himself, he likes to talk. Just you wait. As Lady Catherine will have to before she gets to meet you, but I suppose she's not as eager anyway. I hope you don't feel you have to wait for her to ask for an introduction?'

'No, dear Lizzy, she is family, she has no choice. And who wouldn't want to meet someone the crown prince asked for specifically? Even Darcy's aunt should feel my distinction.'

'That is the right attitude, papa, they must have someone to give the credit or blame for my behaviour.'

'Lizzy, you are a treasure, but sometimes you make my heart stop with your cheek. Now get on with it, I have a rather unpleasant duty waiting before I can sit back and watch Mr Collins interact with royalty.'

'You mean Fitzwilliam? Yes, I suppose I'm rather glad I'm not the one having to explain to him how you took his carriage and his housekeeper without asking permission first. Well, first things first.

Lord Chester, you asked to meet my father, Mr Bennet. This is him looking rather smart, I suppose he took some care dressing for once. And papa, this is Lord Chester, a most important figure in town and our entire empire.'

The prince looked just like his pictures, if one discounted the most unflattering ones which depicted him at least twice his actual size. His florid face made him look younger than his near forty years, but his physique was rather the opposite, he was not an athletic man in build, and combined with the old-fashioned breeches he was wearing that made him look older than his years. Maybe that was why Mr Bennet felt so young himself, he had embraced the pantaloons and the stylish colours his son-in-law's former valet had introduced him to and he flattered himself that they looked good on him. And though his own man had been reluctant at first to adapt this novelty from London, by now he no longer resisted progress, had in fact taken to wearing pantaloons himself. Too bad Mr Bennet had seen no possibility to bring him along to Pemberley, or he would have conceded his master's point comparing Mr Collins and the prince to all the others.

'Mr Bennet, such a pleasure to meet you! I'm an avid admirer of your daughter, and had never dared dream to meet her favourite parent already, such a fortunate turn of events!'

What? Everyone knew Prince George liked his women highly educated and especially, well-ripened! Lizzy was not his type at all, he should prefer Mrs Manners. Especially since Manners didn't actually love his new wife, whereas Darcy worshipped Lizzy and had always struck Mr Bennet as rather possessive. And not just towards poor George Wickham. As Lizzy's father he had already concluded from his daughter's way of talking that she did not admire the prince at all, but Darcy's jealousy could destroy their happy marriage in weeks, dear Lizzy had no idea how powerful the green-eyed monster could be.

A quick look at the most dignified of his plentiful sons-in-law showed a totally different picture than Mr Bennet had expected. Not carefully contained anger or even pain, Darcy had not given his heart easily after all, but most surprisingly something very much like pride enhanced his already handsome face. Darcy didn't mind Prince George flattering his wife? He could rise above jealousy? That was not possible, Darcy was the type to let it devour him.

'I'm honoured to meet you, Lord Chester, and glad to hear my daughter still loves me a little.'

Do not let anyone think Mr Bennet could not control his expressions as perfectly as a gentleman from St James'.

'Why, Mr Bennet, have you been naughty? Never you mind, aren't we all doomed to give in to human nature in the end? Aren't those moments of sin the ones most worth living for? Consider, your dear daughter hasn't had nearly as much time to discover the world as we have.'

Well, that was certainly true, but Mr Bennet had discovered the joys of giving in to temptation only recently, and Darcy never would, his shining example undoubtedly keeping Lizzy on the right track. Or maybe that was selling her short, jealousy was also a sin and Darcy would have to trust Lizzy implicitly to not let it devour him under these circumstances. But one thing was clear, Prince George was indeed devilishly clever to pick up a father's subtle excuse to his daughter.

Lizzy, meanwhile, laughed and said as playfully as ever, 'Lord Chester, I may not have the least interest in exploring this world you mention, I assure you there are other sins. Smaller ones, possibly, but real nonetheless. Since tasting Mrs Brewer's work I sometimes crave her concoctions of sugar, cream and essence of rose. Or your confectioners' chocolate. And I freely admit to idolising a fallible human being.'

Most likely she was indeed with child, Lizzy had never craved sweet things. Nor had she ever idolised anyone, she'd always been aware of her father's faults at least. But it was more than obvious that Prince George loved her impertinence, and Darcy's reaction as she delivered her last statement straight at him was priceless. He was not ashamed at all to be guilty of the same sin, inadvertently proving Prince George's outrageous statement.

'Mrs Darcy, Mr Bennet, since I let the cat out of the bag myself I propose we leave Lord Chester to his boring life and welcome George back to the party. For I'm certainly planning to enjoy my last day with all of you.'

A severe look from Lizzy practically ordered Mr Bennet not to take the prince's offer, as if he even could. All this newfangled nonsense with people being familiar with each other, his generation had done well enough being polite at all times. He hadn't even known Mrs Annesley's first name was Grace, and even now he wasn't tempted to use it. Though it was an elegant name and thus very fitting.

'Thank you, Your Highness, I must admit it will make things a lot easier. I'm also looking forward very much to being in this company for a few days.'

The prince merely nodded in acknowledgement, where had Lizzy learned such discernment, how had she known the man said the one and expected the other? Looking around him, he immediately knew. Manners, or course. Rumour said he knew the king, he'd know how to address royalty.

With this formidable introduction over, Mr Bennet quickly acknowledged his daughter's friends and relatives, Mr Fielding looking as handsome and as happy as he had since falling in love and marrying, Mr Bennet hoped his music wouldn't suffer. Usually, creative artists performed better in adversity. Mrs Fielding winked at her sister's father, they had a certain connection dating from the time when Miss Darcy had still been very shy and hiding Fielding's affection from her brother.

Mr Bennet couldn't see Miss Anne, now Mrs Manners, without remembering that fateful night in some theatre where that dratted lieutenant had tried to chain her with his adulation and potential grief. Fortunately a very bold servant had braved exposure and infamy showing her his true feelings in public, convincing her someone was going to be hurt whichever man she chose and thus enabling her to pick she one she actually loved. She was free now, and obviously happy.

Manners nodded at Mr Bennet, he knew Mrs Darcy's father knew, but then he'd undoubtedly known what Mr Bennet had been up to in the Darcy's London house. Or had he? Had the valet and that Fowler fellow kept their peace even to him? It didn't matter in the least, they were all as guilty as him. And his secret was out anyway. Better face Darcy right now and have it over with.

'Mr Bennet, do you mind if I introduce you to my aunt? I want her to acknowledge Elizabeth and that includes her family. But if you find that demeaning I'll refrain.'

So Darcy had beaten him to it. And there was to be another introduction before they got to business. Well, so be it.

'I cannot wait to meet her, Darcy. You look good. Of course you should, as the owner of a house large enough to get lost in. And your grounds are just incredible, the hunting must be without compare.'

'I've a really canny fox still waiting to meet his destiny, Mr Bennet, maybe we can try the hounds one more time before I have him dug out.'

'Did I ever say George Wickham was my favourite son-in-law? I lied, you are. A foxhunt, I'd love that, if I can borrow a horse that won't kill an old man.'

'Not that old, apparently, Mr Bennet,' Darcy said, laughing, stunning his father-in-law with a mixture of feelings. Guilt, of course, but relief as well, for had that been humour in his son-in-law's sedate voice?

'I'm certain we'll find one you can handle. Now be prepared, aunt Catherine won't like this and she may take it out on you, but we all have to make a sacrifice every so often. If she is insulting you may redress.'

There really was no anger in Darcy, how could that be? He could not be controlling a rage, it would show in his posture and be audible in his voice. He truly was totally relaxed, even amused.

'You may have four sons-in-law, Mr Bennet, I have only one father-in-law. And no father. I need at least one sensible man in my life.'

Again, Mr Bennet was certain he was being made a fool of, Darcy had his own uncle, who was supposedly a very sophisticated character, and of course Lizzy and he had a special bond to Mr Bennet's brother- and sister-in-law, the Gardiners. The latter two at least undoubtedly had their wits together a lot firmer than Mr Bennet himself at this moment, goodness knew that Lizzy and Jane had always turned to Mrs Gardiner when in need of advice of a motherly kind. And Darcy hadn't been able to offer Lizzy a mother-in-law since his mother had died when he was still in his teens. He however did have a woman of a certain age in his family, who reputedly liked to offer important advice to young ladies and anyone else, and Mr Bennet was about to meet her in person.

'Aunt Catherine, it is my pleasure to introduce you to Elizabeth's father, Mr Bennet. Mr Bennet, my aunt Lady Catherine de Bourgh.'

Starting out with utter politeness, Mr Bennet bowed creditably and let the good lady initiate any conversation. He knew he looked good despite lacking the services of his valet, maybe a bit too fashionable for the arrogant lady before him but certainly up to the current London standard. And he pulled it off, he was decidedly slimmer than most men his age and had enough of his own hair left to keep a more sedate version of the shaking dog his younger relatives sported. Some might call him vain seeing him like this, but the people he valued knew it was merely his way to handle the attention the Darcy's relations had attracted since Mr Fielding's rise to fame. He was not going to be spotted by a reporter looking like an elderly impoverished gentleman from the country, as he had to admit he had usually done when his world had still been limited to the immediate surroundings of Longbourn. Not because he couldn't afford fashionable attire, but because old hunting gear was so much more comfortable to wear. Still, the respect his new looks gained him largely offset the discomfort of starched collars, elegant shoes and tight coats, and he had taken to wearing them at home as well.

'So this is your wife's adored father.'

Lady Catherine was less impressive than he had expected, quite a few years his senior and showing it in the lines in her face, the sagging skin of her jowls and neck and her stooped posture. Either she had suffered some illness or setback, or people in general were just too easily impressed with a mere big name, expensive attire and ostentatious jewellery.

'At least you seem to have some proper manners, Mr Bennet. I find your daughter severely lacking in the proper respect due her superiors in age and standing, and I supposed the apple to fall close to the tree. But I hope I may have been mistaken. Despite the lack of conventional style of your attire it is not unbecoming to someone of your figure, and looking about me I gather it is what gentlemen are supposed to wear these days. Breeches and stockings were good enough for my dear Sir Lewis de Bourgh, and he would not have foregone on his wig to look like he had just left his bed without the attention of his man or at the very least a look in a mirror. But I suppose that is the fashion these days, my own maid practically forced me into this particular dress and hat, saying Mrs Darcy was an icon of fashion and did I want to look underdressed compared to her. I suppose I'm glad now I let her convince me, I'm very pleased to meet you.'

And she offered him her hand to kiss it. Was that what he thought it was? Not a rather arrogance gesture meant to demean him, as kissing someone's hand was seen these days, but a reminder of the popular manners of their youth, an offer for him to be gallant? Was she flirting with him?

In a split second he decided to take her up on her offer with a flourish, he could take that hand in a handshake but that would be an insult to any woman and that was not how he had been raised. But he'd make a thing of it to prove these were just two old people reminiscing, not a lowly ranked gentleman offering obeisance.

'The pleasure is all mine, my dear lady. Your dress is truly magnificent, and you do it enough justice to be in the papers yourself. Though I have to admit you will probably come to see some strong resemblances between my dear Lizzy and myself soon enough.'

He took the extended hand with the exaggerated bow of their youth, and kissed it very fleetingly, then carefully released it back to her side.

'That takes me back to my best days, Mr Bennet, when I was the dream of every young man and the envy of all the young ladies. Such a shame those days are long past...'

'Oh, come, my dear Lady de Bourgh, would you really want to be young again? To be delivered to the follies of youth once more, a victim of those relentless urges to be someone and mean something? No, I have to admit I greatly prefer the wisdom and calm of age. My life has been very pleasant so far and I expect to enjoy whatever is left of it as much or more so. Starting with Darcy's library, I've heard such rumours as to be all anticipation even now.'

The lady's face fell, of course it did, she'd just been received gallantly, then rudely shoved aside for a mere collection of books. Better not give her any illusions, from what Lizzy had told him she'd recently lost the services of a particular 'friend', he could not have someone keeping an eye on him, it would interfere with his plans to spend some time with Mrs Annesley. Well, Darcy did say Mr Bennet might redress insults, and he'd merely been himself, nothing worse.

The lady recovered quickly and observed, 'You were right, your daughter does take after you. Still I hope you will spend some time with her guests as well as with her husband's books, since we seem to be much of an age compared to the rest of the company.'

'It will be my pleasure, Lady de Bourgh.'

Well, that wasn't as bad as it could have been. Hopefully she'd regain a little of her famous ill-mannered temperament, so far Mr Bennet was not impressed. Frankly, he expected more entertainment from Prince George and Mr Collins, though the latter was surprisingly quiet and mostly occupied listening to the music. But now it was time to speak to Darcy about Mrs Annesley, to claim responsibility so she did not have to await her employer's verdict in fear.