If Darcy noticed the next day that his cousin Richard was abnormally silent, he said very little of it but took note all the same. Darcy knew his cousin well enough to realise the man was busy sorting through his feelings for Miss Mary Bennet. Darcy spent as much time as possible courting the good opinion of Miss Elizabeth Bennet, helped along by his matchmaking family. Anne, in particular, did everything short of locking the two alone in a room together to forward the match. While she did so, she teased her cousin mercilessly.

"How different the situation is, you said, Fitz. Mr. Bateman's relations are genteel," she mocked.

"I had no way of knowing that they were related. How could I have done? There was nothing at all to imply the connection," said he.

"You never asked what sort of people the aunt and uncle were though," said Anne, "You simply assumed that they must have savage manners due to their being in trade."

"It would not have been proper," said he, "What should I have said? Miss Bennet, do tell me, are your aunt and uncle respectable people?"

"No, but you might have asked other questions, about what sort of trade they were in, about other relations. Mayhap you might even have discovered the relation to Mr. Bateman before now."

"I have realised my error, Anne. Pray, let the matter drop away."

"I shall not. Not until I am assured by you that you will no longer forsake your own happiness for some mistaken sense of duty. Not until you tell me that you plan to court, and eventually marry, Cousin Lizzy."

"I will. I plan to ask her to marry me this very day."

"Certainly not!" cried Anne, "You must court her. She is not mercenary and will undoubtedly refuse you if you ask now."

"What do you mean?" asked Darcy in some confusion.

"I have watched you both and she is not nearly so affected by you as you are by her. She is not in love with you, Fitz. I daresay she might like you, but that is all."

"Are you certain? I thought her to be expecting my addresses in Hertfordshire. I felt the worst sort of cad when I left."

"She was not at all," said Anne, "Not that I observe. I see a liking but nothing more. Now her sister, her sister is deeply in love with Richard, I think."

"As he is with her," said Darcy, "He has told me as much several times, but does not think he can offer her anything."

"You both are fools. He needs to put away his pride and accept your offer of one of your estates. Between the two of them, they would have an income of about nine hundred pounds. If he wishes to marry her, I daresay she would have him."

"She is accustomed to much more," said Darcy.

"She is, perhaps, but if she is living at your estate, nine hundred pounds will go plenty far enough. Employ him as your steward, even, to give him another four or five hundred."

Darcy considered all that his cousin had said, and found her, as usual to be in the right. He would speak to his cousin that evening and offer him any of his estates except Pemberley. Truly, though, if he wished to reside at Pemberley, Darcy would not have too great an objection, for his Elizabeth might wish to have her most beloved sister at hand.

Both Darcy and Anne spoke to Richard that day. Though the gentleman balked at the offers of assistance, he could not refuse out of hand. First, however, he took the matter to his parents. Lady Matlock, delighted by the idea that her son would no longer go away to war, convinced her husband to settle ten thousand pounds upon Richard, if he should marry and give up his commission. This income, in addition to the dowry and the amount that Richard had already, would give him an income of one thousand four hundred a year. While it was nothing to the four or five thousand that Mary's family was said to have, it was a respectable income.

With that consideration, Richard took Darcy up on the offer of the lease of the Devonshire estate, should the lady accept him. He insisted on paying what would be considered a reasonable amount for the lease, but Darcy protested. He tried to offer the lease as a wedding present, which Richard could not accept. After some great consideration and negotiation, an amount half that which might normally be considered fair was decided upon.

With that settled, Richard went to find his lady love that very evening in the library, where she was often to be found. He spoke eloquently of the violence of his affection, what he might offer her and how -although less perhaps than what she was accustomed to- he would do everything in his power to see to her comfort and well-being. He was accepted before he had even finished speaking, as Mary had hoped and wished for his addresses and therefore had no hesitation. They remained for some time, speaking of all manner of things and often using no words at all to convey their delight in each other.

When finally both decided that they must retire, both so they might tell their relations of the happy news and so they would not be exhausted at the wedding the next day, they parted reluctantly. Mary went immediately to her sister.

Mary could have no reserves from Elizabeth, where confidence would give pleasure; and instantly embracing her, acknowledged, with the liveliest emotion, that she was the happiest creature in the world.

" 'Tis too much!" she added, "by far too much. I do not deserve it. Oh! why is not everybody as happy?"

Elizabeth's congratulations were given with a sincerity, a warmth, a delight, which words could but poorly express. Every sentence of kindness was a fresh source of happiness to Mary. Richard, as Mary called him without the title of 'cousin', was to ride to Longbourn overmorrow. He would ask for her hand from Mr. Bennet as soon as might be. Mary was to compose a letter to send with him, that her father might know that the engagement was her dearest wish. Both sisters were confident in the success of the errand, for even if Mr. Bennet had thought to refuse, Mrs. Bennet would never allow it.

On the day of the wedding, the Huntsford church was filled with nearly one hundred people. Mr. Collins had consented to give the sermon, being nothing if not sensible of who would be the one responsible for his continued wellbeing. The new Mr. and Mrs. Bateman might have wished for someone else to deliver the sermon, as many others would very likely have spoken better and at less length, but they were nonetheless pleased to be wed.

Mrs. Bateman wore a lovely peach gown that brought out what colour there was in her cheeks. Mr. Bateman's waistcoat had been made to match. Hennie stood up for Anne and Mr. Bateman's brother for him. All was as it should be, except for the absence of Lady Catherine. Lady Catherine, having violently opposed the match, was now confined to a cottage under guard until the wedding was complete. Lord Matlock, under no delusion's any longer as to his sister's mental condition, have conferred with the rest of the family and it had been decided that a nurse must be employed to watch out for Lady Catherine, for she was not well.

The bride did not dance much at the wedding breakfast, only the first with her husband, because she was very tired from the festivities. She did enjoy herself, though, watching her friends and relations dance, talking with her guests, and listening to the music. Most of all, she enjoyed watching Richard and Cousin Mary, for they were so very happy together. If Anne was not very mistaken, the pair disappeared together once or twice with no one but the observant bride none the wiser. She said nothing, for she would not begrudge the betrothed couple a few stolen kisses.

Darcy and Elizabeth danced the first togehter. Elizabeth was flattered by this attention, but again wondered if Darcy had always acted in this manner towards her and that she had been blind all this time. She recalled Charlotte saying something once about Darcy's eyes following her, which she now had to admit was true. It seemed whenever she turned in his direction, he was looking at her. It was sometimes disconcerting, the intensity of his gaze upon her.

"Have I offended?" asked Darcy when the dance brought them back together.

"What? No, not at all. Why do you ask?" said Elizabeth, slightly flustered.

"You were frowning. It is typically a poor sign when a lady frowns while dancing. Her partner is typically the cause," said Darcy.

"I am sorry. I was wool-gathering. I simply have not heard yet from James and Charlotte nor my parents. James and Charlotte should be returned to Longbourn by now and I have heard already from Kitty. I just hope everything is ok," said Elizabeth. It was not truly a lie, for such a thought had crossed her mind earlier in the day.

"You must make allowances for your brother and new sister. I believe love distracts one from the little civilities. Do not worry. I am sure you shall hear news of them soon," said Darcy. He knew what he said to be true, for if he was newly married to his chosen lady, there would be very little time spent on unnecessary correspondence. Should he be so lucky, he may have to enlist an assistant to respond to letters, else his acquaintance might think he died.

"You are no doubt right, sir," said Elizabeth.

"I have been relegated again to 'sir'? I thought I was now 'cousin'," said Darcy with mock offense.

"Cousin Will," said Elizabeth with emphasis, "I thank you for your reassurance. I will assume that my brother is simply caught up in being in love."

"We are to be cousins twice over now," said Darcy, nodding towards where Mary and Richard sat together and spoke quietly.

"Indeed. I am quite happy for her. He had told her in the fall that he was not able to marry, but he seems to have overcome the obstacle."

"I believe that he underestimated the support of his mother. She will do much to ensure her son will no longer risk his life fighting the tiny tyrant. She is to settle a large sum on the couple when they wed, so long as Richard resigns his commission."

"I am glad my sister's future mother approves."

"My aunt approves of your family very much. How could she not, when her son, Georgiana, and I have often been telling stories that show your family to such credit. My uncle, this morning, was shocked when Georgiana said she would play some at the wedding. She never plays for company. When I told him of all the times you and your sister played with her, he could not help but to admit it must have been you and she that raised Georgie's confidence."

"I am so glad. I am quite surprised that Georgiana wishes to play. Do you know when she shall?"

"I believe she told my aunt she would play the fifth and perhaps more after. Will you dance the fifth with me?"

"I will, for it would not do for Georgiana to play with only a few dancing."

Darcy and Elizabeth spoke of their families, the guests at the wedding, the breakfast, and how Elizabeth found Kent for the rest of the dance. Then Elizabeth was handed off to Cousin Andy, Cousin Ben, and an army officer who was a friend of Cousin Richard named Mr. Bickering. All were pleasant gentlemen and good dancers.

It was a surprise to all when Georgiana sat down at the pianoforte and began to play a waltz. Anne grinned, having planned this with her young cousin. She knew some thought the new dance scandalous, but she thought it romantic and rather more likely to encourage conversation than other dances that took couples apart so often. She was thrilled when she looked over to where the dancers were finding their places and saw Darcy and Elizabeth together.

"We do not have to dance the waltz if it makes you uncomfortable," said Darcy.

"I must admit that I have never danced it with a gentleman besides my brother. I do know it though. He taught me, albeit rather reluctantly."

"Do you wish to sit out and wait for the next?" Darcy asked, not knowing what meaning to take from her answer.

"No," said she, placing her hand in his and her other on his shoulder.

Darcy inhaled sharply at the closeness of her, and it took all of his focus to lead her through the steps. He did not realise that Elizabeth was similarly affected, so caught up was he in her scent and nearness. They were silent for nearly half the dance, until Elizabeth complimented him on his dancing. Grateful for the neutral topic, he returned the compliment.

"And where did you learn to waltz, cousin?" asked Elizabeth.

"I learned from a dancing master. I have no stories of learning on the continent as some might."

"I have no doubt that is how most learn, even if they say they learned on the continent."

"I think you may be right. Although Richard truly did learn on the continent."

"While fighting in a war?" said Elizabeth in surprise.

"Much of war is quite boring, he tells me. There is a great deal of waiting. Some of the officers' wives decided they wished to dance one evening and all the off-duty officers were given the duty of partnering them."

"I never would have thought that our soldiers were often occupied with dancing."

"If there are no French soldiers about, such as when the weather is bad or they have recently won a battle, there is little else to do but play cards, tell stories, and dance."

"I have often wondered about the women who follow their husbands into war. I do not know that I would be so bold."

"Some men are as much married to the army as they are to their wives. If their wives wish to see them more than for a few weeks a year, they must. A good number stay home, but then they are typically the ones with children already."

"I am glad Cousin Richard is giving up his commission. I fear Mary would not do well as an officer's wife."

"I think your sister is rather a surprising lady. I would not doubt she would do well enough if it were required of her. I do agree, though, that I shall be glad for none of my relations to be across the channel. I much prefer to have all those I care for safe in England."

Elizabeth moved her hand slightly, and it brought Darcy's attention once more to their position. He smiled at her, relishing this unforeseen opportunity to hold her like this.

"Cousin Lizzy, Richard is to ride to Longbourn on the morrow to ask for your sister's hand. Did you know this?"

"I did. He says he shall return promptly to London thereafter."

"I hoped, that is, I wondered, if I might accompany him on his journey. I would very much like to court you, if you would agree," said Darcy with no little anxiety.

"I do agree, Darcy," said Elizabeth with high colour.

Darcy beamed at her response, no doubt drawing the attention of many who had wished him as a match for themselves or their relations. Elizabeth gave a soft smile and Darcy thanked her for her acceptance.

"Then you need not write to or worry for your brother after all," observed Darcy, "For we shall bring news of them soon. Hopefully along with your father's acceptance of both Richard's and my requests."

"I shall add a note to my sister's letter. My father may be unhappy to lose both his daughters, but he will not deny me that which will bring me happiness. Perhaps you might also tell him of your library at Pemberley and the library at Matlock. If he has doubts, he may give his blessing if only to have access to such large libraries."

"I will and I will tell Richard to do so as well," said Darcy with a smile, "I am glad to hear you refer to our courtship as something that brings you happiness."

"I would not have accepted if I did not think it would," said Elizabeth. Darcy was made very glad by her words and told her so. The rest of the dance was spent talking of plans for outings once Darcy and Richard returned to London. Darcy was soon reminded to tell Elizabeth that Matlock was but twenty miles from Pemberley, a fact that made her very happy, for Mary and Richard would undoubtedly visit Lord and Lady Matlock often. The dance ended soon after, and they danced no more together that day.

As many of the guests were staying the night at Rosings, there was very little difference between the wedding breakfast, the afternoon's activities, dinner, and supper. All melded into one continuous flow of merriment. Mrs. Bateman once or twice needed to retire to rest, but all understood this necessity. Even with these short rests, Darcy was greatly impressed by how healthy his cousin was, for never in the past would she have been able to partake in even a fraction of the enjoyment she had that day.

Despite the long day and all of the dancing, Elizabeth found she could not sleep for the excitement she felt. Having only taken off her dress and stays to sleep in her shift, she decided to slip on a dress so she might fetch something to read. She had thankfully remembered to bring at least one dress and stays that she could lace herself, for she was not going to risk compromise by going out of her room not fully dressed.

When she reached the library, she was surprised to find a fire burning and three gentlemen sitting and reading. Rather, she supposed there were two, for Lord Matlock seemed to have fallen asleep and it was only Cousin Andy and Darcy who were awake and reading. Both greeted her silently with bows. Darcy stood and walked to her, asking if she needed assistance with anything.

"I only could not sleep. I thought to fetch something to read."

"You are fully dressed."

"I am. I would not risk my reputation by coming down to the library in a house full of guests wearing only my nightdress."

"I had not thought. Of course you would not," said Darcy.

It was then that Elizabeth realised that Darcy was the one not fully dressed. He was not indecent by any means, but he was in only his shirt sleeves, trousers, and low shoes. His waistcoat, jacket, and cravat were slung over a nearby chair beside the similar attire of his cousin and uncle. She noted with interest that neither of the other men's lack of formal attire affected her in the least, but she could not help but to stare at Darcy's neck and the bit of chest that showed. The shirt was loose and thin, which was likely how men were able to wear them along with other layers without dying of heat in the summer. Yet, when one saw a man in just the shirt, it was quite immodest. She could see the outline of his torso and could not tear her eyes away. She had never seen so much of a man before, unless one counted her brother and father who she definitely did not count.

"Cousin Lizzy?" Darcy asked, smiling rakishly at her. She looked up to his face and coloured, knowing he had guessed the direction of her thoughts. Vaguely, she recalled the question that he had asked.

"Wordsworth, I think," she said.

Darcy handed her two volumes, Lyrical Ballads and the first volume of Poems. She thanked him, curtseyed to him and Andy and then fled the room back to her own chambers, knowing she would need the books for she would get very little sleep that night.

11th January,

Dearest Papa,

You may be surprised to find Colonel Fitzwilliam requesting an audience with you. I beg you to hear him and give your blessing. He has asked me for my hand, and I have accepted. We have seen each other again here in Kent. Both of us had become fond of the other while he was in Hertfordshire, but, uncertain of the other's feelings, said nothing. It is only with his cousins, the new Mrs. Bateman and Mr. Darcy, assuring him that they saw signs of mutual attachment that we both felt comfortable enough to speak. Therefore, do not think this affection the work of a moment. I love him, Papa. I will be quite miserable if you deny your permission. I daresay I would run away with him to Gretna Green if you did so, or worse, I would tell Mama that you denied the son of an earl and you would never again have peace.

Lord and Lady Matlock have already given their blessing and are to bestow a sum of ten thousand upon him so we might live a comfortable life. When we spoke of the particulars, he said he plans to lease an estate from Mr. Darcy and sell his commission. We will not be rich, Papa, but you will not need to worry for me. I shall be quite happy.

I beg you not to toy with him. He does not know your manner of teasing and might despair.

Love,

Mary

11th January

Dear Papa,

I know you shall not like this, most especially because this note comes at the bottom of a letter from Mary asking for you to entrust her to Colonel Fitzwilliam. He is a good man and I can tell they both are very attached. You would be quite cruel if you were to deny the request. I know you are not, so I know I shall hear upon the gentlemen's return of your blessing on their match.

I have not written only to say that, though, for I have a request of my own. Rather, I should say that Mr. Darcy has a request. Do not worry quite yet, for I am not betrothed. I have accepted a courtship with Mr. Darcy, and he has come to ask your permission. I do like him very well and think he is exactly the man who, in disposition and talents, will most suit me. His understanding and temper, though unlike my own, answers all that I might wish in a partner. I wish to come to know him better, to see if a union between us might be to the advantage of both. Aunt and Uncle Gardiner do approve, for they think very well of Mr. Darcy. Aunt said only this morning," His understanding and opinions all please me; he wants nothing but a little more liveliness, and that, if he should marry prudently, his wife may teach him."

Please, therefore, grant his request.

Love,

Lizzy.