Chapter 17; the Grand Tour III
Early September 1811
The weeks of the Fitzwilliam family's stay in Rome went quickly with a few balls, drives through the city, walks, days at the market, attending the opera, theatre.
Cmd. Wentworth had spent much time with the Fitzwilliam's until the end of his shore leave and he had to return to his ship. He and Elizabeth agreed to write to each other through her parents to keep to propriety. The Fitzwilliam girls and Jane had much enjoyed the stories that Cmd. Wentworth had told of his adventures in the navy – Jane had been sceptic at best as she was very protective of Elizabeth after Paris, and to add to that Elizabeth was betrothed! The Countess had found the young commander to be a kind young man and quite proper too, as he was polite and courteous to her and her family. Even her husband had met him once and could find nothing wanting in the young man. They had all thought highly of him, and something which pleased them both, was that he helped Elizabeth open up more.
Soon after, the Fitzwilliam family began packing for leaving Rome, and slowly made their way to Russia through Europe.
In Derbyshire, Matlock
William and Richard were sitting in the Matlock Lake House in Derbyshire with Max and Marina, and joined by Georgiana who had shared the latest letters from their cousin/sister. "Elizabeth sounds happy and Mary-Rose sounds like she is enjoying her time with MissJane, Elizabeth and our parents. Elizabeth mentions a Cmd. Wentworth; do any of you know of him?" William looked at his cousins and sister.
"Max? Rich, talk to me: who is this Cmd. Wentworth?!"
Rich said, "I have never heard of him, but I will by this time tomorrow, Darce."
"That would be good, Rich. I do not want Elizabeth in another situation with another man!"
Marina said from a chair by the fire: "Will, Rich, darling, do not overreact, there could be a very simple explanation to this Cmd. Wentworth. But do inquireon him, what kind of man he is, just in case. Elizabeth has been through enough already!"
Europe
The Fitzwilliam family were on routeto St. Petersburg in Russia. The trip through Europe was filled with amazing landscapes: magnificent mountains, fields, cities and so many views that it made Elizabeth take up drawing - or well, trying to draw - the views that she saw even if they were not very good in her opinion.
"Elizabeth, what do you think of our trip?" her mother asked.
"Mama, these are some of the most amazing views we have seen on this tour!" Elizabeth responded to her mother. "France was beautiful; Italy was amazing and so fascinating. I wonder what Russia will give us as to views and sights."
England, Derbyshire
Richard rushed into Darcy's study at Pemberley, and said: "Darce, I have news!"
Darce sat up and said impatiently: "Out with it, Rich! Any news is better than no news!"
Richard poured a drink, sat down and began: "Commander Frederick Wentworth is a man of four and twentyyears, already has a small fortune to his name, but he is to continue in the navy. He has an excellent service record until now, and he is a shoe-in for being made Captain within three or so years. He is the third son of a gentleman of small means from Somerset."
Darcy slammed his fist down unto the table, and said: "He has been in company with Beth!" Darcy exclaimed in an annoyed tone of voice.
"Darce, why are you this nervous for my sister? She is capable of taking care of herself; she proved that in Paris."
Darcy had to fight his temper and said: "Rich, Elizabeth is vulnerable still! I do not want her hurt again ever!"
"Darce, are you admitting your affections for my youngest sister?" Richard asked teasingly; he simply could not help but tease his cousin, as it was so obvious that the poor man was hopelessly in love with his sister.
"Rich, I... well, argh, yes, you know I love your youngest sister... and always have!" Darcy started out fiercely but ended in a calm and caring tone.
"When will you ask my sister, Darce?"
William looked at his cousin, and said: "If it was up to me... the minute she arrives home. But I know her; she deserves so much – a tender and perfect proposal of her dreams. Besides she is not turning eighteen for another nineteen months."
Richard smiled and said: "Good. You know, you have my support, Darce. And the family's too."
"Thank you, Rich. Though I doubt I will like any man who as much as looks at Beth. She means the world to me."
Rich snorted and said: "You and Elizabeth are soul mates – we all know it. All have known it for months, except you and Elizabeth. I do not think you have to be nervous about Cmd. Wentworth; as far as I can see, love practically leaps off the pages of her letters to you!" William coloured but smiled at his cousin and best friend.
"To change the subject how fares Bingley?" Rich asked.
"He is still thinking of his angel... Jane Bennet. He even forced me to send his regards to her in my letter to Elizabeth. Otherwise he is getting better; he is still too eager to please and a bit too naive but better all in all."
Rich smiled and said: "That's good. So, all in all still a puppy but growing slowly. He could have chosen worse, I guess."
William could not help but chuckle, before he responded, "Yes, a puppy still, or that is what your father calls him. Bingley could have chosen much worse than Miss Jane."
Europe
Jane and Elizabeth were whispering together, "Did I mention that William wrote a greeting from Charles to you?"
"Elizabeth! You should call him, Mr. Bingley!" Jane lightly scolded, but she blushed so she did not look annoyed but rather pleased.
Elizabeth said: "You of all people should call him Charles; he has practically been courting you the whole spring and summer." Jane smiled.
Mary-Rose smiled as she said: "Jane, you should listen to my sister. Charles Bingley is William's best friend besides our brothers, and he is one of the kindest men of means, who is not of our circle. That is a good mix for a husband. Besides, it would be a good marriage for him as well; he would be marrying up; he is the son of a tradesman and you are a gentleman's daughter."
Later that day, the Fitzwilliam party arrived in St. Petersburg after several days of travel from their last stop. As they drove through the city, Elizabeth was thrilled and nearly shrieked in delight, "This is amazing! So amazing!"
Their residence was even more fantastic, it looked like a palace, Jane and she both exclaimed,
"Amazing!"
The Earl smiled and said,
"It used to be a palace of some renown before a distant relative of ours bought it. Well we better get inside so you girls can see the house and find your rooms."
Inside was beautifully decorated, with glass chandeliers and a flora of paintings – one room became another until the family had seen their residence. Mary-Rose walked together with her parents, since Jane and Elizabeth partnered as they explored the manor. It was not decorated as badly as Rosings, but it was very rich in marble, precious metals and mosaic, and they found rooms next to each other in the family wing of the house. That evening after dinner, which had also been very rich, more than they normally were used to, Elizabeth sat down to write William and a few other letters.
Petersburg House
St. Petersburg
Russia
September, 1811
Dearest William,
We have at long last arrived in St. Petersburg, after our lovely visit to Italy. Just from when we drove through the city, it looks amazing – so rich in culture and history. The colours are slowly turning to the magnificent red, gold, and orange which symbolise autumn is coming, and so is this trip.
We are all in good health. Mary-Rose enjoys the trip and Mama and Papa spend all their time with us – Jane is by the way flattered at Mr. Bingley's continued attentions to her even through letters. I have already learned so much, but I will admit to missing Madeline and Uncle Edward, and their way of teaching; religion, culture, history, geography, languages and different social norms. You would not believe half of what I have seen. Mama has promised that we will attend the ballet and theatre a lot while we are in Russia; I cannot wait – but on the other side, I am about ready to go home. I miss the parts of family who are not with me here, mostly you – just you, to be honest.
Papa has promised us to see the Winter Palace, too – I am glad that we are not here during winter time as my guess is that it will be bitterly cold! How is Pemberley? Have you been to Matlock on your way home? How is Georgie? And, my brothers, sister and sister-in-law? Any news?
I got your latest letter; it was not your fault! I should not have acted so openly to the French part of the family! You shallNot blame yourself, Will! I forbid it, or else I will make sure Rich teasesyou thoroughly! I hope I make myself clear? I will close this letter now, and start on my letter to Georgie and Richard.
I am and will remain yours
Beth
Elizabeth sealed the letter with her own seal her father had gotten her; it was the letters EF entwined together. Then she took out a new sheet of paper to begin her next letter.
St. Petersburg
Russia,
September, 1811
Dearest Georgie,
As you can see, I am in Russia, St. Petersburg to be precise. It is the latest stop on this adventurous journey, before we sail home via Denmark. I am glad you enjoyed school; I know William is very proud of you! How have you been? How did you find school? Did you make friends? I am missing you all so much! We must convince your stubborn brother to take you to Italy when you come out! It is so beautiful and interesting, and I think you will like it.
How are Max and Marina? Have they made any announcements yet? And what of Rachel and Jonathan? I do wonder if Marina will end up announcing soon. Actually, I have a favour to ask you, as your stubborn wonderful brother thinks that an incident in France is his fault; I want you to team up with my brothers and prank William – would you do this for me? I will give Richard instructions, and do not worry; it is completely harmless, if only a bit humorous.
To other matters; St. Petersburg is a culture and history rich city, but as I look outside it is clear that autumn is well on its way. I cannot wait to share my whole journey with you all when we return. I will write more soon. Send my love to my brothers, sister, Marina and the Gardiners.
All my love
Lizzie
Russia
The first morning saw the Fitzwilliam's and Jane at breakfast.
"Do you girls want to see an opera in the city? Any wishes?" the patriarch of the family asked.
"Father, do you think it possible to see the winter palace?" Elizabeth asked.
"I will certainly look into it, Elizabeth." He replied with a fond smile to his youngest daughter. Then he looked to his wife, to see the same fond smile on her lips; they cared deeply for their daughter.
The Fitzwilliam family did attend the theatre that evening, all dressed in some of their best clothes. In the intermission, a couple came into their box, and the man said in perfect British: "Patrick Fitzwilliam, is that you?"
Matlock asked surprised, "John Welsh Rosenberg... what are you doing in Russia?"
"I am an attaché at the Russian Court, Patrick. I take it this is your family? It has been years! I see two new children... my, my in our age, mate?"
Elizabeth, Mary-Rose, and Jane blushed lightly at the words. The woman standing next to himhit her husband lightly on his arm with her fan as she said: "Behave, John!"
Earl Matlock said: "It is indeed my family – my sons are at home along with our daughter-in-law and eldest daughter. I am sure you remember my wife, Constance, and my next eldest daughter Mary-Rose. This is my youngest, Elizabeth, and her companion, Miss Jane Bennet."
"This is my wife, Eleanore." Mr. Rosenberg presented. They all greeted each other, and by the end of the intermission they had an invitation to see the winter palace, much to Elizabeth's happiness.