Recap: Miss Bingley gets bold and desperate with Mr. Darcy. Mrs. Bennet, Jane and Lizzy ready themselves for the trip to London. The Bennet girls become closer than ever.

Ch. 10

Mr. Darcy had a pleasant day. The sun caused him to stir at first light (he was rather surprised at the position he found himself in with the book at his side). Though he missed Elizabeth's companionship, he occupied the day by assisting Charles with estate business before Mr. Bennet came to Netherfield to enjoy the society of gentlemen and discuss the business of marriage.

Mr. Bennet had arrived unexpectedly and was waiting in the library for Bingley and Darcy when they returned from touring the property and visiting tenants. Mr. Bennet appeared comfortable in a large wingback chair by the fire with a book in hand and refreshment ready on the side table. At their entrance, he closed his book and stood as the younger men bowed.

"Mr. Bennet, what a pleasant surprise. I do hope you were not waiting long." Mr. Bingley greeted him in his usual agreeable manner.

"Not at all. I trust you don't mind that I waited in here for you. I did not think Miss Bingley desired my company." When Bingley assured him that he was welcome to visit and insisted he resume his seat, he continued. "I wish to discuss a date with the both of you, if you still intend on marrying the same day. In one ceremony, I presume?" At the eager nods from the two men sitting across from him, he smiled. "Well then, while you are away I will visit the church to ensure the banns are read here and reserve a date. Do you have any preference?"

Mr. Bingley appeared to contemplate the question before shaking his head in the negative. Upon seeing the movement, Mr. Darcy chose to reply, "Mrs. Bennet's suggestion of a six week timeframe seems expedient. The Saturday before Sabbath is November 21st, I believe. Or the week before—the 14th—might see some milder weather. Will that allow enough time for preparations if we are in London through the end of the month?"

"I believe so. I will inquire about both dates and make a decision. While you are in London, I understand that you will finalize the settlements for my girls. Will you also inform the paper? Good." Mr. Bennet eased back in his chair and drank from his glass.

Mr. Bingley rang for tea to be served. The three gentlemen continued talking for the better part of an hour about sports and politics, besides their plans for London, while enjoying some morsels with their refreshment. The time passed pleasantly. It was obvious to the younger gentlemen that Mr. Bennet came with the excuse of confirming wedding preparations, but stayed for intellectual conversation and the quiet of the Netherfield library.

The opportunity to discuss Miss Bingley's behavior with Charles did not arise until after a late dinner with a demure Caroline. She conversed in a low voice, flirted with her eyes, and sent provocative smiles in Darcy's direction. For Mr. Darcy the meal could not end soon enough.

"Bingley, there is a matter I need to speak to you of." Fitzwilliam said the moment the study door closed. He paused until he sensed that he had the undivided attention of his friend. He did not realize that he had earned Bingley's attention by virtue of his serious tone alone. "I fear that your sister is a problem."

Bingley chuckled, "She has always been a bit of a problem, Darce. What has she done now?"

Darcy answered very carefully, "She is a very willful woman. She found me in the library last night—"

Charles interrupted with worry and anxiety in his voice, "Did she force herself upon you? Please say quickly." He was sitting on the edge of his seat with his elbows resting on his knees, his eyes were round as he waited for an answer.

"Put your mind at ease. Nothing happened, exactly. When I chose a book, I turned to find her in her night attire. I imagine her intent was to seduce me, if her manner was any indication. I only bring up the subject to caution you about allowing her to join us in London. I am not certain what you ought to do with her, but I am worried that some disaster will ensue if you do not check her."

Charles rested his head on his hands and shook his head. "I will think on it. I had such hopes… Did you not notice her subdued behavior the last few days? Even with her flirting? I suppose…" his voice trailed off, disturbed by his thoughts. What would be the right solution? He could arrange a marriage, but he maintained that he did not want to take away her choice and, though she possessed a generous dowry, she was not gently born. What manner of man would be induced to marry her? Could he bring himself to exile her with Scottish relatives or send her to a convent? Yes, he would have to contemplate the problem of Caroline. "I will speak to her when we arrive in town."

On the day of their departure, Darcy awoke at his usual early hour. He was anxious to see Elizabeth. His feelings were mixed about London society and bringing Elizabeth into it, however he did not doubt Elizabeth's ability to hold her own. His unease sprouted from many years of exposure to the temperament, judgment and hauteur of the British aristocracy. By bestowing her with his attention, she would be scrutinized by the Ton. Within a day of the announcement in the papers, she would gain the interest and censure of every person who knew of him, wanted to be Mrs. Darcy, or knew someone who wanted to be Mrs. Darcy. It was very likely that gossip had already reached the streets of London, as Elizabeth predicted.

Darcy gave directions for his trunk to be packed and met Charles in the breakfast room just before Caroline joined them with a large smile and false enthusiasm.

"Good morning, Mr. Darcy. Charles. I am looking forward to being in town again. I am sure there will be some parties to attend. Mr. Darcy, perhaps you can encourage Lady Matlock to host a ball? I have heard that your Aunt has hosted incredible parties."

Mr. Darcy replied in his usual non-committal way, "Indeed." He then directed a look toward Bingley before sipping from his coffee and buttering a biscuit.

Charles took the hint and set down his biscuit before addressing his sister. "There might be some parties to attend, however you will have to convince Louisa to escort you, for I shall not. When we reach London, you will be staying with the Hursts. I do hope you behave yourself there."

Caroline was aghast, "You mean that I will not be invited out with you and dear Jane?"

Charles shrugged, "I will discuss it with you later. I do not want to spoil my appetite. Please have your luggage on the coach at the noon hour and inform the servants that we plan to be in town through the end of the month."

"But, Charles…" She attempted two more times to get an answer before stalking out of the room. Darcy was proud of him for not backing down at her persistent pouting. Just as he was about to voice his opinion, both men flinched when the sound of a slammed door reverberated down the hall.

P&P

The elder Miss Bennets at Longbourn were impatiently waiting in the drawing room for the Netherfield party. The younger Miss Bennets were occupied with their own amusements while their mother asked numerous questions about forgotten objects, what time they were to come, and what the younger girls will occupy their time with.

Mr. Bennet had already taken Jane and Elizabeth into his library that morning to wish them well and convey how much he will miss them. Mr. Bennet had never been active in the role as landlord or father, but did enjoy his two firstborn daughters. They had the goodness and minds to appreciate conversation and the intellectual pursuits that he shared. As happy as he was for their advantageous matches and future happiness, the thought of losing their presence in his home deeply saddened him. The girls were likewise very fond of their father and promised to write him of their adventures until their return home.

When the carriage was heard rambling down the drive, Kitty jumped to look out the window to exclaim, "They are here." Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley were astride their horses alongside the fine carriage with the Darcy crest pulled by a team of four matching white animals.

Jane and Lizzy shared a look and backed out of the room. They quietly ran to the door to greet the gentlemen on the front steps with radiant smiles and curtsies.

As Bingley took Jane's hand for a kiss to her knuckles, Mr. Darcy lifted Elizabeth's hand and kissed it while gazing into her eyes. Elizabeth mused that while his countenance was often reserved, his eyes expressed volumes. She blushed prettily and invited them inside while the coach boot was being loaded.

There was no opportunity to cross the threshold since the rest of the Bennet family spilled forth. Mr. Bennet greeted the gentlemen as Mrs. Bennet instructed a servant to see that the ladies luggage was secure on the coach. Darcy's footmen stepped forward around the group to assist.

"Thank you for the invitation, but Miss Bingley is waiting in the coach and we ought to leave soon so we arrive before dark."

Mrs. Bennet tied her bonnet and exclaimed, "Of course! It did get dark rather early yester evening. How nice that Miss Bingley will join us for the drive to town. I have had Hill pack some snacks for the ride, I am sure there is enough to share."

Jane looked to Mr. Bingley, "Are you and Mr. Darcy to ride?"

Bingley nodded, "Yes, indeed. We did not want to compromise your comfort."

Elizabeth laughed. "Or listen to the ladies discuss wedding clothes and shopping for three hours."

Kitty giggled, "Oh what fun you shall have!"

Darcy gave Elizabeth a one-sided grin and said quietly to her, "You are welcome to discuss your wedding clothes with me anytime. Truth be known, I was more concerned with my own comfort," he teased. "When I sit in a coach my legs take up all the foot space and half the adjacent seat, with so many ladies around me I would feel constricted."

She raised a brow and began in a sympathetic tone, "It must be difficult to be Mr. Darcy." Then she teased, "You should take care lest you offend those of us who are vertically inferior to yourself."

Before he could rejoin, Mrs. Bennet declared that it was time to go. Lizzy and Jane embraced their sisters as Mr. Bennet handed his wife into the coach to sit by a sulking Miss Bingley. The ladies were handed in by their gentlemen before they took their leave of the remaining family and mounted their steeds.

Mr. Bennet waved them off with a whispered prayer, "Godspeed."

P&P

Miss Georgiana Darcy was annoyed at the amount of time spent in the carriage. The long ride had never seemed to bother her on previous trips; her excitement and sense of adventure was so great that she could barely keep to her seat. They were nearly to London since the majority of the ride was traversed the previous day. She had requested an early breakfast and continued on their way once the horses were fed and harnessed.

The journey had been uneventful, with the exception of seeing an overturned carriage. When the Darcy carriage stopped to inquire about the occupants, they found it abandoned. The footman tied the two skittish horses to the back of the Darcy carriage—the found coach was rigged for four animals, leaving the party to assume that the occupant had left to seek help—to entrust them to the grooms at the next Inn for care.

The journey had begun the day before in silence as Georgiana contemplated her desire for more independence and her situation as sister to the groom. During her reflection, Georgiana used the time to study the scenery, some new music and stitch a sampler. As the journey progressed however, she became more animated and inquisitive.

Mrs. Annesley was amused with the continuous stream of questions asked from her young charge. Most of the conversation centered on a wedding that was much on Miss Darcy's mind. She smiled over her embroidery. "Miss Darcy, there are many preparations that go into a wedding. However, the burden is dependent on the number of guests and the wishes of the affianced. I am certain Mr. Darcy will answer your questions, however there is no use speculating."

Georgiana, in a rare unladylike display, let out an explosive sigh and rolled her eyes. "It would not do to ask my brother. I do hope Miss Elizabeth will discuss the details with me. I do long to assist in the preparations. I could hardly sleep." She paused to look outside and ignored Emma's raised eyebrow. "I did like Miss Elizabeth when she visited Pemberley, but she was there for such a brief time. Do you believe we could become friends? I do hope so."

"I expect so." Mrs. Annesley said emphatically. "I understand that you are excited, dear, but there is no sense in fretting. Put your mind at ease. You are an incredible young woman and your brother would not deign to request the hand of a lady who was less than worthy of being a good sister to you." Her little speech won a radiant smile from her charge. "Now, why don't you tell me what you intend to tell Mr. Darcy when he learns of this journey. We were meant to remain at Pemberley to await the Colonel, were we not?"

At Emma's inquiry, Georgiana looked away and bit her lip. It was fortuitous that they entered the fashionable avenues of Mayfair at that point. Georgiana recognized the street and chose to comment, "We will soon be there. I think I shall take a small luncheon in my room and then nap for a spell."

Emma nodded her head. It shall be interesting to see how Miss Darcy conducts herself in the coming weeks, she thought before stating, "I daresay I will also enjoy a rest."

When they arrived at the Darcy townhouse, Georgiana requested her luncheon and sent a note to her cousin before mounting the stairs to her rooms.

P&P

The ride in the Darcy coach was pleasant enough if one accounted for the luxurious and spacious interior. However, the conversation was stilted when Miss Bingley voiced her opinion. Mrs. Bennet even quieted her effusive compliments to the coach, its owner and her girls' luck in the uncomfortable atmosphere.

Jane made an effort to include Caroline in conversation; however she was not gratified with enthusiastic responses. Miss Bingley was in an unhappy mood given the time to contemplate her dilemma—no escort for social occasions was a travesty of the worst kind in her mind.

When Jane offered some cheese and crackers to everyone, Miss Bingley took the opportunity to apply to her. "Jane, I am dearly looking forward to enjoying your company in London!"

Jane smiled tolerantly at her future sister-in-law. She had always been a trusting individual, however with Mr. Bingley's return to Hertfordshire and his proposal, she had learned of Miss Bingley's ploy to separate Jane from her brother. With this knowledge she had endeavored to guard herself around Caroline, even while believing in a person's capacity to change and accept her as family. The conflict was a strain on Jane's dear heart.

Jane answered in her soft voice, "Caroline, I trust this trip will allow us time to understand each other better. I do hope the season does not bring about too much rain so that we may enjoy being out of doors."

Caroline was not to be dissuaded from her purpose. "Indeed. Perhaps we might enjoy some social occasions together. A dance party would be lovely! You simply must speak to Charles and insist that we attend a ball or two. Perhaps some dinner parties as well. Miss Eliza—"

Elizabeth had been listening to the exchange while examining the scenery (and a fine male figure upon a horse). At Miss Bingley's inquiry, Elizabeth looked to over to her.

"—you must talk to Mr. Darcy about Lady Matlock hosting a ball! Her parties are unparalleled and I do hope to be invited."

Elizabeth simply nodded her head and smiled before again directing her attention out the window. She, of course, would not be so presumptuous to ask her intended to request a ball, which he detests, of an aunt whom she had not even made the acquaintance of. The audacity! She did make a mental note to ask Fitzwilliam why Miss Bingley required her and Jane to talk to their fiancés about balls and parties. It seemed as though she was missing something.

Mrs. Bennet did not allow Miss Bingley an opportunity to continue. She began gushing on about the entertainments to be had in town and then about fortunate matches.

The coach was silent again when Caroline forced a smile and claimed to be fatigued. When she laid her head to the side of the coach and closed her eyes, Jane and Elizabeth exchanged a smile and turned to again look out the respective windows. Mrs. Bennet sighed and directed her attention the sewing on her lap. The remainder of the ride passed in relative silence.

When the coach came to a stop outside the Hurst's townhouse, Mr. Bingley dismounted and escorted Caroline inside. Her trunk was carried in by a footman as Mr. Darcy guided his horse to the carriage window. "My home is not far from her in Mayfair. We will go directly to Gracechurch Street, so you ladies can settle for the evening."

Mrs. Bennet beamed, "You are too good, Mr. Darcy. It will be nice to change and enjoy dinner with the Gardiners."

He gave a nod and looked at Elizabeth just as Mr. Bingley exited the house. "Let us go to the Gardiners. I am ready." Mr. Bingley jumped to his saddle and Mr. Darcy signaled the driver.

When they arrived at the Gardiners, the gentlemen assisted the ladies down and into the house as the footmen rummaged through the baggage in the coach boot to procure the ladies belongings. The coach was emptied expeditiously and driven to the carriage house behind the Darcy townhouse in Mayfair.

From a bench across the street, a boy watched the commotion before jumping to his feet and running off to his employer with the information.

AN: Thank you so much for your support. I hope you enjoyed!
Next up we will have some fun with Miss Darcy. Where should they go first?