Ch. 13

Helen Fitzwilliam was humbled by Jane's kind nature. Her confrontation with Miss Bennet had certainly surprised both ladies when it was known that Lady Matlock had sought out the wrong sister. No one had informed her of Miss Elizabeth's given name, after all.

As they ascended the stairs, she could not help her curiosity and looked around. The house was handsome and clean, while not extravagant, it was nicely furnished and comfortable. The Lady had not known what to expect when calling to the neighborhood. It was located not far from the Thames and close to Cheapside, where she never ventured.

If Miss Bennet's manners were an indication of the family's deportments, then she would be satisfied.

Jane opened the door to hear infectious laughter, "Lizzy," she said smiling, "it seems that you have a visitor."

Elizabeth held the unhooked dress to her bosom and looked over her shoulder, "Indeed?" She lifted a brow to stress her discomfort. Why would Jane bring a visitor while she was being ushered in and out of attire?

The Countess scanned her surroundings and smiled at Elizabeth. The seamstresses continued with their work while listening intently. Only the Madame nodded to the Countess in acknowledgement before continuing to fasten the new morning dress on Elizabeth's frame.

Just as Jane was about to introduce the Lady, Georgiana abruptly stood, "Aunt!" she said in astonishment, "I did not know you were to call."

Lady Matlock took a few steps around the room closer to her niece before she replied, "Georgiana, my dear. I am glad to see you. I assume your brother will be by later?" At Georgiana's nod, she smiled, "Well I will surely take my leave before then. Will you not introduce me to William's fiancé?"

Georgiana recovered from her surprise and exclaimed, "Of course! Forgive me. You have already met Miss Jane Bennet. I am delighted to introduce her sister, Miss Elizabeth—who will shortly be my sister, as well." Her eyes twinkled when she turned to Elizabeth, "Lizzy, allow me to introduce my aunt, Lady Helen Fitzwilliam."

Elizabeth blinked. Her eyes twinkled and she nodded. So this is Darcy's Aunt. "Milady, I am afraid that I am unable to courtesy without being struck with pins." Her smile softened her words and showed a dimple. "I am very happy to make your acquaintance."

Jane had returned to finish her fitting with Madame Francine. She was quietly talking to the couturier giving the other ladies relative privacy for their conversation.

"I see." Lady Matlock said, "I am afraid that I had very ill timing. I only found out about your engagement yesterday—no thanks to William—and I simply had to meet you." She took the next couple steps and gestured to Georgiana to sit next to her on the settee. "The Darcy's are my favorite people and sadly Georgiana is the only girl I have to enjoy." She smiled fondly at her niece and patted her hand. She then returned her gaze to the woman in front of her.

"So now that you, Elizabeth—may I call you, Elizabeth?—are marrying into the family and you are in London, I am determined to get to know you and help any way I can to introduce you to society. What are your current plans, besides a new wardrobe?"

Elizabeth maintained a thoughtful tilt to her head while listening and smiled her assent. She had been curious about Mr. Darcy's other Aunt. This Lady was a contradiction, as far as Elizabeth could tell. She had come her uninvited and unannounced, however she seemed to be eager to be pleased and granted Elizabeth's friendship. Or was it more accurate to assume that she would prefer to stand united with the Darcy's than appear to withdraw? Elizabeth felt relief to be given a chance to prove to Darcy's relations that she was worthy of Mr. Darcy's affections.

Jane looked up from examining the new frock she had donned. "I do not believe we have plans beyond shopping for our wedding clothes. Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy had mentioned some social gatherings and the theater, but we have not finalized anything. Lizzy, we really should discuss a schedule with Mama and our Aunt."

Georgiana clapped her hands together, "Oh, yes! I would love to go shopping with you. Have you ever been to the Palace Zoo? There are some exotic animals that are something to see. Vauxhall Gardens, too. William has taken me a few times and it was such fun."

Elizabeth was unable to answer right away since she was directed out of her gown and into another. The housekeeper opened the door carrying a luncheon tray laden with meat pies, fruit, bread, and tea. The luncheon plates for Elizabeth and Jane were set on a nearby table; they occasionally grabbed morsels to munch on while the dressmakers worked. Lady Matlock enjoyed a cup of tea and Georgiana sampled a little of everything. The working ladies were also offered some sustenance by Jane and Elizabeth, but declined to have more than bread and tea as they worked as efficiently as possible.

Elizabeth was soon ushered into another gown. This one was an evening dress of emerald green that matched her eyes; it was simple with beading on the bodice and a long, fitted waist to accentuate her curves above the yards of fabric skirts.

Lady Matlock set her cup on its saucer and commented on it the moment it was fastened. "That one is lovely… I insist you wear this creation to my dinner party."

Elizabeth stood still while the dressmaker went about her business. "Thank you. I like this one too. Green is my favorite color. When is your dinner party, Your Ladyship?"

"None of that. Formally, I am Lady Matlock. However, you can call me Helen or Aunt Helen as Georgiana does." She waved away the formal address and continued to answer Elizabeth's question. "In a few days, I suppose. I am thinking of whom to invite. I thought of it only when I learned of William's engagement. Your family and Miss Bennet's betrothed shall come, of course. I will send an invitation as soon as I hash out the details. What would you like to do while you are in town, my dear?"

"I would be happy to simply enjoy pleasant company. I have always enjoyed the theater. I enjoy dancing, although I am sure that Fitzwilliam would rather avoid that activity. I would like to take my cousins to the park and visit a bookstore. I am not particular. There are wedding plans to see to and I would like to spend as much time with my sister as I can, before we are wed."

"I will have to look through my invitations to see which events you cannot miss. Once your engagement is announced, you will be inundated with invitations from the curious mob." Elizabeth did not miss the implication that Darcy's opinion was irrelevant. Lady Mattock's tone changed to one of authority, "Madame Marguerite, are you making any cloaks or shorter mantles for Miss Elizabeth?"

Madame Marguerite was just starting to undo the buttons of the dress. "Indeed, Your Ladyship. I am to make matching wraps to the more elaborate gowns and one for daily versatility. I also plan to make a heavier cloak for the winter in Derbyshire; however that will be completed with the winter attire for after the wedding."

Lady Matlock pursed her lips, "I insist that you make another right away, a lighter cloak, perhaps, to weather the wind and light rains. The green is flattering on Elizabeth… It shall have the emerald lining with a lighter grey exterior and a grey fur trim. Yes, that should do nicely." She smiled in satisfaction imagining the garment on Elizabeth.

Madame Marguerite quietly gave orders to Martha to write down the order as she slipped the dress to the floor.

Elizabeth was not pleased with the high-handedness of her future Aunt and would have said so if Georgiana had not said, "That will look charming and cloaks are very useful in the county." She directed a look on Elizabeth as if to say, do not look so troubled Lizzy, my brother won't mind. "Aunt Helen, will I be permitted to join your dinner party? I should be allowed if it is only family."

Lady Matlock reached over to hug Georgiana affectionately, "Georgiana, you know very well that I believe you should be out in society. The dinner party will mostly be family, but I think I shall also invite a few other couples. It is important that word circulates of our family's contentment with William's choice for the next Mrs. Darcy; regardless of Lady Catherine's inane prattling."

Jane, who was standing patiently through her last dress alteration, asked, "Would Lady Catherine be so cruel?" She frowned, showing the distress she felt for her sister.

Elizabeth laughed, "Dear Jane, I am afraid that not everyone can share our happiness. Lady Catherine made her sentiments quite clear to both of us. But I do hope that she will accept me, in time. I loathe being the reason for a rift between Mr. Darcy and Lady Catherine."

Jane nodded and thought to add Lady Catherine to her prayers.

Lady Matlock shook her head, "That woman brings problems on herself. Does Catherine have so many nephews to renounce William as family? It never seizes to surprise me that she is related to my husband nor Anne, your mother." She said looking at Georgiana, before turning back to Elizabeth. "Take some advice from an old woman; do not burden your mind. She is not worth the trouble."

Georgiana could not contain her giggle.

"Now, back to more pleasant subjects," Lady Matlock started before the door opened to admit Mrs. Gardiner.

Mrs. Gardiner smiled to see Elizabeth gowned in such finery. "How are you doing girls?"

Jane was adjusting her own dress and turned to her Aunt. "Aunt Maddy, I just finished and it looks like Lizzy has a few more." Elizabeth let out a groan. "Please join us. You have already met Miss Darcy. Allow me introduce you to her Aunt, Lady Helen Fitzwilliam. Lady Matlock, this is our Aunt, Mrs. Gardiner."

Mrs. Gardiner stepped forward and curtseyed to the Countess. "It is nice to meet you, Your Ladyship. Welcome to my home. I am sorry that I was not able to meet you sooner."

Lady Matlock, who stood when Mrs. Gardiner entered the room, kindly replied, "You have a lovely home, Mrs. Gardiner. I am glad I was able to make your acquaintance before I had to leave."

"Are you sure you cannot stay a while longer? I can order up an early tea."

"Indeed, I must be on my way. I will be sending an invitation to dine at my house in the next couple days. We shall talk then, I am sure." Lady Matlock stepped forward to take Elizabeth's hands. "It was a pleasure meeting you, my dear. I think William made a fine choice."

Elizabeth was briefly overwhelmed with feeling. "Thank you, Lady Matlock. I am so glad that you came by."

Lady Matlock stepped back. Her lips twitched at the formal address. "Before I do go, I want to ask something of you. You too, Georgiana." At the curious looks from the ladies, she continued. "William has not yet told me about your engagement. Please do not mention that I stopped by. I want him to tell me the happy news."

Elizabeth raised a brow, "Why the secrecy? I am not comfortable with…"

"I promise you, I am not so devious. I just want him to announce it to the family properly. It would be a shame if he did not get that opportunity." Elizabeth was not convinced, but the Lady smiled and cordially took leave of Jane and Georgiana.

Mrs. Gardiner escorted her to the door and thanked her for her attention to Elizabeth. "We look forward to your invitation, Your Ladyship."

P&P

Fitzwilliam Darcy was happy to complete his business earlier than anticipated. He had an appointment scheduled with his solicitor and an announcement written announcing the betrothal. He was even able to address estate matters for his steward at Pemberley.

However, he was unable to discuss Georgiana with Mrs. Annesley. Georgiana's manners had remained in the back of his mind throughout his morning. Although he had no reason to worry for her, he wanted a satisfactory explanation for her actions and behaviors. She seemed so changed in the last month. He wanted to verify that her apparent transformation was for the better, and hear about the events that prompted her to break from her shy protective shell. Alas, the conversation was not to be. Mrs. Emma Annesley was gone.

It seemed that Mrs. Annesley had escorted Georgiana about town. Perhaps they went to the music shop for new sheet music? The housekeeper was unable to give any information other than their anticipated return in a couple hours. Fitzwilliam was disappointed for being thwarted, but was not overly concerned.

Mr. Bingley was overjoyed to leave the confines of the study at Darcy house. Fitzwilliam was so much more focused than he. Bingley admired his friend's dedication and hoped to one day emulate him. However, his thoughts were too much with the angelic Miss Bennet to focus on the correct verbiage of letters or announcements.

The Darcy coach arrived at the Gardiner's home around high tea time. Mr. Gardiner had just returned and invited the gentlemen into the library to ask after their morning business and inquire after a book he had been seeking. Mr. Darcy did not own the particular volume to lend to Mr. Gardiner, but offered to have his book dealer acquire a copy. Mr. Gardiner was pleased, not only to soon have the volume but to also gain a nephew to discuss his love of reading with. Mr. Bingley was not as animated on the subject. His library was not as well stocked as Darcy's. He enjoyed reading fictional works, but often found more gratifying pursuits.

From the study, the gentlemen could hear when the lady's fitting was completed. A door opened, Mrs. Bennet's voice resonated down the stairs exclaiming over the good fortune of her daughters as the dressmakers descended the stairs with their assistants, all arms laden with boxes overflowing with fabric and trimmings.

Mr. Gardiner laughed, "It seems that my nieces are finished. I returned home only an hour ago to complete some paperwork, but I understand that there was quite a lot of commotion this morning with the fittings and visitors. My poor wife invented activity for my sister to keep her nerves from the room. I almost wish I was here to see it." He gestured to the hall. "I have only a few ledgers to check before I am done for the day. If you would care to wait in the drawing room, I am sure the ladies will be down shortly." They agreed and left Mr. Gardiner to complete his business.

Mrs. Gardiner popped her head in the room after following a seamstress down the stairs to see them out. She told them that their timing was perfect. "Elizabeth has just finished. The girls declined tea earlier so I will have a servant bring it here for you all to partake. Please excuse me. I will be back."

Charles chuckled when she left the room, "I don't know about good timing. There seems to be a great deal of activity going on here. Perhaps we should not have come today?"

Fitzwilliam walked to the fireplace to lean against the mantle and raised a brow. "You were so anxious to be here, that your change of heart is rather amusing. All will be well. I am sure that Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth will be desirous of our company after the ordeal they suffered this morning. I would not say so of most ladies, but Elizabeth seemed rather unhappy at the prospect of being fitted and petted for so long."

"To be sure." Bingley replied. They did not have long to wait before a tea service was brought to the room with a tray of sandwiches, cheese, and sweetmeats. They helped themselves to a small plate just before they were joined by Jane and Mrs. Bennet.

Once Jane curtseyed and accepted Mr. Bingley's kiss to her hand, she served tea at her mother's request.

"Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley, it is so good for you to call on us this afternoon." Mrs. Bennet began in a joyful manner, "Your timing was perfect. Lizzy should be down any moment. Oh! The girls looked so fine in their new gowns! Jane is quite the beauty in her finery. They are sure to be the envy of everyone in London. Sadly, I will have to wait for the dresses to be completed before I see them all. I had other things to occupy my time. But, of course, Miss Darcy was there to keep the girls company and…"

Mr. Darcy had learned after several calls to Longbourne, that the only way to enjoy Mrs. Bennet's discourse was to ignore it and nod at regular intervals. However, at that moment his astonishment was so great he looked startled and blurted, "What?" before checking himself. "Excuse me, Madam. Did you say that Miss Darcy is here?"

A door closed upstairs and the giggling of a younger girl was accompanied by Elizabeth's unmistakable chuckle. Mrs. Bennet was confused by Mr. Darcy's question and only looked over her shoulder as the lady in question came across the hall with her arm linked through Elizabeth's.

"Mr. Darcy, I am glad you have come." Elizabeth said warmly when she saw him. She tilted her head and raised an eyebrow in silent inquiry to his expression, which was one of surprise before it smoothed out to formal detachment, as he looked upon her and Georgiana. Stealing a glance at Georgiana, she hoped to gage some understanding at his behavior without luck. "It was a nice surprise for you to allow Miss Darcy to join us this morning." She said as Georgiana went to sit by Mrs. Bennet. Elizabeth elected to go to her fiancé.

Mr. Darcy did not look away from his sister as he answered Elizabeth. "Yes. Georgiana I will have a word with you later." He met her eyes and communicated his unhappiness. How could she leave Darcy House without a word as to her whereabouts? At least she was safe. Where was Mrs. Annesley?

There was no reply from Georgiana beyond a sweet smile before she turned to ask Mrs. Bennet about the style of wedding clothes she preferred for Elizabeth and Jane. Mrs. Bennet began a speech that required little attention by the other occupants of the room.

Fitzwilliam took a large breath and turned to Elizabeth. She looked into his eyes, willing him to soften his gaze. His lips twitched and he took her hand to bestow a kiss on her knuckle, "Miss Elizabeth, I am also glad to be here." He tilted his head toward the window, "Will you grant me a moment?"

She looked around the room before giving an answer. Her mother was busy talking to Georgiana and Jane was absorbed with Mr. Bingley. Mrs. Gardiner was occupied upstairs with her children. "Of course, is something amiss?"

He guided her to the window seat and sat at an angle to face her. "Nothing that I am aware of. I was hoping you would enlighten me. Are you pleased, Elizabeth?"

She quietly laughed, "How could I not be? I believe I lost count as to the number of gowns and measurements. You should have seen the pile of pins Madame Marguerite came with, and the small container she left with in comparison. The dresses are beautiful. I suppose that you are not interested in hearing about the gowns, though. What is the matter?"

At that he did smile. "I am delighted to know that you are happy with Madame's work. I do not want to burden you with my concern for my sister. I hope you will tell me how Georgiana came to be here."

To her, his conversation seemed a roundabout way to inquire after his sister. Her brows came up. "So she did not tell you her plan to call on me?"

"She did not even write to me of her plan to travel to London for Geoffrey's-Colonel Fitzwilliam's-escort to Hertfordshire. She arrived just before we did yesterday."

Elizabeth was impressed with the spirit of the girl. She looked over to watch Georgiana interact with her mother before returning her gaze to Fitzwilliam. She felt a rush of affection for the man she had pledged her troth to. His concern for his sister proved to her that his heart was truly a treasure. "I am sorry that you are troubled, Fitzwilliam. I assure you that she surprised me when she called. However, Jane and I truly enjoyed her companionship. Georgiana seems very eager to be included in our plans." She touched his sleeve briefly and gently added, "She is very happy for you-for us."

"I realize." He looked past her out the window.

She let him have a moment to think before she caught his eye and said, "Please do not be too harsh with her."

Fitzwilliam carefully worded his next thought. He has been reliant on his own judgment for a long time, however it was important for him to involve Elizabeth in future decisions. He preferred their marriage to be a partnership. He took her right hand into his and said, "Elizabeth, I shall always value your counsel. What do you suggest?"

Elizabeth felt her heart soar. How many women were as blessed as she, to have the love of a man who values their opinion? "I am pleased to hear it. I believe that you should simply be her brother. I would also like to spend time with her, to know her better."

"Hmm." I have always been her brother. Geoffrey has failed miserably as a strict guardian. "I will think on it. You, of course, are welcome to spend as much time as you like with Georgiana."

Elizabeth laughed lightly and teased, "Are you certain that I am a positive influence?"

Fitzwilliam flashed her a one-sided grin showing a dimple in his cheek and replied, "I do hope so."

The conversation changed to lighter, unimportant subjects. The group enjoyed their tea and conversations until Mrs. Gardiner joined the group. She had been detained by her children; when she was assisting her second daughter with her reading lesson, her two youngest began fighting over the head of a decapitated doll. She was sharing a story of the antics of her children when Elizabeth suggested they walk to the park with the young Gardiners before dinner to help expel their energies and stretch. Jane readily agreed to the scheme. No one was fooled by the suggestion since Elizabeth and Jane spent so much time standing still that day; the scheme was as much for their own energies as for the children's.

There was a smallish garden square down the block away from the Thames and across the street from the Gardiner's townhouse. This was their destination. The children ran ahead with Jane and Charles close behind trailed by Fitzwilliam, Elizabeth and Georgiana. Fitzwilliam listened as Georgiana and Elizabeth conversed. Elizabeth told Georgiana about her fondness for her young cousins and how she often read to them and instigated playacting using a sheet over a doorway as a curtain. Georgiana was very interested and asked to be included in the next play. She had no experience with younger children and was eager to participate. Fitzwilliam was satisfied with the easy friendship he sensed growing between the two ladies, immediately noting the use of their given names.

They were not long at the park before they walked back. The children enjoyed playing tag and extracted a promise from their cousins to return soon for a picnic, but understood that the hour was getting late.

"Georgiana," Fitzwilliam asked when they had a moment before entering the dining room, "Where is Mrs. Annesley? She did not return to Darcy House."

Georgiana smiled, "Of course not. I do not expect her home until a late hour. I let her take the coach to visit her family. Her sister lives not far from here, I understand."

"And how did you know where the Gardiner's lived?"

"I did not. However, the driver and footman who attended you and the Bennets from Hertfordshire did. You came today by coach, did you not? I will join you on the journey home, if you don't mind."

He nodded and parted from her to escort Elizabeth to the dining room. It was by pure chance that the gentlemen elected to have the coach made ready that morning, rather than have their horses saddled. Darcy's reasoning then was to keep his clothing unsullied and so he would not feel the need to return home before dark. With Georgiana to think about, his decision to travel by coach was a happy coincidence.

At dinner, Mr. Gardiner heard all about his nieces' new clothing from his sister. While the two couples were generally ignored by the adults, Georgiana made an effort to be included in the conversation Elizabeth and Jane had with their intendeds. She asked questions about Hertfordshire and what it was like growing up with sisters.

Mr. Bingley was very complimentary to the Bennet girls, but not as kind when talking about growing up with his own sisters as a younger brother. Mr. Darcy looked upon his younger sister and said, "I have never regretted having a sister, though there are times when mine does try my patience."

AN: Thank you for reading! Let me know your thoughts.
What do you suppose Mrs. Annesley will have to say?
Who do you think will be at Lady Matlock's dinner?