AN: To Reviewer Steve, I wasn't able to send you a private message, but wanted to respond. In the chapter 9 'rewiring the chandelier' refers to the crystals that are hanging on the chandelier with wires/hooks. To keep the crystals secure, the wire needs to be changed every so often and I thought that was a fitting task for the steward to oversee.

"Are you trying to give the reader an idea of how 'forever' it feels to be engaged and how long a relatively short period of time can feel?" Gaskellian, yes a short time can seem to take forever (like this last week for me!). But I believe that I just wanted to include all the little goings on in this story, rather than intentionally be long-winded. I think I will use the excuse you gave me though, it sounds so much better to say that I intentionally wanted to show how long the engagement felt to our characters. ;)

Ch. 31 In the Company of Gentry

"Lizzy, you are not still thinking on Mama's thoughtless remark, are you?" Jane's voice cut through the quiet darkness.

Elizabeth grinned at the ceiling, ever impressed with her sister's sensitivity to those around her. "No, dear Jane, I will not let her negativity or crudeness affect me beyond my initial mortification. Though, I am glad that Fitzwilliam did not react to it. I know it angers him to hear anyone so disrespectful, especially where I am concerned."

"Then why can you not sleep? I can always tell, you know."

Elizabeth giggled softly, "I am not certain. My mind is all aflutter. I keep replaying moments and visualizing conversations I would like to have. What I would like to do and talk to you about in the next few weeks. How strange." She turned on her side toward Jane, "do you ever wonder what would happen if you had said something more or something different?"

Jane had also turned on her bed to prop her head up with her hand. "Yes, I suppose. Do you mean about Mama's comment or does this have something to do with Mr. Darcy?"

"No. He is a perfect gentleman. It is more the situations I find myself in. Papa warned me before we left that I should try to reign in my inclination to voice my impertinence while in social situations; at least, while I am being immersed in the high social circles." This was news to Jane. She listened with rapt attention. "Those people are just people; I am not intimidated," she paused to laugh, "well, any more than I am when confronted with Lady Catherine. It is only when Mama said that; I was so astonished that I was unable to check her. You did a fine job, Jane."

"Lizzy, you should not feel ashamed."

"Perhaps not. I believe my pride took a hit and just before then I was struck dumb by Miss Bingley! I keep thinking of what I should have said, but there is nothing. If I had been callous, then I would have hurt you, since you are to be her sister. Could I have walked away? I do not know what would have been the right course; I suppose it happened for the best that William and Georgiana were there to rescue me."

Jane was troubled by the news. She had seen Miss Bingley speaking to her sister, but had been too absorbed with her conversation and the arrival of Mr. Bingley to take notice of Elizabeth's distress. "It does not signify. I am sorry that you were confronted by her. Was she terribly unkind?"

"I do not believe that she was unkind, only thoughtless and uncaring. Two virtues I already understood of her character. To think that she wanted to give me advice on how to keep Mr. Darcy's attention! It makes me angry even now." Elizabeth paused allowing herself to calm somewhat, "Jane, I wish you every happiness and, therefore, hope that she gives you and Mr. Bingley space to start your marriage."

Even in the dark, Elizabeth could sense her sister's radiant smile when she mentioned 'Bingley' and 'marriage' within the same sentence. "Do not waste any more energy on contemplating Caroline. I believe her brother is making plans for her to be elsewhere while we begin our life together."

Saturday October 24

The morning was dry, if not bright. The day dragged on in a laissez–faire way. The young Bennets enjoyed the respite from shopping and visiting, while their mother made herself busy envisioning and planning the wedding. With the wedding date set, flowers needed to be selected, fabrics, centerpieces, decorations, choices made for the wedding breakfast feast; and Mrs. Bennet felt the weight of her responsibility. Though, before long, Mrs. Bennet was dramatically dubbed indisposed due to her troubled nerves and stress.

Mrs. Gardiner met Darcy and Bingley at the door when they called in the late afternoon already dressed in their evening attire for the dinner party at the Townshend home. They were ushered into the sitting room to join their ladies for tea. Jane and Elizabeth both presented striking figures in their new gowns, which were admired as they curtseyed and smiled. They were very pleased to see their gentlemen in their finery and offered seats and conversation.

Mr. Gardiner soon joined the group for refreshment as well before it was decided that he and his wife needed to visit their children and prepare themselves for the night ahead.

"Was your morning enjoyable?" Darcy asked looking into—in his opinion—the finest eyes he had ever beheld. Contrasting with her yellow gown, her eyes appeared so much more pronounced and deep in color. The only jewelry she wore was the garnet pendant he had gifted her with and two small earbobs.

Elizabeth smiled at his searching gaze, "Yes, it was very pleasant. It feels as if we have been in town an entire season with all the activity, so it was nice to have an easy morning. I went for a walk and played with my cousins. I also received a note from the couturier. It seems that she requires another fitting before we leave for Hertfordshire, to fit the multitude of winter gowns you have required of her." Elizabeth's opinion of his largess had changed since she was last subjected to stand for fittings. While she had been annoyed at the number of fine garments ordered, she now found herself grateful for his ability to think of everything. He was always giving the impression that he knew what she required, or wanted, before she knew herself. It was uncanny how he knew her so well, and that thought gave her great pleasure.

"I am happy to know that she takes her position so seriously. She will be compensated handsomely for her attention to you." He opened his mouth thinking to inquire about her mother after the previous night's spectacle, but thought better of it. Instead he asked, "Are you looking forward to this evening?"

Elizabeth laughed, "I am not displeased to be going. Though, I do wonder at who will be there besides your relations. Jane and my Aunt Gardiner will protect me when you are not by my side, yet I feel compelled to warn you." At his raised brow she continued, "If there is music and dancing, I would very much like to dance with my betrothed."

While he had never sought out invitations to dinner parties, he was happy to be spending time with Elizabeth. He offered her a small smile and teased, "I suppose that can be arranged, as long it is me you require." At her nod, he was satisfied.

As Darcy watched her, he became captivated by her expression when a thought struck her. Elizabeth looked around and noticed that Jane was absorbed in her conversation with Bingley and the Gardiners were still out of the room. She leaned forward and conspiratorially asked, "William, have you heard of a dance called the waltz?"

Her expression was such a mixture of excitement and curiosity that he could not help the light laugh that escaped. "Indeed," he said. "I was made aware of it when I traveled abroad. However, I think it shall not be a dance introduced this evening."

Her eyes twinkled. "So you know how it is done? Can you show me?"

He could do nothing but tease her. With his signature serious expression in place he replied gravely, "That may not be a good idea. I would hate for your uncle to run me through before we are wed."

Elizabeth was astonished and not entirely sure if he was being serious. Alas, before she could rejoin, the Gardiners reappeared and announced that it was time to depart.

As Jane and Elizabeth retrieved their cloaks, Jane took her sister aside. "Lizzy, I hope you will not be upset. I just talked to Charles about Miss Bingley's behavior last night."

"Whatever for?" Elizabeth was surprised at her sister's initiative in opening that conversation with Bingley. Not wanting to be confrontational, Elizabeth had hoped that Miss Bingley would eventually understand that they were not rivals; she had already won Darcy's heart and hand.

Jane awarded her sister with an expression that unmistakably said, 'do not be obtuse;' and simply voiced, before moving towards Bingley, "He deserved to know."

Elizabeth watched as her sister left her side. It was crystal clear to her at that moment in time that their loyalties had changed. While still sisters and confidants, their thoughts and loyalties would forever belong to their soon-to-be husbands. No longer would conversations be confidential unless explicitly requested. Elizabeth had felt the shift in herself over the last weeks with her unwillingness to impart all her thoughts and feelings to Jane; however, she had noticed no signs that a similar change in attitude was also felt by her sister.

Darcy noticed Elizabeth's thoughts were not on their departure, so moved to escort her out to the waiting carriage.

The ride to the dinner party was not uncomfortable, but rather snug with six full grown people in the carriage. The Bennet ladies, their gentlemen and the Gardiners would not have fit so well in the Gardiner's carriage, which was their reasoning for utilizing Darcy's wider coach—besides being much more impressive with its matching horses and immaculate liveried footman and driver.

Mr. Gardiner was feeling protective of his favorite nieces to coincide with the uncertainty of what the evening would bring. Unlike his brother Bennet, he always enjoyed society for its conversation and diversion. Tonight, however, he was acting as guardian to the girls. Mr. Gardiner did not want to cause them trouble though association by discussing business or political matters and he sent a great deal of thanks up above that his sister was indisposed.

Mr. Darcy broke the silence of the ride in an effort to reverse his social ineptitude, "Mr. Gardiner, I understand that you and your family will venture to Pemberley for the holidays. I am so pleased. Will you also be joining our merry group at Pemberley, Charles?"

Bingley nodded enthusiastically, "Miss Bennet and I had just discussed that very thing and would be delighted. I have been considering the notion of sending Caroline to be with relatives through the winter, so that might coincide perfectly." He turned to Jane, "We might venture further north to pick her up after the New Year, and then deposit her in London with my sister before returning to Hertfordshire." Bingley had carefully considered the problem of Caroline over the past sennight, and had come to the conclusion that she needs to either marry or arrangements must be made for her to live on the interest from her dowry. He could no longer support her spending habits when his aim was to become a landed gentleman and raise a family. It was also becoming abundantly clear that she was not willing to accept the family he was marrying into, which included Darcy and Elizabeth. There was no help for it, she needed to be admonished and accept the consequences for her behavior. He would have to discuss his decision with her soon.

Jane smiled serenely and returned Bingley's look with love and trust shining in her eyes.

The coach pulled to a jarring stop alongside a row of coaches. A footman opened the door, "Sir, if you please, we will let you and your party out here." Darcy nodded and the group descended.

The door was opened and coats were removed before they were received by their hosts, the Marquess and Marchioness Townshend and their heir Viscount Raynham. Darcy had known Townshend for some time since he was a card-playing friend of the Earl of Matlock and an acquaintance of his late father. Viscount Raynham, however, was several years his junior so Darcy did not know him well. Darcy bowed and made the necessary introductions before offering his arm to Elizabeth.

The Marchioness smiled at Elizabeth with a keen eye, "I am very happy to make your acquaintance, my dear. My friend, Viscountess Torrington, told me you were charming. I look forward to knowing you."

Elizabeth was amused at the gossip being spread about and replied, "Thank you, I am glad to know that no bad reports have come to your attention. We were delighted to accept your invitation, my lady." With a nod they were able to move on to the large sitting room where it appeared that several people had congregated in groups for conversation. There were groups of chairs and a duo of strings that played harmoniously in the corner by the pianoforte. The room was opened to another room which appeared to house card tables.

Mrs. Gardiner smiled at her nieces before moving to find a seat with her husband that afforded a tolerable view of the musicians. As Elizabeth observed the room, a footman approached to offer refreshment to the Gardiners before moving to other seated guests.

There were some looks of acknowledgement when they entered the room. With the amount of people, Darcy's facial expression altered to his typical hauteur, amusing Elizabeth. She said quietly for his ears alone, "My dear Mr. Darcy, do try not to frown so. I understand that your face could freeze with that look. Then all of London's society might believe you unhappy to be seen with me."

His face altered subtly, though his eyes were soft when he looked to his betrothed, "The only opinion that matters to me is yours, Elizabeth. I will endeavor to give a favorable impression for you."

Bingley interrupted Elizabeth's reply, "I say Darcy, the fellow by the room divide appears to know you."

Darcy scanned the room and acknowledged the gentleman with a nod. Asking if Elizabeth or Jane would care for refreshments, Darcy promised to be expedient and left in the direction of the other man. He was seen greeting another couple before returning with a goblet of punch from a tray, and a couple to introduce to the Gardiners and Bennets.

"Allow me to introduce Lord Byron and Lady Lamb." Introductions were made and pleasantries exchanged.

"I am very happy to meet you, Miss Elizabeth. I believe you are becoming much the topic of conversation of late." Lady Lamb said with a lift to her brow. Elizabeth thought that her headdress must weight half a dozen kilos. "It is nice to meet you as well, Miss Bennet. I hope you are enjoying London. I do enjoy a good party! My husband is about somewhere. But I do enjoy the pretty prose Lord Byron spouts. I cannot leave his side when I see him out in society." She leaned into Jane and Elizabeth and shared, "So nice to be around an eloquent man, you know, though that one is quite dangerous to know."

Elizabeth looked over her shoulder to Mr. Darcy, who was listening to the man while still being attentive to her. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, she noticed, had entered into a conversation with the Duke and Duchess of Rutland. She was very proud of her relations and their likability. Absently, Elizabeth wondered if her uncle's business might grow, being more intimately acquainted with members of the gentry.

Lady Lamb continued, "There are so many people who wish to meet you, you know. My own cousin, Countess Granville, was so put out to know that you would be here and she would not. 'Harriet,' I told her, 'you shall get a chance to make the acquaintance of Miss Elizabeth Bennet at the Torrington ball.' I did hear that you would be there. She had another engagement this evening, or I am certain that she would not have missed the opportunity. I should so like to introduce you to some of my friends at the ball, if you will allow it…"

Returning her attention to the Lady who was still talking to the confounded expression on Jane's face, Elizabeth waited for a break in Lady Lamb's monologue. "It is a pleasure. Does Lord Byron ever entertain at these events?"

Lady Lamb was ecstatic to impart her wisdom. "Oh yes, he can be persuaded." She giggled into her fan like a school girl before reaching over to the man himself, who was made to quit his conversation and turn to her in question. "My Lord Byron, Miss Elizabeth would like you to regale the guests with your pretty verses. Will you?"

Lord Byron considered Elizabeth and bowed. "There is always the possibility. You are very lovely Miss Elizabeth, I am sure that Darcy is a lucky man."

Jane was not impressed with his manners and stared at Lord Byron. Elizabeth sensed her sister's uneasiness when he gazed at her and entwined her arm with Jane's elbow before she replied. "I suppose I should take that as a compliment, my lord, though it ought to be Mr. Darcy you voice those thoughts to. I have less opinion of myself than he does, I am sure."

Lord Byron laughed and eyed her with respect. "Touché. You should allow Mr. Darcy to convince you otherwise. Opinions are made to be changed, after all."

Mr. Darcy, not liking the conversation, said in warning, "Do not concern yourself with my betrothed, Byron. I am well aware that the Bennet ladies are both lovely."

Mr. Bingley by this time had moved to the other side of Jane and was heard to say, "Mine is an angel!"

Lord Byron replied to Darcy, "You must be aware of the fame which has been thrust upon this lady. I am not the only gentleman with an opinion. Though, I am certain that the attitudes of the gentlemen are much more gracious than that of the ladies present."

Elizabeth had never enjoyed being excluded from conversations about her. She chimed in, "I assure you that I want no part of gossip; that includes discussing it or being the principle subject matter. I have no claim to fame, my lord. I am a simple country girl who is to marry a country gentleman."

"Oh but what fun there is to be had with gossip on those who fancy themselves famous. What is fame? If not the advantage of being known by people of whom you yourself know nothing, and for whom you care as little."*

At Lord Byron's statement, they all smiled and nodded at each other in complete agreement.

"What nonsense are you spouting about now, Byron?" The Earl of Matlock, who had just arrived with his wife and mother, had spotted Darcy and Elizabeth straight away and moved to join them catching the last of what Byron had said. The Earl greeted his nephew as well as the ladies and Bingley, Lord Byron was called away and escorted Lady Lamb with him. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner moved to greet the Fitzwilliam party as well.

Lady Esther Fitzwilliam shook her head with disapproval at Lord Byron and Lady Lamb as they left and said aside to Lady Matlock and Elizabeth, "What rubbish! I'm afraid Catherine would be quite disappointed in her offspring. He had better find a suitable lady and marry before his reputation becomes any more soiled."

Lady Matlock nodded but did not reply. Elizabeth puzzled over the dowager's words a moment before Lady Matlock gained her attention with a change of subject, "It is fortunate that tomorrow is the Sabbath, you will surely not be called upon then, Elizabeth. Will you join me for callers on Tuesday?"

Elizabeth smiled when Lady Matlock also included Jane and Mrs. Gardiner in the invitation. "That is after the ball, is it not? I would be delighted to be there, my lady." This pleased Lady Matlock greatly, until she noticed a spark of mischief in Elizabeth's eye and she continued, "Though it might be difficult to rise and be presentable after a long evening of merrymaking. I have secured a promise from Mr. Darcy that he shall dance with me, so I would not want to disappoint him by leaving at a reasonable hour, even to ensure that I am able to come for callers."

At Lady Matlock's narrowed eyes and Jane's exclamation of, "Lizzy," Mrs. Gardiner took Elizabeth's hand to pat it in mock sympathy. "Do not fret, Lizzy dear. I will personally ensure that you have the opportunity to dance at the ball, and even have you readied with plenty of time to spare Tuesday morning."

"Thank you, Aunt." Elizabeth said, rolling her eyes to the amusement of all present.

The last couples to join the party that evening included the Viscount and Viscountess Torrington. Elizabeth had already made the acquaintance of everyone save the Viscount, who appeared to be younger than his wife. He was dressed like a dandy in pastels with the exception of his high collared navy coat with gold threading. Elizabeth found it difficult to stifle her laughter when she noticed him considering the room through his monocle.

Mr. Darcy did his best to look severe when Elizabeth looked at him in order to contain her hilarity, however even he was ill pressed to remain impassive during certain conversations and while observing guest oddities during the evening. Before that night, he had never had the pleasure of truly enjoying a dinner party that included guests besides his own family. Darcy concluded that the combination of being close to Elizabeth, and viewing other people and situations through her eyes, greatly improved upon circumstances.

Lady Esther did not help Elizabeth's disposition. The Lady stayed by Elizabeth until dinner was called, enjoying her future grand-daughter's sense of humor and enjoying her reactions; Lady Esther would casually lean close to share a piece of gossip to observe Elizabeth's blushes, lip biting and silent appeals to Darcy. She was very pleased at Elizabeth's ability to remain composed when presented with the follies of others. The more she discerned, the happier she was to embrace her into the family fold, and the more convinced she was that Elizabeth would complement Darcy marvelously as a spouse. Not to mention the handsome great-grandchildren she was sure to attain from the good-looking pair.

When dinner was called the guests were lead into the formal dining room where they were served several courses on floral china. It was nicely decorated and scented with impressive flower arrangements. The Townshend's sat at the head of the table and their guests sat where their place cards indicated. Elizabeth wondered at the seating arrangements which placed her with the Fitzwilliams and Darcy while her sister sat across the table from her with Bingley and the Gardiners.

When the first dish was served there was a lull in conversation as the guests partook and complimented the hostess. Soon Lady Torrington, the Duchess of Rutland and Lady Matlock began discussing the opera. Lady Torrington was not present since she had seen the performance the week before.

Elizabeth turning to Lady Esther and told her how she enjoyed taking callers with her the day before, but was saddened that she did not join the party at the Opera. Before taking a bite of greens, Lady Esther replied, "I am too old to be bothered with the second-hand emotions of stage actors. I generally enjoy performances; however, have lately found opera to be taxing. I much prefer my entertainments to be in English."

"Did you enjoy the performance, Miss Elizabeth?" Lady Torrington asked.

Elizabeth smiled and bestowed her attention on the other Lady, "Indeed I did. I also understand that society is greatly looking forward to your ball."

Lady Torrington beamed, "I do try to outdo myself. I am honored that you and Darcy can come."

Elizabeth heard Darcy quietly scoff next to her.

The Duchess joined innocently, "All of society is buzzing with the news of your betrothal and the knowledge that you are attending functions together. I am particularly interested to see some ladies trip over their tongues at my tea party."

Elizabeth raised a brow and exchanged a look with Jane, who observed the expressions on her sister's and Darcy's faces, though missed the substance of the conversation. Elizabeth simply replied that she was looking forward to it and returned to her meal.

Other conversations ensued and a few attempts were made to draw Darcy into conversation about Pemberley and his plans for being in town next season, however he would not be moved to offer more than respectful replies to anyone save his uncle.

"I am afraid that I am not in the temper to practice this evening, Elizabeth." Darcy said quietly aside to her, "Though I am more than willing to converse with you."

Elizabeth was happy to oblige him between courses asking him about his morning and Georgiana's plans for the evenings they are out. "Have you convinced Miss Darcy to take up a new hobby, yet? Accordion playing or perhaps she has chosen to hire a master linguist to teach her the language the Chinese speak?"

Darcy shook his head and faced her, "I should be surprised that she shared with you our conversation. No, she has not agreed to expand her list of accomplishments." Quieter he said, "Though I would not stop her from pursuing either of those endeavors if it afforded us more time alone once we are wed." He was pleased with her resulting blush, missing the observing eyes of the other guests around the table.

After the meal the ladies left the gentlemen to their brandy, cigars and talk of politics and war. Viscount Raynham and Lord Byron were particularly animated when discussing the French. Darcy endeavored to say little, not inclined to share his opinions with the assembled gentlemen. Besides his uncle and Rutland, he owned the greatest amount of land and therefore interpreted acts of parliament seriously, weighing pros and cons to ascertain personal consequences as well as the implications for the great many people in his charge. Mr. Gardiner also preferred to follow Darcy's example and only offered trader insight when called upon to do so.

The ladies of the party settled themselves in the drawing room. Lady Townshend proved to be a pleasant hostess and was attentive to all her guests. She requested a song from the Viscountess who was happy to oblige with Lady Lamb's assistance. Lady Townshend seemed to be accomplished at social etiquette, though was not bright nor a well-read woman. Taking interest in Jane and Mrs. Gardiner she sipped her tea with her pinky in the air and spoke softly asking them questions and imparting her own wisdom.

Elizabeth had been drawn into conversation with Lady Matlock and her friend, the Duchess of Rutland, but distinctly heard Lady Townshend's remark to Jane on how "fortunate she must feel" and "your family ought to consider themselves blessed to be marrying into such wealth."

Elizabeth opened her mouth to join the conversation when Mrs. Gardiner frowned at her and sweetly replied to the Marchioness, "Oh, it is lovely that my nieces have been so lucky to find love where it is reciprocated. If only every woman was so fortunate…"

"Indeed!" Lady Townshend relied just as the door opened and the gentlemen entered, signally the end of the conversation.

Lord Byron did indeed recite when he was called upon to entertain. Lady Lamb sat close by hanging on his every word as her husband sprawled beside her on the seat. Lord Byron requested that she return the favor by playing, which she was most enthusiastically prepared to do before requesting a game of cards. Lady Esther rolled her eyes at the young lady, earning Lady Matlocks look of admonishment.

Thus the evening progressed with cards and wine. Mr. Bingley, who could enjoy company in any situation, was happy to sit by his beloved and keep her smiling. Elizabeth was somewhat envious of Jane and Bingley for they were able to sit in close proximity and be ignored by the party; while every move and word she made to Darcy was observed and, she believed, scrutinized.

Elizabeth was very pleased to be handed into the carriage when it was called. She sank into the corner and thanked the night and the comfortable carriage for their arrival, only wishing the Darcy was seated next to her rather than across. Jane appeared to mirror her sentiments when she entered the carriage. When the carriage pulled away, it was Mr. Gardiner who voiced, "Thank God that is over," encouraging the laughter which followed.

Jane replied, "It was not all bad. I am afraid that I did feel awkward at times, though." Mrs. Gardiner touched her hand and nodded in agreement.

Darcy offered, "I am afraid that most dinner parties are the same, which is why I so diligently avoided them when I was not amongst friends. However, the group in this carriage, as well as my own relatives, did make the evening tolerable, at least."

Elizabeth smiled at him and said, "I will endeavor to shoot for more than tolerable when I host my own dinner parties."

Darcy smirked at her while admiring her misbehaving curls, "I have every faith that you shall succeed."

AN: Although I tried to use some historical people and situations, this is in no way 100% historically accurate as far as the characters are concerned.

* Lord Byron quote

The invitation to Darcy House is the next day. What mischief do you think they will get into? Do you suppose D&E will have any alone time? Will she see the Master chambers? I love your feedback and reviews! Thank you