Ch. 34 – Of Sermons and Trips
Mary Bennet had spent the previous fortnight in reflection. With the addition of Mr. Vane in her circle of acquaintances, she had noticed a subtle difference in herself. She could not name the exact cause and so continued to reflect on the meaning. In her there was a shift in priorities and a softening to her moralizing ways. This could be the effect of soon being the eldest Miss Bennet left at home or perhaps due to her closer relationship with her sisters.
Mr. Vane had not called more than once; he was new to the neighborhood and did not plan to leap into a courtship as much as he admired and was drawn to Miss Mary Bennet. He did happen upon the two Bennet sisters when Kitty had convinced Mary to walk to Meryton, and gallantly offered his arm to Mary and escorted the ladies to their destination.
The church gathering was much anticipated by Mary and Catherine Bennet, since the reading of the Banns for their elder sisters was to be cried at the closing of the church sermon. While attending church on Sunday morning, Mary could not help but wonder at the sermon content. The address faithfully resembled the conversation had that morning in Meryton.
Mr. Vane stood confidently on the pulpit addressing the good people with passionate understanding. "If it is expected that a man should demand obedience and respect from their wife, should she not expect the same in return? How is one to receive just deserts, if they are unable to first give?"
Mary listened intently, disregarding the speculative, grinning glance of her sister next to her.
Briefly encountering Mary's eyes, Mr. Vane continued, "Just as a parent expects deference from their children, it is your duty to earn love, respect, and trust of others when they likewise offer you love, respect and trust. We can here reference our holy bible. Galatians 5:14: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' We also have in Matthew 7:12: 'Everything whatsoever you desire that people should do for you, do likewise for them, for this is the Law and The Prophets.' Do we not diligently try to instill this lesson in children? Treat your friends and siblings as you yourself want to be treated in return. This lesson should be so ingrained that it follows into adulthood to permit a person to be amicable and empathetic. Lastly, in Romans 13:10 I remind you that 'Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.'"
Mary smiled and nodded in agreement.
Mary was unable to recall why the subject was raised, though she had mentioned Mr. Darcy's history with her sister while on their walk. Mr. Darcy had to earn Elizabeth's respect and affection, after an initial unfavorable impression. "That is quite an undertaking for a man of his consequence," he said. "I am familiar with people of the Ton, and most believe that respect and deference is due to them based on their standing and monetary holdings. Do you not agree?"
Mary had frowned, "I do believe that many consequential persons might feel that way, however I cannot agree with their reasoning. Money, though important in society rank, does not dictate happiness. I would greatly prefer to have mutual love and esteem, as my sisters do in their matches."
Mr. Vane had left the girls in front of the haberdashery after bowing and saying in parting, "I am glad to hear you speak of it, Miss Mary. Your opinion does you great credit. Good day to you ladies."
It was a puzzle to work out. Did Mr. Vane's sermon writings prompt the conversation, or was Mary perhaps responsible for the subject matter? Did she hold that much value and admiration to the young man and was it even possible given their brief acquaintance?
Kitty had been teasing her since the afternoon he had called and tried to decipher Mary's feelings toward Mr. Vane. She could see that Mary liked him due to the attention she bestowed on the gentleman as well as the flush that suffused her cheeks. However she was not able to get one word out of her thoughtful sister.
Mary knew that Jane and Elizabeth would be home by the week's end, though she resolved to put her thoughts to paper later that afternoon. Her sisters would receive the correspondence only a couple short days before leaving town.
25 October 1812
My Dear Sisters,
I am taking up my pen in a state of confusion. Kitty has been grinning at me all morning, but how can I possibly convey my feelings to her when I am so unsure of them myself?
I regress to assure you that the Banns were spoken at church and nearly every attendant in Meryton smiled and congratulated Father upon our leave-taking. As I assured you in my last letter, no one spoke against your marriages.
I realize that you have been anxiously waiting for news about Mr. Vane. He is a bright young man of a similar age to Mr. Bingley, I would guess, though perhaps a smidgen shorter and broader in the shoulders. His hair is a light brown to match his freckles and blends pleasingly with his hazel eyes. I admire his confidence and the way he engages the congregation while speaking, which we were fortunate to hear this day.
He has called on Longbourn before and I walked with him and Kitty in Meryton the other day. His conversation is appealing and I like that he, indeed, seems interested in my discourse. It was on this walk where a conversation of a serious nature took place between us regarding respect amongst acquaintances. I must admit that I owned my opinion on the type of relationship I seek in a husband. Although I do not aim to flatter you, I envision a shared affection and appreciation similar to that which you have both found in your chosen spouses. In fact, if I do not find a match with mutual fondness and regard I do not believe I should ever marry; I would much rather sit all day with my nieces and nephews at the pianoforte.
Here is where my confusion is founded. Why should my conversation with this man be the substance from which his sermon was formed? Was the purpose to flatter my vanity, or was it his initial intention to speak thus of the reciprocated giving and taking of love, respect, and trust in regards to acquaintances and marriage? It was a beautiful message.
I am sure that I shall not receive a response before you return home. I will look forward to knowing your opinion.
Your sister,
Mary Bennet
The letter sealed and placed by the door for outgoing posts in the morning, Mary resolved to think on it no more and sat at her beloved instrument to while away the afternoon.
P&P
Darcy had trouble sleeping and was sure that he looked like a spiked hedgehog from rubbing and pulling on his hair throughout the night in impassioned frustration. His mind would not rest. His imagination would not rest. With each effort to find respite, improper thoughts assaulted him of his Elizabeth in his home, in his room, in his embrace. He was haunted by the scent she favored. He was certain that he could feel her breath whispering in his ear and the touch of her breasts crushed to his chest. His fantasies had become more vivid since Elizabeth had accepted his proposal to the point of causing him physical pain when he was away from her, alone, with his thoughts.
His valet made no comment on his appearance in the morning.
Georgiana Darcy, however, was not insensible to her brother's tired eyes as he reverently sipped his strong coffee without milk or sweetening. "Are you well, Brother?" She asked.
At his grunt and nod, Georgiana raised a brow and studied him farther as she sipped her own tea. "I feel compelled to ask again. You are sure that you are well, William? You seem a bit out of sorts."
Darcy sighed, "Do not trouble yourself, my dear. I am only suffering from a restless night. I shall be fully recovered after another cup of coffee and some sustenance."
Colonel Fitzwilliam strutted into the room catching the last of his cousin's explanation. He helped himself, drank happily from his cup and said, "Good morning, Cousins. Had another bad night, Darcy? You look like the very devil's incarnate."
Darcy rolled his eyes and drank deeply from his brew.
Georgiana tried to hide her smile, "Good morning, Geoffrey. Are you going tonight to dance and posture for the single ladies at the ball?"
The Colonel laughed good-naturedly, "I am not going to please the single ladies, although I am certain to make them happy with the presence of my magnificent self. I have a duty to my cousin to see that he is well chaperoned, you know. What is on the agenda this morning, Darcy? Perhaps a nap?"
Quite used to ignoring Fitzwilliam's jibes, Darcy reached into his coat to remove the letter to Mr. Jenkinson to present it to his cousin. "This letter must be delivered to the son of Mrs. Jenkinson, Anne's companion. I must see what sort of fellow he is. I am not certain what Anne has written." Fitzwilliam nodded and took a bite of his jam-smothered bread. "There is also a delicate matter I thought you might assist me with. Bingley has come to the end of his limit and needs to find a suitable man to marry his sister."
Bingley's dilemma was a source of amusement to the Colonel. "Indeed. I am hardly surprised; though I would have you know that I shall not undertake the task, even for the crown of England."
Darcy smiled at Georgiana's giggle. "Oh no. I shall be related by Jane's marriage to Bingley, and that is quite as close as I can endure. I was hoping that you might make inquiries at the club or perhaps there is a gentleman soldier who would do well to marry. As much as I hate to say so, her dowry might be inducement enough to a decent fellow." He glanced at his sister with a frown realizing that he should have sought the privacy of his study before broaching the subject. "I am sorry, Georgie, am afraid that my judgement is lacking this morning. You do realize that this conversation goes no farther." At her wide eyed look and nod he smiled and softened, "Even to the Bennets. I understand that you have been confiding in Elizabeth and I would not wish to restrict that joy for you; however in this instance, I would prefer to relate the particulars if need be."
Georgiana nodded again. "I understand, Brother. I can hardly wait for you to wed so that I shall have Lizzy as a sister." Her smile was infectious and her hands clapped in excitement.
Darcy, now feeling better, laughed, "Yes, which is precisely the reason why I proposed. Georgiana Darcy, I am surprised at you; fie on you for thinking only of yourself!"
Shortly thereafter Bingley joined the party to break his fast and volunteered to go to Whites "on this nasty business" with the Colonel, while Darcy sought out Mr. Jenkinson.
Darcy appointed his secretary, Mr. Matthews, with the task of locating the address of Mr. Jenkinson while he looked over the pile of correspondence accumulating at the corner of his desk. He was glad to have Matthews service for his quick mind and efficient dealings in matters on Darcy's behalf. Darcy had not long to wait before the information was retrieved from a book containing thin paper and small printed addresses of London business and homes.
Mr. Joshua Jenkinson had an office and residence by White Chapel, not far from the Tower. Darcy's carriage left him at the front of the office with instructions to retrieve him in a quarter of an hour. Before stepping into the law office, Darcy assessed the neighborhood and outdoor façade of the building; finding it an adequate location with semi-fashionable society promenading about, he entered.
The office entry was small. One corner contained waiting chairs and in the other corner stood a high work table over which hunched a clerk who scribbled carefully with his pen making duplicate copies of papers. The walls were bare save a painted quote, 'No passion so effectually robs the mind of all its powers of acting and reasoning as fear. - Edmund Burke'. An interesting statement for an office of the law, Darcy reflected.
The door hit a bell prompting the clerk to ask, "What is your business?" without looking up from his endeavor.
Darcy stood in front of the man, "Forgive the intrusion. I am here to speak with Mr. Jenkinson regarding his mother."
The clerk looked up and noticed the gentleman's rich attire and smiled kindly, "Of course, Sir. Mr. Jenkinson should be available to discuss his mother, I imagine. If you will wait for one moment, I shall speak with him."
Alighting from his stool, the clerk lightly knocked on the only closed door in the room located by his table, before opening it a crack to speak, "Mr. Jenkinson, Sir, there is a gentleman here to see you."
There was an unfriendly reply that reached Darcy's ears. "There is ever someone or other to see me. What is his business? I am a occupied and cannot be bothered."
The clerk's hand shook in apprehension. "He has come to speak to you about your mother. I was certain that you would like news."
A grunt followed with a curt, "Show him in," before the clerk seemed to relax. He turned to Darcy with a grin and a bow, "You may go in now, Sir."
Darcy nodded, sympathizing for the hard-working clerk. He walked past the shorter man toward the door that was indicated.
The room was in disarray. Possessing more books than the shelves would allow, there were piles of books, files and papers on the floor and chairs. The desk however, which was a large sturdy piece, was nearly clear of clutter; containing only the work currently occupying the lawyer's time, a tin of quills and an ink well. The lawyer was bent on signing the bottom of a page, with a distracted flourish he placed his pen on the table and looked upon Darcy, taking his measure.
Darcy bowed respectfully and introduced himself. "I have here for you, a letter from Mrs. Jenkinson's employer, Miss Anne De Bourgh." He handed the sealed letter to the rude man who still sat in front of his desk.
Mr. Jenkinson took the letter saying, "My mother is employed by a Lady Catherine De Bourgh." He then opened the letter to begin reading.
While watching Mr. Jenkinson, Darcy said, "I do not mean to be confrontational. However, Miss De Bourgh is of an age and is the Mistress of Rosings Park, her mother manages there by consent."
The lawyer grunted. With narrowed eyes, Mr. Jenkinson looked at Darcy. "You have come to force my mother upon my household and threaten me should I refuse."
Darcy replied carefully, as though he were speaking to a child. "That was not my intention. I was charged with delivery of that letter. I understand only that Miss De Bourgh is to reside with my sister, my wife, and I for a time and she wishes to offer Mrs. Jenkinson a holiday with her family as well. Mrs. Jenkinson will not be coming north with us."
Mr. Jenkinson scoffed, "I suppose you may drop her at my home, as long as she will continue to receive her income during that time to pay for her keep."
Darcy repressed the urge to roll his eyes at the goodwill—or lack thereof—shown by Mr. Jenkinson, who would never be commissioned by him for services. Darcy would not be surprised if the man asked for more money than his mother's pay, and he would certainly get it for his silence. Darcy bowed again, "It is agreed then. I will send a note with the date and time you might expect her."
Darcy could not wait to be free of the stuffy office and bad manners. He left quickly, closing the office door quietly behind him. He briefly wondered how attached Anne felt for Mrs. Jenkinson; was she even worth the trouble? He would have to ask his cousin, perhaps they might find another young lady in need of her service so that she would not have to be beholden to Mr. Jenkinson's charity. Stopping at the good clerk's desk, he offered the man a half-crown for his efforts and extreme patience with his employer.
He checked his time piece when he spotted his carriage and made his way to it. Darcy could not wait to be away, though he was glad the unpleasant task was done and he could once again tell his carriage driver to go to the Gardiner residence. Darcy felt wretched that the joyous period of his betrothal to Elizabeth Bennet was marred by any unpleasantness.
A smile graced his lips at the thought of waking Elizabeth on the morning of their wedding and carrying her to the church where they could wed before he whisked her off to a secluded corner of the world. The dream was so diverting that he thought of Mr. Jenkinson no more as he watched the streets pass by on his way to visit his beloved Elizabeth.
P&P
Caroline Bingley was also thinking of weddings on this morning. When she left the Hurst's townhouse with a maid in tow, her sister was poring over fashion magazines and wedding articles. It seems that her sister had joined forces with her brothers to push her into matrimony with the first dolt who will offer for her. She was certain that the note Hurst received from her brother Charles the day before, deliberated that very subject.
However, a hurried wedding to the first bidder was not what she wanted. She desired a man with a commanding presence who might respect her abilities to entertain in his grand London house and country seat. Mr. Darcy would have been perfect for her purposes, even though he did not possess a title she would look well on his arm. She envisioned a grand wedding at St. George's Church in Hanover Square; it would be the talk of town and would be discussed for months in the highest society circles.
Her groom would not be Mr. Darcy though.
She had been morning the loss of her dream the last se'night, yet she still could not fathom why he did not choose her. She was taller than Miss Elizabeth Bennet. She fancied herself prettier and more accomplished as a musician and hostess. The reasons for his choice might remain a mystery for the rest of her days.
When the carriage stopped across from the shop she had requested, Caroline stepped down before her maid and made her way to the entry. She was oblivious to the crowds of people dashing about. She was too agitated! Charles refused to even escort her to the Torrington's ball. Everyone who is anyone ought to be there. How was she to manage it? Why was it that fairy godmothers were in such short supply for ladies like her, when the Bennets seem to have such luck at their beck and call?
"Be careful, Miss!" the maid's warning came too late. Caroline moved too quickly into the unseen barrier and was cast to the ground after becoming entangled in a mongrel's lead rope. Caroline's flailing arms could not steady her balance. She let out a high-pitched screech in surprise and pain when she landed on her posterior none-too-gently on the cobbled walk.
An elderly lady huffed and helped Caroline's maid disentangle the outraged Miss Bingley. "I am so sorry. This has never happened before," the lady said before talking calmly to her fluffy pet and continuing on her way. "Did that lady scare you? It is alright. There, there. We must be more careful, mustn't we?"
Caroline's maid was so astonished; she stood rooted to her spot behind Miss Bingley with her hands covering her open-mouth gape. "I'm so sorry!"
Once she was again on her feet, Caroline stomped her foot in frustration at her luck. To be so accosted in public was not acceptable. What if she was recognized? She turned and lifted her arms to straighten her hat, bumping directly into the unmistakable hard chest of a man.
He caught her arms reflexively when she teetered precariously from the unexpected intrusion. "I am so sorry, Madam. Are you well?"
Caroline huffed, "Unhand me, you fiend! Of all the…" She did not finish her improper exclamation for she had straightened her hat and caught a glimpse of the man who held her in his arms. He was not entirely handsome with his long nose and cleft chin, though his tall figure, black hair and green eyes were striking. She had to blink. "I do believe that I am alright now. Thank you."
He smiled kindly. He had noticed the lady's mute female companion. By his appearance he was a gentleman, he proved himself to be one when he escorted her to the front of the shop, out of harm's way. "Please accept my apology, Madam. I am afraid that I was not paying any mind to my surroundings."
Caroline said, "I must also beg your forgiveness, Sir, for the same offence."
He nodded and removed his hands from her person. Tipping his hat with a polite, "Good day to you," he stepped past her.
Caroline panicked; she might never see him again! She turned toward him, "Might I have your name, Sir?"
He stopped to look down at her. His eyebrows were raised in surprise at the slip to his manners, before he bowed and said, "Of course, where are my manners? I am Henry Monroe, at your service."
She dipped in a curtsey and offered, "Miss Caroline Bingley." Searching her mind for a conversation topic to forestall his leave-taking, she said, "It is a fine day to be out."
Mr. Monroe agreed and was intrigued by the clumsy lady Caroline portrayed. He said that he had to be about his business, though asked if he might call on her to 'assure her wellbeing'. She granted his request then gave him her direction and, after watching him continue on his way, turned to the shop with no recollection of what she needed to purchase in the first place.
AN: Sorry there was no Elizabeth in this chapter. Mr. Jenkinson is a regular Scrooge, hehe. Wonder what should become of Mrs. Jenkinson...
Love to read your comments and opinions on the storyline and where the characters are headed. Thank you all!
