I wanted to thank all of those who reviewed without logging in, since I don't know how to thank you otherwise. Your comments were very much appreciated and you are welcome to give any criticism you see fit. I also thank those who reviewed logged in (alright, I am really not good at this, am I?) and am very grateful for your support. Your reviews make my day. Well, on to the chapter then, I hope you like it.

Chapter 22: A thicket

Three days passed in silence and peace in which Mary received no news from her father. She had not asked him to write to her, but hoped he would pen her at least a short epistle in due time. She wondered what Mr. Collins had made of the sudden visit and whether he was already returning home.

She had faithfully kept her part and had written her mother three letters, all very handsome, concerning the attractions of London and the peculiar things she had seen. She wrote that her father had prolonged his stay and had joined her in town as to spare Mr. Gardiner who had already much to do at the office. She had also mentioned Mr. Toddler's numerous visits and pleasantries as to divert and indulge her puerile schemes.

To all this Mrs. Bennet had replied most heartily, giving her advice on dress and fashion and bidding her not to let her father walk in the rain, a habit which he had formed in the country and which would make him catch a cold and spoil all their entertainment.

Mary was sufficiently pleased with her replies and hoped everything would end well, for the true novelties lay here, in London. An entire week had passed since her arrival, but she felt only mere seconds had transpired, everything was rushing and she was standing still in the middle of it all. However, she was not about to complain, after all, her pride did not want it to be known she had suddenly become more partial to town. That was not acceptable.

As I mentioned before, three days had passed and neither Mr. Toddler nor Mr. Prowler had dared to call upon them. Mary felt quite secure at not having to confront either gentleman, both were quite imposing, in a different manner each. She took this opportunity and practiced more on the pianoforte.

She had told herself she would only try once, but her old passion was strong and came back with such force that she submitted entirely and every day, she spent three hours with the instrument.

Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were pleased to see her enjoy herself so, especially on rainy days when there was not much to entertain. Sometimes, they would listen to her and she would not feel as abashed as she had expected, since she could see in the minds of these people, she could guess their flaws, thus she had no reason to feel inferior, even if her playing was not proficient.

She had kept her dexterity of hands and liked to try some daring parts. The Gardiners enjoyed Italian composers thoroughly, they would not even hear of anything too ecclesiastic. She was very happy to oblige.

On the third day, however, Mrs. Gardiner received a very odd letter in small writing. You may guess, dear reader that it was from Mr. Toddler who had not given up on the idea of Mary playing to him. He had formed this notion and had nurtured it until he saw the right time to address the family. For some time the weather had been dull and so, he proposed that on the next day, which was Friday, they all reunite in a small gathering in the pretty drawing room to hear Miss Bennet. He added craftily that they had had a shipment of cloth delivered to Brazil which had brought ample profit and they should celebrate.

Mrs. Gardiner, who had suffered greatly at not having someone for dinner for so much time, was only too delighted at such a wonderful idea. This way, the improvements she had made to the room would be noticed and admired.

I suppose it is not hard to guess Mary was very much displeased with such arrangement and blushed angrily when both the Gardiners persisted in the scheme. They would not hear her refusal and obstinately insisted that her playing deserved a proper audience. Her uncle was very amused and let his wife take charge of everything and when he left his wife at her meanderings, there was no end of it. If her uncle was not the chief of the house, her aunt assumed that position and no one could disrespect her decision.

Mary was fuming when she left the dining room that evening and sulked in her room all night, being very angry with her relatives' suzerainty. She did consider now that it would have been infinitely better to visit London with her sisters and mother, for at least then, she could have done as she pleased without being noticed since all the attentions usually fell on Kitty or Lydia.

She only hoped beyond hope that only Mr. Toddler would be superfluous to their party and with that in mind she did think the task easier, for Mr. Toddler, no matter how much of a music lover he might be, was not a man of taste as she had noticed and would not complain the lack of grace in her performance which usual connoisseurs picked on.

Mr. Toddler had been less than subtle when he had proposed the gathering the very next day. It was certainly not proper to announce this only a day in advance and it would not do. But Mrs. Gardiner, while less keen that Mrs. Bennet herself, was not to be trifled with and insisted they could pull it off quite well. Surely, there was no time to arrange anything too festive and certainly, she could not perhaps prepare some lamb chops or some cherry tarts, but she would favour them with some of the pheasant which had not been eaten and excellent roasted apples with cream. She did consider that Mr. Toddler would be very pleased even so.

She only worried over the number of guests, she expected at least three to join them, but was wily enough not to mention this to Mary.

She woke up very early the next day and started preparing everything with utmost care and joy. At five in the morning she was busying herself in the kitchen and the sound of pots and pans erupted in the house. Mary woke up shortly herself, the racket was enough to keep her from shutting an eye.

'I believe your aunt shall overthrow the entire house,' spoke her uncle as he sat down for breakfast. 'She will not stop to breathe even. Poor woman, worrying herself so! Mr. Toddler is a very simple sort of man and whomever he might bring will be very fond of our drawing room, it's quite excellent, one of the prettiest in London.'

Mary kept silent, still feeling slightly vexed at their rudeness and only nodded absently. She could not yet forgive them for their boldness and decided silence was the best way to punish them.

In the afternoon she was taken to her room to be dressed and combed by Anita. She felt so embarrassed sitting in front of her dressing table with the petite girl towering over her that she felt no inclination to even raise her head and look at herself in the looking glass.

'Don't you want to see how pretty ye are?' Anita mocked from time to time.

'No, I trust you shall make me look presentable.'

Why are ye scared, Missus?'

'Who said I am?'

'Am I causin' ye distress?'

'Not at all, you can continue.'

'Ye seemed to like me better, ere.'

'It's really not important whether I like you or not.'

The maid fell silent upon hearing that retort and felt quite offended. But Mary saw she thought her place of inferiority was undeserved and that she needed to be taught a lesson. Unluckily, she had not the fortitude to administer it. Only Mr. Gardiner could put her in her place.

When Anita had finished she did look quite pretty, but the dress did not do justice to her fair complexion and only emphasised her dark circles. Her feeble waistline was not advantaged at all and the knot at her nape made her look slightly austere. Nevertheless, the entire assemble made her look pretty enough for a small gathering.

At six o' clock sharp Mr. Toddler was present with a small bouquet of daffodils at the doorstep. The yellow flowers only clashed terribly with his grey suit and made him quite a ridiculous sight, but his pleasing smiles and courteous manners added to his charm.

He was, however, accompanied by an elderly lady whom Mary had not seen before. She was already settled in the drawing room and upon seeing the pair wondered whether the lady was a relative or acquaintance of the shy man.

The woman proved to be Lady Isabel of Nordstrom, the wife of Sir Thomas of Nordstrom, a humble baronet who was not part of the elite, but felt pleased enough to have a saying in Parliament. Whilst they were not of such high station, they were quite respected in London and the man's fortune added to fifteen thousand a year which was no trifle as the Lady herself had inherited her father's lands in Dorset.

Superior to the Gardiners in wealth and position, they were not, however, so well looked upon that the Lady could not join them in their humble abode. Through some unknown cousin, Mr. Toddler and she were relatives and the gentleman had been eager to renew the acquaintance once he was aware of it. The connection had been made and since Sir Thomas was away most of the times the Lady bored to death. Mr. Toddler was an invaluable guest at times and a great entertainer, for she had the same silly, frivolous notions as he and it was a great comfort to her to have those notions reinforced. In addition, there was no other lady or gentleman who was willing to spend their Sunday evenings translating Latin sermons to her. She considered herself quite spiritual in his company and at times had seemed too friendly, but let nothing of an improper nuance be suspected; the reader must understand Mr. Toddler called her "Aunt dearie" and Lady Isabel called him "Arthur T." when she felt quite adventurous. There was an attachment of the sort that could not be frowned upon by anyone.

Mr. Toddler had meant to introduce her to the Gardiners on New Year's Eve, but the Lady had fallen ill and was not to be removed from the house, thus the chance was missed. And, one could not suspect she would attend a simple dinner party. Something of some grandness would have to be arranged for her to attend. Only then would she feel worthy and now came the opportunity to do so. She was very pleased to come since the lady she usually played bridge with was gone at the theatre.

Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner were more than honoured to receive her and bade her have the best seat in the drawing room. They were quite agitated and Mrs. Gardiner was pained to admit they would have done better with some lamb chops.

Surely, not even this gathering was of the lady's taste, she thought and the few apples would not do. She rushed lividly to the kitchen and ordered Anita to go to the baker's to see if there were more oatcakes to be found.

She was certain she would find no peace until the Lady was at least somewhat satisfied.

Lady Isabel was quite disposed to ignore the humbleness of the dinner as she sat close by the pianoforte and was attended by the men and Miss Bennet. She adored to be the centre of attention, but kept a certain distance in her speech, as not to appear too eager.

'It is a most comfortable room, I say, it's just as good as any,' she commented sniffing in her condescending manner. 'I must agree with the improvements, if only the wallpaper were lighter…I recommend, however…'

If Mrs. Gardiner had been a better observer, she would have noticed the Lady, who was at quite a respectable age, was wearing a daring assemble and her dress was unsuited for the time. Much lace and ribbons were added to her bosom and it was not a dignified appearance. Her hair was in plaits and the visible grey hairs only enhanced her old age.

Mary, however, did see all this and had much to frown at, but was polite enough to restrain herself and only pity Mr. Toddler for such unsuited acquaintance.

Lady Isabel was quite a proficient at writing handsome letters, but she played no instrument, still Mary felt quite nervous, for who knows what she would remark of her performance. Her words were cutting and inconsiderate of others.

'Had we known of your coming…but Mr. Toddler was very secretive, I cannot understand…' said Mr. Gardiner.

'Oh, he was not at all. I was not intending to come. In fact, I was sure not to come, for you know, I had planned a game of bridge with Lady Bertram and I could not sacrifice that for some new acquaintance. Unfortunately, the lady deserted me for a play at the theatre and did not consider inviting me, as well, thus I was obliged to put off the game and decided to attend. It is not well for me to dine alone.'

'Why, I…I e-encouraged her going out a bit…The theatre w-would have been too crowded…in any case,' stated Mr. Toddler.

Mary was very displeased with such impertinent reply from the lady, but her uncle was overjoyed that she thought the likeness of his great grandfather to be very clever.

At length, Anita brought coffee and tea and the cook's helper brought some ham and biscuits with butter on another plate. Soon followed the cakes, which were few in number and had to be positioned in front of Lady Isabel, so she might think the number large.

Mrs. Gardiner arrived late in the drawing room and looking quite distressed, but Lady Isabel had already talked enough to the others and did not see fit to start all over again for the sake of Mary's aunt.

As there was not much else to add, Mary was asked to sit at the pianoforte and play a bit.

'Yes, yes, it is always becoming of a lady to play. I have always admired that and I will now, if the playing is good. Mr. Toddler and I are fond of music, yes we are and we are not ashamed of it, are we?'

The lady had not noticed Mary so much, she had only limited herself at commenting her dress which she thought decent and modest for a young lady, however, since she knew nothing of the Bennets, she could only nod her head carelessly at their being mentioned.

Mary obliged them and sat on the stool, placed her fingers on the claps, took a deep breath and started a cheerful little piece by Grieg, instead of jumping forwards to anything bold. The Lady's presence made her attentive of that.

As she tried not to make any mistakes, keeping her eyes fixed on the score, she felt this was an intolerable stress and wished no one would be piercing her so with their looks.

It was worse at the Netherfield Ball, they did not even try to hide their laughs.

With this in mind, she gained more courage to heighten the sound and make the melody flow easily. Her fingers were eager to run over the claps and she was just about to look up when she heard a strange sound coming from the hall.

In just moments Anita came in with Mr. Prowler…who had arrived late.

The man looked quite wet from the rain outside.

'I am profusely apologetic for my tardiness, it was not intended, but…'

He looked up to see Mary sitting at the instrument quite baffled.

'Oh, am I interrupting something?'

She frowned and stopped playing immediately, getting up.

'Oh, but Miss Bennet, you need not stop on my account, I am sure we would all love to hear you play.'

Mrs. Gardiner immediately arranged for him to be settled nearby the lady and was overjoyed at having him there, for she considered that such a knowledgeable man as he would prove befitting for Lady Isabel.

He instantly kissed the lady's hand and bowed politely. Apparently they were well acquainted as Mr. Toddler could not dispose of his lawyer in any situation and was more than happy to have him meet his "Aunt dearie". She nodded absently, she did not much care for him or for any man with too much intellect, for that matter. He was too clever for her taste and thus her superior, something she could not stand.

Mrs. Gardiner called for more tea and placed many biscuits on his plate as he sat down between Mr. Toddler and the elderly woman.

'I was just lucky to make it, I thought the weather would not allow it.'

Mary sat at the opposite end of the room and only looked at him from time to time. She would decidedly not play anymore.

'And we are very lucky to have you, with you our party is complete,' added Mr. Gardiner. 'We were celebrating our new success with the shipment. I think it was a bold move, but necessary one. We were just a bit in the red, were we not, Mr. Toddler?'

'Q-Quite so, quite so…'

'Why, I advised him to do exactly so, myself, Sir,' said James. 'I think connections with South America are always welcome, the people there are hardworking and of great disposition. They depend on our help and humanitarianism cannot be ignored.'

'Indeed! That is also a good argument, my fellow, but well, won't you have some coffee as well?'

'I shall in due time, but will not Miss Bennet play again?' he asked.

She looked up surprised, but did not dare reply.

'Why, yes, surely she will, won't you Mary?' asked Mrs. Gardiner.

'Oh, I think I played enough.'

'Hardly, dear! And it was only stuff we do not enjoy so well, you must play more!' said Mr. Gardiner. 'Lady Nordstrom would like it immensely, isn't it so?'

'Yes, it was rude of you to interrupt yourself, do continue. A piece cannot be left like that.'

Mary would have wanted to remind her that she had been the one interrupted, but remained silent and only rose undecided.

'Come, Miss Bennet, I am sure your performance will delight us all. Do play, we entreat you,' continued Mr. Prowler and smiled at her warmly.

'There! Now you cannot refuse, Mary,' said Mrs. Gardiner.

She sighed and went to her pianoforte again, feeling much at the hand of the guests, but for some strange reason, not resenting it so much.

She felt James' eyes on her and made a silent prayer not to make any blunders so he could laugh at her expense. She would not allow that, no matter how nervous she was.

She sat down and started once again, this time with more courage and less hesitation, but was still very much focused on her playing. Her hands trembled slightly and she tried playing faster for it not to be noticed.

She paused at times and started again, but no one seemed to notice, for her playing was decidedly good, though not so graceful and artless.

When there was a longer pause on the score, she dared look up but regretted having done that. Mr. Gardiner and Mr. Toddler were engaged in a praise of the other's fortitude at having achieved a new order of linen for church, whilst Lady Isabel was showing Mrs. Gardiner her wedding ring, which was quite large and splendid as it shone in the light.

The only one watching her was Mr. Prowler and his gaze was fixed on her with such obstinacy that for a moment her hands skipped and she no longer found focus.

Noticing this, he smiled and immediately rose to assist her.

What is he up to?

He positioned himself behind her, one hand placed steadily on the pianoforte as he showed her with his fingers the portion she had skipped on the score.

'Just come from here again, Miss Bennet. You play quite well, you only need more assurance.'

She wanted to comment and turn, or simply rise and leave, but something compelled her to start again.

She thought that with him by her side she would most likely make a mistake at the first harder obstacle. She always played worse when one of her sisters stood close by to watch, not to mention her father. And then they would frown and turn away and she would feel miserable.

However, she discovered that he offered a security never achieved before.

His voice directed her from time to time, until her fingers flew freely over the claps and no one could call her playing less than equal to Georgiana's dexterity if not grace. He advised her to slacken when she was going too fast and bid her press the claps with more confidence.

She felt now quite grateful to have his support and let a small smile show on her face. He flipped the score pages for her and encouraged her further on.

The first to notice he was beside Mary was Lady Isabel who sniffed displeased and only remarked how well Miss Bennet played.

The audience was in good humour and praised Mr. Prowler for being of such useful help to a nervous young lady.

At length, the piece ended and she rose happily to receive her applause.

James clapped with the others smiling proudly at her and she felt herself blush slightly at so much attention.

'That was wonderfully done, Miss Bennet. See, our lot is useful for something, isn't it?' he asked.

'I suppose I could give you that credit,' she said laughing.

'Oh! Th-That was marvellous, Miss Bennet! S-Splendid!' Mr. Toddler added from his chair.

She went back to her seat and he was made to sit next to Mr. Toddler again, but now Mary felt quite happy and was not sad at not taking part in the conversation.

Time came for all of them to sit down for dinner and they all retired to the dining room where the meal was already waiting for them.

Mrs. Gardiner had indeed achieved more than could have been done and the pheasant was joined by a well-made stew with chicken wings. Everyone was pleased with this and, though the wine was not excellent, it was expected that the oatcake would make up for it.

Lady Isabel assumed the head of the table which did not bother anyone for no one really did occupy that place even when there were no guests. Mr. Gardiner sat at the opposite end with Mrs. Gardiner by his side, Mr. Toddler sat himself next to the Lady and so, Mr. Prowler and Mary were placed together, facing Arthur and her aunt.

Conversation soon ensued and Lady Isabel, who thought it right to talk much again, launched herself in another trivial talk of how she did find theatre so horrid and was pleased her friend had not invited her. Mr. Toddler added to this that the great playwrights had all extinguished and that this was the time of novels. His mock was evident and Mary only frowned, for many a gentleman had something against a good novel and considered it unwholesome.

'There are some good s-satires, but…that's all there is t-to it…' he said distressed.

'You seem not to think highly of prose, Mr. Toddler,' Mary spoke flustered.

'Q-quite so…I find it superfluous. Our a-age should not encourage it. It's...unnecessary in such i-immoral times.'

'Yet novels advise against immorality in the highest sense. Plays only scorn it.'

'And m-maybe it's best…to laugh upon m-misery …'

Mary said no more feeling cross enough, but Mr. Prowler turned to her amused.

'You really wanted to debate this with Arthur of all people, Miss Bennet?'

'Was it wrong of me to do so?'

'Very much so, since the gentleman could never understand you. Do not try to persuade him or advise him in any way. I can only remark my client is thick enough to refuse all such good intentions,' he said so only he could hear her.

She almost laughed in shock at his audacity, but restrained herself and only smiled amused.

'I see you do not think well of him.'

'Ah, those eyes never fail you, do they?'

'Jest while you can, but your bread still depends on Mr. Toddler.'

'My bread! For Heaven's Sake! There are so many like Arthur that I would have too many loaves of bread.'

'And this you consider advantageous!' she said chuckling.

'Why ever not? Sir Adam Smith said one should pursue one's own interests in order to contribute to the welfare of all. And that is what I am doing, pursuing my interests. If there are more like him, I am happier.'

Mrs. Gardiner heard Mary laugh and turned her head surprised when she remarked her niece was doing just so.

'What, pray, is the amusement? Do let us know.'

'We were just considering how dull the people who will attend theatre tonight will be, for they have missed such charming dinner,' he said.

'How truthful indeed!' added Lady Isabel. 'Right you said, quite a dull pack. Why, I wouldn't have accepted the invitation for anything. I almost wish she had invited me so I could have refused her.'

James chuckled and smiled at Mary, nodding his head towards Lady Isabel.

'She is always present at theatre whenever there are sentimental plays. She enjoys those thoroughly. And the same goes for Mr. Toddler,' he added.

'How predictable! Yet, Mr. Toddler going to such plays is a surprise, I did not see him as quite a man to be attracted to such things…' she said quietly.

'Well, he did take you out in his carriage, did he not? I believe that was the height of his sentimentalism,' he said cynically.

'It was not as pleasant as you considered. It was quite dull and I did not have the opportunity to walk, I actually felt more tired when I came back. His skills at conversing were not sharp, either.'

'I see. I always do consider walks in carriages to be quite stupid when there is so much to see. Well then, it must be made up for it. You have wasted precious time from your study. That is quite unacceptable.'

'What do you propose then, Sir?' she asked amused, curious to see where this tirade was going.

'Might I suggest you repeat the walk, but without the company of the esteemed Arthur Toddler who tires you so? In fact, I believe you have not seen the parks, perhaps you might like to see a bit of the old country you left behind.'

'Oh, charming idea, I shall wonder alone in the parks, shan't I?' she asked.

'That would be quite dangerous to attempt. Fear not, no one would be tempted to try anything too risky, Miss Bennet. Let us say you are not such a tantalizing victim, but you do look well-off financially for a young lady and thieves only want this much.'

'Then I should appear destitute,' she said cynically.

'Your clever solutions never fail to amaze me, Miss Bennet, but I was rather suggesting you might like to be accompanied by my own person. Lawyers are most dreaded in London and whilst one might think they are in the gravest danger it is quite the opposite.'

'How fortunate for you…' she said slightly embarrassed. 'It would please me to see the parks.'

He smiled and established he would come the morrow to take her on the deserved walk.

After that, nothing else important was said between them as they both attempted to join the conversation around them.

The evening ended quite well with a cards game between the men whilst Mary waited patiently on the ladies and entertained them with stories from her sister's wedding which were fresh to Lady Isabel and quite well received, for her daughter had married some time ago and she could comment on the extended number of guests and rooms she had had.

There was a certain degree of comfortableness in Mary's speech to make her nonplussed at every rude reply the lady might give, which only provoked the lady to give more.

'Your sister married at just eighteen? Hm! Quite a bit early for good sort of people. My Cecily decided to establish herself at six and twenty. It was much better this way, you see, for, whilst she could have married even at your sister's age it would have obliged her to marry perhaps below her limits and this way she waited for the best match.'

'It is all well, but Catherine had found the best match for her, the feelings were mutual, nothing lacked to please, it was decided not to wait with a long engagement, for the Colonel is slightly older.'

'Cecily was united with Lord Hutchinson who was only thirty at the time, quite agreeable, don't you think?'

'Very much so…'

It was decided that Mary found her quite insipid and wished nothing more than to see the evening to an end, but the lady brought to discussion a subject which aroused her aunt's interest.

'I always take care to give a Ball for Sir Thomas' birthday. I find it quite enjoyable, though he would not admit it. He does not like crowds, but he likes showers of presents and all good wishes. He is quite fond of cake as well, so I would not be surprised if I considered one this year too. Only, we have aged, though it's not apparent in looks and who would come to assist us, when youths all enjoy outings of a different kind? But I am bent on gathering at least a few friends.'

'Oh! Lady Nordstrom, you speak quite unjustly! We are of old age as well and even Mary, as a youth, would highly enjoy such a feast, I am sure!'

'Oh, well then, I suppose I could invite you, it would be most becoming and it would show gratitude for the dinner,' she said slightly reluctant.

'It would give us immense pleasure,' said Mrs. Gardiner.

'I am certain, I always think it should. I did not consider inviting you, for we are not so well acquainted, but I can, now that I have attended your dinner. It can be considered proper. I think I will, if Sir Thomas agrees and there are enough seats. You will be welcome, for sure.'

Mary felt very much embarrassed by this speech and wished she could refuse such impolite self-invitation, but remained quiet, being in too good a disposition to be too vexed.

It was not long before the evening drew to an end and all the guests departed, but Mrs. Gardiner had secured a formidable acquaintance and did not have anything to feel displeased with, not even if her dinner had not been up to standard.

Mary was quite happy too as she went to bed, but the causes of that were very blurry in her mind and she did not wish to examine them.

The clock chimed four the next day as she sat in the parlour once again, this time alone. Looking back on the evening she found it to be a success in matters of her performance and, while Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner had not praised her enough to feel proud, she knew they had liked it all the same.

When she had told her aunt of her plans of a walk through the park with Mr. Prowler, Mrs. Gardiner proposed Mr. Gardiner joined them, but her uncle excused himself as he had to go into town for some urgent calls, yet manifested his strong conviction that his niece had nothing to fear in the company of such a dignified gentleman as he was.

Mrs. Gardiner once again submitted to her husband's wish after some feeble opposing and only minded them to return should the weather be bad.

You might wonder, dear reader, why Mrs. Gardiner was so averse to this walk. I will tell you. It was her secret wish to have Arthur Toddler become friendly with Miss Bennet on account of his good situation and admirable manners. She fretted that Arthur might hear Mary had gone on a walk with another gentleman and give up on his attempt of becoming closer to her niece. In fact, she had much wished Mary could have taken this walk with her husband's partner, but seeing as it was not possible, only hoped that Mary would join the family at Sir Thomas' birthday where Arthur would faithfully be and she could perhaps persuade them to have a dance together. She settled this in her mind and felt safe for a while having such scheme already formed.

All this Mary did not suspect as she sat peacefully in the parlour, but her peace did not last for long, because in a short while Mr. Prowler arrived to call on her. He arrived so soon that she had no time to appear more poised, but he only bid her make haste, saving her from further embarrassment.

'Well, then, I am surprised to see you are not ready, Miss Bennet. Quite unacceptable, I shall expect you to put your bonnet very quickly.'

Their journey towards the park was a constant tirade of how she took so much time going out and how he, in fact, had come too early. Neither managed to provoke the other too much and they both ended up agreeing with the thing they had objected against.

'I see there's no end to our battle, but I shall not resign. There is ample time to regain complete victory,' he told her.

'Barely…when one is already sunk, one can only sunk deeper.'

'How witty of you indeed! I believe you have inherited this perfect pessimism from your wonderful relatives. But do not be too hard on yourself, if you do sink, Miss Bennet, at least you'll have some comfort that your adversary shall be up and smiling gleefully at you. At least you'll have the dignity of sinking under my look.'

'Only then shall I be thoroughly satisfied…' she said cynically.

After a lengthy walk they arrived in St James' Park and delighted in seeing such beauty before them in the shape of many colourful flowers and silver birds swishing through the air.

The lake offered a magnificent view and Mary was keen on seeing it from a closer ground. She felt like a small child again in front of all these green fields.

She spotted with utter delight a small group of pelicans on the banks and could not help exclaiming.

'Well, how odd indeed!'

'Yes, the park is famed for such species,' said Mr. Prowler. 'I see you are enjoying such novelties, Miss Bennet.'

'You cannot blame me. I would like to have a house here, next to this lake, it would be very pleasant.'

'Unfortunately, not even the Queen can have that so do not bother with such wishes. Better yet, let me show you some slopes which I favour in the winter. When I was a child it was great amusement to glide there and in the spring we had running contests with my classmates.'

She kneeled to every flower and every bush and inspected it thoroughly, smelling all that could be smelled and upon rising would be laughed at by James for having pollen left on the tip of her nose.

She would try to wipe it away but it would only become brighter on her nose. He offered his handkerchief at length, seeing as she was completely helpless.

'Well, you could have done so first, instead of mocking me, Sir.'

'And miss such great amusement? Why, not for the world,' he said laughing.

She only scoffed and turned her head annoyed, but she would regain her good humour and smile at him once more. She was very grateful for this walk and would not spoil it with exaggerate prudishness.

'Well, here is where I once attempted to be brave and broke my leg,' he said pointing at a slope which led to a thicket of bushes.

'Some years ago, there used to be some small trees on that side and my sledge took a wild turn there…well I'll not get into any gruesome details, but I held quite a grudge to this place when my classmates started mocking me about it.'

'I see then, that physical exercise can lead to mental scars as well. I must say, I almost feel lucky to know the only exercise I do is walking.'

'That is nothing to feel proud of; you ought to try horse riding too, for your health, of course and running…running can be wonderful in empty fields.'

'I cannot even jump a thicket, as my sister puts is so well sometimes and you wish me to run wild on the fields, preferably on horseback?' she asked amused.

He looked at her surprised. 'You really cannot jump a thicket?'

'I have never tried it before and I don't intend to…'

'Your childhood was spent inside in the company of books, wasn't it Miss Bennet?'

'And if it was so, I do not see anything against it,' she replied flustered.

'Come,' he said and took her hand suddenly as he rushed her towards the top of the slope.

'What are you doing? Let go!' she howled from behind.

'Come here! Now…look down.'

She looked and saw the park lying in front of her in such beauty that she could not help gasping.

'It's beautiful,' she said turning towards him.

'No, no, silly Miss Bennet. Look down. See?'

She looked again and indeed at the foot of the slope was the thicket.

'That's a good one down there. Now, today you will jump it, Miss Bennet.'

'I beg your pardon?' she asked scandalized.

He smiled and let go of her hand which she had not realised was still in his.

'Come now, you must want to…'

'Not at all! Are you implying I should run down this slope and simply jump?'

'Could there be anything easier?'

'Not for the world, Sir! How dangerous and improper…people might see.'

'Then let them see, who cares? I do not, you should not either. Do not let others stand in the way of your happiness.'

'My happiness would be to go down…really I have no wish…'

'It is such a good chance, you can not walk away from it!'

'Oh yes I can! Nothing would tempt me…'

'Well,' started James faking disappointment, 'if you cannot do it…I suppose I should let you go down.'

'What do you mean?' she asked annoyed.

'I suppose your sister was right then…if you are not capable…then it cannot be helped, some people shall always be weak of foot.'

'It is nothing of that sort, I simply…'

'Oh, then you must be terribly afraid, Miss Bennet, aren't you? I cannot blame you. After all, you are a female and females do tend to shrink from such demanding tasks.'

Her anger flared up and she looked at him defiantly.

'Female!? Demanding task? Ha! Out of my way!'

James smiled pleased and left room for her to prepare.

She straightened the folds of her dress and put up her hair in a very decided manner as she looked down at the thicket.

What did I get myself into? Oh, stupid pride!

She gulped, but thought Mr. Prowler would consider her more of a coward for not abiding by her decision.

Thus she braced herself and without thinking, started running blindly towards the thicket like mad.

The air blew in her ears as she departed and she felt her knees weaken.

No, I cannot do it!

She disappointedly stopped half way and almost crashed to the ground angrily.

James ran to her, laughing good-humouredly.

'Was that a try, Miss Bennet? It was quite shameful! Come, let us do it again.'

'No, I cannot…'

'Well, of course you couldn't. The dress was in your way. You need to hold your folds and keep your head up and…'

'I don't think I should try again…'

'Oh, enough of that! This time you will do it, I will run with you.'

She looked up. 'You will?'

He grinned and grasped her hand pulling her up again. As they reached the top he gave her the appropriate instructions for the task to be successful.

'If you want to do this properly you must be well prepared. Now, are you ready?' he said whilst standing next to her. 'I will run with you and we will both jump, alright?'

She nodded looking down absently, but her fists were clenched on her folds determinedly.

'Good then. Get ready. One, two, three, go!'

They both dashed forwards as if a villainous creature was trailing behind them and Mary listened to his advice holding her head up as she saw the thicket approaching.

They ran like hares over the fields as the birds soared in the sky and the ladies nearby exclaimed at the profanities of "the two youths".

Some children next to the lake joined them immediately, sensing an opportunity for a race and their squeals could be heard from afar.

She skipped over rocks and grass, she felt she was flying above ground and it felt so extraordinary that she couldn't help laughing with her entire being.

However, as she saw the obstacle approaching she lost some of her courage.

'The thicket, it's coming!' she yelled towards James.

'Yes, like I said, use your knees well, bring them to your chest as you jump, then land with them! Just let yourself go, the running will give you speed!'

'I don't think I can do it!'

'Yes you can, do not give up!'

'What if I break my neck?'

'Here! Take my hand!'

She did not have time to argue and almost crushed his fingers under her grip.

'We'll jump at the same time, alright?'

'What if we fail?'

'That word does not exist!' he yelled smiling at her. 'Here it comes, hold tight!'

She closed her eyes and pulled her body in the air just when James jumped and she felt the sun under her eyes, the world was turning upside down as she drew her knees to her chest and felt the branches touch her dress.

'Pull down your knees!' he yelled at her.

She did so too late and fell on the ground on the other side, though having succeeded in saving herself from any injury.

She opened her eyes and saw green in front of her. The lake was some miles away, glistening in the sun. Looking on her left she apprehended his figure, sprawled next to her, for she had dragged him on the ground with her. She felt very embarrassed, but as they both lay on the grass, mere feet away, he smiled at her.

'You just jumped a thicket, Miss Bennet.'

'So I did.'

Some time passed before he spoke.

'We should probably get up, we've had enough gossip on our account for one day.'

She blushed embarrassed and rose promptly, looking around suspiciously.

'We've been quite a scandal,' he said laughing. 'Who would dare to run in public like that!'

'Well, it was your fault, not mine,' said Mary flustered.

'Ah, mature as always…'

He gave her his hand and they both walked up once more as if nothing had happened. Her dress was quite dishevelled, not to mention her hair, but she had to admit it had been a wonderful run. She tried straightening her folds, but these actions produced even more reaction from the people walking by.

Ladies and gentlemen passing them gave them strange looks, their attire being quite prone to suspicions. Mary huffed, annoyed.

'Well! People will think anything, these days!'

'And why should you care? It's more amusing to let them think anything, Miss Bennet.'

She half-frowned at him, but shared his view that it was quite amusing to be the talk of all elderly ladies feeding pigeons there. She only hoped not to meet any acquaintance. That would be quite vexing.

As she watched the sun almost falling in the lake she smiled.

'And what, pray, brings this pleasant yet amazing change in your countenance?'

She turned to him, keeping her smile.

'I jumped a thicket.'

Now, I know this does not seem really proper, people running like that, but this is more of a bildungsroman and I want Mary to really evolve into someone even more daring than Lizzie, yet still demure and accomplished as any ambitious young woman. I am aware that in the nineteenth century this seems quite bold, but I consider Mary to be of a new kind, to break the old barriers and to try to be more independent, not an outcast, but clearly different. It sounds more like Charlotte Bronte, but I did not plan on imitating Jane Austen completely (which is impossible anyway:) ) This is a bit of my style, I hope it's not too overdone or tacky. If you find it quite bothersome, I apologise in advance and encourage you to give me tips as not to stray from the proprieties of the era.