Author's Note: As always, these characters are not mine, I do not own them etc. Please enjoy this, I did one hell of a lot of research for it and this is about as close to historically accurate as possible. Please let me know what you think: all feedback is welcome xxx
Turned and Tossed and Stretched
Sunday 13th March 1814
6.02am
Rosings, Kent: Morning Room
Jameson strode purposefully toward her ladyship, carefully supporting the silverware that supported the papers, "Ma'am."
Lady Catherine glanced at her letters as the carrier placed them beside her and looked away almost as soon as she had laid eyes on them. Just as rapidly, however, did she register the messy script of her nephew, "Messy?" She said to herself: "Fitzwilliam is nothing if not thoughtful, especially in his correspondence." Picking up the thin sheet of paper she noticed the mark of an express, and tore it open as if she had no more control of her curiosity than a child.
Aunt,
I suspect that by the time you have received this, Elizabeth and I shall be parents.
Darcy
There was quite a commotion amongst the household when Lady Catherine dropped the letter and demanded assistance.
Gracechurch Street, London: Front Hall
"Mamma, what are we doing?" The confused and tired voices of the children chimed as they were bustled into their coats and herded into the carriage, with the severe warning not to forget the presents for their new cousin.
"We're going to see a baby!" Kate squealed, jumping up and down and looking to her parents for confirmation. Mrs Gardiner shoved shoes onto the feet of her youngest boy and sighed.
"Yes, my dears."
"Not just any baby children, but your new cousin, who according to Darcy should be here by now!" Mr Gardiner could not help a smile of delight cross his features as he thought of his niece.
"Madam, please be sure and tell the Mrs Lizzy and her husband we're glad to hear the news!" Mrs Gardiner nodded her assurance and helped her children into the carriage, counting the seconds until she could see the little thing that had caused its parents so much grief only a few months before.
Shugborough, Staffordshire: breakfast room
"My dear, quickly, we are to go to Pemberley immediately!" Alexander Fitzwilliam looked up at his wife and saw such delight in her face as she had not seen since the birth of her last grandchild.
"Was that a letter from Darcy, then?" He asked expectantly.
"Indeed it was! I have ordered the children to ready themselves and we are leaving even within this hour."
"Within the hour, my dear, you cannot expect –"
"Yes, I demand it, in fact." She made to leave the room and then turned back to her husband, "you will prepare yourself."
Loseley Park, Surrey: Drawing Room
Miss Bingleywondered greatly at the reason behind such commotion in the morning: servants darting up and down stairs with trunks, clothing, shoes, books, shawls and articles for Lawrence. "My dear sister," said Caroline softly as she sat opposite Mrs Hurst on a chair, "what is the reason for all this?"
Mrs Hurst looked at Miss Bingley carefully. "The Darcys have had their baby and we are leaving for Pemberley." The following hour was spent by Miss Bingley in her closets, as she tried to arrange the outfit that would best show off her decidedly slim figure.
Leighton Hall, Lancashire: driveway
Suzanne and David Leighton sat ungracefully in their carriage, their sleeping young boys completely unaware that they had recently been taken from a warm bed and hightailed into a long and laborious journey. The only thing that kept Suzanne from falling into a deep sleep, as her husband did, was the paper clutched in her hand from her cousin:
Dearest Suzanne,
I know not what to do with myself as I wait downstairs for Elizabeth to give birth. Please come to Pemberley,
Darcy
Pemberley Master Rooms
6.05am
"What do we do with him now, Fitzwilliam?" Elizabeth asked again, her pulse beginning to race as she, needlessly, panicked about her son.
Darcy, too, worried about her question: what would they do with him? He assumed she had known! He knew she would feed the baby at least, but now that the thought occurred to him, he knew not what to do with a child beyond teaching him how to ride and shoot and fish. At a loss for what to say, he sat beside Lizzy: his arm around her and kissed her in an attempt both to calm and distract her.
Unfortunately, it was in vain. "William, do you not think it strange that throughout my term, neither of us thought of how to take care of a baby?"
"Well, I did consider it." He stood again and paced, "I assumed you knew –"
"Why would you assume so? I had to carry the baby, I had to give birth and now I am supposed to know everything?" She looked at him, her expression full of anger and exhaustion. "I think not."
"Then you assumed I would do everything. I am most certainly not expecting you to know all of it, but . . . Lizzy . . ." He sat, rubbed his eyes and ran his hands through his hair. "Perhaps this is not the best time. Perhaps we should move with caution."
"Yes," She answered, trying to overcome the suddenly loud cries of her baby, "Ssh . . . don't cry."
Darcy watched her silently as desperately she tried to rock the screaming babe to sleep: she changed his position in her arms; she removed his blanket to cool him and then wrapped him more tightly to warm him. With each change, there was none in the baby and she started to cry. "Lizzy . . ."
"I don't know what to do . . . I could always calm my sisters . . . and my cousins . . ." She leant into his arms and gave in to her hysterics. "What does he want? I don't understand . . ."
Darcy couldn't believe his ears: he had never seen her so distressed, even when she was expecting, until it came to mind that she was sleep-deprived, sore and nervous. "Elizabeth, look at me." He said, sitting in front of her so that she could see him. "You must calm yourself."
"How can I be calm? He –"
"He will wait." Darcy took her hands and kissed her gently on the cheek, keeping his face to hers for a moment, enjoying the feel of her skin. "You are exhausted, naturally. Your mind is tired, too. Give it time, Elizabeth. I am as much in love with you as ever and if we do not know what to do, at least we will be ignorant together."
She laughed through her tears and kissed him, allowing him to dry her tears. Five minutes or so were spent in such a manner and both parents had almost forgotten the cries of their son until he pulled at his mother's hair. "Ow!"
"It cannot have been that hard." His wife shot him a warning look and untangled her hair from the tiny hand. Almost as soon as he had done so, however, he pushed his arm out and hit her chest, hard. Lizzy closed her eyes in pain whilst trying desperately to contain her son's wild movements. "Let me." Darcy went to take his son, but she stopped him.
"No, wait." Darcy stood back. Lizzy unbuttoned her gown, and brought her son to her breast. Immediately, he was silenced.
"See," she smiled now, "he was hungry." Darcy laughed, his infectious chuckles spreading to Elizabeth.
"Now," Darcy said, his voice taking on a more serious tone, "what shall we call him?" Lizzy sighed, furrowed her brow and thought. "Traditionally, the son should take his mother's maiden name."
Elizabeth only groaned, "Only if the mother's family is of some importance in society. You need not be forced to take it."
"How can you think so? I would be honoured, my dear, do not pretend to know otherwise." He brushed away some curls from his son's face, "You do not want to call him Bennet?"
"'Tis not that, but it is an unusual name. Would you not rather he is named after you?"
"Not particularly. I think Bennet would suit him, but we certainly have several family names from which to choose . . . let me think . . ."
"William, Edward, Thomas, Bennet, James, Richard, Montgomery, Alexander, Henry, Robert . . . and I think that is all." Darcy started at her memory after such a time, but considered the suggested names. "Perhaps William, we should just use all of them."
He looked at her, horrified, and then said: "You are sleep deprived." Lizzy laughed at him and turned back to her suckling son. "Thomas Edward Darcy?"
"Mmm . . ." She sighed, unconvinced. "William Edward?"
"Edward Bennet sounds better."
"In what way does it sound better?" She noted the dissatisfied look on his face. "Henry Bennet then, has a nice smooth sound."
"Henry Alexander, after my uncle, is a good solid name."
"What about Alexander Robert?"
"Robert Richard?"
"Don't be ridiculous Fitzwilliam. Richard Montgomery?"
And so they passed their evening: several hundred name combinations were gone through to the point where both parents thought of naming him simply Baby Darcy. Eventually however, one name in particular was mentioned by both each time, and on that name, along with one more, they settled.
Monday 14th March 1814
5.50am
Finally, everything was silent. Soft, repetitive breathing and intermittent comments from a woman who talked in her sleep was all that could be heard. Fitzwilliam Darcy had never been as happy as he was now; in his bed withhis wife in his arms and his son sleeping quietly in his cradle. He may have been forced to sleep in the nursery, but the warm mattress of the bed there was perfect for them both. Waking slightly when his wife spoke his name, he kissed her and then dosed carelessly back to sleep, the events of the previous days naught but a memory.
Elizabethwondered whom it was that had discovered that silence was golden, and then concluded that he need not have been a smart man, only an observant one, and whomsoever it may have been she was a dedicated admirer. Only six and twenty hours ago she had been in full labour and now the product of such an ordeal was swaddled in clean, white muslin and lying in a cradle which was draped in lace and silk. Even with such an output, she knew she wanted a long wait before introducing her son to his sibling. Fitzwilliam agreed. She knew she could never refuse him another child if he wanted it sooner, but each agreed to enjoy their first child and let him grow to be old enough to play affectionately with his brother or sister when they came along. As if he knew he was the subject of his mother's subconscious thoughts, the babe began to fuss and whimper. Elizabeth expected to feel reluctant to rise and see to her son, and whilst the desire to sleep weighed heavily on her body, she also felt great anticipation and excitement when she thought of holding him. "Hush my darling." She whispered as she sat with him in the chair by the window. Nursing in front of such a splendid view, she could think of nothing she wanted to do more.
At length she knew she had seen something in the distance, but had dismissed it as a result of her imagination suffering from fatigue. A cloud of dust was steadily moving towards Pemberley from several miles away. "Fitzwilliam, I think those letters you sent by express have acted as an invitation."
Darcy mumbled from his pillow, "Indeed, no. Our family would never come without notice."
Lizzy made to protest but saw that argument was futile when he wanted to sleep, and he had been soworried andtired, that she could not find it within her heart to disturb him any more. Nevertheless, much as she had predicted, the cloud soon morphed into the Fitzwilliamscarriage. In fact, as it drew nearer she could decipher several vehicles and her heart sank. "What are they thinking bringing the entire family here when neither of us is in a position to entertain?" She said to herself. Elizabeth deliberated whether or not to inform her husband, but the moment she decided against it, such a cacophony of voices, rumblings, crashes and bangs arose from the front steps that her sleeping partner was conveniently disturbed.
"Oh good god, please tell me that is our son."
"The Fitzwilliams have arrived."
6.05am
Darcy stormed outside, hastily dressed, towards his family and as he got closer, he could discern each relative from the chaos: matronly Lady Eleanor and proud Cousin Victoria, one carrying the children from the carriage and trying in vain to arrange them, the other replacing her eldest daughter's hair despite the fact that they were far more appropriately dressed than anyone at Pemberley; ancestral Lord Alexander (or Uncle Alex, as Georgiana affectionately called him) and compassionate Cousin Richard dealing with his exasperated servants and exhausted housekeeper. Only Colonel Fitzwilliam looked discomfited at their arrival.
"William!" His Aunt cried, setting down her granddaughter and rushing over to embrace him. She stopped when she saw his expression, "now, William, you should not be angry –"
"I should not be angry?"
"Calm yourself, Darcy." Richard's voice boomed across the lawn. His cousin looked to have aged considerably although their abrupt arrival may have been the cause of some remarkable damage to his countenance. "Well and how is your wife?"
Darcy looked up. His Aunt, Uncle and cousins were staring at him expectantly, waiting for some news. Even the young children were silent and hopeful. "I . . ."
"Oh do hurry up." Emma pleaded, as the eldest and therefore the voice of the younger children. She was wrapped tightly in fur and moving from side to side to keep herself warm.
"Yes, yes of course." He smiled and patted his cousins shoulder, smiling. "Elizabeth and I have a son." As he led his proud and now gleeful family inside he nodded to Lizzy, and saw her wave back, though not entirely enthusiastically and he wore an apologetic look on his face as he returned to her to tell her the news.
"My darling," She said, laying the baby into his crib, "If such an Exodus to Pemberley is the reaction of one part of the family, then you had better inform Mrs Reynolds that she should prepare rooms for the Gardiners, your younger cousin Suzanne and her husband and sons, the Hursts," Darcy sighed and hanged his head, "and most likely Lady Catherine and therefore Mr Collins and Charlotte."
Her husband sat dejectedly in an armchair. "Let's go to Longbourn."
10am
Elizabeth sat upright in her bed. She had been dressing herself for the better part of the morning and had to admit that if consideration was taken to remember her recent ordeal, then her appearance would be quite pleasant. Her Abigail had set some of her hair back and tied it with ribbon, she was wearing a soft dressing gown and the pillows were perfectly placed, so as to allow her to remain upright with no effort on her part at all. Her son was awake, and lay next to her; in a shawl sewn by his mother while she was confined. He gurgled and babbled to her, gripping her finger as she waited to receive her guests and introduce him to his extended family.
"My dearest son." she said gently. "Remember how much they adore you." She smiled at her baby and ran her fingers through his wild hair, "Just make adorable noises and try to fall asleep." Her warning was interrupted however, when the doors parted and the whole county of Derbyshire and London, it seemed, ran to her side.
"Elizabeth?" Lady Eleanor headed the party, "and how are you? You look very well!" Lizzy made to respond, but, seeing that partaking in the conversation was entirely pointless, she settled for the comfort of at least knowing the Colonel and receiving a kiss on her hand from him. "The young man . . . oh he is like his father; very handsome!"
"So much hair on his head," Victoria cried, leaning over him as his Aunt cradled him. "Yes, he will be quite the gentleman."
Darcy offered tea and coffee to his guests and sat next to wife, pouring her a cup. "Thank you, darling." As the family cooed over the child, Elizabeth spoke: "How long have you been travelling?"
"Well, my dear," Boomed Lord Alexander, "Almost as soon as your Aunt received Darcy's express we were packed and on our merry way here." Elizabeth looked ungratefully at her husband. "And how happy we are to be here; you keep a very tight ship here, Mrs Darcy."
His wife scoffed, "Oh for goodness sake, Alexander. We are not here to comment on the staff. You might have praised Elizabeth on her skill: I am surprised that a child born so early survived at all."
The looks on Lizzy and Darcy's faces showed to all that this thought had crossed their minds several times, and they were displeased at it being mentioned aloud as they dispelled any negative thoughts about their son completely. Darcy spoke: "Aunt, whilst I will not deny that such a thing could have happened, it has not. To that end, I would ask you not mention it again." The timbre of his voice let the lady know that on this issue at least he would not be moved.
"Well," said Richard quickly, searching for some genial topic of conversation, "Elizabeth you could have fired all the staff, for who would notice aught but the babe in the room?" Richard laughed and turned gratefully towards the noise at the door as the rest of the household greeted the Fitzwilliams: Georgiana was particularly excited to see her Aunt and Uncle and partake in heightened discussions about her new nephew with her cousins. Once settled, however, Mr Bennet breached an interesting topic.
"Lizzy, you have not told us the name!"
"Oh yes!" Mrs Bennet exclaimed. "Do tell us, what are we to call him?" The faces of the family were now entirely focused on their hosts and the tension in the room was palpable enough that one could taste it.
Darcy and Lizzy exchanged knowing looks and the lady replied: "Mamma, we shall reveal the name at his christening."
The ladies looked suspicious and Georgiana voiced their collective thoughts as she poured tea for her sisters. "You have not chosen one?"
Darcy was prevented from explaining that a name had been selected as his family members shouted out possible choices. "He could be named after me." Declared Uncle Alexander, as he watched Mrs Bingley hold the babe.
"There are many men in this family after whom he could be named." Kitty said, in a subtle attempt to defend her father.
"Oh indeed, they have so many that several could be used." Jane thought aloud, dripping with pride as she cradled the tiny infant, her thoughts consumed with him.
"Remind me again, Victoria, what are they . . ?" Lady Eleanor began. Elizabeth had just about had enough of so many people in the room, especially considering not one of them, excepting herself and her husband, had noticed their son was crying.
"I think that shall do to be getting along with." Darcy stood and lifted his son from Jane, placing him in Elizabeth's arms and motioning to the door through which it was clear he wanted them to leave. "My wife and my son, you must understand, are exhausted."
Mrs Bennetwas slightly affronted at being forced from her daughter's presence, as she had not been in the room that long and had genuinely enjoyed the time with her daughter. She dealt with her annoyance in her usual petulant manner however, making it obvious that her behaviour would not change without some superior influence. Lady Eleanor noted the lady's demeanour and her daughter's, upon hearing the old woman's complaints. "You are only tired because you will not use a wetnurse, Elizabeth. You must consider the feelings of your guests, sometimes, my dear."
Mr Darcy quickly guided her out of the room, saying: "Mrs Bennet, the hiring or rather non-hiring of a wetnurse was never a debate between my wife and I. Elizabeth shall always nurse her own children, just as she has carried them. We thank you for your concern, though, madam." And he shut the door behind them.
10.30am
"Elizabeth, go to sleep." Darcy said, lightly running his finger from her forehead, her cheeks, her neck and her arms until he held her hand.
"What about –" She began to get up again.
"He does not need to be fed for another three hours, I shall calm him." She looked reluctant to let him do so. "Elizabeth, do you not trust me?"
"That is unfair, Fitzwilliam, you know I do. But I thought you didn't know how to care for a baby?"
He gently laid her down again, kissing her lips, "Tell me then. If he fusses, tell me what I am to do."
As she spoke, her voice became quieter and quieter. "Make sure his Napkin is dry and if it is . . ." he smiled when she yawned, "then you should rock him in his cradle, don't pick him up . . . if it is not dry . . ." In due course, she was asleep.
Once he had obtained word that their guests were either sleeping off their journey in their rooms or being attended to by Georgiana and Bingley, he settled in between the cradle and the bed to read. Several times, his son girned and he moved the cot back and forth with his foot until he was silent again. But his son did not seem placated by this, and began to cry quite violently.
"Ssh, you'll wake your mother." He said in a loud whisper, leaning over the cradle with minor panic in his voice. As he looked at the small figure, it looked back at him at shouted once, twice, three times before Darcy was so frightened Lizzy would wake up that he picked up the bundle.
Checking the Napkin, which was dry, he then bounced the baby gently back and forward. "My son," he whispered, not knowing what else to say. He watched him closely, expecting him to squirm. He did not, but stared back just as closely. "You are the handsomest of our family, I think." Then, in a gesture at which both Elizabeth and Darcy would laugh later, the little head turned towards its mother and shouted again. To Darcy, it seemed to say what about Mamma? "Yes," he laughed, "You are right. She is the handsomest and she will thank you for remembering that."
Darcy walked silently back to his chair, holding his son and carefully explained the estate to his son in want of a more appropriate lesson. When Elizabeth began to wake, she saw her husband doing exactly what he was asked not to do, but she could not be angry: Darcy's large figure, and their son's tiny one made for a loveable picture.
Then she heard him describing how to manage the Stables effectively. "Fitzwilliam," She said tiredly, "I think you might have to explain it to him again, for he will not remember." Darcy smiled and directed his son's attention to his mother.
"Tell mamma how important it is to start teaching your child early." Lizzy laughed when the baby stuck out his tongue.
Sunday 27th March 1814
7am
Upon hearing of the arrival of the Fitzwilliams and then later the Gardiners and Suzanne and David Leighton, Georgiana Darcy remarked to her brother that Pemberley had not seen such a volume of guests in its lifetime. Darcy agreed, but did not think on it with the delight of his sister. Elizabeth, though energetic, could not deny that childbirth was an arduous experience and she found that she could sleep for much longer than she had done even whilst carrying the baby. On the other hand, he could see that having family here and an endless stream of companions and surrogate nannies was a great comfort for Lizzy, and of this he informed her.
"Of course I enjoy having family here, my dear. I think it is the first time they have all been here." Darcy watched his wife gently dress herself; brushing her hair and simultaneously rocking the cradle in which her son slept. "But," she paused and he knelt in front of her, "I do so wish I could join them." She looked at him hopefully.
"What is it? You want to come down to the drawing room? Well, I don't see why not-"
"No." Elizabeth butt in. "Not quite, dearest. I would wish . . . I should so much like to join the party for the evening. I feel quite well enough."
Darcy returned her gaze. In all good conscience, he could not refuse her wish. She was perfectly well enough to be with her family and desperate for some intellectual company beyond just her husband. It was not as if she was asking to attend a social function. Conversely, he was not sure he could trust his own opinion; Lizzy could persuade him quite easily with no evidence to support her argument. "Alright," he said at length, sitting on the edge of the bed, "You most certainly can join the party for the evening."
"Thank you." She rose and kissed him soundly as she sat on his lap, pressing her lips against his softly, as they wrapped their arms around each other.
"But," he said, pulling reluctantly from her, "I insist the midwife checks you first." Elizabeth sighed impatiently, but relented, understanding his reasons.
6pm
"Was it my imagination, or did anyone else notice Lizzy's maid carry that gown into her rooms this evening?" Kitty inquired to her sisters.
"I did Kitty. A beautiful deep red one, I was there when she bought it in London. A muslin gown and I believe she wanted to put clips in her hair when she wore it." Georgiana saw Kitty's eyes light up at he elder sister's grandeur and she continued. "I believe she said she wanted to wear it at her first social occasion after the baby was born."
Mary said: "Do you think she shall join us for a spell then?"
"I am not sure." Georgiana asked Suzanne her opinion.
"I think she should enjoy some company. It would not surprise me if she joined us. After all, we are all family."
"And I," Mrs Gardiner said withvoice full of anticipation, "Elizabeth has never been one to absent herself from company for any longer than is necessary." Kitty smiled at her words and entertained the group with several recollections of her sister's impatience overtaking her concern for her health.
During one particularly superfluous moment, Mr and Mrs Darcy entered the room: the latter leaning affectionately on the arm of the former. At length, Lizzy spoke: "Kitty that is an entirely unfair depiction of that tale." Kitty laughed at first, then, upon noticing Lizzy's décolletage and dress, complimented her.
The men at this point joined the ladies, and each person in their own way remarked on how well the couple looked. Mr Bennet, personally, had never been prouder of his daughter: she was a woman, a lover, a wife, a great lady and now a mother. She had her own child, and he doubted that anyone was more astounded than he.
"You do look beautiful Lizzy, does she not Alexan-"
The man in question began his answer, but Elizabeth, who had been longing to sit down ever since she had got up, decided to move the guests in to dinner. "Thank you very much, Lady Eleanor. But I believe I have heard quite enough praise for the time being. Shall we not go into dinner?" Darcy led his wife past the party and into the plush dining room.
7.30pm
The evening was proceeding pleasantly as the main course was served: conversation flowed easily between hosts and their guests, despite the slight departure from tradition when Darcy insisted his wife be seated directly next to him, a moment of imprudence when Caroline Bingley tried to take the mistress' seat and a bit of humour when Georgiana questioned Miss Bingley's logic behind such a move before taking the place herself with a nod from Lizzy.
Just as the guests were waiting to be invited to partake of the sumptuous course of Game, Darcy stood. "Dearest friends and family," he began, affecting the mood in a different way. Not an unpleasant mood butt rather that of people who were full of anticipation, "Our son is now almost four days old." A chorus of 'awes' followed his remark. "And Elizabeth and I have set the date for his christening for the second Sunday in May." Rippled agreements were passed from person to person. "And as such, our son shall need his godparents." Several darted looks passed between those who considered themselves prospective godparents. "Elizabeth?" Darcy prompted his wife to make the official announcement and tried to avoid looking directly at those they had chosen as she spoke.
"To that end, Fitzwilliam and I would be honoured if Richard and Jane would serve as Godparents for our son."
"Oh Lizzy!" Jane immediately jumped from her seat and embraced her sister.
Richard smiled, shook his cousins' hand and thanked him. "I see you are returning the favour, Darcy."
"Not at all." He gestures to his wife, who was receiving kisses and many gratifications from her sister. "It was Elizabeth's idea. She saw how wonderful a father you are, and informed me that you would make an equally wonderful godparent."
"Then I must thank her." And he did so, embracing his sister and kissing her. "I cannot express-"
"Yes, I think you can. Please show your godson your thanks." She replied and kissed him back before returning happily to her seat.
"I say Darcy," Colonel Fitzwilliam said from his seat, which afforded him an excellent view from the windows and at this moment, was affording him a view of an unpleasantly familiar carriage as it crashed along the road in the distance. "To whom else did you send an express about the baby?"
Darcy, puzzled, made his way to the window and stood for several minutes, before stating: "The only relative to whom I sent an express who has not yet either appeared or sent a reply . . . is Lady Catherine."
"As I suspected! Such a carriage could be none other than Aunt Catherine's!" The Colonel declared, looking happily at Lizzy who, though she looked back at him, did not wear such a positive expression.
Suddenly the door opened and a footman entered. Speaking softly but clearly, he delivered the most unwanted news in the land. "Mr and Mrs Darcy," The Lady stood next to her husband and took his arm, "Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Mr and Mrs Collins are expected any moment. Shall I inform the staff to set up rooms?"
Elizabeth sighed: an unwanted and unexpected feelings of exhaustion swept over her as she realised she did not know with certainty if she could handle Lady Catherine's invariably aggressive and insulting comments this time. She felt her husband press her hand when he replied to the servant's question in the affirmative and although she was not entirely aware of her movements, she knew he was guiding her back to her seat. "It shall be perfectly fine. She would not dare insult you in our home." Elizabeth would not be so easily convinced.
7.45pm
"Fitzwilliam," Lizzy pulled her husband down to hear her as they heard Lady Catherine in the hall and waited for her entrance, the guests actually beginning to look forward to the spectacle of the grandest of their family, "I do not think I can cope with this. You do not seem so sure yourself. I thought we would have more time to learn . . . to . . . to gain experience before entertaining on such a scale, not to mention that these guests in particular would wish to see me make a fool of myself."
"Elizabeth, you need not rise to her prompts." His wife sighed, frustrated. "Do not worry; I had no intention of letting you come downstairs tomorrow anyway." She laughed, though ever so slightly reluctantly. "And the baby is asleep, naturally at this time of night. Moreover, she sent no word of her coming and came upon us during dinner. She cannot expect us to be waiting patiently for her."
Lizzy looked at her husband, her face full of annoyance. "You are well aware that nobody knows what she expects."
At that moment, the doors opened and in strode Lady Catherine. Behind her, the proud and misplaced Mr Collins, his wife who bore a look of apology, and their son, Jeremiah Collins, who was almost as round as Lawrence Hurst, but had mercifully inherited his mother's pensive, reflective quality.
"Lady Catherine, Mr and Mrs Collins and young master Collins," Darcy bowed to the newest guests, "what a surprise. You are very welcome."
The party nodded in response, and were seated. Lady Catherine however, remained standing at her place and addressed the upright Mr Darcy who was now on his guard. "Nephew, I should like to see the baby, if you please."
Lizzy, who at this point, saw that she was in danger of being completely isolated from the conversation and so she responded to the woman's demand. "Lady Catherine, I am sorry, but as you will doubtless be aware as you have a daughter of your own, it is well past a baby's hours of consciousness and I am afraid you have come too late. Our son is asleep."
Lady Catherine turned and stared at her hostess. "You declare to know responsibility young lady?" The guests sat agog, some open-mouthed and Lady Eleanor entreated her sister to sit down and wait until morning to see the child. "I shall do no such thing. I have travelled miles of country roads and I shall not be swayed from my original purpose in doing so."
"Lady Catherine had you any consideration for your hosts and their difficult situation at present you might have sent ahead news of your arrival. In such a case I might have attempted to keep him up but as it is he is asleep. As you know silence is a rare thing at such early days and I do not intend to disturb him. You will have to wait." Lizzy's words might have been considered rude had she not delivered them with a cool manner and friendly demeanour. She did so, however, and succeeded in making the haughty Lady look a fool.
"Such early days indeed!" Lady Catherine began again, and Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam sighed audibly at her words. "You are in no state to be downstairs. It is unheard of to have a new mother entertaining only three weeks after such an ordeal, especially in consideration that you failed to carry him for the full term. You should be asleep yourself."
Elizabeth again spoke calmly and she was thankful that her voice did not betray her tired feelings and failing body. "As mistress of this house I shall do withmyself and my son as I and my husband please." When she had spoken, Lizzy became visibly pale. Most guests noticed it, but as she was the only woman who was in a position to truly understand both her daughter's feelings and give her the relevant comfort, Mrs Bennet went to Lizzy and bade her drink some wine. It was possibly one of other times when Lizzy was glad to have her mother by her side.
Darcy had let the argument proceed as far as he dare. His wife was ill, his guests noticeably uncomfortable as a result of the most recent guest and he had enough of her. "Lady Catherine that will do." His stern voice reaching every corner of the room. "I will not tolerate such accusations towards my wife in our home. It is not your business, but Elizabeth is a very capable mother and so I suggest you take your leave to your rooms before I or anyone else says something they may later regret."
For a few, interminable seconds, the room was still and silent. Then, Lady Catherine capitulated, sweeping from the room in flurry of silks and demands pertaining to her comfort. Although, Caroline Bingley admitted to herself that she had never been so impressed by a person than she had in the last few moments.
As the atmosphere in the room relaxed, so did Lizzy, and at length her mother sat at her seat again. As the guests resumed their eating and Darcy kissed his wife's hand as a gesture of comfort, Kitty piped up out of the blue and aptly declared, "You know, there are far too many people in this family." The next five minutes at least were spent in uproarious laughter.
Monday 11th April 1814
9pm
Of course, such discourse as that first fateful evening was not the last, but Lady Catherine's tongue was stayed enough not to insult her hostess to such a degree again. Jane and Lizzy discussed the Lady's conduct and of course the disturbing presence of Mr Collins, though those words were Elizabeth's.
"Really, Charles, you ought not to laugh." But Jane could not help joining his mirth and laughed despite herself as she related her and her sister's discussion to her husband one evening.
"She cannot here me, and therefore I can laugh all I want, my dear." He said happily as he opened a window. "Do you want a breeze this night, Jane?"
She stood and thought for a moment. "Yes, indeed I do." She smiled contemplatively. "Lizzy did not mention being so hot at such a time."
"Well, did you not say it may differ from woman to woman? Perhaps Elizabeth was hot later in her term and you shall be cool later. What said the doctor?"
"Dr Howards was very positive; we shall have a healthy child in September." Jane placed a hand on her abdomen. "Perhaps you are right." Jane sighed and lay on the bed in her ever graceful manner. "What a year this shall be," Bingley nodded in agreement, "Children and the possibility of a house in Derbyshire!"
"Yes." Her husband said with a voice full of animation. "It is a pleasant house, indeed. Well situated and a good investment. We shall keep Netherfield, of course."
"Shall you not let it out? Some other family may benefit from the hunting and the society: some young men may find their brides." She said excitedly.
Charles Bingley smiled. "Then Let it I shall." He kissed his wife softly and could barely find sleep as he thought of the year to come.
Saturday 23rd April 1814
10.30am
Every woman in the household was sitting in the ground floor parlour. The doors were flung open to allow the eleven children in residence to enjoy the benefits of both the summer air and the indoor comforts (at least, those children who were old enough to run, of which there were nine). Kitty, Mary, Jane and Georgiana were each demonstrating their talents to the array of youngsters: Jane was showing young Alice and Emma the best method by which they might sew a design into a shawl; Georgiana was plonking at the piano keys with little Kate and Louise; Mary was keeping an eye on the boys, and helping Georgiana sift through her old music and Kitty was drawing the new baby with Grace. The younger Bennet girls thought to themselves that a better time had not been had by any since they were children.
Suzanne Leighton watched her twin boys run about after their elder cousins outside and thought to herself how lucky Elizabeth was not to have had two boys her first time. She loved Lewis and Michael dearly, but remembered how difficult it had been and how heartbroken she was when she was forced to hire a wetnurse to help her.
"Susie?" Victoria went up to her. "You look contemplative. Is something wrong?"
"No indeed, dearest. I was watching the boys." She paused, sipping her coffee. "How was it when the twins were born?"
"You know that, you were there!" Victoria scoffed, partially insulted that her sister-in-law would forget such a time.
"No, I did not mean that." She said, dejectedly. "I just wondered," and her voice dropped to whisper, as Victoria leaned in subtly, "how did you find taking care of them once we had left? Nursing, I mean."
"Oh, indeed. I suppose it was difficult. But I think, having had two children before, I could handle them quite well." She smiled, proudly. "Why do you ask?"
"I was just thinking how good it is that Elizabeth had just one child."
"Oh goodness yes it is. I love my children, but I could not have had two first and coped. I am not that proud." Suzanne raised her eyebrows, unconvinced at her sister's comments.
Meanwhile, Mrs Bennet and Lady Fitzwilliam were excitedly chatting away about the former Lady's grandson, Lady Fitzwilliam imparting useful advice about her grandchildren to the engrossed Mrs Bennet and the silent and stubborn Lady Catherine whole-heartedly refusing to say more than a few syllables at a time. Caroline and Louisa sat inside, almost at the head of the room, sipping coffee silently, their conversation interjected with cries of discomfort from Lawrence. Mrs Collins and Mrs Gardiner were sitting outside the open doors, under the marquee, watching Elizabeth and Darcy carrying their son about the grounds. It was a very picturesque image they made that morning.
"Mamma?" Out of the peace came the voice of Alice Gardiner, who ran from beside her Aunt Jane to impart a most wonderful idea. "Jane had a most wonderful idea."
"And what is that my dear?" Her mother replied, expectantly.
"It is about a present for the baby! Or rather, the family."
"A wonderful idea." Charlotte said, standing. "Why do you not explain it to us?"
The young girl turned back into the room to see the faces of every person in the room turned to face her, including the scolding look of Caroline Bingley, who would much rather be back in Surrey, covering screens and wandering in her own grounds. Fortunately, Alice could not see the stony expression of Lady Catherine, whose face was filled with disdain at a child of only eleven years speaking out of turn. Alice hesitated first, but then seeing Jane nod at her for encouragement, she began. "Perhaps, if each of us sewed a square for the baby, where each patch would represent a wish or hope or a part of the family for him, then we could sew them together and make a shawl, or a throw."
"Oh, how wonderful." Georgiana smiled, delighted at the prospect, and inquired as to who could make what.
"Well, each of the women could sew one." Suggested Suzanne. "And the children from each family could present their own too. That way the boys would not have to learn how to use needle and thread."
"Oh, can you imagine? They would run as soon as you mentioned it." Lady Fitzwilliam cried, laughing. "We" and she gestured to Mrs Bennet who nodded emphatically, "As the grand-relatives shall be giving him teething rings."
"Silver rings Lady Eleanor." Lady Catherine said, causing Alice to drop her eyes to the ground and shuffle her feet, quite frightened indeed. Lawrence squealed out, himself and Mrs Hurst left the room before anyone noticed how unsociable her son was.
The Lady addressed the face of the voice. "Of course." She went on. "And I have it from Elizabeth that she had already seen some of the gifts being made by the tenants when she paid her last visit."
"Oh yes, she did mention that." Jane continued for her. "I think there were several shawls, dresses and caps."
Georgiana stood, leading Kate and Louise to join Grace as they requested she show them how to draw. "And I think that between us we are giving him toys, rattles, money,"
Victoria said: "Furniture, paintings, mirrors, brushes and books."
Kitty looked up from Grace's picture. "Who is giving him a painting?"
"Lady Catherine." Victoria rolled her eyes. "Though how she thinks a child will appreciate a painting . . . maybe it is for the nursery."
"Yes, although I do not know when she has ever seen it since Georgiana used it." Commented Suzanne.
"I remember. Lizzy brightened the rooms considerably. They used to be draped in deep reds and blues and heavy fabrics." Georgiana made a disgusted face and turned towards the girls who giggled and squealed in response.
"Your Aunt Catherine decorated it thus." Lady Eleanor said frostily, momentarily embarrassing Georgiana beyond belief, before she was saved from apologising when Lady Catherine quitted the room. "But yes, the shawl sewn by each of us is an exciting project." She continued, the last moments faux pas quickly forgotten.
Mary came back in and spoke in a light tone, turning occasionally to look at the boys. "We can add a piece for each new child born into the family." Jane hid her face and grinned stupidly.
"It is an excellent idea." Mrs Bennet said, oddly quieter and more sedate than usual. Jane wondered and praised at the effect of the Fitzwilliams on her mother, and if she thought more, her younger sisters too. "We can present it the morning of the baptism, that way he can have it for the party."
As the women rejoiced over their secret plan and the men shot the duck for the week's meals, Elizabeth and Darcy contemplated their situation.
11.06am
Elizabeth and Darcy reached a small copse in the gardens. It was warm, although a cool breeze had picked up. Consequently, the tiny baby began to fuss in its mother's arms. Lizzy, with all the skill of a mother of just one and forty days, laid him on her lap and proceeded to re-arrange his clothes, adding another wrap from the basket her husband had set down.
"How do you know . . . what to do?" Darcy's voice sounded nervous yet intrigued as he watched her actions intently.
Elizabeth smiled at him and explained. "In order to keep a quiet baby, one must ensure he is full, dry and wrapped snugly. After all, you would not want to be sent to bed hungry and needing to relieve yourself would you?"
"Lizzy!" He said, astonished at her, but admitted that he would most definitely not. He then kissed her softly on her cheek and the tone of his words changed remarkably, they were sincere and concerned. "Elizabeth, how do you feel about the Christening so far? You have been surrounded by those invitations and various papers whenever I see you."
"I feel perfectly happy about it. There is not much for me to do, Fitzwilliam besides send out the notices of birth to various families etc; I am not the one who will have to decorate the house, cook the food, clean, serve and work all day. We all get to enjoy the celebrations and drink in praises of our son."
"Elizabeth, you do not think that just because your task does not involve labour that it is less important?"
"I did not say that." She said, quietly, and held her son to her cheek. Darcy moved in front of her and bade her look him in the eye.
"Lizzy, you have just had a baby." He entreated her.
"No, five weeks ago I had a baby."
"Five weeks! Elizabeth, for goodness sake, most women are laid up for at least six weeks!"
"Mr Darcy, lower your voice." She whispered angrily to him and pulled him down next to her. "I am aware of that thank you. But I am perfectly well, you can see I am. And all I have done is agree with Mrs Reynolds on the decorations, the food, the timing, the games and general arrangements. It is nothing."
"Fine. Fine." He finished, unsatisfied and angry with her that she could not see from where his concern was founded. But, as he saw argument was futile, and not wanting her to be stressed to any extra degree, he changed the topic to a more amiable subject. Swallowing his pride and frustration, he said: "How do you think the name shall be received?"
She smiled. "Oh very well, indeed. You were right, in the first instance. We could have saved ourselves several hours of combinations." She took his hand and leaned into his chest. About as good an apology as he was going to get, since he knew she thought herself right, so he wrapped his arms around her and breathed in the scent of her hair: lavender and rose water.
"Indeed." He said, his voice muffled by her hair. "You shall be very well liked, my son."
Wednesday 27th April 1814
4.17pm
"Darcy?" Alexander Fitzwilliam strode in to his nephew's study. It was large, but comfortable, the shelves housed almost as many books as the library and the air was warm and clean; perfect for late afternoon work, which was apparently what occupied Darcy so much. "Nephew, you look busy."
"I am."
His uncle sighed. Years under his and his father's shadow meant Fitzwilliam had taken up the habit of answering in short syllables. Not that Alexander thought this a bad habit, as it also meant he was concise and succinct in his business transactions, it meant no trader or servant could take advantage of him, and neither could any woman. However, Alexander, Fitzwilliamand Old Mr Darcy had not prepared the family for the equally succinct and passionate words of Mrs Elizabeth Darcy (nee Bennet).
"But perhaps you are not busy in the business sense, son." His uncle raised his eyebrows and rocked on his heels as Darcy laid down his nib, and covered his mouth with his hands, almost looking as if he needed to do so to prevent a scream coming out. "Darcy, you do not fool me, nor do you fool your wife. As a man who has gone through parenthood several times, I suggest you do not argue with your wife weeks before the christening. Knowing my nephew, and his wife, the quarrel could last for months."
Darcy laughed and leaned back in his chair, gesturing for his Uncle to sit. "I am worried."
"Well that is perfectly natural. She is taking a lot upon herself, and we certainly have done nothing to help –"
"No." Darcy interrupted him forcefully. Alexander had never heard Darcy speak to him in that way, but he was not angry. He knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that his nephew was struggling with something.
As Darcy remained silent for a while, Alexander spoke again, asking Darcy why he was conducting business at this time of day. "You are usually walking with Elizabeth, talking to Elizabeth, with her in the nursery. I am surprised to see you down here."
"I could not be with her."
"What?"
"I feel overwhelming feelings of guilt when I am with her."
"Why on earth do you feel guilty?" His uncle leaned forward in his chair, both anxious and eager to hear the reason why.
"I want to be with her." He said quietly. So much so in fact, that Alexander had to move closer to catch his words.
"Then why are you not?"
"You do not understand what I mean, Uncle. I want to be with her." He repeated himself, and his Uncle shook his head.
"You shall have to be more explicit."
"Elizabeth and I were told by the doctor and the midwife on separate occasions that lovemaking would be too dangerous for her after childbirth. We were told to wait at the very least six months."
"Yes, a difficult time indeed. I agree."
"I want to make love to her." Darcy said with an air of finality about him. He hanged his head, in shame it seemed. "I am intensely attracted to her and since we have been married I have been able to . . . satiate such feelings. I cannot now. I will not endanger her life for my desires." He quietened himself again. "Uncle, I feel guilty whenever I am around her."
Alexander sat back in his chair and eyed his nephew. Darcy was eagerly awaiting his response, and obviously, by the distressed expression he wore, he was expecting a serious response. His Uncle would give him no such thing. "Darcy, do you think that you are the first man who is in love with his wife?" Darcy was taken aback by the jovial yet sincere manner of his Uncle's voice. "You are not. Believe me, or do not, but many men before you have had children. Control yourself, man!" His voice took on anger now. "The welfare of your wife and your son are your priorities and if she is not able to be with you in that sense then do you think that just because you cannot have it your way that gives you the right to abandon her in every other sense? What would she think, what would she do if she was to discover that you had been avoiding her because she could not satisfy you?"
"I do not know."
"You do not know because you have not even considered her."
"I love her!"
"I am aware of that, but being in love does not resolve every feeling, Fitzwilliam." His uncle stood and paced: a family trait, it seemed. "Learn to control yourself. You plan to have more children?" Darcy nodded. "Then get used to this feeling and appreciate what your wife has done for you." He paused, and moved towards the door. "You have been enjoying physical freedom with your wife up until this point. The honeymoon period ended a while ago, Fitzwilliam. Elizabeth and you can no longer think of yourselves. Your son is a blessing, Fitzwilliam. Do not turn him into a problem."
He opened the door and exited, closing it softly but firmly. Darcy was left alone, to study his behaviour and consider his actions.
Tuesday 3rd May 1814
3pm
Darcy had since decided the best course of action would be to talk to his wife. Primarily, this course of action had been decided upon because Lizzy had heard the heated discourse that passed between her husband and his Uncle and inquired to Darcy the subject. He, of course, lied to her repeatedly. In fact, he invented so many alter-scenarios that Elizabeth suggested he should go to confession to clear his conscience. At length he revealed all and she listened fervently to him. When he finished she kissed him and ran her fingers through his hair. She asked him if he was really so insecure that he thought she was not attracted to him, if he thought he was the only one of them that wanted to make love to the other. He was happy and she was amused that he had thought it such a serious problem and it was so resolved.
On this particular afternoon, Elizabethwas sitting in the Nursery with Mrs Reynolds, sorting through various pieces of paper, on which were written the RSVPs of the tenants and people of Lambton. Much to Darcy's increasing concern, his wife had organised the biggest local gathering of people at Pemberley that the great house had ever seen. It was not that he would not have declared how proud he was of his son before Royalty, but she had told him that she found the family difficult – and now Lizzy was inviting the whole of England to celebrate the baptism of Baby Darcy. Although Darcy wondered if it was Elizabeth over whom he was truly worried. However, she was adamant, and so he enjoyed the prospect of seeing the house ring with happiness, laughter and joy, instead of moaning about something that he could not prevent (those were the words of his wife).
"Now the gardens have been tended beautifully and the stalls shall be set up whilst the family party are at the church, madam." Mrs Reynolds curtsied, and left, carrying several boxes filled with papers.
"Thank you, Mrs Reynolds." Elizabeth replied gratefully. She smiled at her husband said: "My dear, I am glad you have come," She said this as he had just entered, having spent much of the day hunting with his cousins. "Father Gallagher is expected at present, and he will be discussing the ceremony with us."
"Certainly, Elizabeth." He sat in a chair next to her bed, and smiled at her. Eventually, he could not stop laughing.
"William, what are you doing?" She thought him very peculiar, and inquired as to the source his amusement again.
"Oh Lizzy." He said, hoarse for lack of breath as he climbed next to her, wrapped his arms around her and held her face to his, whispering. "I am in love with you, my dear and very happy, that is all." She was glad he felt so but pushed him back and told him to mind his behaviour as she heard footsteps. "Mr Gallagher, you are very welcome sir." As Elizabeth could not get up modestly to greet the man, her husband did.
"Sir, you have met my wife Mrs Darcy."
"Indeed. A pleasure, madam, sir." He kissed the mistress' hand and sat down at the invitation of the Master. Gallagher was, as Elizabeth would later describe to her grandchildren, a 'grandfather-like gentlemen'. He was by no means bald and fairly young for a man of his profession. Gallagher's manner, though pleasing and kind, was nothing like the supercilious behaviour of Mr Collins and Elizabeth could not help but like him. "We missed you at Easter." He added pointedly. "I presume your reason for absence was your son."
Darcy sat and apologised. "Yes, indeed he was and we were sorry to miss it. My wife was not yet recovered enough to attend public functions. Easter was a rather quiet affair, though not for lack of guests, I assure you."
"Indeed, I admire you Madam for entertaining so many!" Elizabeth said her thanks and the kindly man continued. "If you do not mind, I shall come right to the point. I have a student to meet in an hour."
"We do not mind at all. Go on at your leisure sir." Elizabeth said, holding her husband's hand and smiling generously at their guest.
"The service will take place at ten in the morning. Now, to avoid any misunderstanding or embarrassment on anyone's part I must ask you to write the child's name on a slip of paper so that I might practice." He said, quite joyfully as Elizabeth gave her husband the desired note and it was read by Gallagher.
Elizabeth motioned for the clergyman to lean in and she whispered. "You must keep that to yourself, sir. There are now only four of us aware of his name and we should like it to be a surprise." The clergy nodded his understanding and promised it a secret as he pocketed the paper.
Saturday 7th May 1814
9pm
Darcy marched into his rooms: not from any feeling of anger rather that such a pace was favoured by him. He did not notice the figure of his wife in his bed.
"Fitzwilliam." She said softly, raising her eyebrows in a move she knew drew him toward her. He jumped, yanking his cravat in such a manner that he almost choked himself. "O goodness, I'm sorry." She dashed from the bed and quickly set about untying the knot.
Darcy drew in breath. "Elizabeth, you are too tempting when you are so close to me." She smiled and blushed when his arms circled about her waist and he leaned in to kiss her neck.
"I cannot help your tie this way, my dear." She breathed.
"Then it shall stay there." Her hands dropped from her task and she ran one through his hair and pulled him closer with the other. They moved nearer until their lips met. Carefully they kissed, almost in a way that resembled their first, before giving in to their passions.
"William . . ." Lizzy moaned, "We must stop."
He sighed miserably and said, "I know." Grudgingly they parted and she quickly removed his cravat. "Why are you in here? I thought you to be sleeping in the nursery, I was about to join you."
"I wanted to sleep a night in your bed, however difficult it may be for me to leave our little boy . . ." She seemed unable to continue and sat down on a window seat. He moved to her, concerned. "I am sorry. I did not think I would miss him so much – he is only across the landing!"
"Elizabeth, he is only through the door in your rooms, perhaps we should sleep there."
"No, no. It is ridiculous; I should be able to be without him." Darcy raised an eyebrow. "If you would not mind?" She asked innocently.
"I would like to be near him too, Lizzy. I like to have the two most precious people in my life as close to me as possible." She smiled, blushed and stood, but he stopped her. "First, I want to give you something." He went to his dressing room and brought out a large box, presenting it to her. She looked at him, confused. "It is a gift, Lizzy."
She lifted the lid and parted the paper with anticipation she remembered feeling when Darcy had given her the box containing her engagement ring. As she laid back the paper, she saw the most exquisite ivory muslin, embroidered with pearls and excitedly lifted it from its box. "Oh," she could say no more as it was laid out in front of her. Scoop neck, ¾ length sleeves, fluid line and a subtle long hem at the back, trimmed with fine lace. Suddenly, she felt a hand in her hair.
"I want you to wear it tomorrow, with these roses in your hair." Darcy kissed her neck and turned to face her stunned expression.
"Why did you . . ?" She began
"You deserve an outfit you can relate to the christening of our son, especially since you gave me those riding gloves yesterday."
"They were only gloves!" She said, amazed.
"Oh no, Elizabeth," He whispered, leading her to her bed, "They were gloves from you." She rolled her eyes at his affectation but acceded to his wishes and retired early to prepare for the coming work of the Day of Rest.
Sunday 8th May 1814
2am
In the dim light of the early morning, a young man, his wife and their three children travelled post to Derbyshire. In a well-used carriage they were bundled; the husband exchanging barely a word with his wife as she chattered endlessly about the missive she had clutched in her hand from her mother, and how excited she was that she would launch yet another surprise upon her family.
7.30am
Elizabeth sat at the head of the breakfast table, carefully explaining to family and friends the order of the day, so that as official guests of Pemberley, they might know as much as possible, if not as much as she did.
"The service shall start at ten and we shall leave Pemberley just after nine, at which point, Mr Darcy, myself, our son and Sarah (his nurse)," she added as an afterthought, "Jane and Richard shall travel in the first carriage." She read now from a list to which her guests listened intently and Lady Eleanor sat back, impressed. "We shall be followed in the second by my parents and Lord and Lady Fitzwilliam and Lady Catherine." The mentioned guests nodded at this, though some were not entirely thrilled. "Altogether there are eight carriages which will transport those who wish to come to the church."
"I think my dear cousin," Mr Collins began, much to the chagrin of everyone, "That you do not quite understand the idea of less is more. You have far too many guests to convey and your fine transport may not be suitable for such people." He said the last quietly to the shock of his hosts.
"Mr Collins," Elizabeth said clearly, leaning forward to emphasise her words, "I, too, did not intend on having to convey such a volume of people, especially considering Miss de Bourgh and Mrs Jenkinson arrived this morning. I was under the impression that many of them would make their own way to the church this morning. Unfortunately my husband and I have had to make do with the current arrangements. If, however, you wish to undertake responsibility for your family then be my guests. I shall discard one of the carriages."
"No, indeed, madam, I meant no slight. Only that-"
"Stop yourself, Mr Collins, before you get us thrown out of the house." Charlotte whispered, humiliated, to her husband who quietened immediately to the great relief of Elizabeth and, she supposed, the whole room.
"The children have of course been accounted for and to that end I have asked two of the Nurse maids, Mrs Reynolds and Mrs Ian-Jones to accompany them." The mothers in the room smiled gratefully at Elizabeth who continued, "I would also like to inform you that the several families in Lambton and Kympton will be in attendance also-"
There was a faint knock at the door. Darcy shot Elizabetha confused look and bade whomever it was to enter. After a pause, in came the children, accompanied by Jeremiah who carried by his Nurse maid. They stood in military fashion: Alice Fitzwilliam and Emma Gardiner in the centre as they were the eldest, Emma Flanked by her sisters Louise and Grace, and Alice flanked by her sister Kate, Lewis and Michael Leighton whose hands were held by their own Nurse maids. In front were William and Robert Gardiner and Thomas Fitzwilliam, whose hands were behind their backs and seemed to Elizabeth and Darcy to be holding something. Upon their entrance, the women nudged and glanced at one another excitedly.
When they had assembled and settled, a silence fell upon them. Elizabeth prompted, "May we be of any assistance?" She said kindly, smiling at them. Sarah tapped Alice's shoulder.
"Oh yes!" She exclaimed, blushing slightly at the ripple of laughter that followed her outburst. "We, that is, the family, at such a time as our new cousins' christening were contemplating what gifts to present to him." The adults listened, some utterly intrigued, some excited and anxious.
Emma continued. "And so we thought and eventually had a wonderful idea. Our gift would be something which would show the true meaning of our family." At these words, and a prod from their sisters, the boys brought their hands to the front and Lizzy and Darcy could discern a paper package, crudely wrapped and tied with a ribbon which was then brought to them. Elizabeth pushed out her chair and Darcy stood behind her as she folded back the paper.
A soft and colourful material was within and as she fingered the artwork and read the names of their family, William spoke. "It's a blanket for the baby and we all sewed, or helped to sew the squares." He said sheepishly.
Robert at just five years old ran up next to Lizzy and pointed as he said: "See, each bit is your Mamma and Papa and our Mamma and Papa and same for everyone else!" Lizzy nodded, completely unable to speak and smiled at the face looking up at her.
"Thank you, very much." Darcy said in her place and leaning down, he shook every child's hand and kissed her cousins on the cheek. When Elizabeth regained her composure, she declared how much she liked the gift and that he would wear it today, after the ceremony during the celebration. After the extended family had voiced their thanks, the children were taken up to be dressed, and the adults soon followed.
9am
The men stood, ready, in the front hall of Pemberley. Naturally, they were waiting on their wives and their children and although at other times this may not have bothered Darcy to such a degree, he had never before been cornered by Mr Collins. In the past, he would simply have walked away, but had he still found it acceptable to display such behaviour, he would not be waiting on Elizabeth and their son. As it was, he knew of no polite way to excuse himself.
"I understand that it is normal for women to be unable to perform their wifely duties as this point," He said in an appropriately low tone for which Darcy was eternally grateful, "and as such I should like to give you some useful advice about the best methods by which to satiate your desires." As he spoke these words, Darcy melted inside. He had never been so uncomfortable in his life and it was with such joy that he heard his wife call his name.
"Fitzwilliam, we're ready." He stood quickly and flew to her side, almost immediately stepping back again to look at his family. Elizabeth was, of course, striking that morning in her ivory gown and a coat of such a deep blue it was almost black; but he had been expecting to be surprised by her looks. It was the little darling in her arms that madethe image look particularly stunning. Baby Darcy wore a white silk gown, the trim embroidered withpearls and his feet bound in silk booties. It was his face, however, that Darcy would never forget. The oval shape, pink cheeks and lips, all framed by a mass of jet black curls which in turn were surrounded by a silk bonnet trimmed in the same manner as his gown, showed Baby Darcy to be the perfect product of what Darcy felt for Elizabeth.
She saw his expression and read his thoughts within. "Just like his father." She whispered and kissed him once before inviting the guests to ascend into the carriages.
10am
The Darcysleft withthe solemn promise from the under-servants that the house and gardens were perfectly ready to welcome the day's celebrations and even Mrs Reynolds was so confidant in her staff that she, along with her son and Mrs Ian-Jones used the last carriage to attend the Christening.
The church was full: Mrs Gardiner remarked that she had never seen it so full in all the years she lived here and therefore congratulated her niece and nephew on creating such an attractive child. Almost every family from the surrounding area was present and as Lizzy surveyed the excited expression of those in the church, she turned and asked her husband, "Darling, do you think it wrong of me to feel such pride as I do?"
Darcy laughed and kissed her hand, "No indeed, for if I thought otherwise, I would be a hypocrite." At that point, the reverend Gallagher approached the couple and informed them to hand the child to the person whom they had selected to carry him whilst he was baptised. Darcy and Elizabeth looked at one another, having decided the previous evening on which family member they would bestow this honour. Darcy nodded to Lizzy and she walked purposefully to Lady Catherine.
"Fitzwilliamand I would be very glad if you would carry our son, Lady Catherine." Elizabeth said kindly. Lady Catherine looked at the young woman and nodded appreciatively.
"Thank you, Mrs Darcy, I should be very glad to do so." The Lady held out her arms was passed the baby. Mrs Darcy thanked the elderly relative and stood by her husband, as they would be at the back of the Christening procession. At least, Elizabeth thought, they would be beside him during the sacrament.
Eventually, Father Gallagher called for silence and began the ceremony. After announcing the reason for which they had all gathered, he asked for the family to come up to the font. Lady Catherine headed the party, accompanied by Sarah, followed by Jane and Richard, while Elizabeth and Darcy brought up the rear. When they reached the font, Lady Catherine stood with Baby Darcy, his Nurse and Godparents. Elizabeth and Darcy stood next to them.
On cue for the special moment, the baby opened his eyes and looked in the direction of his parents who were smiling profusely. The Reverend cleared his throat and glanced occasionally down at the book held by the alter boy and the silver platter holding the christening oils.
He asked. "Who are the Godparents for this child, please?" Richard and Jane bowed and curtsied respectively, thus acknowledging themselves as the sponsors for the baby. He then addressed Mrs Darcy, saying, "And what name do you give this child?"
Every ear was tuned to Elizabeth's voice as she spoke distinctly, "Bennet James Darcy." There were audible sounds of happiness at the name, as people recognised the honour to Mr Bennet and Old Mr James Darcy.
"And what do you ask for Bennet James Darcy?"
"Baptism." Elizabeth again replied clearly.
"Mr and Mrs Darcy, you have asked your child be Baptised. In doing so you are accepting the responsibility of training him in the practice of the faith. It will be your duty to bring him up to keep God's commandments as Christ taught us, by loving God and our neighbour. Do you clearly understand what you are undertaking?"
"We do."
The man then turned to Richard and Jane. "Godparents, are you ready to aid Mr and Mrs Darcy in their duty as Christian parents?"
"We are." They replied, devotedly, casting loving glances at their Godson. Such looks were given by every member of the church as Bennetwas christened withbaptismal oils and blessed by the priest. At length it came time for the christening sacrament.
The congregation repeated their christening vows: declaring to reject Satan, his works and empty promises and to believe in God and his only son Jesus Christ. Then: "Mr and Mrs Darcy, Godparents, is it your will that this child be baptised in the faith of the Church, which you have all professed?"
"It is." They replied in chorus. Jane was then handed her Godson and Elizabeth removed his Bonnet, as she held him over the font.
"Bennet James Darcy, I baptise you," And he poured water over the baby's head, startling Bennetand causing him to shout out in protest, and the congregation to giggle, "in the name of the Father . . . and of the Son . . . and of the Holy Spirit, Amen." The people responded likewise and Father Gallagher dried Bennet's curls with a soft towel.
Richard then wrapped his Godson in his white shawl, as the Reverend prompted him to do so and accepted the Baptismal Candle as a sign of the child's life as it was enlightened by Christ. Father Gallagher then concluded the ceremony saying gladly and with much joy: "May the Lord bless you, Bennetand love you as do your parents and Godparents. May He bestow blessings on Mr and Mrs Darcy as your guardians and to help guidethem as they raise their family in the light of God's teachings. I am now asked to inform you that Mr and Mrs Darcy have chosen to invite all of you to join in their celebrations this day following this service." He smiled happily at the Elizabeth, now contentedly holding her son, wrapped in his white garments and calmed down again.
The service concluded and Elizabeth, Darcy and the family remained awhile to receive thanks and blessings from the families in attendance before returning home to celebrate.
2pm
It is the custom, when celebrating a christening for a wealthy and respected family, for the parents and child to meet their guests as they enter the house. As such, Mr and Mrs Darcy were seated in the back parlour with Bennet as it would not be prudent to have mother and child stand at the front steps to greet such a volume of people. For almost three hours, the Darcysspoke withtheir neighbours and left the temporary task of hosts to their family members. However, the disposition one must present when conversing withwell-meaning strangers is a laborious duty and the repetitive nature of the task was beginning to make itself known to Elizabeth and Darcy.
In due course Mrs Reynolds handed the final calling card to her master who accepted with relief. The queue outside had finally diminished and there was only one family remaining to greet and introduce to Bennet. "The Fletchers card, Elizabeth." He said flatly, handing it to her.
"Oh yes um . . ." She tried to place that family. "Yes, their father and grandfather and so on produce arrowheads for the army. Their daughter, Helen, delivers the local flowers and their son, Andrew has just taken over the business. He runs it himself."
"Admirable." Elizabeth agreed with her husband that it was so, and they welcomed the family warmly for a while before inviting them to join them in the gardens where games and entertainments were the order of the day.
"Elizabeth," He said quietly to her, indicating he wished to continue their privacy a moment longer, "I would wish you to enjoy yourself today."
She looked at him answered that she certainly was but said, perplexed at his comment: "Fitzwilliam, look at our son. We love him and he is adored by everyone. I ask you to tell me in what way I could possibly not be enjoying myself."
Darcy sighed. "I agree, but I am worried about you; I feel that you should not have been up from your confinement so soon."
"Stop it." She interrupted him forcefully. "It was one thing when Bennetwas only a few days old but this is ridiculous. Good Lord, William, both the Doctor and Mrs Ian-Jones pronounced me well and I do not know what else to do to convince you." He attempted to explain himself but she stopped him, saying: "I am in no mood, Mr Darcy, for this. I will not speak to you until you are in a more affable mood. Good day, sir." And she walked off into the crowds.
Elizabethfound it difficult to smile and talk withher guests when she had fought with Fitzwilliam, but willed herself to enjoy this day regardless of her husband's temper. She saw him stalk in the opposite direction and almost as soon as she her ire had raised, she thought perhaps she had been unfair. Darcy was never comfortable with large affairs such as this one and as she looked around her at the plethora of people, she realised that throughout the whole period of organisation for this event, it had never crossed her mind that he might be uncomfortable.
Darcy watched the party from a distance and reflected that he could not have chosen a worse moment to mention his feelings. Clearly Elizabeth was having fun and while she was so, he knew she would be all right. Resolving to apologise when the opportunity presented itself, Darcy admired for a moment the splendid festivities. Every decoration was pure white: white lilies, tablecloths, boughs, hangings, runners and place settings. Even the food, deftly chosen by his wife and Mrs Reynolds, was white: cream of oyster soup, sweetbread patties in white cases, white meats, cream dressings, cauliflower, potatoes, celery salad with white mayonnaise dressing, wafers and Neuchâtel cheese, meringue glace in individual cups, angel foods and whipped cream. The only item on the table not white was the coffee. Even the silverware seemed to change into a lighter hue. Poultry, Game, sweets, jellies and ices were also served along with light wines.
With the doors flung open to allow guests to sit indoors, Darcy noted that the table in the drawing room that had been set aside for gifts was insufficient for its purpose and two more had to be set up. On them were placed a variety of presents including plate—silver mugs, forks, knives, spoons, tea-pots, milk jugs, sugar basins, coffee pots, cake baskets, claret jugs, and other articles of value. He shook his head in disbelief at himself, thinking that at another time in his life he might have been immeasurably ill at ease at hosting such a large event but acknowledged that he would have been disappointed had it been otherwise: both mother and son deserved a day of thanksgiving.
At that moment, he spotted his wife in the crowd as she handed Bennet to Georgiana and smiled at him, her face full of disappointment and he could not but go to her. Upon reaching one another and as Darcy lifted her hand to his lips, they heard a familiar and utterly shocking voice call out to them as it soared over the noise of the crowd and silenced it.
"Lizzy!" The woman cried and she shook with delight, smiling and laughing as she gestured to her three children. The man behind her was not as pleased to be at Pemberley, evidently, as he tried to shrink into the background. The familiarity of his face, however, would not allow him to do so and Georgiana felt fear rise in her chest at the sight of him.
Mr Bennet looked intently in the direction of the voice and watched as his wife went over to Elizabeth wearing a suspiciously apologetic expression. "Lizzy, I warned her not to enter in such a way, I beggedher use her calling card." Mr Bennet closed his eyes in defeat.
Elizabeth could only stare at the distant figure as she registered her mother's word and, with as much calm as she could, said, "Lydia."