Sorry I haven't gotten this out earlier. I have a whole new respect for the authors I follow. I hope you enjoy this chapter.

After the Colonel took his leave, things went on according to their routine and the girls grew even closer together. September was soon upon them and with it came many letters.

"Kate! Kate! Quick! Where are you?"

"I am in the library, Georgie. What ever is the matter?"

"I have just received a letter from my brother and you will not believe its contents!" cried Georgiana with a mischievous grin.

"I wonder that you would bid me to know it, if I shall find it so hard to believe. Well, lets hear it then."

Dear Georgiana,

Bingley has finally settled on an estate and I am sure you will be as astonished as I was to hear where it is located. Netherfield, for that is the name of the estate, is in Hertfordshire, very near a village called Meryton. I am sure these places sound familiar to you for they are also very near an estate that holds a dear place in the heart of Miss Westfield.

"My word! Screeching has no place coming out of the mouth of such genteel ladies. I could hear you clear across the house. Now, what is going on here?" asked Marianne

"Mr. Bingley has taken a house outside Meryton! He and Mr. Darcy are going to be near Longbourn!"

The ladies all looked at each other before their giggles overtook them. "Oh, your mother will be in raptures."

"What else does he say, Georgie?"

Bingley and I went down to inspect the house Tuesday. It is well situated and will suit Bingley's needs entirely. The area is as pleasant as Miss Westfield described. I found myself unable to pass an opportunity to see your friends' family home and asked Bingley if we could take a small detour. Longbourn does indeed look like a happy place. As we made our way back, we came upon a carriage with a broken wheel. Being gentlemen, we had our coach stop and extended our services.

Georgiana stopped and looked at her companions. She gave them a cheeky smile and said, "Do you want to guess who it was that they came upon?"

"No! It cannot be!"

"Hush, Kate! I believe we can well guess. Please continue Georgiana."

It was at this point that Bingley and I had the pleasure to meet two of Miss Westfield's sisters; a Miss Jane Bennet and Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Upon learning their identities, I took in upon myself to reveal my acquaintance to Miss Westfield. Bingley was quick to offer our coach to take the ladies to their home. Miss Elizabeth claimed that making the rest of the way on foot was no trouble, but Miss Bennet quickly reminded her that they had packages their family were waiting on. We left their carriage in the hands of their driver and one of our own men.

Miss Elizabeth, I found, is very inquisitive. She asked about our being in the area. I left it to Bingley to tell the ladies of his letting Netherfield. Both ladies were happy to know the house had been let and that their new neighbor would be so amiable. Miss Bennet was also pleased that his sisters would be in attendance. Miss Elizabeth asked after her sister next, as I had more recently seen her. I told them she was well when last we met. I do not think my answers were very pleasing to her.

We were well received at Longbourn. Miss Westfield's descriptions of her family are very accurate, especially in regards to her mother. I am happy I was prepared for such a meeting. Please pass along to Miss Westfield that I found her family in very good health. We have been invited to dine with the family once we are settled. Bingley expressed his delight. I believe my friend may very well rush our departure for the country. Perhaps we may be able to avoid traveling with his sisters if we leave a bit earlier than planned.

Richard has written of his trip to Dylan. I know you have told me of your happiness, but it is a comfort to have it confirmed by our cousin. I know you do not wish it, but I still harbor guilt over the whole affair. I cannot regret the friendship that has bloomed out of it for you. Our Aunt Julia has procured a governess for you. I left no stone unturned as I checked into her background and acquaintances. I am sure you will get along wonderfully. She is to take charge of you after the new year.

Your Brother,

Fitzwilliam

"I cannot believe it!"

"I told you you wouldn't!" laughed Georgiana.

"I wonder what he truly thought of Mama? Oh, to have been in the room. And what does he mean about his friend, Mr. Bingley? Do you think he has taken an interest in one of my sisters?"

"Kate, when did you last receive a letter from one of your family?" asked Marianne.

"Oh! I received one from Lizzy just this morning. I just haven't gotten around to reading it!"

"Well, read it quickly! Lizzy, I am sure, will offer a more detailed and colorful account of their meeting."

Kate went to the desk to grab her letter. After a quick scan she let out a laugh and brought it back to sit with her Aunt and friend. "Oh, she has given a very detailed account."

Dear Kate,

You will not believe the tale I have to give. (Oh I think I will) On Tuesday, Jane and I had decided to walk into town. Before we left, Papa asked that we take the carriage as he was expecting a shipment of books from our Uncle Gardiner. Though I much prefer to walk and do not see why he needed us to be there to get his books, we conceded. On our way home, one of the wheels broke. As Jane and I exited our carriage, a coach came to a stop beside us. Two gentlemen approached us and asked if we were in need of assistance. I had to restrain myself from making a comment. They introduced themselves as a Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy. After Jane and I made our introductions, Mr. Darcy asked if we had a relation by the name of Miss Kate Westfield. I should have made the connection myself, as I do not think there are many with the surname Darcy.

Mr. Bingley offered to escort us home, and though I offered that we could easily walk the rest of the way home, Mr. Darcy seemed adamant that we allow them to take us safely. Jane then reminded me that Papa would not like for us to leave his books, even though it would only be into the care of the driver. I felt quite awkward, so I did as I always do, I decided to spark a conversation. Now, my dear Kate, I must take a moment to tell you that Mr. Bingley had scarcely taken his eyes off our Jane. I do not believe I have ever seen her blush so.

"Jane! Mr. Bingley is taken with Jane!"

"From what you have told me of her sweet nature, I am sure they would make a lovely couple. He is so mild mannered himself and can't help but make friends."

"Matchmaking are we? Careful, that could come back on you. Finish the letter, Kate."

I asked about their appearance in the neighborhood. Mr. Bingley told us of his letting Netherfield and that he, Mr. Darcy, and his sisters would be arriving to settle in a few weeks. He is seeking to find a permanent residence in the country and his solicitor recommended the area. I then asked Mr. Darcy how you were when last he seen you. He said that you were quite well. He is not a great talker, though he is very watchful.

"Oh, Fitzwilliam! I hope he did not leave a negative impression. He does not converse easily with strangers."

"He spoke easily enough with us," said Kate.

"Yes, well you provided a great service to us. I do not think the circumstances allowed for you to be strangers to him."

"Hmm. I suppose you are right."

Once we arrived at the house, Jane invited the gentlemen to take a bit of refreshment as thanks for their assistance. They were then introduced to Papa, Mama, and Mary. I do believe you warned him about Mama. He seemed to expect her personality. His answers were once more short, but he did not seem to take offence to anything. Papa was a bit disappointed to not get a better reaction. You know how he enjoys other peoples responses to silliness. Mr. Darcy seemed very interested in our surroundings. His eyes were ever moving and looking. Mama managed to get out an invitation to the gentlemen for once they settle, which Mr. Bingley accepted with much enthusiasm. He kept his eyes on Jane most of the time. Mama, of course, picked up on that quickly and you well know she has already told all who would listen about the whole encounter. The gentlemen soon took their leave. I wonder what kind of ladies Mr. Bingley sisters are? Do you know? Once I had Jane alone, I asked her what she thought of Mr. Bingley. She said she finds him charming and thinks he will be good for the neighborhood. I feel I must tell you she blushed through her answer. She turned to me then and asked how I found Mr. Darcy. I told her I found him respectable, but that I would hold my judgment upon a better acquaintance. When I asked her why she asked, she said he watched me. I told her he was watching everyone. She only smiled and looked away. She has been of a very romantic mind lately.

I hope you and your friend have been enjoying yourselves. You have written to me often enough of your boredom. We have received an invitation to join you for Christmas at Carter House. This new development has caused Mama to accept the invitation. She says Christmas in Town would do well for us. Her official acceptance will arrive soon. I look forward to seeing you. Expect more letters of our encounters with our new neighbors.

Lizzy

"Oh, Kate! Wouldn't it be wonderful if my brother took and interest in your sister? If they marry, we would be sisters!"

"And Mr. Bingley and Jane! A double wedding!"

"Girls! Girls," laughed Marianne. "Haven't I already warned you about matchmaking?"

"We're not matchmaking," said Kate, "we are just imagining for a moment. It would be nice to see my sisters married, and to two very respectable men. One of which is the brother to my dearest friend and would, therefore, connect us forever."

At that moment, a servant announced the arrival of the Colonel.

"Colonel. To what do we owe the pleasure of your visit?" asked Marianne.

"I decided it would be a good time to call and make sure my cousin had not worn out her welcome and to escape my men. We have gained a few new recruits and they have tried my patience. Nothing lifts my spirits so much as being in the presence of a lovely lady, and I find myself in the position of being entertained by an entire houseful."

"Richard, I swear you have no shame. But, since you are here, we must tell you of a new development in the lives of those nearest and dearest to us."

The younger ladies took the next hour to fill him in on the letters and their thoughts. "Your sister does sound like someone who would cause Darcy to take notice. He is used to women throwing themselves at him. To have one act indifferent to him and actually carry on a conversation, well, that would draw his attention. Not that he would say anything. I will see what I can get from him in my next letter. As for Mr. Bingley and Miss Bennet, I cannot say. It will be interesting to see how this all unfolds."

"Yes. I would love for one of my sisters to married and settled. I do long to be a bridesmaid."

" But, what of yourself Miss Westfield? You will have your first Season in Town. Perhaps you may find your match and marry before your sisters."

"I do not plan to allow myself to be wooed so quickly, Colonel."

"Is that so? And why is that?"

"I have been privileged to be a witness to many marriages. The happiest couples seem to be the ones to let their affection develop a while before entering the marriage state. Not that someone couldn't find happiness with someone they meet and marry in a small period of time, but of those who I do know, at least one partner has no respect for the other. I would hate to find myself in a union where I had not respect for my spouse or him for me."

The Colonel smiled at Kate. "That is very wise of you, Miss Westfield. I hope you were listening to that, Georgie. You would do well to take that to heart."

"I do, Cousin. Mrs. Westfield and Mrs. Whitmore have been diligent in that matter."

"That is very good to hear and enforces a decision I will be discussing with your brother. My mother will be holding a private ball this Christmas and I was thinking of allowing you to attend. You cannot dance with anyone but your brother, my father, my brother, and myself, but you will be able to attend."

"Really! Oh, I can't wait!"

"I have been asked to extend this invitation to you and your niece, Madame," said the Colonel as he handed her the envelope. "A bit early I know, but she wanted to be sure you could put it on your calendar."

"We will be sure to attend. I have made no other plans for our time in town."

"Miss Westfield, may I have the honor of claiming the supper set now? It would be a pleasure to rub it in the faces of all your admirers."

"I do not have any admirers, Colonel."

"Ah, but you will. I am sure of it. But I will know you first."

Mrs. Westfield and Georgiana shared a look.

"I would be honored. Though do not be too disappointed when nobody notices."

"Oh, someone will notice," said Georgiana as she grinned at her cousin.

"Well, if I may be excused, I must get a reply off to Lizzy. Colonel. Aunt. Georgie."

"I must go see Mrs. Bates. She will want to know of the new addition to the house. How long will you be here, Colonel?"

"I will leave Tuesday morning, ma'am."

"Good, good. Please excuse me."

"Claiming the supper set, Cousin?"

"I thought it would be polite. After all, Mrs. Westfield is likely to know some of our guests, but Miss Westfield will not."

"You usually avoid the supper set."

"Yes, well, this time I am not. Do not look at me like that, Georgie."

"Do you like her? Do not get me wrong, I would whole heartedly approve, but I do not want you to play with my friend's affections."

The Colonel stared at his cousin. She was young, but she was not silly. "Right now, I only seek to know her better. It would be an ideal match for me, as you well know. I do not want to be in the military forever. I would like to settle down, but like Miss Westfield, I want a partner I can respect. She is also young. I have more than 10 years on her. Fear not, Cousin. I am looking out for both our interests. It also wouldn't hurt to hold off a few other suitors. In the end, I may very well be advising her on who to avoid and who might be the least bit worthy of her."

"You are the best of men, Richard."

"I thought your brother held that position?"

"You are neck and neck. Come, lets get you settled. You can help me send off a letter to Fitzwilliam."

So, a little flirting from the Colonel. I see Darcy as a bit personal with those he loves so his letters will be pretty open, but he will still guard some of his secrets. I plan to write them with little hints here and there. More letters on the way, with some cut interactions, but I am thinking mainly letters. I had originally planned to follow the original story line, but it has taken a huge curve. I know some of you are wondering about Mary. Yes, there will be someone for her. I am not sure what I am going to do about Charlotte and Collins yet. If you have an opinion or idea, please let me know.