Wretched Beginnings 1814

by Mother of Pearl Fetish

Continuation of WB 1812 and WB 1813. It's 1814…Jane and Lizzy are enceinte. Anne marries Richard. Will John and Catherine court and marry? Will Mrs. Bennet and Lydia learn to behave? What does 1814 have in store for our wonderful Mary? Will Augusta be the only one disappointed by changes at Rosings Park?

9. Chapter 9

Wretched Beginnings 1814 – Chapter 9

August 1

Having settled in Rosings House, Richard spent his hours preparing the Recovery House. He could not rest easy in his comfortable life with Anne knowing there were so many men who returned injured or lame and were unable to find work. Anne understood Richard needed an occupation once he left His Majesty's Army. Learning to manage Rosings with Anne would fulfill their lives. He was furious because men who valiantly served their country were sometimes reduced to begging so they could pay for doctors, hospitals and medicine. Injured men shared the lease funds for one bedroom and a common room, or lived rough. Helping and providing for injured men would soothe the need Richard had to make his life right after the war.

"You need love, laughter and some intrigue," Anne whispered to Richard after a violent dream disturbed his sleep.

"I need you," he whispered back to the love of his life. Anne understood his periods of melancholy. She understood his nightmares featured battlefields and the men who died in his arms. She understood his need to ride across meadows to feel the sun warm his body and let the wind blow away his dark thoughts. Anne's quiet courage softened his battle-worn body and soul.

~X~

Richard and Anne rode out, just as the sun cleared the horizon. The ride to the highest peak of Rosings Park became one of their favorite rides. The dark blue of the morning clouds gave way to the fiery reds and oranges of a summer sunrise. The land, illuminated from the sunrise, showed the dark green edge of woodland. The lighter green of the land included the kitchen gardens, herb gardens, flower gardens, lavender beds and the formal gardens with demi-rocked walls. Large patches of green delineated the parkland at the Rosings House. The sunlight caught a silvery splash of the pond, and lazy silver grey spirals of smoke from cottages and homes. Dark shadows outlined the gazebo at the pond. The ruins of a hunting lodge caught their eye.

"We should send some of the older boys into the forest to gather saplings from the elm, oak and walnut trees. If they are stripped and dried this year, we can make a new supply of arrows for summer lawn parties next year." Richard suggested. "I want to rebuild the hunting lodge next year for hosting hunting parties."

"Let's ride back. There's work to be done on the rose and lavender beds today, in addition to cleaning the grove between Rosings House and the Recovery House." Anne began a leisurely ride home. Long shadows of the orangery danced across the grounds.

Sunrise cast shadows of trees on the double road from Hunsford to Rosings Park. Tall fir trees signaled the entry to Rosings Park. Their stately size indicated the important estate ahead. The drive eventually circled and stopped before an imposing structure. Richard appreciated the pleasing prospect of the de Bourgh Recovery House.

When Anne emerged from her dressing room for breakfast, Richard waited in the hall for her. They were both dressed in older clothes, ready to sort and clean at the Recovery House. Anne wore a dark blue gown with rounded neck and short sleeves. She had a plain wide ribbon tied at the empire waist. Her only jewelry was her wedding ring. Her hair was plaited and wound into a serviceable coronet on her head. He appreciated Aveline's efforts to dress Anne's hair. He hated mob caps. Mother never wore one, not even at breakfast in the morning room.

~X~

"We have a copy of Howard Hurst's current will, which has been filed with the Crown Court." Hurst's solicitors informed Bingley and Hurst's father and brother. "When Mr. Hurst and Miss Bingley were first married, his will set out her marriage settlement, but the remainder of his funds and property were bequeathed to his first son. Without a child born to the couple, his funds and property were left to his older brother. Before they had been married two years, Mr. and Mrs. Hurst appeared at our office. He changed his will; she had a will written. Both were filed with Crown Court. Mr. Hurst's current will leaves his funds and property to Mrs. Hurst. As he has no land or houses, the property portion of the will is resolved. However, Mr. Hurst has funds in the percents to bequeath to his widow. The miscellaneous funds in his personal account will pay his funeral expenses and travel expenses for his family."

While Bingley noted the look of disappointment on the Hursts' faces, quietly his heart felt relief for Louisa.

"His older brother, Henry Hurst, is his executor." The solicitor passed a copy of the will to Henry. "I see no reason for delay in settling Hurst's will."

"Is it possible for us to visit the bank this week? I would appreciate accessing Hurst's funds to deposit in Louisa's accounts. I have a new son and a beautiful wife. I would like to spend my time with them…instead of dealing with Hurst's final wishes." Bingley did not feel the need to delay, especially in the summer heat of London. Bingley longed for Landers End, and see his new lambs gambol in the fields. He wanted to see Jane and Charlie. However, he needed to speak with his steward and ensure everything was going forward before he reveled in his family life.

"Yes," Henry passed the will to his father. "Let's settle everything today, as I too, would like to return to my family."

Hugh Hurst read the will and passed it to Bingley to read. Once this was all set, Bingley would send an express to Louisa and Aunt Cordelia.

August 2

Mrs. Annesley received an express from the best known French master and one from the best known music master in London. Before the first of September, if Miss Georgiana Darcy was in London, she should send directions. Each master would call to arrange a schedule for Miss Darcy's lessons. Both masters had an almost full schedule for the autumn. The music master would see Miss Georgiana from eleven until one on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The French master would see Miss Georgiana from eleven until one on Mondays and Fridays. Each master understood Miss Darcy would be presented during the Season in 1815.

Mrs. Annesley discussed the masters with Georgiana and Darcy. She opined this might be the only chance Georgiana would have to study with these two renown masters. She did not feel Georgiana would have time for masters during the Season while she prepared for her presentation. Darcy directed Mrs. Annesley to accept the proposed schedule. He and Elizabeth would deliver Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley to the Darcy House in London by August twentieth. Elizabeth opined they might shop for items Pemberley needed for the Harvest Festival and Christmas while they were in London.

August 4

Darcy House, London

Dear Louisa and Aunt Cordelia,

Please come to London as soon as possible. Darcy will allow you and Aunt Cordelia to stay at the Darcy House until we can finalize your accounts. You should meet with the Bingley solicitor to draw a new will. There are funds from Howard to settle with your jointure funds in the five percents. The combined funds will provide a per annum which you may use to establish a home in London if you desire. Additionally, the Hurst House will be open to you to pack anything you have in storage there. You can ship to either a new home or to Scarborough.

I include a separate page with a list of the inns between Scarborough and London for you and Aunt Cordelia's comfort.

I am sorry about Howard and pray for you.

My love to both of you,

Charles

~X~

Darcy House, London

Dearest Jane,

My angel, I miss you dreadfully. I miss Charlie. I will probably be in London until the first of September settling Louisa. Hugh and Henry Hurst are pleasant company, but they have many things to do on the Hurst Estate. Will you consider coming to London?

I will ask Darcy and Lizzy to bring you and Charlie to me if you do not feel comfortable traveling alone. Please make arrangements. I cannot wait to see you and our son.

Love,

Charles

August 6

John read the headlines of the paper to Catherine.

"You need to point out the Isle of Wight and the town of Ryde to me. I understand it is off the south coast of England…but without seeing a map, I have no understanding." Catherine cut her breakfast ham into small bites.

"In 1782 the HMS Royal George sank, drowning eight hundred men, women and children. Their bodies washed ashore and are buried at Ryde," John explained. "Ryde now has a pier…called the Ryde Pier. For a year, Ryde has been building a wooden pier to allow ships to release passengers at Ryde. You know most people on ships are put in longboats and rowed to shore at low tide. We would need to search Hatchard's for a book about the HMS Royal George."

"Sounds terrible…" Catherine sighed.

"I predict more piers will be built," John opined. "I also believe railroads will become important during our lifetime."

"You will talk to Darcy and Bingley before you invest in railroads?" Catherine suggested.

"I promise," John kissed Catherine.

Sunday, August 14

"I will not fund your vices," Lord Elburn impatiently announced to Stephan. "You play with borrowed funds. I plan to be Earl Elburn for a decade or two…not your moneylender to the end of my days. I do not care if your need for funds is pressing right now. You have a good income from your living, and I know your mother slips funds to you. You must learn not to overspend your living."

"I need the funds, Father." Stephan's statement sounded like a plea.

"No…I won't give it to you. I will not allow you to borrow against your inheritance. I will not pay any more debts of honor. You will have the title, the estate and the funds when I die. I'm grateful my father insisted on an entail to prevent future heirs from selling or bankrupting the estate. I paid your invoices at Midsummer and will deduct that amount from your Michaelmas funds. No tradesman's family should starve to keep your cravat tied. Pay your debts of honor with your horses, your equipage, your jewelry, or your personal possessions. Once you give up the house in London, you will be allowed to stay at the estate. You will work with the steward to learn how to run an estate. Or find a wife…spend her dowry on your cards, horses, and mistresses. If it were not such a degradation for our family…I would suggest you marry a nouveau rich tradesman's daughter. You might be able to entertain yourself on the percents from her dowry. Silas and I discussed the situation and he will not act in brotherly love to save you either. He needs his funds to finish his education and settle into an excellent partnership in law. I sent a letter of warning to Lord Matlock and Lord Fitzwilliam, notifying them of your pockets to let. Don't expect to importune Augusta for funds. Don't expect to stay at the Matlock House in London during Little Season." Lord Elburn rang for his house steward, signaling the conversation ended.

August 20

"We apologize for the delay," Darcy greeted Bingley. "However, we can stay to mid-September. I want to be back at Pemberley for Michaelmas. Georgiana will engage masters before she enters her first Season next spring. She and Mrs. Annesley will stay at the Darcy House until the Matlocks return to London for Little Season."

"Jane and I are determined to go to the theatre and opera while we are in town," Bingley informed Darcy. "We hope you and Lizzy will join us. I finalized the paperwork for Louisa's funds at our London bank. She wrote a new will, which has been filed. She had her things in storage at Hurst House shipped to Scarborough. She sent Caroline's things at Hurst House to Bath. She took what she wanted of Hurst's things from the Hurst House and left the rest for his brother. She and Aunt Cordelia are returning to Scarborough."

"So it was a successful venture?" Darcy asked.

"Indeed. Since Hurst only had funds and no properties, the will was settled in a day. Louisa is financially independent. Aunt Cordelia offered her a home in Scarborough and she accepted. Jane and I pray they will be happy living with one another. If Louisa needs a home in the future, we will discuss moving her to Bath, near Caroline. However, Aunt Cordelia warned Caroline might attempt to importune Louisa for funds."

"How are her interests being protected?" Darcy asked.

"Should a degenerate try to marry Louisa for her funds…I have tied Louisa's funds as tight as possible. Both Louisa and Aunt Cordelia supported my efforts to protect Louisa's funds. Instead of Louisa's bills coming to me, they will go to Aunt Cordelia's solicitor in Scarborough. They will pay her invoices, including the wages for a personal maid and a maid-of-all-things. Then the remainder of the quarterly per annum living will be placed in an account which Louisa may access." Bingley felt relief because he would not be responsible if Louisa sent funds to Caroline.

Darcy suggested they travel to Longbourn before returning to Derbyshire. He wanted to review the new properties which Mr. Bennet planned to add to Longbourn's holdings. Mr. Bennet wrote Lizzy to let her know the funds from Ben's birth gave Longbourn three more farms and thirty acres of pastureland. Bennet had his eye on two farms north of Longbourn, but the owner lived in Stevenage. Meanwhile, Bennet planned to build a set of large barns for animals on the main farm before winter. He planned to purchase sheep, more livestock, and more poultry for the main farm. He asked for their silence in the matter, as Sir William would announce the land sales on Twelfth Night.

August 26

"I am so sorry, Charlotte," Lizzy held Charlotte's hand. Maria sat silently, staring at walls, since the window drapes were drawn. Mr. Bennet forbade Lively Lydia from joining Mrs. Bennet or her sisters when calling on Lucas Lodge while the Lucas men buried Lady Lavinia Lucas. Lydia did not mind staying at Longbourn. Mama said Maria would not be able to join Lydia at the shops for a year. There would be no gossip because neither Charlotte nor Maria could attend assemblies for a year.

Lizzy suggested, since Grace Goulding was engaged to John Lucas, she would probably attend with her parents. While Lydia would have gone to cheer Maria…she avoided Grace Goulding. Grace would probably brag because she caught the most available bachelor in the area. Lydia knew from past dealings with Grace…she would be sorely tested not to brag Colonel Alex Whitford was twice as handsome as John Lucas…and did not have to wait for his wealth. Although Lydia took immense glee in considering Grace's status as a single young lady for another year.

"Mother hasn't been well since spring. Daily we watched her fade away from us." Charlotte confided. "Mother's illness kept us from your house party."

"What will you do?" Lizzy worried for her friend.

"I will keep house for my family. John and Grace Goulding were to marry in London during Little Season. They will wait a year. Maria is distressed; she hoped to come out during Little Season in London this autumn. We won't entertain for a year, which won't bother me, but Father, John and Maria enjoy society."

"I'm sorry we cannot stay longer. We were in London, delivering Georgiana to the Darcy House. She will receive lessons with masters before she comes out next Season. Georgiana makes her curtsey to the court sometime after Easter. Darcy wants to return to Pemberley before Michaelmas. To be honest, I really miss Ben."

"Bingley and I cannot stay either," Jane comforted their family friend. "Bingley had business in London settling Howard Hurst's estate. I miss Charlie and cannot wait to return to Landers End. Thank you for your kind letter expressing sympathy for Mrs. Hurst and the family. I shared your letter with Bingley, who shared the letter with his sister and aunt."

"I apologize, I cannot stay longer either. We're busy with Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam. They are creating a Recovery House for wounded soldiers and sailors at the Rosings Park manor house." Mary observed Mama, Mrs. Phillips and Mrs. Long. The trio was uncharacteristically quiet.

"We will be in London for at least a fortnight," Lizzy confided to Charlotte. "Please send an express to the Darcy House if you need anything. We're just a few hours away."

"We must return to Hunsford, but please send an express if we are needed in Meryton," Mary offered.

"I'm grateful for your visit." Charlotte poured tea for the ladies and repeated the process when the men returned.

August 29

John and Catherine lingered over breakfast at the de Bourgh House. "My favorite tailor is Schweitzer and Davidson on Cork Street. Although, I do like Mr. Byington on the south end of Bond Street. Darcy introduced me to him. My wedding clothes were created by him, and I felt well pleased. I prefer having my academic clothes sewn in Oxford."

"Have you ever been to Weston's? Mr. Fitzwilliam will not patronize them. He says he doesn't want his wardrobe discussed with Beau Brummel or the Prince Regent. Nor does he want his wardrobe compared to the dandies of the ton." Catherine wrinkled her nose.

John laughed. 'I don't think I would like that either. I know Mr. Fitzwilliam gets his boots at Hoby, like most of the peerage, and officers. I get my boots from the Collinses Warehouses. They have excellent leather craftsmen. I get my hats from Collinses Warehouses also. The favorite hatmaker of the court, peerage, ton and officers – Lock and Company – are always too busy for a gentleman farmer and academic."

"I don't need to visit a modiste while in London," Catherine reviewed her lists. "Since my trunks and crates arrived and are unpacked, I have enough clothes to last until I have a few things sewn for autumn and winter."

"If you need sewing done, we have a seamstress at Hamilton House, but I would like you to patronize the Laverton sisters in Oxford. They have a modiste, milliner and draper shop. Perhaps if you don't like their materials, you can suggest they patronize Gardiner's Emporium in London. I want to shop at Harris's Apothecary on St James. I like purchasing their shaving supplies and soaps."

"I like buying my favorite rose soap there also. However, I have receipts from Mary for rose water, lavender water, scented soaps and scented candles. With work, the Hamilton House will have lovely rose beds and lavender beds. I shall be quite content to work with your stillroom maid to create items I need. Mary likes saving ashes from Michaelmas until Lady Day, when all but the kitchen and nursery fires cease. She uses those ashes when she makes soaps and candles. They have time to dry until Michaelmas."

"My housekeeper saves the ashes so our stillroom maid can create soaps and candles for the staff use during the year." John explained.

Sounds like an excellent plan," Catherine agreed.

"I am interested in visiting Timsdale's Teas and Timsdale's Treasures." John admitted they were some of his favorite places to patronize. "Mr. Gardiner gave me the directions for the best wines, ports and sherries. Darcy and Fitzwilliam gave me the directions for the best brandy purveyor in London. Mrs. Fitzwilliam gave me the name for the best stationer in London. Mr. Fitzwilliam and Mr. Gardiner recommended coopers, and carriage makers. Mrs. Gardiner recommended a seed and plant warehouse and a medicinal supplies warehouse."

"I'm sorry we didn't have time to arrange the house and gather supplies before the wedding," Catherine hesitated over her own lists.

"Nonsense," John's eyes twinkled at her. "I enjoy shopping in London. We will move your funds from the royal chartered Bank of London to the royal chartered Bank of Oxford and arrange for your percents to be moved into a personal account for you. Someday, when the war is truly over, and the continent is rebuilt, I want to take you to Brussels, Berlin, Paris, Rome, and Vienna. Perhaps we will even tour Egypt like Napoleon. Mr. Fitzwilliam described the Mediterranean Sea as having more shades of blue than fabrics at Gardiner's Emporium."

"Will you take me to Greece? Since we studied classical sculptures, I would like to see the Parthenon and the Acropolis." Catherine smiled at John's enthusiastic nod. "Lizzy sent an express. We are invited to dinner at the Darcy House when they return from Longbourn and before they return to Pemberley."

"I will take you anywhere…except Longbourn right now. I don't want your mother to suggest we accept Lydia as a guest until Christmas." John reminded her.

September 1

"Papa's newspapers are filled with the gossip," Maria whispered to Lydia. "The poet Shelley abandoned his pregnant wife and ran away to France and Switzerland with Mary Wollstonecraft and her stepsister, Jane Clairmont. Papa lectured Charlotte about allowing me to make calls while we are in mourning. I'm so bored with being alone at Lucas Lodge." Maria sank back into a chair in her room.

"I long for an adventure. I've been so bored since we returned from Lizzy's house party." Lydia whined about how Mr. Collins ruined her enjoyment of dancing at Kitty's wedding breakfast. She whined about leaving the Pemberley house party because of her injury. She almost cursed Kitty for not offering to take her on the wedding trip to the Lake District. Lydia longed for a ball. Netherfield had been purchased by a man with two widowed sisters, with nephews fully young, and married friends older than Darcy! With the death of Lady Lavinia Lucas, the fate of the Meryton assemblies was undetermined.

"I'm so disappointed. Papa and Mama planned to rent a home in London for Little Season, when John married Grace Goulding. Now we are in mourning for a year. John and Grace are not having a London wedding. They are waiting to wed during Little Season of next year. I planned to have the best time during Little Season! Shopping, dinners, visiting, teas, parties, assemblies, balls, museums, Presentation Hour in Hyde Park, Gunter's Ices, and attending church on Sundays at St George's Cathedral with Papa and his friends from St. James." Maria wept, blotting her eyes with a black lawn handkerchief. "Charlotte doesn't understand how important Little Season and London were for me this year!"

Their thirty minutes of visiting together ended…and yet again…nothing had been resolved. Lydia seemed restless. Maria felt discontented.

September 2

Mary's hand trembled while holding the black banded express written in Papa's hand. She took a deep breath and gasped when she opened the express. She understood in an instant…her marital harmony could be disrupted by Papa's express. Mary did not know how Mother died, as Papa's express simply said accident. She sent a quick prayer heavenward for Mother's peace…and prayed Mr. Collins would not demand they relocate to Longbourn. Her Hunsford gardens and orchard produced well this year. She worried about late harvests if they tarried at Longbourn. She asked Mr. and Mrs. Manning to keep an eye on the parsonage, gardens and animals until they returned. Mrs. Manning opined it was a pity they needed to return to Longbourn immediately. However, she opined George would be fine while he remained in Hunsford.

"My dear! Why did you not tell me at once?" Mr. Collins set his quill aside when Mary appeared in his bookroom an hour later. "We must depart immediately for Longbourn! Make haste! Father Bennet must be in such a state. Should I prepare the sermon for the burial?" He busied himself selecting books to take with him to Longbourn.

"I believe I have been in shock," Mary prevaricated She would not admit she wrote lists of items to pack, tasks to be done, and people to alert. "I believe Papa will ask Vicar Nelson from St. Albans to prepare the burial sermon. I'm sure you will stand with Bingley, Darcy and Hamilton as Papa's sons." Mary hoped her statement would end Mr. Collins' anticipation. Surely Papa would not ask him to deliver Frances Gardiner Bennet's funeral message. "You must contact Mr. Fitzwilliam and Curate Stevenson. We cannot be ready to depart until tomorrow morning."

The Fitzwilliams insisted on attending the Collinses at the parsonage and discussed what to do. They offered their fastest horses with coachman and groom to the Collinses. They offered to send the Collins' carriage to the livery to be prepared for travel. Mr. Fitzwilliam sent an express rider to the Meryton Inn to secure the two best suites, and rooms for servants if Longbourn wasn't large enough. Anne suggested the Gardiners could stay with the Phillips in Meryton.

Anne brought two black gowns, a bonnet and accessories which she had set aside for when Mother passed. She insisted Clarisse fit the gowns to Mary. Clarisse and Barlow agreed to sew all night so Mrs. Collins could wear one gown, and pack the other for travel. While Anne attended Mary's fitting, Mary expressed her greatest fear. She dreaded the thought of Mr. Collins demanding they remain at Longbourn under the guise of Mary fulfilling the tasks of mistress of the house. Anne agreed to ask Mr. Fitzwilliam to insist Mr. Collins return to Hunsford within a fortnight when they conferred with Curate Stevenson regarding how Hunsford Rectory would run in the absence of Collins.

Anne helped Mary search the crates of Lady Catherine's cast off clothes. She suggested Mary take anything which she could use during her bereavement period. "I think you can remake some of these black gauze headpieces of Mother's into mob cabs. You could use the lace and ribbons to redecorate bonnets. I have no good opinion of these. Someone must have told Mother they were the height of fashion. I provided cotton and muslin mobcaps for her. Let me loan you Clarisse for a few weeks. She can remake clothes for you." Anne found three black silk gauze and lace wraps, and several black accessories. Barlow packed two trunks of dark grey wool gowns and outerwear to be remade for Mary. She would have the clothes delivered to Clarisse.

~X~

Mrs. Gardiner knew her nieces were not prepared for the death of their mother. She visited every modiste and second-hand clothing store to purchase as many items as possible. She packed trunks of black gowns, materials, and accessories. She also bought black dye, so the girls could dye some of their clothes until they could arrange for more to be made. The servants readied the Gardiners to depart for Longbourn before midday tomorrow.

September 3

Longbourn was not somber and silent when most of the Bennet sisters arrived. Lydia did not understand how much her life changed in one afternoon. She would not allow Mrs. Hill to close the drapes, cover the mirrors, stop the clocks, nor make a wreath for the door. She did not understand the need to prepare rooms, food or drink. She greeted her sisters enthusiastically like they returned for a summer visit, not the death of their mother. She had Mr. Hill place travel trunks in her room and began packing away her best things. She felt sure Mrs. Gardiner would take her to London, for Papa had no idea how to chaperone a young woman.

Jane handled Lydia and outfitting everyone for mourning. Lydia wanted to have new black gowns made at the modiste. Jane explained ladies didn't shop, nor did they entertain while in mourning. Jane and Lizzy had black gowns because of Mr. Hurst. She fit gowns in Mrs. Gardiner's trunks to Mary and Catherine. She insisted Lydia select gowns to dye black. Lydia did not want to dye any of her clothes. Eventually Lydia settled on four older day gowns. Jane set Lydia to removing sashes, ribbons and lace, which vexed Lydia greatly. Catherine reminded Lydia they must mourn Mama by wearing black for six months. After six months they could wear grey or lavender, with black lace. At the end of a year, they could resume wearing their normal clothing.

Lizzy handled visitors and accommodations for the family. An express from Mr. Fitzwilliam explained about accommodations for the Gardiners with the Phillips, and the reserved rooms at Meryton Inn. The Bingleys, Darcys, Collins and Hamiltons took rooms at Longbourn but used the rooms at Meryton Inn for servants. Lizzy worked with Mrs. Hill to ensure the rest of the rooms were prepared. Lizzy could not bear to clear Mama's room, not without Jane or Catherine's help. The task would wait until after the funeral.

Mary handled the kitchen, to ensure the family and staff were fed and Papa ate. Mrs. Hill and Mary spent several minutes consoling one another. Mrs. Hill explained she found a second key to the stillroom in Mrs. Bennet's room. Mrs. Bennet had been afflicted by nerves since the death of Lady Lucas. She believed Mrs. Bennet poured generous cordials of medicinal sherry, and dosed it with additional laudanum. Mary prepared Longbourn for mourning.

Catherine, with Lydia's help, created the wreath for the door and appropriate black armbands for the servants and tenants. She used some of the plain black materials and ribbons in Mrs. Gardiner's trunks to redecorate bonnets for her and her sisters. Lydia, of course, refused to have her best bonnets remade, and found an older one belonging to Mrs. Bennet which she could repurpose with black materials and ribbons.

Inconsolable Lydia hid the tears she shed for herself in the ones she shed for Mama. Kitty…Catherine…corrected Lydia so many times about her name, Lydia was almost afraid to speak. First, she missed dancing at Catherine's wedding because of Mary's oaf of a husband. Then she missed the birthday/anniversary ball. The community considered canceling the Michaelmas assembly. Lady Lucas had been to Meryton assemblies like the patronesses had been to Almack's. Now, Mama died…and Lydia would be expected to mourn for a year.

'No pretty clothes, no dancing, no flirting…Where is my Percy Bysshe Shelley…who will disregard conventional society to woo and win me? I need a confidante who does not judge me…like Sophia Forester or Penelope Whitford. Penelope wrote and invited me to come to Bath for Little Season. Perhaps Penelope has a plan to transport me to Bath.'

~X~

"How did it happen?" Lizzy asked Mary.

"Papa said the passing of Lady Lucas upset Mother. She was resting to soothe her nerves. Lydia gathered flowers in the garden with Mrs. Hill. Papa read in his library. They heard a cry as Mother fell down the stairs. The surgeon checked on Mother several times each day since the accident. She had been unconscious for almost two days and just slipped away."

"What did Mama seek?"

"Mrs. Hill thinks Mother wanted another bottle of medicinal sherry. There's an almost empty bottle in her room. Also, the laudanum is missing from the stillroom." Mary blamed herself for Mother's preference for medicinal sherry.

"I'll go to Papa." Lizzy offered.

"He is in his library. I'm taking him a tea tray now." Mary carried the tray, ensuring there was food for two or three and extra teacups.

"My feelings are of profoundest sorrow," Mr. Collins remarked to Mr. Bennet when Mary entered the library. "You know Mary and I are here to help."

"Mr. Collins, please let Papa rest. He hasn't sleep well in days." Mary set a tea tray on Papa's desk. "Come away with me. I have fresh honey biscuits and Hamilton needs company. Lizzy and Darcy will see to Papa now."

"I feel quite guilty," Mr. Bennet admitted to Lizzy when they were alone. "I outlived your mother, as I teased her. I've been working so hard on the expansion plans for Longbourn, I did not pay attention as I should have."

"This is not your fault. We know how much Mama relied on her medicinal sherry. I know she grieved the death of Lady Lucas. I'm glad we tarried in London." Lizzy held Papa's hand.

Mr. Bennet and Vicar Nelson made the arrangements. Mr. Bennet felt grateful for the steadying presence of Jane and Lizzy, and the calming presence of Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. At Thomas Bennet's request, no one brought children with them. He needed to discuss his plans going forth. He had to determine what to do with Lydia. Collins wanted to move Mary and George to Longbourn. However…Bennet did not feel Collins understood how much his plan and Lydia would importune Mary.

~X~

Mary fretted about the situation and prevailed upon Jane, Lizzy and Catherine to help her. Mr. Collins acted oddly since they received Papa's letter. Mr. Collins reminded her deaths occurred in series of three – and neither Howard Hurst nor Lady Lucas were family. Mr. Collins worried Papa would be the next to go. Mary worried Mr. Collins hoped to move to Longbourn. The married Bennet daughters clustered together and discussed their father. They laid out a plan to host Mr. Bennet and Lydia during their mourning period. Once plans were made, they presented the plan to Papa and Lydia.

Lydia was distraught at the thought of a year…wearing mourning clothes…and playing the dutiful daughter, sister and aunt. Lydia felt the prospect of Little Season in Bath sounded absolutely lyrical…and she could feel dancing music build in her blood. Lydia took up quill, ink and paper. She so disliked writing letters, but as Mama pointed out…one must write letters to receive letters. She wrote the most woebegone letter to Penelope, begging her to provide sanctuary in Bath. She told Penelope her sisters blamed her for Mama's death…how Papa refused to talk to her…how she had no society. Once Lydia sealed the letter, she paid one of the hall boys a coin to take the letter to Meryton and send it express to her friend.

~X~

Jane and Lizzy slipped out at dusk and walked the flower gardens of Longbourn. "Pence for your thoughts, Lizzy."

"My thoughts are not worth a ha'penny." Lizzy shook her head mournfully.

"My thoughts are as large as Longbourn…and the future," Jane admitted.

"You cannot take on the whole world right now," Lizzy teased.

Affectionately, Jane squeezed her favorite sister's hand. "I don't want to take on the world…but I am the oldest Bennet daughter. I wore the Miss Bennet title longer than Catherine ever did. What do you think of Mary's situation?"

"I think Mary makes the best of her situation. I believe she understands Collins a great deal more than any of us. I believe she is correct when she says now is not the time for them to return to Longbourn. We know she loves Longbourn…but the older George is when he inherits will make a vast difference in Mary's life. Men own their children and their wives. If Collins learns he is not the heir…but has been passed over for the son…"

"His essentials may change?" Jane shook her head.. "I'll not be borrowing trouble…"

"Mary doesn't borrow trouble. I believe she is correct about how Papa starts will be how he goes forward. I think she intends to suggest he help at the de Bourgh Recovery House…reading to or teaching the men. None of us linger in our beds in the morning. Mary says we are all active, useful people. She wants Papa to be active and useful also…not spend his days in his library instead of encountering memories of Mama in the halls and rooms of Longbourn."

"I'm unsure how to keep him useful at Landers End," Jane sighed. "Our library is not large…"

"Papa can set it to rights so it can be used by your children and their tutors and governesses. He can help set your nursery floor and classroom. He can read to Charlie. Papa can listen and advise Bingley. He can share memories with you." Lizzy suggested.

Jane nodded. "How we start…."

"…is how we go forward." Lizzy hugged her favorite sister and best friend.

September 5

Franny's husband, brothers, sons, and friends like Sir William, Mr. Goulding and Mr. Purvis; tenants, and Mr. Benson from Netherfield Park attended the internment. The women sat in the drawing room at Longbourn. Tea and a repast would be served when the men returned from burying Mrs. Bennet. Mary and Mrs. Hill packed a food basket for the sexton and helpers at St. Albans. Mr. Bingley delivered it along with a coin for all.

'I wonder, if something happened to Mr. Phillips, would I be happy living with Edward and his family? Cheapside is a respectable, although unfashionable, area of London. How do they bear the summer in London? Would Jane and Lizzy, with their well-to-do husbands, provide adequate pin money to offset any penurious jointure funds? Franny always bragged about how well her daughters lived. Would Kitty…Catherine…provide a comfortable home? I refuse to approach Mary. No gossip, no society…just daily good deeds for the unfortunate. I could not bear the tedium!' Deborah Phillips sat near the tea service.

Mrs. Hill, with Mary's help, planned a repast for the gathering after the funeral. Port and sherry would be served with hot tea. Deborah Phillips knew the girls would not economize and serve inferior tea nor a scant repast. Franny taught them well.

Deborah sent up a prayer for the repose of Franny's soul and thanks for the opportunity to ingratiate herself with her married nieces. Not today, but perhaps tomorrow she would offer to help her nieces sort their mother's things. Franny had a wine silk shawl which Deborah greatly admired. Franny had gowns which would be appropriate for her older sister. Franny always had better and rarely shared. Deborah planned to reap the rewards from her nieces' improved social standings. However she would not be as demanding as Franny. She would be grateful and appreciative of her nieces' efforts to enlarge her living.

No one said a bad word…or told the truth about Frances Gardiner Bennet during the tea. She was a devoted mother, not an embarrassing matchmaker. Her nerves, exclamations, and generally boisterous attitudes were not discussed. Her hostessing abilities were lauded; comments about her spendthrift ways were silent like the grave. Her vivacity and eagerness to participate in community events were a polite way of saying she never missed an opportunity to gossip. Everyone had at least one kind story to tell about Frances Bennet.

September 7

Everyone appreciated Hamilton insisting he and Collins take a ride. Hamilton insisted on taking a saddlebag of food and drink with them, because he wanted to ride up to Mount Oakham. Truth be told, Catherine begged for his help. Papa did not want Collins to know about the new pastureland and farms. The Bennets needed discussions without intervention from Collins. Daily, Collins offered to assume control of Longbourn if Mr. Bennet decided to make his home with Jane or Elizabeth.

Bennet sat with Phillips and Gardiner, and with Darcy and Bingley. He swore Bingley to silence before he revealed Longbourn would belong to George Bennet Collins upon his passing. He explained the entail changed to single succession while his father lived. Mary shared the information with Lizzy when Ben was born. Lizzy informed Darcy. Gardiner and Phillips would be advisors to the estate. Darcy and Bingley would be trustees of the estate until George turned eight and ten. The line of succession included George, Ben and then Charlie. Darcy and Bingley hired John Lucas to be steward at Longbourn for the next year while Mr. Bennet and Lydia visited his married daughters. They hired Miss Lucas to oversee the cleaning, care and upkeep of Longbourn Manor. She would oversee the making of apple wine, mead, etc. She would call on Longbourn's tenants during the family's absence.

Privately, Mary appreciated John Lucas acting as steward for Longbourn. He worked with his father's tenants. While Papa needed to be away this year, John guaranteed there would be no neglect.

~X~

"Collins will never know," Darcy assured Mr. Bennet. Lizzy and her sisters decided to give their inheritance from Mrs. Bennet's marriage settlement to Mr. Bennet. Lydia's portion would be kept separate, and controlled by Mr. Bennet until she became of age or married. She would be given the percents of her share on quarter days to provide for her clothing and personal needs. "We will provide for you and Lydia for the next year to ease your bereavement, instead of demanding funds from Mrs. Bennet's marriage settlement."

"You should not be inopportuned by Mrs. Phillips or matrons of Meryton during your bereavement. Four thousand from the Bennet daughters will help expand the holdings by purchase of more land or animals," Bingley concurred.

"I didn't want to take the girls' funds, but it is expedient to do so. I don't want to reveal the changes to the entail." Bennet admitted. Before he left Longbourn, he would move the funds from Franny's account into Longbourn's coffers. He would move Lydia's funds into a separate account which would provide her pin money.

~X~

Lydia eagerly ripped into Penelope's express. With Mama's passing and the presence of her sisters, Papa allowed Lizzy to handle the correspondence which came to Longbourn. Lizzy had not censured Lydia's mail as Papa had in the past.

15 Camden Street

Bath

Dearest Lydia,

Please accept the Colonel and my profound sympathy at the passing of Mrs. Bennet. We are grieved at your family's actions toward you…

September 11

"Are we ready," Lizzy asked.

"Lydia will not attend church with us. She is indisposed and will rest. She plans to sleep while we attend church, and when we put flowers on Mama's grave. She insists no one need stay with her. I offered a headache draught, but she refused," Mary replied.

"Very well, then," Mr. Bennet conceded. "The servants are attending church also. While we visit your Mama's grave, they will return and lay out a midday repast for us."

~X~

"Penelope asked me to convey you to London," Colonel Whitford appeared at the door of Longbourn after the Bennet family and servants departed for church. "I have a fast curricle. We'll be halfway to London before you are missed by your family. Tomorrow, we will take our fastest and best chaise and four to Bath. I will bring a maid with us for your protection, as the trip to Bath is two days from London."

"I need help," Lydia led him upstairs. "Two trunks, dressing case and valise in that room are ready to lash to the curricle. That stack of bandboxes are ready to go also. I am almost done with this trunk and then we may depart, quickly." She quickly finished packing Mama's best gowns, accessories, and jewels. She stuffed the funds she found in Mama's lockbox and the household funds in her lockbox, adding it to the last trunk. Once Colonel Whitford carried everything downstairs. Lydia pulled on her travel cloak, bonnet and gloves, running down the stairs and out the door.

Lydia watched as Whitford expertly stood two identical sized trunks on their side, stacked the three bandboxes between, and placed the last trunk on top. He bound them well so nothing would shift during their race away from Longbourn. "We'll put the valise behind my legs, next to the seat. You have to hold the dressing case if you can't put it behind your legs." Whitford handed her into the curricle. "Until we are out of Meryton and its surrounds, I want you to keep your cloak hood up and your eyes to your toes. We will encounter few travelers. Your face will not be seen if you are looking down. As you will sit close to me, other travelers will assume we are married."

~X~

"What do you mean, Lydia is gone?" Mr. Bennet sank into his chair.

"Lydia refuses to travel for the next year, visiting her boring sisters in their boring homes with their boring children. She says while she is young, she plans to have a good laugh and plenty of society…and Mama would wish it for her." Jane read out the note addressed to her.

"Lydia traveled on a Sunday?" Mr. Collins gasped.

"Lydia lied and traveled on a Sunday. From what I can discern… Lydia stole Mama's best gowns, accessories and jewels," Jane proclaimed.

"Mrs. Hill reports Mama's funds and the household funds are missing." Mary added.

"Bingley and I will ask at Meryton Inn to see if Lydia traveled by post, and where they let her down." Darcy explained. "We will inquire if she hired a private coach."

"Someone must have conveyed her to wherever she went as travel trunks are missing, in addition to Mama's travel valise and dressing case. Lydia's bandboxes are missing also. She could not have carried everything to the post by herself, and she would not have walked farther than Meryton." Catherine explained.

"Lydia only took clothes and accessories," Lizzy explained. "Her art box, books, and workbox are still here."

~X~

"Mr. Collins proclamations of morality are wrong!" Catherine snapped. "Lydia didn't lose her virtue…she abandoned it! She is spoiled and selfish…and this action displays her lack of virtue or goodness. She didn't like being here, and Aunt Gardiner would not take her to London. I think she planned to run away since your house party at Pemberley. I'm glad we're all married and live elsewhere so she can't ruin us! She is as dead to me as Mama. From this day forward, I will not allow her in my home, read any of her letters, or send her money! That hoyden knew what she was about."

"Language," Jane cautioned.

"Fine," Catherine snapped. "But I want all of you to remember your youngest sister provoked me into forgetting I am a lady."

"Preserve calm," Mary advised. "Being upset is not good if you are enceinte. Mrs. Hill is making ginger biscuits to settle your stomach. Drink ginger tea when you feel upset, and rest when you feel tired. Life would be doubly sad for you and Hamilton if you experience a disappointment at this time."

"How is Papa?" Jane inquired.

"Reserved. He puts on a brave face." Lizzy replied.

"Papa will stay with us at Hunsford Parsonage until the new year. If Papa is needed for harvesting, Longbourn a short trip for him to return. We will be in London for Twelfth Night with the Matlocks. Then Papa wants to go to Catherine in Oxford until after the baby is born, when he will go to Pemberley and Landers End until next September."

~X~

"Do we know where Lydia went?" Jane sent the men out of the house so she and her sisters could talk to Papa without interference.

"Lydia always wanted to go to London," Catherine reminded them. "However, with all of us in London in the next sennight…I believe Lydia may have gone to Bath to visit her particular friend, Mrs. Penelope Whitford, the wife of Colonel Whitford. I searched her room. There are no letters to hint of her departure."

"If Lydia wants to stay in London or Bath, I have no need to rescue her from her folly." Mr. Bennet sighed. "The servants are released October first with a year's pay and character reference. Mrs. Nichols hired Emma as a maid-of-all-things and Sarah as a stillroom maid for the Bensons. I hired a new valet who has coachman experience. His name is Vaughn. Only the Hills remain at Longbourn. Miss Lucas will keep Lucas Lodge running for Sir William and will help the Hills with Longbourn. We will close up Longbourn while I visit my daughters."

"What if Lydia comes home?" Mary poured tea for Papa and her sisters.

"The Hills will be here to greet her. I left a letter which says she is not to enter Longbourn nor take anything from the house. The letter orders her to go to her Aunt Phillips. Mrs. Hill and Miss Lucas will pack the remainder of Lydia's belongings. We're sending a crate of Lydia's things to the Phillips' house. Mr. Phillips will explain how Lydia can access her portion of your Mama's funds."

"Please add a codicil to the letter explaining she is not welcome at Hunsford Parsonage." Mary told Papa about Barlow and Mrs. Manning sorting through Lydia's trunk the Christmas George had been christened. She told him about the purloined items Barlow and Mrs. Manning removed from Lydia's trunk. "I apologize. If I had warned you, Lydia could not have stolen funds from you nor Mother's jewels. She will probably sell the jewels to a money broker so she has funds. Mother never cared about Lydia taking our things…so I kept my council."

"Lydia will never be welcome at the Hamilton House in Oxford. John and I are resolved. She must exhibit a change in essentials before our door will be open to her." Catherine agreed.

"Lydia is not welcome at Pemberley either," Lizzy squeezed Papa's trembling hand. She would not upset Papa by mentioning the porcelains and lavender sachets Mama and Lydia hoarded.

"Charles doesn't want her at Landers End." Jane sighed and shook her head.

"I understand Lydia cares for nothing except her own wants. I have cast her off. Her silly behavior will not ruin my family's old and honorable name. My daughters, if Lydia should write, please forward the letters to Mr. Phillips. He knows what to do." Mr. Bennet departed for his library. Work needed to be done; and matters needed to be settled with John Lucas regarding the harvest. John and farm workers would store items Longbourn needed for the winter and spring as well as the sale of the excess farm goods. Mr. Bennet believed he would join Mary and Collins the first week of October.

September 12

"Do not stress, Papa," Lizzy consoled him. "John will make a fine steward and Charlotte an excellent house manager. Both will work well with the tenants as they are known to all. They will manage according to your orders. The Hills will help them fulfill their duties. Longbourn will not languish without you."

"I see no need to hire a steward and house manager," Mr. Collins argued. "I can release my living at Hunsford Rectory. Mary and I can move back to Longbourn. With Mr. Bennet's help, I can learn to be a steward for the estate. Mary can assume the mistress duties at Longbourn. There is no one so capable for harvesting, handling staff, or running a household like my Mary."

"Papa knows how difficult this next year will be without Mama. He plans to travel and spend time with his daughters this next year. After his mourning period, he might desire our help at Longbourn," Mary gently informed her husband. "We all depart tomorrow. The Fitzwilliams expect our return. Papa needs time to close up Longbourn and meet with John and Charlotte."

~X~

Anne critically viewed the de Bourgh Recovery House with its eighty rooms, three hideously expensive chimney pieces, an excessive number of glazed windows, and a central hall with the sweeping staircase which Mr. Collins adored. Previously, it had been decorated with an overabundance of furniture and furnishings.

Anne felt the renovation of her childhood home into a Recovery House and sanctuary for wounded soldiers and sailors took too long. Rooms were repainted blue, green, cream or yellow. Pink and coral bed linens were sent to the Rosings House for female servants. Floral wallpapers were replaced with striped or plain textured wallpaper. Second and third floor large guest quarters with bedroom and sitting area with dressing room were recreated as sleeping quarters for multiple men, with a shared dressing room. Dressing rooms held all the necessary furniture.

The Fitzwilliams paid a small fortune for enough beds, nightstands and armoires to provide for men and staff. They bought commodes, washstands, towel racks and bathtubs. They purchased multiple linen presses for each floor. Weekly, wagons brought furniture to the Recovery House.

A common room was established in a large room on the second and third floor for the men. Common rooms were set with art boxes for those that drew, and with writing supplies for the men who could write. Richard purchased dozens of chess boards, draughts boards, backgammon boards, cribbage boards and decks of cards. They purchased several dozen books to add to the de Bourgh Recovery House library. They ordered slates, chalk and primer books for classes which would be offered every morning after breakfast and before midday.

Thankfully the furnished ballroom at Rosings Park meant there were enough tables and chairs, dishes and cutlery to serve two hundred. Every widow in Hunsford gained temporary employment as a seamstress for the Recovery House. Bolts of white flannel became towels and washing flannels, along with kitchen linens. Bolts of cotton became bed linens. Bolts of light wool became blankets.

September 14

Anne poured excellent green tea for the Collinses as Fitzwilliam discussed the Recovery House and how it would function. She offered plates of cream scones with apricot marmalade, lemon-raspberry jam, and peach preserves. She offered citrus pound cake and lemon biscuits.

"Hunsford Rectory is responsible for everyone living or born within our parish. The rectory is responsible for everyone who moves into our parish. However, that does not include the soldiers, sailors and staff at the de Bourgh Recovery House. The men are already at a disadvantage from being wounded and living on half-pay, with no jobs, poor health and minimal education. Once the men are healthy…we will help them return home if that is their wish. We will pay for them to travel north if they want to seek their fortunes at factories. We will help them relocate to the West Indies or the Americas if that is their desire. We are not turning them out onto street corners of London to beg, become inmates of poorhouses, workhouses or worse." Fitzwilliam explained. "I know we cannot personally care for the thousands of men unemployed because the war ended. However, Mrs. Fitzwilliam and I do not consider our debt to society paid by our poor tax. There is charitable work to be done, Mr. Collins. We do not intend to fail our fellow man."

"I don't want my wife near those men!" Collins had not been in the best of moods since his return to Hunsford. Darcy and Bingley encouraged Mr. Bennet to depart Longbourn for a year of visiting his daughters, beginning with Mary. Collins felt he and Mary should have stayed at Longbourn. Mary would have been an excellent mistress, while he had the opportunity to learn about the estate from Mr. Bennet. He did not understand why Bennet refused his offer of funds to enlarge the estate. If Bennet had taken his funds, Collins would be in a stronger position to relocate his family to Longbourn.

"Mrs. Collins will be paid for her apothecary efforts. She is needed for creating medicines, elixirs, balm, draughts and tissanes in the Recovery House stillroom. Susannah, the stillroom maid for the Recovery House, will help Mrs. Collins create what is needed. The stillroom is on the lower level by the kitchens. The men at Recovery House will not be allowed in the lower level." Anne explained. "However, I need Mrs. Collins to call on me at Recovery House for an hour tomorrow. We will discuss how to feed fifty and one hundred people three times a day."

Fitzwilliam took up the next topic. "As the men at the Recovery House are injured, ill or healing…it is not reasonable to expect them to walk to the rectory and sit through two hours of services. Therefore, we ordered Bibles, prayer books, and hymnals for the Recovery House. We moved the pianoforte to the ballroom to provide music. I hired Curate Charles Crowdion, previously a Chaplain for His Majesty's Navy. We feel only a man of God, who has seen the horrors of battle, can condole and guide these men. He will conduct Sunday services for the men in the ballroom of the de Bourgh Recovery House. Crowdion will pattern church services at the Recovery House after encampment services. After the opening prayer and hymn, his sermons will probably be twenty minutes long. The service will end with a closing hymn and a closing prayer. The men should be able to sit through the shorter service."

Fitzwilliam observed Collins' face during this announcement. "Curate Crowdion reports to me. In addition to offering prayers of thanks at every meal, Crowdion will write letters for the men, read to the men, and teach them to read, write and calculate sums."

Collins was shocked to silence by the sternness of Mr. Fitzwilliam's voice.

"October second, the Bishop of London will install Mr. Fitzwilliam as the rector of Hunsford Rectory. You are invited to Sunday tea and dinner on October second. We will introduce Curate Crowdion, Dr. Long, and Mr. Hastings who will oversee the finances of the Recovery House. Please bring Mr. Bennet with you if he is here. Mr. Fitzwilliam enjoys talking to him. We plan to conduct a short tour of the Recovery House." Anne spoke quickly before turning to Mary. "Dr. Long sent me a list of the medicines he would like to you create before the men arrive. I ordered bolts of good white cotton and white flannel, from Gardiner's Emporium, to be made into bandages. There will be a large delivery of herbs, barrels of vinegar, lidded crocks and stoppered bottles for the Recovery House stillroom this week. I ordered baskets for holding the clean bandages."

"Staff will arrive on Monday, followed by four and twenty men for four days before I become Rector for Hunsford Rectory. Between now and their arrival, maids will make beds, and set rooms. I imagine we will have a few rough starts…but beginnings may choose a rough path." Fitzwilliam opined.

"Barlow and I will attend you after breakfast tomorrow morning. I imagine the herbal vinegar and the bandages are the most needed. Susannah, Barlow and I will do everything we can to help you be prepared." Mary assured her friends. "I want a chance to compare Dr. Long's healing salve receipt to my own."

"The men at the orchard will press as many barrels of soft apple cider as possible for use at the Recovery House. Our garden staff have been harvesting ripe elderberries since the first of August and will continue to do so. Dr. Long wants as many casks of elderberry wine as possible. He creates cold medicine with elderberry wine and lemon juice, sweetened with honey."

"My cold tonic has elderberry wine, feverfew, lemon juice and honey," Mary noted. "I find the feverfew essential in lowering the fever of a cold. If I don't have lemons, I will use lemon balm, or the juice of an orange. If I have neither, a mixture of elderberry wine and orange wine with feverfew tissane and honey will do the trick."

"I look forward to watching the two of you collaborating regarding curatives." Anne refreshed everyone's tea.

"Speaking of receipts, I would enjoy the one for your apricot marmalade." Mary requested.

"I have no good opinion of it," Fitzwilliam pulled a sour face. "It's a bit tart for me. Perhaps if you make sweeter, I should enjoy it more."

"When I have time, I will try to create a sweeter apricot marmalade." Mary planned to spend a little time creating a new receipt.

Michaelmas

John Lucas worked Michaelmas with both his father and Mr. Bennet. John regretted his mother not seeing how well he worked with the start of harvest and collection of rents. He regretted the postponement of his nuptials with Miss Goulding. The larger barn for the Longbourn main farm had been completed. Mr. Bennet ordered his library at Longbourn to be left open for John's and Charlotte's use. The Hills moved from the servant's floor to the cellar level. The unused rooms were cleaned, with furniture covered in Holland cloths. The knocker was taken down. Mr. Bennet had the key to the locked silver pantry. The final meeting with John, Charlotte and the Hills included a reminder of what to do if Lydia Bennet returned to Longbourn.

~X~

Mary wanted to send an express to her sister Jane and Lizzy, but she did not want to worry them. George took his first step on his own today! Mary's proud heart almost burst! She thanked God for George. He was tall, and sturdy, with dark hair like William's and dark eyes like Papa's. He had a few baby teeth and loved honey biscuits like his father. William had been a little stiff and aloof since Mother's passing, but George was sweet and so loving! Mary felt vindicated. The unconditional love from her son lightened her contemplation of William's dour mood. She so longed for him to quit beseeching God to reveal his plan for them and Longbourn.

~X~

Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley joined several young women and their companions to visit St. Paul's Cathedral. Everyone agreed the prospect was beautiful, tall and grand. Georgiana appreciated wearing a simple white gown, ribbons and accessories to view the church. A history teacher brought his group of students to view the church at the same time as the young ladies. Mrs. Annesley noticed the bored students, and drew Georgiana away…claiming they were engaged with the Earl and Countess of Matlock. While Georgiana liked history, and viewing beautiful buildings. Mrs. Annesley kept unknown men from importuning for an introduction. Tomorrow, Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley planned a drive to Kensington Garden, with a stroll. If desperate to escape overwhelming society…they would stop for a respite at Timsdale's Tea. Mrs. Annesley reminded Georgiana not to share her diary. Mrs. Annesley and Georgiana turned down invitations for Presentation Hour in Hyde Park.

~X~

Lydia prepared for another public ball held in the Upper Assembly Rooms. She wore her newest wine gown she wore to Catherine's wedding. Laurette put Lydia's hair up, using gold embossed combs which had belonged to Mama. Lydia wished to still be sisterly with Kitty…she would love to tell her about balls she had attended…the people she met…the rooms ablaze with chandeliers with six-hour candles. The musicians were wonderful and seemed to know when to start the next dance set so one could avoid the crush for the refreshment tables or retiring rooms. Lydia never sat out a set…Several of the officers wanted a second set with Lydia…but she was in such demand as a dance partner…she never had to accept a second set with anyone. However, Lydia would not announce her visit to Bath. She did not want Papa to take her away.

Before the evening wore too long, Alex escorted Lydia to play cards. She enjoyed gambling with the ladies who paid more attention to gossiping and reviewing gowns than their cards. While it seemed the footmen kept Lydia's wine goblet filled…they only poured iced wines for her. Her opponents became foxed, but Lydia kept her head. She enjoyed accepting debts of honor from first and second circle card players.

While Lydia liked the looks of red regimentals…but she also felt a stirring for the blue uniforms of the Royal Navy. Serious men were quickly dropped from Lydia's circle of acquaintances. She didn't want interesting and well-spoken conversation partners like Lizzy. Lydia only wanted to dance with handsome men who made her laugh.

September 30

Thomas Bennet laid a bouquet of autumn flowers from Longbourn's gardens on Frances Gardiner Bennet's grave. "We will rest and rise together on the day of judgement, Franny," he whispered. "Until then, I must leave you to rest in the bosom of my Bennet forefathers. I don't care to travel, but I cannot stay here. The girls will take good care of me. You taught them well. I am heartily ashamed I laughed at your little foibles." He remembered something his grandmother used to say, "Announcing your plans is a good way to hear God laugh."

Bennet brushed away the hot prickles of tears in his eyes and allowed Vaughn to hand him into the carriage. The Bennet carriage had been loaded with trunks of clothes, a trunk of books, his sporting items, a valise with gifts for his daughters, and his dressing case. Darcy suggested Bennet bring his travel writing slope, travel chess set and travel tantalizer. His staff filled the carriage with hams, cheeses, honey, two large casks of apple cider, crates of apple, red currant, and berry wines and mead. Mrs. Hill filled a crate with muslin bags of herbs from the herb garden.

Not having Franny's jewelry to give to her girls, Bennet searched the house for items to give to his four daughters. For Mary, he selected the three botanical pictures she had drawn, colored and framed for Franny's quarters. For Catherine, he chose the two silver candlesticks which Franny used in her sleeping quarters. For Lizzy, he selected the primers, dictionaries, and storybooks which he had used to educate her and her sisters. Several of them had embroidered bookmarks which Franny made in their early years. For Jane, he selected the silver thimble, silver needle holder and silver scissors from Franny's drawing room work box.

Bennet packed Franny's clothing which Lydia did not take. She took the newest and the best of everything Franny owned. He gave two of Franny's day gowns to Mrs. Hill for helping him close up Longbourn. He gave Franny's shoes, boots and slippers, and accessories to her sister Deborah. Mary would remake the scant remainder of Franny's clothes for the poor of Hunsford.

~X~

Lydia tried to refuse to pay the subscription cost to the circulating library. Penelope insisted Lydia spend the shillings until Little Season started. Penelope claimed it was the best way to learn of public balls and card parties. Lydia's entry ticket to ten balls (with refreshments) in Bath before Christmas cost a pound. Admittance for two weekly card parties (with refreshments) until Christmas cost a pound. The ticket for the Christmas Eve Ball with wine punch and refreshments cost a guinea. The profits for the Christmas Ball would be given to all the charities serving the poor in Bath.

Whitford insisted Lydia keep her accounts current. He purchased blank ledgers for her, as Lydia did not want the expenditure. He took one day to establish Lydia's ledgers with her. Lydia counted the funds she brought with her and listed her current expenses. Whitford reminded her to keep a separate ledger for her gambling. He reminded Lydia not to spend all her funds when she received them. She needed to learn to save her funds, not to spend them the day she received them. She had future needs to consider.

Whitford promised to accept all invitations to card parties where Lydia might be able to gamble to support herself. He enacted their previous arrangement; he would be her bank for half her winnings. His protégé and paramour made Whitford quite proud. Men enjoyed observing Lydia's wholesome country figure, while believing she was an ignorant country chit. Whitford smiled to himself…Lydia's silly laugh distracted the gamblers from her card sharp abilities.

~X~

Wagons filled with empty barrels and casks arrived at Rosings Park. Mr. Knowles assigned orchard workers to begin creating barrels of apple cider for the Recovery House. Mary infused casks of herbal vinegar for Dr. Long to use for cleaning wounds. She created crocks of salve. She created a few casks of willow bark infusion with white wine. With Mr. Manning's help, she created casks of elderberry wine. They would need to cure for a year, but having casks to decant would save the Recovery House next year.

Daisy birthed a boy calf. Although frustrated, Mr. Knowles offered a solution. Mr. Knowles bartered the boy calf and three sow babies for a dairy heifer and free smoking of pigs and turkeys for the parsonage. The boy calf would be fattened to feed the Recovery House. Mr. Knowles bartered for another ten sow babies for fattening and feeding the Recovery House. Mary traded four sow babies to the Bensingers to fill her poultry runs. She could butcher chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys to feed the parsonage until Lady Day. At Lady Day, Mary would trade new sow babies for filling her poultry runs again.

Mary kept three first farrow male sow babies to fatten for butchering in November. Mary looked forward to selling her excess eggs, milk and herbs to the Recovery House. Daffodil, the dairy heifer, would be ready to breed after Boxing Day along with Daisy.

Mary ordered the primrose room cleaned and set for her father. She arranged better with a comfortable chair and table by the fire, and a small corner escritoire for Papa to maintain his correspondence. She loaded paper, ink and quills with four-hour candles in the escritoire. She ensured Papa had soaps and rosemary-bay water decanted and available on his washing stand. She ordered the bed made with two new blankets and bed linens. Mr. Manning brought a supply of tinder, logs and coal for the room.

Mary prayed Hunsford Parsonage would provide Papa with a respite and peace.