Wretched Beginnings 1814 – Chapter 11
November 22
Lydia wore her wine dress from Kitty's wedding. She wore a wine lace fichu during the dancing but removed it while playing cards. Laurette, Penelope's maid, had been difficult while dressing Lydia for this evening. She made thinly veiled insults about Lydia wearing something appropriate, like a light-skirted gown. Lydia planned to tell Alex to release Laurette at the end of the year without a character. They didn't need her gossiping with Penelope and ruining their fun. Lydia was distracted by the successful evening playing cards, and did not remind Alex about Laurette.
~X~
"I cannot survive an entire night at the theatre," Georgiana murmured to Mrs. Annesley.
"Lady Matlock and I discussed tonight's event. We will stay for the main production, which is a Shakespeare comedy. We will not stay for the afterpieces nor the musical interludes. If anyone inquires, you are not out yet." Mrs. Annesley assured her.
"I so appreciate Aunt Constance and you," Georgiana replied. "Let's avoid discussing presentation gowns if possible."
"If anyone tries to importune you…I will explain I am educating you on the history of the Theatre Royal on Drury Lane…or the history of Shakespeare…or testing your French about the parts of the theatre." Mrs. Annesley smiled. "If anyone is mutton-headed and avoids me to importune you…open and close your fan twice. I will be by your side in a thrice."
November 27 – Stir It Up Sunday – Hunsford
"I feel like a full dinner to celebrate George's birthday," Collins informed Mary.
"Full?" Mary didn't understand his choice of words.
"Not soup or stew…roasted meat, six sides, hot rolls, two sweets, wine," Collins requested. "Are you ready for Stir-It-Up Sunday?"
"I sent Catherine the receipts in early November so she knew to shop. She is looking forward to her first Christmas with Mr. Hamilton. We're making three Christmas puddings which serve six since Papa and his man Vaughn are with us this year, and since the Fitzwilliams will join us for tea that day. We will make at least four and twenty fruitcakes, as I would like to give the staff a fruitcake to take to their family, and one for Curate Stevenson and for Sexton Tucker. I should like to make extra for Mr. Knowles, as he has been quite helpful with the gardens, orchards, and expanding our living this year."
"I have no issues with those food gifts from our kitchens. I cannot fault you for selling our excess garden and orchard stuff, milk, cheese, butter and eggs to the Recovery House. I cannot fault you for using your talents to create medicines for the Recovery House or for the parishioners of Hunsford Rectory. I cannot fault you for sharing the excess from our baskets from Rosings House with our staff, Curate Stevenson and Sexton Tucker. However, I forbid you to provide food or beverage to the Recovery House. Our duty is to provide for the poor of the rectory, not for those men." Collins warned his wife.
"After we have Stir It Up Sunday, I promised Mr. Fitzwilliam I would visit the Recovery House. Vaughn will attend with me. We will write letters and return before dinner," Mr. Bennet announced to Mary. "Since the harvests are ended, I will teach two classes a day on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Vaughn will help. We will be at the Recovery House from half nine to half four. Curate Crowdion and I will interview the men first to ascertain their knowledge." 'My pronouncement just stirred Collins' ire into a slow-burning fire.'
X
"I don't understand your anger toward me." Thomas Bennet privately addressed William Collins in his bookroom before dinner on Stir It Up Sunday.
"I'm angry because no one listens to me! I don't like the Fitzwilliams changing Rosings Manor into a Recovery House for wounded soldiers and sailors. I don't like my wife being near those men. Because I have parishioners who need me, I am unable to continually protect my wife and child, or my staff or my home." Collins snapped.
"You don't think much of your patrons and their decisions? You don't think much of the military men they endeavor to help?" Bennet's scathing voice missed its mark.
"No, I do not. Mary and George would be safe if we had stayed at Longbourn! She would be perfect to help your tenants. She will be their mistress one day, unlike Miss Lucas! I could be learning how to run Longbourn from you, rather than struggling to understand my responsibilities when you are gone!" Collins vented his frustrations at Bennet.
"Your plans do not suit," Bennet announced coldly. "You do not know, but my mother, Elizabeth Emily Mason Bennet, died just after Catherine was born. Father requested my family move from the Steward House into the manor house at Longbourn. We did, thinking my girls would give Father a reason to live. He never recovered from his grief and passed before Lydia's birth two years later."
William Collins scoffed.
"Longbourn reminds me of the passing of my parents and Franny. I cannot be at Longbourn right now as my grief prevents me from being the best landlord and master. My tenants will weather winter quite well. Harvesting is done, thanks to Mr. John Lucas and Miss Lucas. Additionally, they have Sir William and Mr. Benson of Netherfield Park to aid in any questions or situations. I fail to understand your reasoning for abandoning such an excellent living at Hunsford Rectory. Being a steward at Longbourn pays fifty pounds per annum, a home and some of the excess from the main farm. Base your expectations on yourself, Collins."
William Collins scoffed again. He knew Bennet would provide better than a steward's living. Additionally, Collins could put his gentleman's lessons to use. The gardens and orchard at Longbourn were much larger than at Hunsford Parsonage. Mary would be quite busy at Longbourn and unable to donate time to unworthy causes.
"Collins…I do not think you should offer opinions when you do not understand the situation. If you had contact with your Bennet great-grandfather, you would not suggest I leave Longbourn to live with Lizzy. Longbourn is still under my care and control and will remain so until the good Lord decides differently." Bennet felt guilty for his past indolent ways. However, since Mary's marriage to Collins; he worked hard to improve his tenants farms and livings. He knew he should be there at Boxing Day; but his tenants understood his grief. The Lucases were the best possible help he could have hired. Today was not the day he would tell Collins about the entail.
"Please forgive me, I have Advent sermons to prepare. If anyone comes for me, I'm busy reading and writing." Collins turned his back on Bennet. 'Perhaps I should not treat the man like a servant; but the situation vexes me. Perhaps I will take a trip to London next week. Mrs. Fitzwilliam announced Lady Catherine was not well. Frankly, I want to see the situation myself. If she does not know the situation at Rosings Park…I will inform Lady Catherine.'
November 27 – Stir It Up Sunday – Oxford
Catherine did entertain while she was in mourning for Mama. However, providing for John's servitors did not count as entertaining. She ensured all the servants and the servitors were present for Stir It Up Sunday. They made four Christmas puddings to serve six. Catherine pushed the thimble in one side, and the ring in another. Her wish was for a son. Chances were…since her three older sisters had sons…she would have a daughter.
John put a pence in one side and a tuppence in the other. Middleton pushed the anchor into the pudding, followed by Peterson. While the servants finished tying up the puddings and making fruitcakes, the four adjourned to the dining room for hot stew, hot rolls, and gingerbread. While John discussed possible studies for over Peterson Christmas, Middleton thanked Catherine for the baskets her kitchen delivered to him. The four played Whist for two hours before Catherine served a hot tea with pound cake and mince pies She arranged a small basket for both servitors with breakfast portions of sweets. John arranged for a warmed carriage to convey them to their lodgings.
John told Catherine about Christmases when he was at Oxford. While he gave to the poor…he felt better when he held a house party at Christmas. He invited several young men who had no family to share the festivities. His servants provided food and drink. The academics who joined him played cards, and drawing room games. They enjoyed helping his servants gather greenery and decorate the house. His fellow students enjoyed a good goose dinner followed by a plump Christmas pudding. John keenly felt his luck at having an estate and receiving an education at Oxford.
December 1
"What amuses you about the news?" Mary asked Papa at breakfast.
"The London Times edition on November nine and twenty was printed using a steam press," Mr. Bennet chuckled. "The times are a changing..." he punned.
~X~
"Happy Birthday, George," Mr. Bennet gave Mary a book of fairytales. "I'm sorry your Mama is not here to celebrate her first grandson's first birthday."
"I am too, Papa. Every child needs a grandmother. I'm sorry George, Ben and Charlie have no grandmothers. I feel sorry for Catherine, for her child will have no grandmother either. Mrs. Clements will leave us at Christmas; Nancy Bensinger will become my nursery maid. Mrs. Clements goes to the Bensingers, for Mrs. Bensinger is enceinte. I have been pleased to spend my pin moneys to have help from Barlow, Maryanne and Mrs. Clements. Nancy's help in the nursery will be worth the room, board and wages. She is also proficient with poultry and I hope for lessons from her. I promised to teach her lessons."
Mr. Collins put a shilling in his son's christening bank. Mary made a larger woolen cloak for George with a woolen cap, mittens and a set of woolen stockings. She made woolen or heavy flannel gowns for him for winter wear.
X
"I need to go to London," Collins informed Bennet after dinner. "I will be gone three days. Will you stay here with Mary and George, instead of visiting the Fitzwilliams or the Recovery House?"
Thomas Bennet observed William Collins but kept his counsel. Mary had been unable to shop at the stores since October first, as Collins did not want Mary in stores where the men might gather. Thomas Bennet would escort Mary to the shops. "Excellent thought," he assured Collins. "I have correspondence of my own which is in need of attention. I know Mary needs to finish alms and food bags. Neither she nor I will visit the Recovery Home while you are gone."
"The Gardiners will be pleased to have you for two nights," Mary explained.
"I believe I will send a note to Rosings House. The Fitzwilliams may have supplies I might pick up in town for them, or message to carry to the Earl or Countess of Matlock." Collins hid his real reason for traveling to London.
"If you have time, might you go to Gardiner's Emporium for me?" Mary requested. "I will send an express tomorrow morning. I have a great deal to order; it might take a trunk to hold everything for me."
"I have a book at Hatchard's Booksellers," Mr. Bennet commented. I will gladly give you the funds to collect it for me."
"Make your lists," Collins commented affably. "I will send my note to Rosings House."
For the first time since the death of Mother Bennet, Collins visited Mary's bed He put extra logs on her fire first, to keep them warm during the night.
~X~
"Not possible," Roberts reviewed Caroline's list of invitations.
"I am the mistress of this house. I will extend invitations as I like!" Caroline fumed. She felt wretchedly unhappy this morning.
"You may extend an invitation to your Aunt Cordelia and Louisa to visit after Twelfth Night and remain until a fortnight after Easter. They may not come forward until close to Easter. The weather there may not allow. An Easter invitation to Charles and Jane would be appropriate. Extending invitations to the Darcys and Fitzwilliams is not appropriate." Roberts announced. "Easter is the sixth and twentieth of March. We'll have the babies christened at Easter. We still need to settle on names."
"I don't like any of the A names you've picked for boys," Caroline sipped her tea, resisting the urge to throw it at Roberts' head. The surgeon opined she was increasing with twins. An heir and a spare in one increase would suit her very well. Twin daughters were of no use to her. She did not want to breast feed; as Roberts would not let her drink wine or enjoy excessive sweets during her increase. She wanted a London accoucher who would provide sensible advice. She didn't trust Bath surgeons and apothecaries.
"I don't like the pretentious A names you have chosen. I will not name a son Adolphus or Augustus." Roberts calmly cut his pork chops, served with Mrs. Collins' mustard sherry sauce which he enjoyed. Despite Roberts claim it was a favorite of the Earl of Matlock, Caroline didn't appreciate the sauce. She preferred the more traditional, tart French mustard sauce.
"Well, I will not name a daughter Anne, Amelia or Alice." Caroline thought those were common names, especially after the way Anne de Bourgh treated her, and after learning Eliza Bennet's girl cousins were named Amelia and Alice.
"I don't like the name Arabella," Roberts noticed Caroline picked at her dinner. "I don't like Athena or Adelaide either." He regretted deliberately plucking her feathers when he requested dishes, which she felt were inferior, for tonight's dinner. He never cared for lamb and mushroom ragout. He never cared for chicken in fennel. Roberts banned them from his table while their scent upset Caroline. "Do eat, Mrs. Roberts…if not for you…eat for the babies."
"My stomach bothers me after I eat." Caroline complained.
"Please bring Mrs. Roberts the ginger biscuits and ginger ices I ordered for her." Roberts directed the footman.
"Ginger ices?" Caroline sighed. "I suppose you obtained the receipt from Mary Collins."
"The receipt is from Miss Darcy who purchased it from Gunter's Ices in London." Roberts didn't know if Caroline tried to improve herself and their relationship; or if she just tried his temper.
"I suppose Elizabeth and Jane favored ginger ices and biscuits when they were increasing." Caroline kept her voice even.
"Not at all," Roberts assured her. "Bingley reported they both preferred mint ices and mint tea when they were increasing. Their mint grew well in the spring months before the boys were born." He noticed Caroline's sigh of relief and the tiny smile on her face. His wife was a handsome woman when she smiled genuine smiles.
December 3
Midday meal passed; Mr. Collins departed for London. Mary anticipated her order would be ready for Mr. Collins to collect from Gardiner's Emporium on Wednesday morning. The Fitzwilliams loaned a coachman and groom for the trip, because Collins took his own equipage and horses. They arranged for items to be delivered to the de Bourgh House for Collins to bring home with him.
Mr. Fitzwilliam sent an express to the Shepherds at the de Bourgh house to provide rooms for the three men. Collins needed to stop at Mr. Byington, the tailor, to order a new greatcoat. His black wool great coat looked threadbare and shabby. He needed to order new black riding boots while he in London. A new, winter weight black hat and black winter gloves would be appreciated also. While visiting Hatchard's for Mr. Bennet, he planned to buy books as Christmas gifts.
Once he departed, Mary dressed for shopping with Mr. Bennet. "I'm sure his delay in London is to condole with Lady Catherine."
"Do you think he will tell Lady Catherine about the Recovery House?" Mr. Bennet enjoyed driving the Collins' one horse gig. Collins choose exceptional equipage; it was well sprung with ample storage.
"I would wager my manufacturing investments if I wagered. However, Mrs. Anne revealed Lady Catherine already knows. The staff read the article in the London Times about the de Bourgh Recovery Home to Lady Catherine. Mrs. Anne reported Lady Catherine was so vexed she attempted to hit Mrs. Anne with an ivory bilbocatch and threw spinning tops at servants."
"Goodness!" Papa muttered and shook his head.
"I need to go to the milliner, the tailor, the grocer and the circulating library. I would not mind visiting the bookstore." Mary looked over her list of places to go. "I have been bartering our excess and my stillroom skills for ordering household needs through Mr. Hastings at the Recovery House. Mr. Hastings gets the best prices for buying large quantities. Hastings guarantees soaps, candles and coal next summer will be quite a savings for us."
"I would like time to go to the wine shop in Westerham tomorrow," Bennet commented. "I would like another bottle of port for my tantalizer. Do you need a case of sherry for medicinal purposes?"
"I purchased our wines, ports and sherries through the Recovery House." Mary perused her carefully drafted lists. When Mr. Bennet drew up the one-horse gig, Mary visited stores which had been banned to her because Mr. Collins was angry about the Recovery House. She purchased everything on her list – new ledgers for her household, and for donations. She purchased a slate, chalk and primer for Nancy. Mary purchased fresh foodstuffs, and apothecary supplies for the parsonage. Mary stopped at the cobbler to order two new pairs of walking boots for herself, to be ready before Christmas. She planned to give her two oldest pairs to Barlow and Maryanne on Boxing Day.
Mr. Collins would collect her order from Gardiner's Emporium. She ordered large bolts of brown sturdy cotton, cream sturdy cotton, dark heavy flannel, and fine brown wool. She planned a brown dress, a winter petticoat, two cream aprons and two mob caps for the ladies. Mr. Manning would have material for a new brown topcoat, in addition to two brown waist coats and pants with two cream shirts for his work. Mary ordered lengths of soft black wool for a winter clerical robe and lengths of good cotton for new shirts for Mr. Collins. She requested lengths of pale grey wool for a waistcoat for Mr. Bennet with charcoal grey silk for lining. She requested a good length of lightweight cream wool to make a blanket for Catherine's baby. She requested three lengths of white lawn to embroider. She would cut the lawn lengthwise to whitework a white lawn wrap for Anne Fitzwilliam for her birthday. The remainder would become handkerchiefs or mob caps. Mary purchased linen and threads to teach Barlow, Rose and Nancy how to embroider a sampler. She purchased a workbasket and sewing supplies for Nancy. Mary completed her sampler when she was younger than both girls. She planned to teach the girls new decorative stitches in addition to standard ones they should know.
Mary ordered two and ten pairs of heavy wool gloves to split between herself and five female staff. She ordered two and ten pairs of woolen stockings to split between herself and five female staff. Her staff had been immensely helpful while the Fitzwilliams settled Rosings House. The ladies had been helpful while Mary was gone for hours in the Recovery House stillroom. She remembered the cold winter last year and intended to provide for her staff. They could not become ill, for she had no time to nurse them, nor carry the illness to the Recovery House.
December 7
"Your opinion, Mrs. Collins?" Dr. Long appeared in the stillroom at the Recovery House with a young man. Micah Broadmoor wore the black and green jacket of the 95th Rifles. They met in the stillroom as Mrs. Collins could not attend any room not in the cellar.
"I am Mrs. Collins," she introduced herself to the tall young man after washing her hands. "Fire?" Mary examined the young man's hand.
"Yes, a cannon ball blew me off my feet and into the fire blazing from the first cannon blast." The young man commented. "Sergeant Micah Broadmoor of the Fighting 95th."
Mary set a piece of parchment on the table and took up a pencil. "Please lay your hand on the parchment." She tenderly pressed his hand flat. She quickly marked where his wrist began, and where his fingers began and where they ended. She marked side to side by the knuckles of his hand. "I hope I did not hurt." She apologized.
"It felt uncomfortable but not painful." Broadmoor assured her.
"Hot water to soak morning and night…not hot enough to scald the skin, but hot enough to warm the muscles. I will make you a flannel ball. You need to squeeze it for ten minutes, rest for ten minutes and squeeze for ten minutes every morning and evening for a fortnight. Cover the hand with a clean dry bandage and protect it with a cotton glove. Change the bandage daily. We don't want the wound to become infected. I can make oil for massaging into the hand after you exercise it. I will prepare calendula and lavender oil, or peppermint lotion. The oil or the lotion will sooth; the hand will heal faster."
"I think I would rather smell like a Christmas sweet than a young lady or a flower garden." Broadmoor vigorously assured Mary.
"I concur," Dr. Long wrote the healing directives in his journal. "Willow bark tea for pain? Or green tea with chamomile syrup?"
Mary nodded. "I recommend green tea with chamomile syrup if the pain is achy, not throbbing. Willow bark dissolved in elderberry wine if the pain is throbbing. I recommend hot porridge every morning, with nutmeats or chopped apples with a tankard of milk for drinking and for the porridge. He's still a growing lad…"
"Excuse me?" Broadmoor frowned. "I have reached my majority."
"One does not lie to a vicar's wife…nor lie to the keeper of the stillroom keys," Mary chided.
"Eight and ten…" he started to say and felt Mary's eyes on him. "Eight and ten on my next birthday which is March. I'm tall for my age and an excellent shot. His Majesty's Army did not question my age when I joined." Broadmoor admitted.
"Parents?" Mary inquired.
"A fever took my widowed mother and two younger sisters. I was alone and did not want to apprentice a gristmill or a farmer. I took the family Bible and Father's gun, along with the few coins left after burying my family. I sold Mother's gold cross and wedding ring to support myself until the army accepted me."
"Not yet eight and ten…and a citizen of the world for two and a half years." Mary sighed. "Do you drink, gamble or chase muslin?"
"I use my free time to learn to read and write," Broadmoor confessed. "My sums seem to come naturally to me."
"Excessive drinking is not good for you or any other injured man. If you are foxed, you can reinjure yourself. Gambling makes you poor in pocket and spirit. I'm a lady, so I will let Dr. Long advise you on the dangers of catching French pox." Mary pretended not to notice Dr. Long winking at Broadmoor. "I stand by my recommendation of milk and porridge daily. He should have good nourishing broths at midday with cold collations. If he drinks coffee or tea, serve it in a bone china cup, not a clay mug. He can wrap his right hand around the cup and let the warmth seep into his hand. I would not allow that hand to grow cold this winter. Keep it covered and warm to prevent cramping and stiff muscles. I would order thick woolen mittens for him to wear outside. I would order a heavy flannel mitten for him to wear to bed at night."
"Practice his letters and numbers with his left hand until the right one heals?" Dr. Long recommended.
"Yes, but don't let the improved writing by your left hand influence what you do to restore the right hand." Mary observed Broadmoor. "Please have Papa, Mr. Knowles, or Mr. Fitzwilliam test his sums. Let's see what he knows and what he needs to learn. If he is as good at sums as he claims, we might be able to obtain a tradesman's apprenticeship for him after he heals. I can discuss it with my uncle from Gardiner's Emporium in London."
"I ordered two more casks of elderberry syrup. We have elderberry wine, but as in the case of young Broadmoor; we should use the syrup instead of the wine. If it is cold again this winter, we may need more to keep the men healthy. " Dr. Long commented. "I ordered more apple cider. I prefer for the men to drink it, instead of spruce or ginger beer."
December 8
Mr. Manning and the Fitzwilliams' groom helped unload the carriage upon Mr. Collins' return. Mr. Manning carried the Gardiner's Emporium trunk to Mary's sitting room. Everything she requested was there. Mary would ask the tailor to sew Mr. Collins' clerical robe and Mr. Bennet's waistcoat by Christmas. After Christmas she would arrange for her staff to visit the modiste and tailor.
Mr. Gardiner included bolt ends of muslin and cottons for Mary for the alms and food bags. He added bolt ends of thin cotton ribbon for Mary to make ties for alms and food bags. He included bolt ends of wool for Mary to make baby blankets for the needy. He added an old sack filled with the scrap bin from the Gardiner's Emporium. They sent threads, buttons and frogs for clothes.
The Gardiner's Emporium envelope held an invoice for Mary for her order and the miscellaneous items which they shipped. Mr. Gardiner included information regarding their business venture. Mary sent a banknote to the Gardiner's Emporium with a thank you for filling her order and for the manufacturing information. She shared the letter with Mr. Bennet when they had a private moment, and then she locked it securely away. Mr. Bennet opined he always knew Mary could fit things in unexpected places.
Mary sewed alms bags for the church and for the St. Thomas Tea. The tea would be held in the large drawing room, dining room and music room of Rosings House. Mary planned to attend, and she would not brook interference from Mr. Collins. She sewed food bags, clothes and blankets for the alms baskets. In her spare time she used material scraps to make five hand puppets for George for Christmas – a horse, a puppy, a soldier, a king and a princess. He would enjoy his Mama entertaining him with the hand puppets while she read from his birthday book of fairytales.
Mary planned menus for the holidays. She accepted a Christmas dinner invitation to Rosings House for the Collinses and Mr. Bennet. She planned for Boxing Day, knowing she would help the Benefice Society and the Fitzwilliams assemble baskets the Friday before Christmas. Mr. Collins would help the Fitzwilliams distribute alms, baskets, and blankets on Boxing Day.
December 12
"There is nothing so good on a cold day as a good book and a warm fire." Mr. Bennet stirred the fire in Collins' bookroom. "Mary suggested I explain Longbourn to you, since it is raining, and we can't walk or ride." He unrolled a map on the library table. "A gentleman must have an estate. His position in society lessens when he does not. This map of Longbourn is current to Michaelmas of this year. This is the manor house and parkland, which includes flower gardens and the copse. The home farm is here; with poultry, gardens and orchard, the Steward's House, and the new barn. We practice crop rotation in the kitchen and herb gardens, through a schedule created by Mary."
"We practice crop rotation using the Norfolk four-course system on four farms. The farms rotate planting turnips, barley, clover and ryegrass. The practice is good for the soil and allows us yearly crops of animal feed, grains or grasses. This is the dairy farm where we have the cows, along with the dairy outbuilding where cheese and butter are made. The meadow there is excellent for the cows to graze. We also allow them to graze in the orchard on the home farm."
After answering some questions about the location of the Steward's House and its amenities, the discussion turned to John Lucas. "Can you explain the importance of using John Lucas as a steward, rather than use one of your tenants, as a bailiff?" Collins inquired.
"John Lucas, as the educated son of Sir William Lucas, has experience managing an estate. Being the steward at Longbourn helps him with different issues than he might experience at Lucas Lodge. He oversees the estate account and collects rent; directs work to be done at Longbourn and settles issues between the tenants; helps with sick, injured or breeding animals; helps with planting and harvest, etc. A bailiff simply collects rent."
"I don't understand about tenant farmers. They don't own the land?" Collins perused the map.
"No, the tenant farms are part of Longbourn's holdings. The eldest son does not inherit the farm. They inherit the farm lease. When the lease passes from father to son, it helps maintain the continuity of the land. Longbourn's farm leases are renewed every Lady Day for a period of three to seven years. Longbourn helped improve farm land by better drainage techniques, or crop rotation to improve productivity. Sometimes Longbourn purchases new stock or better stock to improve breeding. We provide assistance to our tenants, like when Mary helped birth babies or made medicines for our tenants."
"I said she would be the best mistress for Longbourn," Collins proudly announced.
'Yes…and I imagine she would be much put upon with the responsibilities of Longbourn.' Bennet continued to discuss the farms and lands of Longbourn with Collins; which he knew was futile. The man would not inherit Longbourn. Bennet was ready to admit all when the conversation started. Now, he did not feel ready to have the change of entail conversation. Nor did he feel ready to have the conversation about enlarging Longbourn's holdings. Bennet felt George would assume the reins of Longbourn once he finished university. However, he freely admitted God had plans of his own. While Collins spent the afternoon with the plot map of Longbourn, Mary slipped away to the modiste and the tailor. She did not tarry and returned to Hunsford Parsonage as quickly as possible.
Anne stopped at the parsonage to deliver a food basket from Rosings. She slipped Mary a letter from the Shepherds. Collins attempted to visit Lady Catherine twice during his stay in London. He appeared exceptionally disappointed because Lady Catherine refused his visits. Family and Dr. Acton were the only persons she saw other than Adams, Jenkinson and her medical staff. The Shepherds kept Mrs. Jenkinson and Mr. Collins from exchanging confidences. Anne announced she and Mr. Fitzwilliam would be in London for Twelfth Night and would spend time with Lady Catherine that week. She collected the completed food bags for the widows' baskets. She was grateful Mr. Collins was busy and did not join her and Mary.
~X~
"Ladies," Caroline Roberts greeted Mrs. Whitford and Lydia Bennet at Mulholland's. Cecily was indisposed, so Caroline visited the orphanage today, delivering food she purchased from the market stall. She gave a coin to the boy holding the one horse gig for her at the orphanage and another coin to the boy at Mulholland's. Instead of returning home, she stopped for green tea and the best treats they offered today. She purchased a small box of marzipan and a small box of almond biscuits. While she enjoyed them…the richness gave her indigestion…and Roberts did not approve. She spoke briefly, urging the ladies to call on her at the new Roberts House on the Roberts Farms outside Bath. She could not wait to inform Charles that his chit of a sister-by-marriage was in Bath. Caroline purchased tickets for a charity Christmas Ball, spending precious funds as a gift for Anthony and Cecilia and for Andrew and herself. She knew it was her last chance at better society before she entered her lying-in. She must concentrate on the layette for her twins. She would ensure she wrote today's expenses in her personal ledger in case Roberts checked.
December 21
Caroline Roberts waited in her private sitting room for a week, thinking Lydia Bennet and Mrs. Whitford would call. The low fire of the hearth was reflected in the apricot drapes and silk pillows on the cream damask upholstered mahogany furniture. She preferred using this room, despite the soft cream painted walls. She would have liked a marble fireplace surround, and marble topped tables. She wanted a gilt picture frames and furniture, but Roberts only approved funds for mahogany frames and furniture. The gold bordered floral rug offered the only color in the room with shades of emerald, apricot, lemon and indigo.
Roberts preferred the jonquil yellow walls of the drawing room. Caroline hated the color, because it reminded her of gowns worn by Eliza Bennet. She prepared an express to Charles and Jane. She wished them a Happy Christmas. She also told Charles of Miss Lydia Bennet and her location with the Whitfords in Bath. Since she didn't gloat over Miss Bennet's situation; Roberts sent the express to Bingley.
Having delayed her holiday shopping for guests who were not coming, Caroline went to the jeweler on Milsom Street. She needed a gift for Roberts for Christmas. She thought a monogrammed fob for his gold watch and chain would be an excellent gift. She overheard a salesman speaking. "Colonel Whitford, this gold with three rubies pendant will look lovely on the gold chain you described. I recommend it for a lady for Christmas." Whitford paid the amount asked. He tucked the gold velvet bag holding the pendant in his pocket and departed.
Caroline tucked the situation away…perhaps she might use it at a later date and time.
~X~
'It is a truth universally acknowledged that a widower with a good estate, which is entailed away due to lack of an heir, is in need of a mistress to run his home and bear the heir he needs.' Mary thought dismissively. 'I must write my sisters and warn them of the allure Papa has which makes widows plot.' Mary did her best to deflect interest in Papa; asking widows about their sewing projects for the Recovery House. She asked about their harvests. She asked about their medical needs for winter.
Anne served a lovely tea menu which included mince pies, gingerbread, and fruitcake along with Mrs. Havens' spiced nuts. Tea and mulled wine were served. This year's basket for the widows included a bottle of sherry, pound packages herbs for tea, flour, nuts, dried peas, and a fruitcake. Anne included a new sachet, one of Mary's coin rolls with a pound coin, and two four-hour candles.
Several of the widows played the pianoforte and were quite interested because Curate Crowdion copied music for the men at the Recovery House. They were also interested to learn Mr. Fitzwilliam invited Mr. Bennet to the Recovery House during the St. Thomas Tea.
December 22
On assembly night at the Upper Pump Rooms, Lydia wore a silk taffeta, cross bodice dress with ruched trim at the neckline. The ivory gown was printed with tiny wine, gold and chocolate leaves. The wine sash featured a fabric ruffle trim at the top and bottom. She wore Mama's accessories. Lydia waited for her turn to dance with Colonel Whitford, but there were several other officers to guide her around the dance floor before losing their funds playing cards with Lydia.
~X~
"Lovely pendant, Miss Bennet," Caroline Roberts purred slyly when they met one another in the retiring room at the Upper Assembly Rooms. Caroline wore a dark gold velvet gown, which she commissioned from material sent her by Louisa. Louisa included new gloves, stockings, accessories and dancing slippers with the gift of material. Caroline didn't dance, but enjoyed watching people. The board from the orphanage hosted a charity ball this evening. Mr. Roberts agreed to attend with Caroline. However, he announced if she did not act like a lady this evening…it would be a cold day in summer before she would attend another social event at the Upper Assembly Rooms.
"Thank you," Lydia claimed it was a family heirloom, but Caroline knew it was Colonel Alexander Whitford's gift to his paramour.
When Lydia left the retiring room with Mrs. Whitford, Caroline discreetly giggled to herself.
"Can I 'elp?" A French maid asked Caroline.
"Do you work for the ladies who just departed?" Caroline noted the fashionable maid.
"Mrs. Whitford is my lady," the maid acknowledged. "Miss Bennet is her particular friend."
"Friend?" Caroline's shrill laughter filled the empty retiring room. "I imagine she's someone's particular friend in that house. The jeweler on Bond Street sold that pendant to a man in regimentals." Caroline composed herself and swept from the room. 'Gracious, that felt good. I wish I called Lydia Bennet a lightskirt and liar to her face.'
December 23
Matlock House staff anticipated the holiday season with excitement. The French chef planned splendid repasts for entertaining during the season. Decorating for the Christmas Season was planned with orders for hot house flowers, holly, ivy and mistletoe.
If one approached Grosvenor Square, London…it was easy to become confused about which family owned which house. The Matlock House, an elegant family residence, resembled the other townhouses in the square. Many of the houses resembled one another on the outside and were similar on the inside. The lower level held the kitchens, pantries, coal room, staff work rooms, and sleeping quarters for the chef, cook, and kitchen maids. The oversized ballroom, which occupied the first floor, had doors which opened to the back gardens. The usual rooms accompanied it…large formal drawing room, large dining room, and retiring rooms. Outside the ballroom was the portrait gallery where oil paintings of generations of the Earls of Matlock and their families were displayed. Paintings sent by Anne found a new home.
Constance and Reginald planned a quiet Christmas with Robert and Augusta. Anne and Richard would be in Hunsford, overseeing Christmas for the de Bourgh Recovery House and Boxing Day for the staff at Rosings House, Rosings Place, and the de Bourgh House. They would distribute alms and food baskets to the needy. They would distribute Boxing Day gifts to their tenants. Then they planned to come to town for Twelfth Night with the Earl and Countess.
December 24
"Trollop will do nicely until proven otherwise," Penelope snapped. "Laurette is packing your things. You will leave my house before noon. I paid for a room for you at Wharton Inn. I don't care where you live. I don't care how you live. I wash my hands of you. I thought you were my friend, Lydia Bennet. Now I know you are just a cheap bit of muslin." She rang for a footman. "Remove this lightskirt and all her things from my home. Hire a hackney cab to deliver her to the Wharton Inn."
~X~
While Mary and her staff decorated the parsonage with holly, ivy, rosemary and bay, Mr. Bennet helped Dr. Long and the men decorate the Recovery House ballroom. The Fitzwilliams bought new socks and gloves for the men at the Recovery House for Christmas. They asked the widows to sew fabric bags which would hold the socks and gloves. The men could keep important items in the bags. Unknown to Mr. Collins – Mr. Bennet and Mary purchased a quantity of peppermints for the men and the staff. Mr. Bennet quietly arranged for the peppermints to be delivered to the Fitzwilliams.
Mary assembled the wages and gifts for the staff. She felt saddened to pay Mrs. Clements and give her a character. She thanked Mrs. Clements for the prodigious care she took of George. Mary didn't understand why she felt tearful when they parted. Then she shook her head…it was not possible! Mr. Collins had not visited her bed since Mother died…except for the night of George's first birthday. Her courses were late, but she had not considered it. 'Oh my…'
Christmas at Scarborough
Louisa purchased a few things for Aunt Cordelia for Christmas. Her maid told her what was in the shops, and she gave her maid the funds. She picked the black satin reticule with the silver vinaigrette. She was grateful they were not in London. Friends had written London smelled like a brewery since the accident where the vat was destroyed.
Aunt Cordelia gave Louisa some books and some music sheets to occupy her while she remained in Scarborough. She insisted on rearranging Louisa's room…providing a better writing table and chair. She replaced the chaise where Hurst liked to nap for two comfortable chairs with a larger table between them.
When Louisa sorted through Hurst's things at his death…she found a pretty little amethyst broach with matching earbobs. She guessed they were intended for her birthday. However, she would not wear them until she had gone into half mourning. She had not participated in Stir It Up Sunday, or did Aunt Cordelia. However, they appreciated the staff's efforts at making Christmas pudding, fruitcakes and mince pies. They also appreciated the staff decorating with evergreen boughs. Out of respect for Mrs. Hurst, they kept the mistletoe in the staff halls.
Christmas in Scarborough was cold and snowy…but Aunt Cordelia's home was warm and snug. Aunt Cordelia found Louisa staring out the cold windows at the landscape. She never asked what thoughts overwhelmed Louisa.
Christmas at Pemberley
"What do you mean?" Darcy stared at Elizabeth.
"I think it happened after we returned to Pemberley from Mama's funeral," Lizzy explained. "I should have waited to tell you until I felt the quickening, but I wanted you to know of my increase. I believe sometime near our anniversary next year; Ben will have a baby brother or sister. I'm telling you now because…while I feel fine right now…I don't know how I will feel when we begin our travels to London. Nor do I know how I will feel when we return to Pemberley."
"While I am thrilled to have another child; it will mean you cannot attend Georgiana during the Season," Darcy looked over a calendar for 1815. "I hope your father is here for the child's birth."
"If Catherine has her child in April, there is no reason Papa cannot be here for our newest Darcy," Lizzy shook her head. "I thought Ben would be a little older before we had Darcy Baby Two."
"When will you tell everyone?" Darcy when he finished hugging and kissing Lizzy.
"Twelfth Night, at the Fitzwilliams in London," Lizzy replied. "I want Mary to come forward with Papa after Catherine has her baby. If they stay until the middle of May with Catherine, they can come forward to us."
"Two babies in two years. Cousin Augusta may recommend you lock me out of your quarters," Darcy laughed.
"I think I will emulate Anne, and ignore Augusta. I believe she needs something to do other than interfere in our lives, gossip, shop, and drag Robert to events every other evening." Lizzy's pert reply amused Darcy.
"The Bingleys have arrived for Christmas Dinner," Georgiana stepped inside the door of the drawing room and informed her brother and sister.
Christmas at Hunsford
Mr. Collins gave Mary a book about William Kerr, a botanist who had died that year. The number and descriptions of the plants which Kerr had sent back to England during his travels interested Mary. Collins purchased a story book for George. Darcy and Fitzwilliam recommended a book for Mr. Bennet, which Collins purchased while in London. Collins appreciated his new clerical robe. Mr. Bennet appreciated his new grey wool waistcoat with a charcoal grey silk lining and silver buttons. Both Bennet and Collins exclaimed over the hand puppets which Mary made for George. Mr. Bennet gave George a new storybook, and Collins a book of philosophical debates. Mr. Bennet gave Mary a large Hawthorne bush, tied with a red bow.
"Thank you, Papa! I cannot wait to set fire to it at dawn on New Year's Day and sprinkle the ashes in my compost pile!"
"I knew it would mean more to you than anything else." Mr. Bennet hugged his daughter. "I took your advice and installed a beehive at every farm and in every orchard before I left Longbourn. Longbourn will receive a quarter of the honey produced from each hive. I installed two more beehives at the main farm. Miss Lucas will look after the poultry and bees with Mr. Hill. I imagine the extra hives will yield a lot of honey next year…which translates to a lot of mead the year after."
Mary and William both doted on George, but the boy adored his Grandfather Bennet. George sat quietly in his grandfather's lap, watching pages while Grandfather Bennet read fairy tales. Grandfather Bennet exhibited different voices for different characters. When Mary read to George, she used the five hand puppets which she had sewn for him.
~X~
The Fitzwilliams came to Hunsford Parsonage for afternoon tea. Mr. Bennet was proud of Mary's elegant tea, which reminded him of holiday teas which Franny arranged. The Fitzwilliams gifted George a stuffed pony made from heavy brown corduroy with bright coppery-brown buttons for eyes. They gave Mr. Bennet a traveling backgammon board to take on his tours to his daughters' homes. They gifted three wide, white silk Geneva bands to Mr. Collins. Each had a silk embroidered cross on it – purple, gold or white. They gifted the same to Curate Stevenson and Curate Crowdion. Mary's large package held a dark sable muff. When she protested the extravagance, Anne insisted the muff was a thank you gift. The Fitzwilliams expected their first child by June. They requested Mary help birth their first child. Anne opined she would like a boy so George had a playmate.
"If we have a daughter, we will name her Mary Elizabeth Charlotte to celebrate the first spring I enjoyed in my adult life," Anne's eyes twinkled.
"You should name her after Lady Catherine as a point of honor," Collins muttered.
"We eliminated grandmothers, Constance and Catherine," Fitzwilliam interceded. "A son will inherit Rosings Park, the land legacy of the de Bourgh family. If it is a boy, we will name him after Anne's great-grandfather, Frederick Lewis Arthur de Bourgh, the first Baronet de Bourgh."
"No mention of your lineage?" Collins appeared surprised.
"That right belongs to my brother Robert, Viscount Fitzwilliam. My lineage will be preserved through Robert and his heirs." Fitzwilliam winked at Mary as he brought his plate forward to take a handful of honey biscuits.
"Well, I am honored you shared this news with us before you shared it with your family," Mary stroked the dark sable muff. She would store the beautiful and luxurious muff with her Kashmir shawl to use for special occasions.
"We are telling family at Mother's Twelfth Night celebration," Fitzwilliam explained. "We would like all of you to attend the dinner. We are opening the de Bourgh House in London for two weeks from New Year's Eve through the sixteenth of January. Darcy and Elizabeth will be in London, with Georgiana."
"I don't know about Mary or Collins, but I want to see Lizzy and Darcy before I go to Catherine and Hamilton in Oxford. You will be there when Catherine gives birth?" Bennet ignored Collins and locked eyes with Mary.
"Yes, Papa. The Hamiltons invited us. I will help Catherine with the birth. Mr. Collins agreed to baptize the child." Mary's comment settled any murmurs of discord.
"I should like to go to London for Twelfth Night," Collins surprised everyone. "We can spend a few days enjoying London. We can go in early in the week and come home on Saturday." 'Perhaps this time I will be allowed to visit Lady Catherine.'
Christmas at the Hamilton House
John woke Catherine on the first day of Christmas with a lovely, wrapped package, containing a silver silk reticule, with a matching set of silver silk short gloves. "They are lovely," she kissed him.
"You're lovely," John gallantly kissed Catherine's hand when she tried on her new gloves.
Over Twelve-tide, John gave Catherine a gift each morning. A wooden glove box with a rose carved top to hold her long gloves. A wooden glove box with a leaf carved top to hold her short gloves. A set of rose embossed gold combs. A rose pink silk and lace fan. A burgundy silk and lace fan. A pearl grey silk and lace fan. A set of six silk ribbon lengths which ranged from blush pink to the deepest rose. A burgundy silk shawl. A pearl grey silk shawl. A collection of rose sachets for her drawers and dressing room. A bottle of her favorite rose scent with bars of scented soap.
"I am so spoiled," Catherine enjoyed her presents. However, she enjoyed arranging John's linen shirts and cravats, and new robes for him to wear during lectures. Besides the other gifts she had purchased, Peterson secured a book satchel and new heavy rugs for Mr. Hamilton's curricle for Catherine. He would not take the carriage to the university because Catherine might need it.
Catherine sent silk handkerchiefs to her sisters – blue for Jane, yellow for Lizzy and ecru for Mary. She sent bookmarks to her brothers: pastoral embroidered blue ribbon bookmarks for Bingley; green ribbon with darker green embroidered vines and leaves bookmarks for Darcy; and white ribbon with gold stitched borders bookmarks for Collins. She was very proud of her needlework. She bought a group of leather bookmarks for Papa from Timsdale's Treasures. She tried hard not to think of Lydia…or where she was. She hoped for Lydia to be happy wherever she was.
Catherine purchased two book satchels for John's servitors from Timsdale's Treasures. She filled them with a pair of gloves, and six and thirty of Mary's honey biscuits made by her staff. She presented their gifts at a dinner before they left Oxford to go home for the holidays. John slipped a missive to Middleton asking him to call at Hamilton House before he left to visit his family. Catherine would gift John's used robes which Middleton's mother could fit to him over the holidays. She purchased a trio of Shakespeare books for Middleton to share with his sisters.
December 26 – Bath
"I will not dignify your maid's allegations. I am expected at the War Office three days hence. Their express states they anticipate problems with the Americas. The Treaty of Ghent ended the War of 1812, but the War Office is fortifying the lands the British own in Northern America. I will let you know my newest orders. If you want to keep Laurette as your maid, you pay her wages and living with your pin money. I will not support her any longer. When you pay her wages, give the house steward equal funds to pay for her room and board. I will inquire with the house steward regarding the funds." Andrew informed Penelope. "If I wanted a treasonous Frenchie in my home; I would extend an invitation to Boney himself."
Alexander rang for his batman. "We are off to London early tomorrow morning. Pack our luggage. While I'm at the War Office, receiving our new orders, you need to purchase items." He gave his batman instructions to purchase extra paper, quills and ink; extra soaps, scents, and toiletries; and a book on order at Hatchard's. He instructed his batman to pick up a new shirt order from the tailor; a new pair of boots; and a new uniform at Bay and Broadhurst on St. James.
"I want to go to London with you," Penelope announced.
"I'm leaving at six tomorrow morning," Alexander coldly informed her. "We're taking the second best carriage which will not provide comfortable travel for you. I will send news when I know my new assignment. If you cannot travel with me to my new assignment, you can remain here, or go to London to see your family."
When Alex could speak privately to his batman, he sent an express to Lydia at the Wharton Inn, ordering her to be ready to travel tomorrow morning. He would take her to London and settle her in an establishment where he could write her or visit her without interference from his wife's maid. When Alex and Penelope married, she received £20,000 from her £50,000 dowry for her marriage settlement and eventual jointure funds. Alex placed £20,000 in an account where he could draw the percents for their living. He moved £10,000 of Penelope's dowry into a private account. The living from it and his military pay could be spent without review by Penelope. They drew wills where he bequeathed everything to her and she bequeathed everything to him. When there was a child, they agreed to draw new wills.
December 29
Daisy, Daffodil, Beatrice and Emilia were off to be bred. The sow babies would be born after Lady Day and weaned before Midsummer. Beatrice and Emilia could be bred after Midsummer with farrows after Michaelmas and weaned before Christmas. Mr. Knowles recommended keeping Mary's piggy sows on their current quarter day schedules. Again, Mary hoped for Daisy to have a girl calf, and for Daffodil to have a girl calf on this first breeding cycle for her. 'Don't count your chickens before they hatch,' Mary reminded herself.
Mary created her lists of things to buy in London. She could leave Mr. Collins to visit Lady Catherine while she shopped with Mrs. Gardiner, Anne or Elizabeth. She needed new brushes and carpet brooms, which could wait until Lady Day. However, if she was with child, as she suspected, she might not feel like shopping at quarter day. She gave Mr. Hastings a list of supplies for the parsonage to include in a bulk order for the Recovery House as part of their bartering agreement. Mary was anxious to visit the seed warehouse while in London. If she were to continue to barter excess from her kitchen garden or herb garden, she wanted to enlarge both. A full acre past the outbuildings would be planted in kitchen garden and root crops. She wanted more lavender seeds to increase the lavender bed at Hunsford Parsonage.
December 27
Lydia cried herself to sleep on Christmas Eve, and hid in her Wharton Inn room Christmas and Boxing Day. She felt thrilled when the innkeeper brought her a message from Whitford's batman. She replied with an unconditional yes. Lydia left Bath in Colonel Whitford's coach two days after Christmas, determined to return to Bath when she had become a lady of consequence. On their way to London, they played Travel Piquet with one another to pass their time, or they played cards. At the first inn, Alex hired a set of rooms for them, and paid for a personal maid to help Lydia.
December 29
Whitford knew a boarding house in London where other military men found living situations for their paramours. Five young ladies lived there, in private rooms. The rooms were large, clean and airy…with defined spaces for sleeping, sitting and dressing. Whitford rented a furnished room for Lydia, paying her lease for a year. The room held a large bed, and large nightstand. The dressing area, with commode, washstand and large armoire, stood separate from the rest of the room by use of a large screen. The sitting area, near the fireplace, held a settee with two side tables, and a plain desk with a single chair.
The lease included daily portions of coal and candles, and one-third interest in a maid-of-all-things who cleaned the rooms, drew baths, and could dress hair. Lydia had one-third interest in a maid-of-all-things and one-third interest in a laundry maid. The boarders had access to the second floor drawing room where a tuned pianoforte, half-filled bookcases, card and work tables, and comfortable settees and chairs resided. Guests did not have access to any room other than the one leased by the boarder they visited.
Lydia had a key to her room, but Whitford recommended Lydia put her jewels and money in her lockbox and keep the lockbox key in her reticule. The landlady had a safe in her study where she secured valuables for the young ladies of the house. Lydia paid a pound to protect her jewels and funds. Lydia could access her lock box each morning after breakfast while the landlady worked in her office. Lydia filled her coin roll, which she kept buttoned to her petticoats. She took Mama's coin roll when she left Longbourn, and kept it filled and tied in her reticule.
Lydia's leased room included meals, all served at the work table in the drawing room. They were not like meals which graced Franny Bennet's or Penelope Whitford's tables. If Lydia wanted a hot meal, like she had at Longbourn or in Bath, she could patronize the nearest hotel or inn. Breakfast at the lodging house consisted of tea and toast at nine. Midday provided cold pasties, cold game pie, or sliced meat and sliced cheese served with bread, and a mug of apple cider. The ladies met at eight each evening for a dinner of soups or stews and bread, with a mug of spruce or ginger beer. She could ring for a tea tray, served in her room from dawn to breakfast or from midday to dinner, or from dinner to midnight. Tea and sweets for entertaining guests cost one shilling when ordered.
December 30
'I am so wretched,' Lydia thought when Alex left her bed. 'He reports to the War Office today. I have one hundred pounds, which will not support me in style. Alex recommended I seek a position at the theaters as a dancer, or a singer. He says I have a lovely voice, and I know the bawdiest songs in French.'
'I wish Alex had not left. He promised I would be under his protection . I'm sorry Penelope discovered how he feels for me and what I feel for him. I am in the acutest of misery…for I love him…and I want to be with him. However, I cannot follow him from camp to camp…I am not a camp follower.'
'Penelope knew and understood how unhappy I was at Longbourn. There is no time for sadness for what might have been. My family…my sisters…have always thwarted my desire for adventure. I will not run home to Longbourn, to Papa or to anyone. I will be young, and lighthearted…and pass the time as quickly as possible until Alex returns to me.'
~XXXXX~
A/N: Wretched Beginnings 1815 will post once a week on Saturday. The story continues…If you don't like this series, please read a story you will like. Thank you for the views and reviews!