"The world would be so lonely, in sunny hours or grey. Without the gift of friendship, to help us everyday." - Hilda Brett Farr

Chapter 17

'My Dearest Jane,

I have received your rather amusing missive and I am only now in possession of the time and solitude to respond. I know that you will forgive my heartlessness but I must tell you that your tale of Mama chasing the goose out of the kitchen only to find my brother Charles standing stunned in the garden still brings a smile to my face. Beyond the constant visits from our mother, I hope to find you settled nicely into your role as Mistress of Netherfield upon my return. I will only add…Do not allow Mama to sway your choices as you redecorate your parlor. I know it is difficult for you…stand firm.

All is well in Kent. I have had a lovely week spent in Charlotte's company as well as listening to our cousin Collins boast of all the luxuries afforded to the wife of the parson of the great Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Truly, it has been diverting! However, Charlotte does appear content in her situation. She sends her love to you and hopes to receive a letter of her own from you soon.

Now…I hesitate to make mention of this given your persistence in promoting a match but I am at a loss of how to keep such news from you. Mr. Darcy and his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, have recently arrived at Rosings. Lady Catherine has condescended to extend an invitation for us to dine with the gentlemen at the great house this evening. I beg of you to stop your speculation regarding the feelings of our friend from Derbyshire. I am quite content with our friendship and any hopes of something more is ridiculous given our situations. However, I will grant you that he is exceedingly handsome. With that scandalous admission, I will end this letter in hopes that my sweet elder sister is not adopting our mother's matchmaking ways!

All my love,

Elizabeth

Elizabeth quickly sealed the letter and then started to prepare for the dinner engagement at Rosings. Charlotte joined her and assisted in styling her hair. Elizabeth smiled at her friend's attentions, aware that both of the Collins' went to great lengths to ensure that their dress and appearance was fit for the company of their great patroness.

As Elizabeth followed her cousin and friend on the path that led to Rosings, she took time to breathe in the fresh air and ponder on what the evening would bring. So far, her brief visits with Lady Catherine and her daughter had proved to be somewhat stifling yet diverting. The demands of the Mistress of Rosings oftentimes bordered on ridiculous. Her attention to detail would perhaps be impressive if it was not directed in the most absurd places. Elizabeth smiled to herself as she recalled the inordinate amount of time Lady Catherine spent instructing Charlotte on the proper way to organize her linens during their last visit.

Of Miss de Bourgh, little could be said other than that she appeared sickly and bored at all times.

Elizabeth could not deny that she looked forward to the addition of the gentlemen tonight. Mr. Darcy was always good company. Her interest was piqued to meet Colonel Fitzwilliam since she knew him to be Georgiana's co-guardian. She wondered if he would look similar to the Darcy siblings. She glanced up to realize that she would not have to wonder long since they were approaching Rosings.

As the party from Hunsford entered the parlor, Elizabeth could not locate Mr. Darcy immediately. Once the Collins' had been greeted and introduced, Elizabeth stepped forward. She curtsied and bid good evening to Lady Catherine and Miss de Bourgh.

"Good evening to you, Miss Bennet. This is my nephew, Colonel Fitzwilliam of Matlock." Lady Catherine said as she nodded her head towards a gentleman standing near Miss de Bourgh.

Elizabeth curtsied as the gentleman bowed in greeting. Before either could speak, Lady Catherine continued.

"I had hoped that my nephew Darcy would be here to greet you; however, he is currently speaking with my steward. My nephew prides himself on his great care of his family. He quite dotes upon Anne and me." She said with a smile towards her daughter. Miss de Bourgh did not feel it necessary to look up in response.

Elizabeth smiled and then said, "It must be a comfort to have your nephews visit."

Lady Catherine immediately sat straighter and said, "Oh, yes. Darcy is most assuredly a comfort to me. He visits faithfully each year regardless of the demands that weigh upon one of his status."

Elizabeth did not miss the fact that Lady Catherine failed to praise Col. Fitzwilliam as well. A quick glance in his direction to find a slight roll of his eyes proved that that gentleman did not miss the omission either. Before Lady Catherine could continue, a voice came from the door.

"Aunt, you must stop your compliments for I am here now and will blush under such praise."

Elizabeth looked up to find Mr. Darcy walked determinedly towards her. She could not help the wide smile that graced her face at seeing her friend again. He stopped besides his aunt and bowed before he continued speaking.

"Furthermore, there is no need to sing my praises to Miss Bennet since we have been acquainted for some months now and I am sure that she has already formed her own opinion. Good evening, Miss Bennet."

This uncharacteristic little speech from her favorite nephew left Lady Catherine looking affronted while Col. Fitzwilliam did all within his power to contain his mirth.

"Good evening, Mr. Darcy." Elizabeth said quietly.

Lady Catherine finally found her tongue.

"Darcy! What are you speaking about? How did you come to know Miss Bennet?" She demanded with narrowed eyes.

Darcy calmly responded, "I had the pleasure of meeting Miss Bennet in Town this season. Her sister recently wed my good friend, Mr. Bingley."

"Ah, yes, your tradesman friend."

Darcy caught Elizabeth's eye and hoped that she was not offended by his aunt's rude comment. He quickly attempted to turn the conversation.

"Perhaps you would be kind enough to introduce me to your other guests, aunt?"

At this request, Mr. Collins fairly exploded with pride. Elizabeth stepped aside with a smile but not before smirking at Mr. Darcy. The poor man knew not what he had done. She would gladly endure his aunt's condescending comments if she was able to observe her cousin Collins torture Mr. Darcy with his gratitude. This would be an evening to remember.

A/N: I apologize for the ridiculously long delay. I will do my best to post regularly. Thank you for all of the encouragement to continue with this tale. I appreciated the feedback.