AN: I've tried to make the distinction between Lady Beatrice Pembroke, Dowager Countess and Lady Jane Pembroke, the new Countess as easy as possible in this chapter. Please be warned, much of the first half is from Caroline Bingley's point of view and Jane is still Lady Langley, as she doesn't know of Percival Pembrokes death. I hope this clears things up.
While the Gentlemen were visiting Longbourn, Miss Caroline Bingley sat before her looking glass feeling completely demoralised. She'd dismissed her maid and ordered the servants to leave her be, until called. The Mistress cared not for a house full of guests who inhabited the first circles, no matter what Charles would say regarding her behaviour. They could take themselves into dinner and find their own entertainment this evening for all Caroline cared. Not one of them respected her as the mistress of Netherfield, or aided her bidding to become Mrs Darcy.
Snorting with distaste, Caroline grimaced at her reflection. Lady Pembroke, she seethed, displayed her disregard openly. Her Ladyship has surrounded herself with family in my house and played her part in arranging the situation to her liking. Neither of us could see Miss Eliza as the wife of a country rector, no matter how much Mrs Bennet may wish it. However, attempting a compromise between Mr Forayer and Miss Eliza was not my finest moment. Perhaps I overplayed my hand and looked desperate.
Shaking her head with inner disappointment, Miss Bingley knew she had been grasping at straws. Forayer and Son has been engaged to ensure Lady Elizabeth's legacy is distributed once the principal came of age. It seems Miss Eliza carries all before her. With her wealth, connections and wit, it is little wonder Mr Darcy became enamoured of her fine eyes. Besides, the thought suddenly occurred to Caroline, with Miss Bennet betrothed to Lord Lingley for many years, the families must have associated in the past, which could only mean Miss Eliza has been exposed to the highest society, even if I have not witnessed her attendance.
Eye's glassy, Miss Bingley considered all that occurred in her home, indeed, under her nose over the last week. Caroline understood she had not seen events as they were, rather as she would wish them. Going over every conversation, look and action, she could see much with the aid of hindsight.
I have missed every clue, or, she scolded herself, deluded myself into believing our position in society much greater than in reality. This is not to be born. I must find a way to ensure my continued acceptance with Mr Darcy and his family if I am to have any chance of a respectable match.
Carline's heart felt the loss, not of Mr Darcy, but his fortune, connections and place in society. Cheeks infusing with an unbecoming colour, Miss Bingley ripped off her turban and threw it against the wall, not caring for the delicate and expensive feather gracing the head piece. Caroline's sorrow turned to self-pity in a moment, before morphing into anger as she understood marrying a man worthy of her, or gaining the position in society she desired was entirely dependent on those interlopers currently invading her home. Her dowry, her accomplishments and her elegant gowns would never been enough to compete with a gentleman's daughter.
Even one who walks four miles in the mud to visit her sister. One whose mother was born to a tradesman, she sneered silently before pausing to really consider this fact. Recalling the invitation sent to Miss Bennet which started the events culminating in today, Caroline once again realised she had only heard what she wished upon interrogating the rain soaked young woman. Second sons often sought employment in the clergy, law or military, not having the resources of their elder brothers. I never specifically asked Lady Linley's connections beyond her mother's brothers and sisters. Is it possible her mother's uncle is a gentleman? That he inherited the estate as the first born? Her father, a second son was forced to take up the Law? That Mrs Bennet's family is also descended from the gentry?
Unwilling to destroy more of her possessions, Miss Bingley took pause to truly consider all the possibilities and compare them with fact. Caroline needed an unyielding plan if she wished to obtain the station in life she deserved but more than that, she needed all the essentials. Her calculating mind began assimilating odd facts, which lead to far reaching notions.
Deciding she would not stay in this house or savage society any longer than necessary, Miss Bingley knew she could return to London. Louisa could be talked into returning to town. Hurst had a house, and there they must stay until she managed to capture a husband. Perhaps it was time to take a leaf from Louisa's book. An older gentleman in need of a young and well endowered wife. After all, Caroline need not care for the man, so long as he could keep her in comfort.
This decided, Miss Bingley's cunning began to consider every gentleman she knew. Rumour, she understood, always held an element of truth. One had only to blow the chaff from the wheat to uncover the true kernel. Pulling out letters from her acquaintances in town, Caroline carefully reread all of last season's gossip. It did not take long for a shrewd smile to grace her lips.
"I shall need Lord Langley's aid," Miss Bingley told her image in the looking glass, "for the appropriate introductions. At least Miss Bennet's sudden marriage and elevation will come to something."
Calling for her maid, she ordered the girl to help go through her wardrobe. It was time to project a more understated and pliable image. However, her change could not appear to occur overnight or too many would suspect an intrigue. No, Miss Bingley's transformation would need to be gradual and occur over some weeks to seem genuine. With the little season about to start in London, she had time to prefect the image she wished to display. The devastating loss of Mr Darcy would be much gossiped of when she did not return from Netherfield engaged. Miss Caroline Bingley intended to use the time and rumours to best advantage.
A quarter hour before the dinner gong sounded, Miss Bingley's temper cooled sufficiently to accomplish her next move. Eyes flashing with hidden meaning, she descended the stairs in her most demure gown. A heavy green dress with black accents, it suited her sombre mood and the death of her hopes with regard to Mr Darcy. Moving into the drawing room, she intended to appear the consummate hostess and act as if nothing of any importance occurred in her home.
"Lady Pembroke, Lady Langley," Caroline curtsied, finding the women together and speaking quietly.
"Miss Bingley," they stood and returned the greeting politely.
"I hope all went well this afternoon," Caroline immediately noticed the muted colours in their gowns and black mobcaps. Unable to account for it, Miss Bingley knew her sister preferred a slightly cream coloured indication of the married state, as it suited the tone of Louisa's hair better than stark white. Black depicted…startled, Caroline only just managed to hide her reaction to this discovery. It changed everything and her plans would have to change to accommodate the fact. Although she knew not how, it would be essential to listen with rapt attention this evening in the pursuit of a suitable husband.
"As well as could be expected," Jane sighed, carefully watching Miss Bingley's reactions. "An express reached Netherfield from London half an hour ago. Lord Pembroke has succumbed to illness. I am afraid our party must be away at first light on the morrow."
"I have directed Cook to make baskets for your journey," Caroline nodded, calling for a footman. This explained so much. The hurried wedding, the black mobcaps and the reason Jane answered her question as the highest rank in the room. It seemed the women were already in mourning for Percival Pembroke. The entirety of London knew of the man's profligate ways and awaited his imminent passing. The event occurred earlier than anyone anticipated. "If you will excuse me for a moment, I shall ensure all in readiness before joining you to dine."
Nodding, Jane waited until the drawing room doors closed before glanced at her mother-in-law. "I am not sure this is the best plan. Miss Bingley is not senseless, merely imprudent. Are you sure she will be compliant with our wishes?"
"Jane," Beatrice scolded, pulling the younger woman to sit at her side. Indicating they did not have much time, the Dowager Countess lowered her voice, "Elizabeth…Your Mama shielded both you and your sister from the worst of London society. There are many of Miss Bingley's ilk among my acquaintances. Nuevo Riche, Tradesmen's daughters and those in the lower gentry, who wish to increase their consequence through marriage. They will try anything to bring about a fortuitous connection. I believe my nephew took many precautions to guard his reputation prior to accepting Mr Bingley's invitation to Netherfield. Miss Bingley has not been restrained in regard to her hopes."
Considering this report, Jane's expression turned forlorn. "Has my new cousin been much hunted?" she requested.
"Since the day his father left this mortal coil," Beatrice exhaled. "A young man, in possession of his inheritance, what could be more enticing to any marriage minded lady."
"Will Miss Bingley give up her object?" for perhaps the first time in her life, Jane Pembroke frowned as she considered the wider ramifications of this new notion. "We cannot tell anyone of my sister's engagement until after our presentation."
"My niece and nephew will enter a short mourning at Pemberley for my husband," Beatrice stated. She was not a woman to be easily gainsaid. "Michael, you and I shall need to wear black for at least three months. The ton will understand and by the time we return to London in late March, there will have been many other scandals to take the gossip away from the new Earl sudden marriage prior to his father's death. We must be seen during the season, especially as we require your gown ready for your curtsy. We shall be safely tucked away on our country estates. It is sister's welfare that concerns me."
"Lizzy," Jane stood once again. "How could my sister be in any danger. Oh," she glanced at Beatrice, who gave a patient look, willing the woman connect the dots. "Elizabeth is now an heiress with a substantial income."
"Should it become known, there are just as many men desperate for a well endowered wife," Beatrice smirked, "as women looking to increase their standing. Should Mr and Miss Bingley allow Elizabeth to remain at Netherfield while we are in mourning…"
"You have considered all possibilities," Jane smiled while looking through her mother-in-law. "I am not sure Lizzy will see your machinations in a prudential light."
"I have had this day planed for many years," Beatrice moved into a more comfortable position, inspecting Jane's reaction. "I shall not allow the likes of Miss Bingley, nor your sister, to ruin my designs. Darcy was meant for Miss Forbs, they are well matched in every respect."
"I agree," Jane yielded, but not without having her say. "It is your methods that I do not like. I am not sure of Miss Bingley's compliance with your schemes."
"Tomorrow, all of London will know the Earl is dead," Beatrice glared, "Those that don't will soon hear of it from Miss Bingley, as this piece of gossip will be just too tantalising to keep to one's self. The moment our carriage reaches Rutledge house, the knocker will come down and the wreath placed. I shall leave disseminating your marriage to our hostess, as I am sure she shall make the most of her news. It will open doors, for a short while at least. We must stay a night or two at Rutledge House, before making the journey North. I am afraid, once you see the estate, you will understand the work that needs to be done and three months without society shall not be long enough to make more than a start."
"At least," Jane allowed a slight smile, "we will have the funds to make improvements."
Sighing, the Dowager Countess agreed. "I have done only what is necessary to keep the best tenants. You and Michael shall have to fill the empty lands with good people. My husband would not release capital for more innovative projects. As a result, the profit decreased yearly and those who could, left for employment in the factories and cities. Bringing Rutledge back will be no easy task. We must employ what methods we can to ensure your success."
"Must my sister be separated from me?" Jane asked. "I shall miss Lizzy terribly, and her council. I know my husband has his own estate in Surry, however it is Lizzy that is the true master of Longbourn. I fear for the tenants and parish poor with both Lizzy and I gone."
"Miss Forbs need not be in mourning, as you and Michael shall," Beatrice frowned at this new information. It explained much, especially Mr Bennet's ire at losing his second daughter. "I shall take the time to truly introduce her to society before your curtsey. There can be no prior hint of the relationship between the Bennet's, Elizabeth and you, if I am to sponsor you. Thus, we must have somewhere for Miss Forbs to stay in town. She can't be associated with Darcy, or even be invited to accompany my niece while they grieve. There can be no harm to your sister's reputation before Elizabeth can establish herself."
"I do not know if Lizzy will wish to stay with the Bingley's," Jane worried.
"Her town home is rented, she has not a companion and she cannot stay in Gracechurch Street," Beatrice stated sternly.
"My husband and I shall be out of mourning, when next I am in company with Lizzy," Jane whispered, comprehending something very important had been left unsaid. Unable to speak with her sister privately after the reading, the new Lady Pembroke knew these facts would make sense, once she knew all.
"Yes," Beatrice agreed, making a gesture that they would not be alone much longer. Both heard footsteps before the doors opened to admit Mr and Mrs Hurst. "I wish to hear more of Miss Forbs education in estate management," the older lady whispered as she stood to greet the remainder of the party.
By the time Miss Bingley returned, she was able to inform Lord and Lady Langley that arrangements for the morrow where well in hand. Taking her brother's arm, Caroline lead them the party into dinner. Rearranging the table, not to her liking, but as etiquette required, she sat Lady Pembroke and Lady Langley either side of her brother. They were the highest-ranking ladies and therefore given the most coveted place. Charles did not seem uncomfortable to have the object of his past affections seated on his left. Indeed, he took great pleasure in wishing the former Miss Bennet well and discussing her immediate plans for the future. Mr Darcy and Lord Langley sat either side of Caroline at the foot, which would have been delightful under other circumstance. Michael chose not to speak unless asked a direct question. He preferred to glance often at his new wife with a slight frown, indicating his preference and newly married state had not been considered. Miss Darcy and Miss Eliza Bennet were positioned either side of Mr Forayer on the same side as Mr Darcy and his attention wondered towards his sister more often than not. Hurst did not care where he sat. The middle of the table gave him access to the best dishes, so he did not complain. Poor Louisa, sat between her oaf of a husband and Lord Langley, meaning she could only speak to her sister through glances and expressions as the Viscount continued to brood.
"Miss Forbs," Georgiana attempted to gain the attention of her soon to be sister the instant a moment of quiet descended on the table. Upon returning from Longbourn this afternoon, Fitzwilliam informed her of the situation betwixt them. Lady Pembroke, that is Aunt Beatrice, had given Georgiana explicit instructions and she would play her part in the drama that must follow. Miss Darcy was to be the tool by which Elizabeth's new identity would be disseminated, starting with the recruitment of Miss Bingley to their cause. "I understand you have a house in town."
"I do," Elizabeth glanced at Lady Beatrice Pembroke across the table. She understood where the question originated, but not why. "My mother left it to me. However, it is currently let and I should not like to put the tenant out."
"Where shall you stay, while in town?" the young woman asked, with a seemingly innocent tone.
"I have always gone to my Aunt and Uncle Gardiner in Cheapside," Elizabeth answered.
"Perhaps," Miss Bingley recognised the opening. The small snippets of overheard information started to make sense. It seemed she could offer a solution and please herself at the same time. Never did it cross her mind that she might be manipulated into her current offer. "You would like to remain at Netherfield until we remove to town. I had hoped to take in the small season and stay for Michaelmas."
"Yes," Louisa played to her sister's suggestion. Unsure why Caroline wished Miss Eliza to stay with them, or why Miss Darcy addressed her as Miss Forbs, the woman was now very well connected. Whatever she called herself, it could only increase the Bingley's consequence to host the lady. "Hurst, we must send an express to the housekeeper in Grosvenor Place. I should like to be in residence before the end of the week."
The man simply grunted and continued to consume his soup. It seemed his agreement made little difference as his wife and sister made plans to open his home. So long as the food and wine continued, he cared little.
"I, that is," Elizabeth faltered. She did not want to spend more time than absolutely necessary with Miss Bingley or Mrs Hurst. Being trapped in a house with them for the next four or five days while they closed down Netherfield was insupportable. A carriage ride, imprisoned in a limited space, intolerable. Then to be hosted by Mrs Hurst in London, the thought made Elizabeth pale.
"An excellent notion," Beatrice agreed, drawing all eyes to herself. "We shall have to find you a companion, Miss Forbs. Until one can be arranged, staying with friends that are able to participate in society would be best. I am sure our box at the theatre might be made open to you, Mr Bingley."
"Thank you, Your Ladyship," Bingley managed not to stutter at the unexpected offer.
"Best for whom?" Lizzy demanded, trying to keep her tone soft while her glare pieced the Dowager Countess.
"I agree," Mr Darcy also glared at his aunt. Although done badly in his opinion, this subterfuge solved many problems. "With my aunt, Miss Forbs," he qualified, earning him a frosty glare from his betrothed. Sighing internally, he considered how to achieve his aunts design while pleasing Elizabeth at the same time. It would not be easy, even if for the best of reasons. "I shall speak with Mrs Annesley. Georgiana, I believe your companion has a sister whom is in want of a position."
"Yes," Georgianna responded. "I allowed Mrs Annesley time to visit with her newly widowed sister while making the journey to Netherfield. I shall write and have the offer in the post by morning."
Under the table, Jane reached for her sister's hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. Lizzy immediately reacted by turning her head in that direction. Surrounded by noise as many voices rose to join the discussion, the sisters manage to communicate with a look. The new Countess lent in and whispered, "do not worry. All shall be well."
"Jane," Elizabeth appeared quite distressed and confused.
"Later," she responded. "We have much to discuss."
Nodding her understanding, Lizzy found herself quite alone in a room filled with people she thought she could trust. The soup course disappeared, to be replaced by the dishes of the first course. It seemed Miss Bingley and Beatrice Pembroke were chief among those making decisions for everyone. Mr Bingley and Mr Hurst were not disposed to argue, allowing two of the most devious women to continue plotting.
"Jane," Lizzy managed to detached her sister from the other women as the separation of the sexes occurred after dinner. "Tell me all, now," she demanded. Elizabeth's ire sparked, it slowly smouldered into a flame, igniting into full anger by the end of desert.
"Think, Lizzy, as Mama taught us. Miss Bingley knows of our true origin," Jane returned in a hissed whisper. "We do not want to be associated with the name Bennet. Mr Bennet will never allow his wife or daughters to come to town. Any in the local society will not have connection to our circle, except…"
Blushing, Elizabeth's mind began to understand. "You are buying her silence."
"Miss Bingley aspires to a match she is unable to broker," Jane stated. "Michael will aid her endeavours. However, if one mention of the name Bennet crosses her lips, she shall be consigned to a country home for the rest of her life."
"Who would consider…Lord Marsden," Lizzy paled at the thought. "No, Jane, he is nine and fifty. The man is only in need of her dowry. There will be nothing left and he has two sons who are waiting to inherit."
"I am thinking of the elder son," Jane responded, holding her tongue between her teeth so as not to smirk.
"Oh," Lizzy couldn't help the wide smile. "Yes, of course. James will tame our shrew. I am not sure if Miss Bingley understands the deviousness of this plan."
"I certainly hope not," the new Countess made a sudden and unexpected appearance. "There is more at stake than Caroline's wishes, or yours, sister. We each have a role to play and play it we must."
"What," Elizabeth looked on with equal parts amusement and dread, "has happened to my Jane."
"I have grown up," she stated. Pulling her posture into a regal demeanour, the Countess of Rutledge proceeded towards the drawing room, dragging her sister with her.
Shaking her head to rid it of the cobwebs that seemed to have taken up residence, Elizabeth made her way into the lion's den. Since opening the letter from her dearest Mama, Lizzy felt her life spinning out of control. No, she corrected, it started long before that. Mama's letter simply tied together all the pieces. Lady Elizabeth and Lady Pembroke are no better than many can boast, especially the rich who are more capable of getting their way. They have plotted and schemed together to keep secrets. Their reason maybe laudable, yet still they have forced Jane and Michael into a hasty marriage to suit their purpose. That is only the start of their manipulations. Perhaps I have finally taken off my blinkers and begin to see Mama for whom she really was. Yet, I cannot forget the loving woman who raised me. Mama left me the means to choose my fate while still taking care of her family duties and obligations. As Jane said, Mama would not have asked so much, if she did not think it best.