Chapter 8
Once breakfast concluded at Longbourn, normally everyone was free to pursuit their own business and pleasures. For Mary, that day began with her books and studies of the classics; and with such a guest in the house, there would be ample opportunity to quietly and passively boast the wealth of her intellect. If ever Kitty or Lydia began their day in such a manner, even with the light amusement of a good novel, contentment and pleasure faded rather quickly. Only a torrential rainstorm or blizzard could keep them indoors, sitting in the parlour for more than ten minutes at a time. Having acquainted themselves with more than their fair share of their cousin the previous evening, they had no desire for a repetition of his preaching.
Both sisters disappeared into the copses, with Lydia latched onto Kitty's hand. Some words had been whispered at the table, which prompted this more confidential tête-à-tête.
"Lord, I thought we'd never get out of there," groaned Lydia. She sunk onto the stone bench near the back parlour window. Tall and generous rosebushes guarded their presence from detection. "Mama is quite distracted, and I find her newfound toleration of Mr. Collins rather vexing. Why should she care being so courteous? She absolutely loathes the man. Everyone knows it."
"I know. It's intolerable!" agreed Kitty. "I couldn't speak last night because Mary was in the room, and she was already quite cross, more so than usual."
"And that is just like her, to suddenly make herself so amiable and charming to someone so odious as our cousin. Can't believe she asked him about his sermons, copying her extracts for him. He was humouring the girl, mark my words. Mary can certainly make speeches about vanity; she's as vain as any of us."
"Worst of it, we must put up with him for a week." Both sisters huffed a good couple minutes, still smarting from the loss of their pleasures at a wedding last night. Conjectures about who danced with their favourites among the officers tormented their fancies.
"Anyway, I have an idea, Kitty," said Lydia. Having glimpsed the parlour window was open, she leaned for a closer whisper. "Let's try to get away this morning as soon as possible. I know tomorrow that Aunt Phillips will be having a card party. We can find out who will be invited, and I shall have a chance to see if Denny has yet returned from town."
"I am all for it."
"I'm anxious lest Mama should keep us here for some perverse reason, so don't say a word about it."
"Do you really think I would?" Kitty retorted.
"The tricky thing will be slipping back in for our things. I want to wear that red bonnet into town, show it off for Denny. He was quite taken with it when I first wore it."
A degrading remark about her sister's high opinion of herself brimmed on Kitty's lips; and should've been forthcoming if other voices had not silenced them from the parlour. Their mother had entered, admitting Mr. Collins. While hardly desiring to be in his presence, overhearing conversation was not ruled out. At any chance of learning something confidential, in a clandestine manner amongst the roses, the girls were drawn nearer to the casement curtain.
"… such generosity your family has bestowed on me, Mrs. Bennet. I am quite gratified."
"I admit I did not know what to expect, Mr. Collins, but this spirit of amends and reconciliation has likewise been gratifying to myself and Mr. Bennet," added suddenly as an afterthought, "and all my girls. You are too good, sir."
"You have, pardon me for speaking so boldly, very beautiful daughters, madam. Reports have fallen far short of the reality. And if I may take this opportunity, of expressing my purpose in visiting Longbourn. I propose a means of amends, and hope it shall be agreeable to yourself and your husband."
There came a pause, but no word from Mrs. Bennet, except maybe something nonverbal that encouraged him to proceed.
"Well, since my recently taking orders and sufficiently settled, it is encumbent upon me to set the example in the Rosings parish. It's also at the fervent recommendation of my patroness, Lady Catherine, that I benefit others as well as myself, by finding a suitable partner in my mission and mistress of my house. Being as my cousins are of good reputation and respectable age for marriage, I resolved, in my heart, to form an alliance in the family that shall remove any predicaments regarding the entail. Not to mention, of course, give everyone happiness…" He seemed lost how to conclude this sentiment, but that need not trouble him. For their mother, by the rise of tone in her voice, was inflated.
"Why, Mr. Collins!" she gasped. "I am quite honoured."
"Of course, I am not so… impartial. Perhaps that is the wrong word. Lady Catherine has urged me, if I can, marry soon, but also choose with discretion. Given my age and disposition, I am inclined to think also of what is due seniority in the family. Naturally, Miss Bennet should be given first consideration, and last night, I must say, I was very struck by her charms and grace."
"Ah yes! Jane is admired wherever she goes." Her throat cleared though. "However, I fear I must, in all fairness, inform you that Jane is likely to be very soon engaged." If he showed any disappointment, she was quick not to let him dwell on it long. "Now, as to my younger daughters, in their case, I know of no prior attachments."
"Well, in the case of Miss Bennet, you have my heartfelt congratulations, madam."
"Of course, you are the best judge of what suits your own character," she assured. "You are free to choose. But if I may recommend anyone, next to Jane in both age and beauty, there is Lizzy."
"Indeed?"
Mrs. Bennet rose to stir the fire, leaving him to a minute's deep reflection. It took as much time to settle upon Elizabeth, as his alternative. A servant appeared and some minor shuffling occurred inside, concluding the interview between them. Once safe from hearing and sure of it, both girls turned to each other and dissolved into fits of laughter. For a whole minute, neither could scarcely breathe. Kitty revived a bit, then mistakenly, looked again at her sister. Lydia tried to stop herself too, and failed miserably.
" 'Of course, I am not so impartial,' " Lydia wheezed out.
" 'Perhaps that is the wrong word," Kitty continued the next words, with tears pooling in her eyes. An involuntary snort came out of Lydia, making it all the worse, all the more difficult to come back to themselves.
"Oh Lord! perhaps Mr. Collins will not be as much of a bore as I expected," declared Lydia, wiping her eyes. "Poor Lizzy."
"Indeed! She will be mortified when she learns of this."
"Tell Lizzy? Kitty, you mustn't! Ruin a good joke like that? I wouldn't."
"I don't think it's a joke to Mr. Collins. He's too serious to make light of this subject, and he has Mama's permission now. We might warn Lizzy."
"I wouldn't worry about Lizzy too much, Kitty. She knows what she's about, and will take care of herself. I'm so glad she did not suggest you or I. Or that Mr. Collins did not think of us." With a shudder: "Ugh, the very thought is just awful! I pity the woman that would marry him."
"If I had my choice between Mr. Collins and becoming a spinster, I'd gladly choose the latter! Though thank goodness we're not come to such desperation."
"If anybody should be grateful for this turn of events, it's Jane. Although, it would be rather funny, don't you think? Say if Mr. Bingley hadn't come along until now, Mama would put up Jane to be courted by our cousin. Then Mr. Bingley starts paying his respects to Jane, and now you have the two competing for her. That would've been a good show. I'd bet you Mama would shoo Mr. Collins away when presented with Mr. Bingley's five thousand a year."
"No doubt."
Having exhausted their intrigue, they had limited time to gather their wits together to slip away to Meryton. They bide their time huddled in the courtyard, listening to movement about the house. Aunt Phillips normally didn't accept calls until ten in the morning. None of the shops would be open either. Strategy and patience were never Lydia's strong suit though.
When finally they ventured back into the house, they were both spotted donning cloaks and bonnets in the vestibule. Mrs. Bennet brightened at the prospect of their walking to town. Their plans for dodging Mr. Collins the rest of the day were foiled as their mother, calling to Jane and Lizzy, bid them all walk into town together. In that way, Mr. Collins might have free discourse with his new preference. Of course, it was said in much fewer, disguised words.
"You might call on my sister, girls. You might introduce Mr. Collins to your aunt, Lizzy. And show him our little town of Meryton. After all, he will be master here one day. He should be seen and familiar with our society."
Lizzy looked at her mother with no greater shock than if she'd fallen on her head. Although she and Jane had other plans for that day, it was dismissed and insignificant in comparison.
"I should be glad to meet Mrs. Phillips, my dear cousin. I've heard many good things about her."
"Of course," answered Lizzy, unable to avoid reply. "We shall be glad to introduce you to her. Shall we, Jane?"
Jane rose to the occasion. "Since we are a good number, it would be nice if we all made an outing of it. Where is Mary?"
"She's in the drawing room," said Mrs. Bennet. "But why bother her? She won't go. She never likes to walk to Meryton."
Lizzy, refusing to hear her parent's hints, moved to go fetch her sister. This would be the day, she wouldn't take no for an answer. Mary was diligent and much to be admired for it, but this time, Lizzy determined, the girl needed fresh air and exercise.
"I am already engaged," pleaded Mary. "I cannot break my routine. I only have so much time in the day."
"Truly, dear sister, you use so much time in reading. There's no call for you to deny yourself or ourselves the pleasure of your company once in a while."
"I am obliged you take pleasure in my company, Lizzy. Jane too. But I know very well that I give neither Kitty or Lydia any such pleasure."
"We also have Mr. Collins joining us… You might consider him. For I assure you, Kitty and Lydia will not be good company to him. And you saw last night, he found your conversation very stimulating."
This development did give Mary some hesitation in her refusal. Changing her mind would be so simple. Her sister gave her a chance to advance her suit with Mr. Collins. For if she could engage him long enough, frequently enough in conversations like last night, indeed, Mary might make better progress. How tempting it was to give in. Perhaps if it had been a mere walk in the country, Lizzy could've persuaded the young philosopher. But Lizzy, nor any of her sisters, knew about the visit from Captain Carter. Venturing into Meryton risked the accidental meeting.
Mary had yet to feel any remorse over that encounter. She meant every word she'd said. Though perhaps such vehemence was unwarranted, necessity of circumstance demanded it. Young girls like Lydia and Kitty possessed mean understanding in the ways of the world, and the ways of men. All intuition revolted against the presence of such men as Captain Carter. The more charming, the more dangerous. The more charming, the more false and grotesque the pretense. Some part of her desired to follow, also with the motive, to shield her younger sisters from further exposure to his company. Even if he wasn't a bad man, his rudeness had been frightening to witness.
"Thank you, Lizzy. I appreciate your wanting to include me, but-"
"Lizzy! Get your coat and bonnet this instant!" demanded Mrs. Bennet, calling from the vestibule. "Don't keep your cousin and sisters waiting!"
Mary attempted no further, unable to compel herself to speak of her ulterior motives.
With a sigh, turning her back defeated, Lizzy teasingly sighed: "Leave us all to the mercy of Mama and Mr. Collins. Too cruel, Mary." Off Lizzy went with sisters and cousin, walking to Meryton.
It would be a decision to be regretted for a number of reasons. Mr. Collins was enraptured by the idea of exercise; the idea of it, of course, not always the actual practice of it. Though a young man, his time at the universities made him sendintary of habit, resulting in a heavy set figure. Not accustomed to such a long walk, he was out of breath by the time they'd arrived into town, also exacerbated by his lengthy conversations to Elizabeth on the road. The attention of the younger to any of these pompous proceedings could not be gained.
Lydia, leading this expedition, was intent upon the streets in search of Mr. Denny. Of course, any greeting from any passing officer was pleasant and welcome. She also hoped to catch sight of him before any of the Harrington girls or Miss Watson, simply desirous for time to herself with her particular favourites. Kitty lamented not having any particular favourites. These officers were the amiable, but not so eye-catching, as the ones Lydia picked up. She remembered Captain Carter, whom they had intially met upon the arrival of the militia. Very odd it seemed that they didn't see much of him in everyday matters on the streets. Lydia had not mentioned him in some time. That being the case, her curiosity stirred some ambition of her own, to seek out the gentleman.
Since their elder sisters had no set course or interest, their eyes roamed more freely about the street. Jane paused in front of the tailor's to admire a new fabric placed in the window; her sisters followed suit, despite Lydia's impatience. Normally, a smart, new bonnet on display would've distracted her for ten minutes. Mr. Collins appeared to tolerate the scene, attempting to make comment to Lizzy on the good condition of the road to town. Quite convenient. But the attention of every lady was soon caught by a young man, whom they had never before, of most gentleman-like appearance, walking with Mr. Denny on the other side of the way.
He bowed as they had passed, which had them all struck by the stranger's air, all wondering who he could be. Only Lydia and Kitty though, determined to find out more, urged the rest of the party to set off for the other side under pretense of seeing something in a shop. Upon gaining the pavement, their journey met success. Although, if Lydia had thought it all through, she'd need not have feigned indifference and surprise at meeting Mr. Denny. Everyone seemed delighted upon this chance meeting, all except Mr. Collins now made completely insignificant by the stranger. Mr. Denny's trip to town had brought him in contact with this old acquaintance, and sought to recommend him for a commission in their corps, to Colonel Forster himself.
Mr. Collins couldn't resist a grimace as the youngest girls squealed in delight, especially to hear them charmed by confirmation that the young man would soon be donning regimentals. For then, he would be completely charming. Jane and Lizzy, distinctly standing apart from such brazen behaviours, quietly and much more dignified, received the notice of Mr. Denny and Mr. Wickham alike. Of all the pretty faces about him, and all the loud attentions being given, the eye of the latter chanced upon and was stayed a moment by Miss Elizabeth. She said very little at the time. Any feelings of admiration were silent. For like one other gentleman, he too discerned the warmth and liveliness of intelligence in such aspect.
For all expectation of casual pleasantries that come with making a new acquaintance were haltered awkwardly. The brief appearance of Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy on horseback, coming down the same road, was acknowledged though scarcely observed by the youngest. And with only eyes for redcoats, and joy in their hearts, they observed nothing of the cold manner between Mr. Darcy and Mr. Wickham. Their first priority, now that others were satisfied, was to bring them to see their Aunt Phillips, sit them down to tea if at all possible, and secure Mr. Wickham an invitation to her card-party the following evening. As a stranger amongst a new set, Mr. Wickham behaved just as he ought, and uncommonly good-mannered when Mrs. Phillips yelled to her girls and the men from the street. Despite Lydia's repeated entreaties to come into her aunt's parlour, military drills beckoned their division. There was also Mr. Wickham's private interview with the colonel.
Having failed that, there was the comfort that Mr. Phillips would be dispatched this very evening to formally include Mr. Wickham in the invitation to dine tomorrow, added with the hint that it is the particular request of the Miss Bennets. For already, cards and supper would be excellent fun; with the addition of good company, the youngest Bennet girls went home that afternoon full of glee and laughter. Poor Jane, already too much distinguished by Mr. Bingley to receive any notice by any of the redcoats. Poor Lizzy, a sacrificial lamb for the sake of the entail. And poor Mary, who had no beaux at all was missing all this abundance of charm and flirtation.
Thank you again for your comments last chapter. I try to keep to the book as much as I can, for this first part, but this scene (walk to Meryton/introduction of Wickham) was portrayed differently in the 1995 BBC version. If you've watched it, you'll notice that ALL the Bennet girls walk to Meryton. In the book, everyone except Mary goes to Meryton. Minor thing. Maybe I'm making too much of it. Why they chose to stick to the script in some places, but deviate at other parts, will never know. When I read P&P, I thought to myself: If you really wanted Mr. Collins, why didn't you go walking with them?
Not to worry, those who defended Captain Carter, Mary is in for a good humbling...
To one guest reviewer, I'll just clarify about Lydia's little letter to him. She was merely trying to flatter and ask for money, nothing more. Still, it's no less an impropriety trying to beg money from him. She has been conditioned all her life, to beg, squabble, cry, and now flirt to get what she wants. If Mary did chop her precious little bonnet to pieces, it would certainly be deserved.