Chapter 5
William had been spending a lot of time at his club and with his friends. Though he had stayed away from balls. He still felt injured by the last discussion he had with his parents.
On an afternoon he had decided to stay home, he sat reading in the library. Lady Anne entered and greeted him.
"William, I feel as if I have not seen you for days." She asked a footman to request her husband's presence in the library with them and went to sit with her son.
"How are you? What have you been doing with your time?
George entered and walked over to sit beside his wife.
"I am well, Mother. I have been spending time with Richard at the club and at Angelo's.
He paused, then cleared his throat. "I have been thinking about our last discussion. I still do not see how I am being unreasonable. Am I not the person you raised me to be - upstanding and honorable. I do not use people or cheat them. It is not like I have turned out as George Wickham would have. In fact the opposite is true. He is an example of what I never wished to be.
"Wickham!" His father exclaimed. He had not thought of his steward's son in a while.
"Thank goodness that was nipped in the bud. Last time Wickham mentioned his son, he implied young Wickham was content in the Americas. While he does work, and works hard, he seems to find there are far more opportunities for advancement over there. It is not the same as it is here, with so many judging based purely on social status and being landed gentry.
George Darcy shook his head and continued, "If you had not informed me of the path that young man was going down, the results might have been disastrous. Who knows how many innocent people he might have caused injury to, had he ended up as desolute as those so called friends of his. Some, I hear, have turned out very wild indeed."
Lady Anne picked up the thread of conversation. "Yes, William, you are fundamentally a very good person. You will be a fine master of Pemberley one day and care diligently for the land and all of its dependants. This is not what concerns us.
"Pray, what does concern you then."
She contemplated, gathering her thoughts. "When you look at your father and I, at our marriage, what do you see? What does our relationship look like to you?"
"You love each other. And care for one another." His eyebrows pulled together.
"Yes, we do, very much so." She looked at him expectantly.
William huffed out a breath and ran his fingers through his hair. "I do not understand what you are saying."
"I am saying we wish the same for you. But you will never find a good and meaningful match with this attitude. Do you desire a typical Ton match? Both you and your wife living separate lives, aside from the need to beget an heir?"
"Is that not what they expect of me? Marry a lady with the highest pedigree, largest dowry and best connections. Of course, arranging a match with any of the first circles will be the easiest thing in the world-"
"Do you truly believe a society marriage with one of those young ladies, who - you yourself has stated - you cannot stand, will enable you to lead a loving and giving partnership?"
He looked at her, unable to reply.
"When your father and I spoke with you last, yes, we were upset with your inappropriate words. At this moment I am more concerned for your heart and future felicity."
For some strange reason the image of the lady from the park flashed through his mind, until he shut it out again.
"I will grant you, many of the young ladies currently out in society will not suit you. A few may even be vipers. However, not all are. And they certainly are not there to serve at your pleasure, for when you are ready for them or not."
"Then why do they chase me until I wish to pull my hair out?"
"Because some do only seek the basic relationship such a match will bring them. However, your father and I wish for more for you, and for Georgiana. We do not wish either of you to miss out on the rewarding life a marriage based on true affection can bestow. One that comes from truly admiring and appreciating your spouse."
"At the end of the day, every individual running from ball, to event, to the next social scene, has their own story, and hopes and desires. The trick is to find the one whose goals in life and values align with your. Such can only be learnt by conversation."
Lady Anne stood and smoothed down her skirts. "Now, we are to attend a musicale this evening and we will be meeting friends there. I would like it if you joined us."
William and his father had stood when his mother had. "Very well. I shall."
"Thank you, Son. And will you think further on our discussion?"
"I … will consider all you have said." Darcy kissed his mother cheek and walked out the room
He slowly climbed the stairs, still not sure what his mother wanted from him. Yes, his parents loved each other, but ever since he completed his studies at Cambridge, he felt hounded into being introduced to every eligible young lady on the marriage mart. He never told his parents, but there had been a proposition or three from older married ladies and a widow. The worst part really, was he had yet to meet a woman whom he could hold an interesting conversation with.
It was all so confusing. Afterall, he was eligible, and honorable, which very few gentlemen of his age were. He completely understood why they preferred him above the others.
No, his mother surely did not understand.
He reached his rooms and told Rogers, his valet, he was going out with his parents. Rogers had him washed, shaved and in a change of clothing in good time.
He wore a dark navy suit, paired with a medium blue waistcoat, shot with gold.
William, stood in front of the mirrors as Rogers made the finishing touches on his cravat. He disliked the current fashion of the dandys, but he had to admit, as he admired his image in the mirror, a bit of color was rather nice for a change.
-hbr-
The home of Mr. and Dame Robinson was lit up and almost festive in the multitude of candles brightening the rooms.
Having reached their hosts in the receiving line, George and Lady Anne greeted them, and thanked them again for extending an invitation to the Gardiners. After a few more pleasantries and greetings to young Mr. Darcy, the trio entered the large salon, consisting of the drawing room and music room having been opened up.
The instruments could be seen at the far end, and chairs were lined up in the middle of the area, leaving the far end open for socializing amongst the guests. Footmen with drinks and punch were standing along the walls, to offer to any who wished to partake of a drink, while tea was being served in a corner of the room. Flower arrangements were placed in strategic areas, their fragrant scents wafting around the room as guests walked past them.
Looking around and seeing the Gardiners had not arrived yet, George got himself a drink and tea for his wife. Greeting other guests, the Darcy's discussed the usual polite discourse, and William stood near them, tall and still as a statue.
William was bored. He tried to make inconsequential conversation with the young ladies who put themselves forward for his attention, but their simpering and eyelash fluttering irked him. He could not stand the desperation in the attempts to garner his attention. If only one of them spoke a word of sense.
Lady Anne kept an eye on her son and as such was in a position to clearly see what had her son so set against the ladies of society.
He really does not have to do a thing, but stand there. All the young lady's eyes are on him, as they titter behind their fans. William told us he felt hounded by everyone, I see now there was truth in his words, and it is so much worse for him than when his father and I were younger. However, it is a shame he takes it all so much to heart, instead of using humor to laugh it off. Perhaps his conceit and disdain is a form of self protection. Lady Anne sighed, making a note to herself to discuss her theory with George. Still observing William, she noticed when his expression transformed, and quickly looked to see what had prompted the change.
Darcy could not believe his eyes. It was the young lady from the park!
She walked in behind a couple somewhat older than her. She looked beautiful, dressed in a light green gown, with small white flowers woven through her upswept hair.
As Anne perceived it was Elizabeth who had his gaze riveted, she smiled slyly to herself. Ahhh, and so it begins.
She spoke briefly to her husband and they went to greet the Gardiners and Elizabeth.
Darcy was elated when he saw his parents walking towards the group and followed in their wake. There was no way he was going to miss the opportunity to be introduced to the enchanting young woman.
"Gardiner, Mrs. Gardiner and Miss Bennet, good evening." George spoke to them first and gave a slight bow, as did Mr. Gardiner.
Lady Anne inclined her head while the ladies curtseyed, "Mrs. Gardiner, Miss Bennet, it is wonderful to see you this evening."
"Thank you, Lady Anne," Mrs Gardiner responded. "And thank you for arranging our invitations. We are all looking forward to hearing the music this evening."
"I understand some impressive pieces will be performed this evening. It should prove to be most entertaining."
William coughed to catch his mother's attention.
Elizabeth looked over at the sound, and gasped. It was him.
"Mrs. Gardiner, Mr. Gardiner, I do not believe you have met our son. Allow me to present Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, and this is Miss Elizabeth Bennet, the Gardiner's niece. She is visiting them for the season."
Everyone bowed and curtseyed, and William spoke a rapid, "How do you do?" He could not stop staring at the young lady, a little smile on his face.
"I am very pleased to make your acquaintance, Sir." Her eyes gleamed in delight. "Have you come ready to enjoy the musical delights tonight, as well?" Elizabeth could barely catch her breath. He really was a very handsome young man.
Staring into her dark brown eyes, William had difficulty getting his brain to form words for his mouth to speak. "I, uh, yes, the music."
The sides of her mouth lifted up in a little smile. "I imagine after growing up listening to Lady Anne's talented playing, you may find anyone less accomplished, barely tolerable."
He let out a huff of laughter, but otherwise could not respond. Meanwhile, more attendees had joined their group and he heard his father, Mr. Gardiner and another gentleman speaking of Gardiner's business and the updates going on at his warehouses.
William was shocked. They are from trade!? but… The disappointment hit him so hard, his face went white and all expression drained from his face, leaving it a mask of hauteur.
Elizabeth had been watching him, excited at the introduction, even if he was not the most capable conversationalist, when she witnessed the extreme change in his demeanor. She turned to see what caught his attention, only to hear her uncle and Mr. George Darcy speaking of her uncle's business.
Disappointed, she asked, "You object to good men making an honest living, Sir?"
"Not at all, Madam. I am sure many men must earn their living somehow." His words came out wooden and louder than he intended, and their insult cut her to the core.
Everyone looked over at him. Lady Anne, who had surreptitiously been watching her son, saw the moment things turned from fumbling, to absolute disaster. Embarrassed, she clutched William's arm in a pinching grip and smiled charmingly at the group.
"Pray, excuse us, my son is not feeling well and he needs to retire."
With a few comments of sympathy trailing behind her, Lady Anne walked her son slowly to exit the salon. She smiled and greeted people along their path, all the while keeping her hand clamped firmly on this arm.
Reaching the hallway, she continued with him towards the entryway. "Do not say one word," she hissed quietly. "If you were not a grown man, I would put you over my knee. Those good people in there are friends of your father's and mine. People we respect. I have never been so ashamed of you. Go home, we will speak of this tomorrow. You will not leave the house until we have."
"But-"
"Silence!"
He closes mouth with a snap.
"You will not go out until your father and I speak to you. I do not care what plans you have made. Cancel them."
William was in shock he could not recall ever hearing his mother speak in such a way, and never to him.
He gathered his outerwear and left.
Lady Anne Darcy stood quietly in the hall taking deep breaths. Oh my son, you finally meet a woman who catches your eye, and what do you do? Elizabeth was not impressed with your disdain and was most displeased at the insult to her relations. Rightly so. What shall I do with you, my poor, wretched boy.
Her husband came out to find her and kissed her hand. "Come, my dear. Let us enjoy the evening. We will deal with our misguided son tomorrow."
Elizabeth watched the Darcy's walk back into the room. Good, they are alone. How can such a lovely couple be parents to a boorish man like him? I hope I never have to spend time in his company again.
When the time for the music program to begin came, Mrs. Gardiner pulled Elizabeth to her side before they took their seats.
"Lizzy, I can see you are upset. Pray, do not let it affect you. Young Darcy's reaction was not the first time, nor will it be the last your uncle and I are on the receiving end of such behavior."
"But, his parents-"
"Can only do so much. He is a product of society, which begins for young boys as soon as they attend school. Those are formidable years. Then, they come of age and deal with the expectations of the season and marriage. Come now, I will not have you make a bad impression on the rest of the people here, because you fell into high dudgeon. What would I tell your mother if you end up blackballed from all the season's events?"
Elizabeth laughed, which had been Mrs. Gardiner's goal. "Come, there is beautiful music to hear and I have a feeling Lady Anne is going to insist on introducing you to as many people as possible this evening."
Elizabeth took her seat and when the music began she let the melodies wash over her and calm her spirit. Some of the performers were merely technically proficient, but others had a gift similar to Lady Anne, and those performances were sublime. Elizabeth closed her eyes to enjoy them all the more.
Little did she know she had caught the notice of a young man, most intrigued by the pretty woman.
During the break he found out who she arrived with and approached Mr George Darcy.
"Sir, I am not sure you will remember me. I was in school the same year with your nephew, Captain Richard Fitzwilliam. We all knew each other during our years at Eton and Cambridge."
"Yes of course. Mr… Vernon?"
"Yes, Sir, Nicholas Vernon. It is a pleasure to see you again. I thought I had noticed Darcy here earlier."
"He felt a little unwell and retired early."
"I trust he will be well."
"Yes, yes, nothing to be concerned over."
"I was wondering, Sir, if I might beg an introduction to the young lady your Lady wife is speaking to?"
George looked over and smiled. "Ah, Gardiner's niece. Come, I will introduce you."
Gardiner, having observed his friend and the young man with him, heading towards Lady Anne, his wife and Elizabeth, placed himself nearby as well. He arrived in time to hear his friend remark.
"My dear, this young man wishes to be made known to Miss Bennet." He turned to face the whole group.
"Mr Nicholas Vernon of - Chester, is it not?" With a quick glance and Mr. Vernon's nod of confirmation, Mr. Darcy continued, "this is Mr. Edward Gardiner, Mrs. Gardiner, and Miss Elizabeth Bennet, their niece is visiting from her father's estate in Hertfordshire.
With curtseys and bow all around, Mr. Vernon wasted no time engaging Elizabeth in conversation. "It is an honor to meet you all. Miss Bennet, forgive me for being bold, but I noticed your enjoyment of the music we were just listening to."
"I am enjoying the music, sir, some of the compositions were very well performed."
"I agree, but what caught my eye was your serene countenance while listening."
Elizabeth blushed, "I would expect the audience's eyes to be on the performer, sir, not on myself."
"Yet, how can one look away from such beauty," his grin made light of the cloyingly sweet compliment.
"Shocking! Shall I believe your words or the impish expression you currently wear?"
"A little of both, madam. I fear I would scare you away if I sounded too sincere or looked too insincere, as the case may be."
Elizabeth's smile matched his grin by then,"Very well, I shall accept your compliment, which is not a compliment, and I thank you."
By this time the older members of their group had moved away a bit, still keeping their eyes on the couple.
"Miss Bennet, of the pieces being played next, which are your favorites?" The last remaining minutes of the break were spent discussing music.
Before taking their seats again Mr. Vernon bowed over Elizabeth's hand. "I very much hope we shall meet again soon, Miss Bennet."
"Thank you, Mr. Vernon, it has been a pleasure speaking to you."
By the end of the evening Mr. And Mrs. Gardiner were both tired, so they made their excuses to the Darcys and their hosts and left.
It was a quiet ride home and Elizabeth bade her uncle and aunt good night as soon as they arrived.
The couple shared a look, suspecting Elizabeth was still upset. She was ever loyal to those she loved most, letting go of her ire at young Darcy might take a herculean effort.
- hbr -
George and Anne had also arrived home and retired to their private chambers.
Lady Anne sighed as she laid down her hair brush. "That did not go well. I am afraid Elizabeth was not impressed with our son."
Her husband snorted, "Who would be. It could not have gone worse. She certainly did not appreciate his treatment of her aunt and uncle."
"No more than did I."
He sat down heavily on a chair by the fireplace. "Where did we go wrong?"
"I do not believe it was us. William is essentially a good man." Anne rose from her place in front of the mirror and began to pace. "I blame the warped ideals of society. It has made him too aware of his own consequence, at least in material matters."
"I hate to say this, but I feel our son will require a reckoning before he sees the light."
"I agree, and I think it will be coming." She stopped in front of George." Did you see his face when he looked at Elizabeth?"
"I did not."
"He liked her. I knew he would."
He took hold of her hand. "Perhaps, but she assuredly does not like him and how do we get him past his pride?"
"We tell him to stay away from her. She will not be interested in him, so pursuing her would be a waste of time."
"You, my beautiful wife, sound like you are scheming." He placed light kisses on the hand he held.
"No scheme, my love. Elizabeth is a young woman who knows her own mind, and her mind is currently livid at our son. William, on the other hand, firmly believes every woman desires him. For the first time in his life he will have to work hard to gain a young lady's approbation. One who greatly interests him, mind you. Through effort, and the need for him to do the chasing for a change, will he grow to respect Elizabeth. Something he lacks for any young lady, at this time."
"Anne, what of Elizabeth? Is it fair to play with her feelings in such a way?" He tugged on her hand and guided her to sit on his lap.
"I will make sure to introduce her to many young men during her time in town. Should she meet someone she can love, it will not matter."
"Love?"
"During a conversation I had with Elizabeth, she told me she means to marry only for true love. I am not afraid for her." Anne began running her hand through George's hair, smoothing it back.
"And if she should lose her heart to our son, but he cannot change?"
The movement of her hand stilled. "George, he must change! I fear for him if he does not. However, I have a feeling all will be well."
"I hope you are correct. I do not anticipate explaining our meddling to Gardiner, if his Lizzy should befall heartache by our hands."
- hbr -
Elizabeth excused the maid as soon as she was changed into her nightrail. She was desperate to be alone and think about the evening events. Or rather one aspect of the evening.
Taking up her brush, it tore through her curls in rough strokes as she stalked up and down the room.
What a dreadful man, I cannot believe he is related to the elder Darcys. How dare he insult my Uncle and Aunt Gardiner, who are the best of people and his own parents' friends.
She huffed and sat down in front of the vanity to braid her hair. Picking up a book she tried to read, but found peace of mind still evaded her. She stood and began to pace once again.
Argh! I must sleep. We are taking the children to the park tomorrow and meeting Georgiana there. It will not do to be tired and short tempered.
Elizabeth blew out her candle and sat down on the window seat, taking deep slow breaths. Looking out into the night, she counted the stars, willing her heart rate to settle. When she felt calm enough to lay down, she climbed into bed.
I will not give that man another thought.