Elizabeth's Close Escape 5/30/24
Chapter 1
Mrs. Wainwright was not happy. Her master was not happy. He had not been happy for months, since he returned from Hertfordshire, and this was not going to make him any happier. But still, it fell to her to tell the master that the last man he would ever want to see again was requesting his presence and unfortunately, she thought he must see the man.
"Pardon sir," Mrs. Wainwright said after knocking on the study door. He nodded for her to enter, even if he was peeved at being disturbed, he knew she would not have knocked if it was not important.
"There is a man at the servant's entrance who states that he must see you."
"Tell him to come back tomorrow."
"Sir, I think you need to speak to him. Now."
Mr. Darcy raised his eyebrows. "What can be so important that some unknown man must be seen at this time of night?" Mr. Darcy was getting angry at being bothered with some inconsequential nonsense when all he wanted to do was have a brandy and forget. Forget her, just like he had tried to do every night for the past few months. Too bad it didn't work as she was always on his mind.
"He says to tell you that, I quote, 'I know where Elizabeth is and you need to go to her immediately.' "
That got Mr. Darcy's attention. "Show me to him." he said.
Mrs. Wainwright led Mr. Darcy to her sitting room near the servant's entrance. She knew this man was not welcome anywhere in any of the Darcy properties, but decided this was the best place to have the master deal with him. Mr. Darcy was quite surprised to see the last man he ever wished to see again, George Wickham.
This man had been a scourge on his existence since they were boys in leading strings together. His propensity for impropriety knew no bounds. Darcy had bailed him out of trouble again and again first at Eton, then at Cambridge. "Now what has he done?" thought Darcy. "I thought I was well shot of him after the debacle at Ramsgate." he mused.
"What are you doing here!" bellowed Mr. Darcy.
"I know you don't want to see me, but I have information about Miss Elizabeth Bennet that you do not want to ignore. She is in a terrible position and you have less than an hour before her position is going to get a lot worse."
"Why should I trust you?" Mr. Darcy raged.
"Because I know you care for Miss Elizabeth and you would not let her come to harm, even if it meant you had to deal with me."
"What do you get out of it?" accused Darcy.
"A few pounds, nothing more. Even though we never would have had a chance at happiness, I bear her no ill will and you are the only one I could think of who could save her from this fate."
"Alright, go on."
"Let us talk in the carriage. We will be going to a rough part of town so you will want to take an carriage without the Darcy crest on it. Oh, and bring a couple of those strapping footmen you always seem to have about."
After the carriage and the footmen were ready, and Wickham had given the groom directions, Darcy and Wickham climbed in the coach with the footmen riding on the back.
"So, start talking Wickham." started Mr. Darcy.
"I had a very lucky night at the tables this evening, so I decided I would treat myself and went to my favorite establishment." He paused for Darcy to catch his meaning. Darcy frowned. "The owner was very happy to see me when I payed what I had owed him and he offered a new arrival, if you know what I mean. You pay extra for that type of service you know."
"No, I don't. What does this have to do with Miss Elizabeth?" He was already getting a nauseating feeling in his gut. He knew exactly what Wickham was alluding to, even though he himself had never taken advantage of such a scheme. Latin and Greek were not the only things he learned about at Cambridge.
"I am getting there. The owner said a young lady had just been brought to him, in order to pay a debt as it were, but she had either had too much to drink, or had been given laudanum, he was not sure. The young lady was still insensitive, but that didn't bother me."
"Of course it did not." growled Darcy. He couldn't believe he was having this conversation with this reprobate, but he needed to find out where Elizabeth was. This story was getting worse by the moment.
"The woman was unconscious and still dressed in her travel cloak, bonnet and boots. I believed the proprietor when he said she was, um, untouched. As I came closer and saw her face, even I was taken aback. It was Miss Elizabeth Bennet! As much as I may have once wanted her, um, charms, I could not bring myself to...continue. I know you think meanly of me, and with good reason, but I could not take advantage of a gentlewoman that I knew who was unconscious. It is so much more fun when they are willing." He paused and looked at Fitzwilliam to gauge his reaction. A look of absolute rage filled his face.
Wickham continued, "I believe she had been dosed with laudanum. I payed the owner 10 pounds to have a maid sit with her and ensure no one saw her or touched her. I did not tell him her name but told him, um, that, um, I knew her brother and he would get another 10 pounds if she came to no harm before I got back in one hour."
"Why?" asked Mr. Darcy.
"Why what? Why didn't I take advantage of her or why did I involve you in this debacle?"
"Both."
"I grew to respect Miss Elizabeth for her wit and vivacity and even for the fact that she would not give me the time of day after you left Hertfordshire. A right smart girl that one. Now her youngest sister, that would have been a different matter. But, no, even her, with her unconscious, maybe, I don't think I would have. I don't know why. As to why I would come to you? Who knows? I have few other acquaintances in London that I don't owe money to..."
"You owe me money."
"Yes, of course I do, but I knew you would not hold it against me if it involved saving your lady love."
"She is not my lady love. Do not speak of her so flippantly."
"My apologies. Oh, we are here," finished Wickham as he quickly stepped out of the coach. Mr. Darcy had never stepped foot into such a disgusting area of London and he sincerely hoped he never would need to again.
As the men met with the owner, money changed hands quickly and "Mr. Smith" was led to "his sister". Miss Elizabeth was still unconscious but was beginning to stir. Mr. Darcy wanted her far away from here before she came to. The less she knew about this part of her journey, the better.
Mr. Darcy turned to Mr. Wickham saying "Here is 50 pounds. She was never here. I was never here. I never want to see your face again. If I hear any gossip about her, you are finished. Understand?"
"Pleasure doing business with you, Mr. Smith." Wickham said with a smile and a bow as he quickly exited the establishment and was gone in the night.
Mr. Darcy pulled her bonnet down so her face was masked as he carried her to the carriage. The footmen made sure no one got too close to them as they navigated the narrow hallways of the dingy establishment. They couldn't be away from that neighborhood fast enough for his liking.
Chapter 2
The trip back to Darcy house was quick, but not pleasant. As much as he had been dreaming of having her in his arms. he hoped she would remain unconscious until he could get her situated in a quiet room at Darcy House with a maid attending her. He was trying to determine the best way to keep her from knowing how he had found her. Not knowing how she got there in the first place, he was not sure the best way to proceed.
When they returned to Darcy house, the groom pulled directly into the mews and he was able to carry Elizabeth into the house unseen. He carried her to one of the guest rooms and left her in the very capable hands of his housekeeper and a maid. He asked for his physician to be called for. He knew that the man would be discrete about what happened at Darcy House. He made his way to his study to think about what should happen now.
If she woke in a strange house, with people she did not know, would she be frightened? It might be for the best if she didn't know that she was in his house. They hadn't parted on the best of terms after Bingley's ball in Hertfordshire and he didn't want her to know what he had done to save her from a very unsavory future.
He determined that the best course of action was to have someone she knew present when she awoke. Her sisters were in Hertfordshire, at least as best he knew. Not that he could send for them anyway. An express arriving in the middle of the night stating "I just rescued your sister from a brothel and I think you should come see her," might not be well received.
He thought of the Bingley sisters, and just as quickly rejected them. He knew that Miss Elizabeth held no regard for "the superior sisters" as he once overheard her refer to them. No, he needed someone that Elizabeth would trust, and he needed them here before she awoke.
Her Aunt! How had he not thought of her before? He knew that one of Elizabeth's favorite people was her Aunt who lived in London. Where had she said they lived? It was a respectable, but not posh neighborhood he recalled. Cheapside. Yes, that was it. Miss Bingley made fun of the fact that her Uncle was in Cheapside, in trade, in Imports he believed it was. How hard could it be to find an importer who lived in Cheapside, near his warehouses as he remembered.
Then a thought struck him. What did he know about Imports? He called his butler into his study. "Who did you say you got that excellent French brandy from recently?"
The butler was perplexed. Surely we have enough brandy in stock, despite how much the master had been going through since he returned from Hertfordshire.
"Gardiner Imports, Sir. On Gracechurch Street in Cheapside. Did you wish for me to procure some more? I believe we still have several cases in the cellar."
"No, no, I just needed to know where it came from. Have a carriage readied for me and find the home address for Mr. Gardiner, if you could please. Right away. I will leave as soon as possible."
The butler turned to do as he was told, but was still wondering what the master was on about. Traveling to Cheapside after just returning from a very unsavory area of town and bringing a young lady into the house, unconscious? Strange happenings, especially for Mr. Darcy who had always been a paragon of virtue as long as he had known the lad.
In a few minutes, he had the required address and the carriage was ready. As they traveled through the quiet London streets, he thought of the best way to convince Mrs. Gardiner to return with him.
"Your niece was sold to a brothel and I have rescued her and placed her under my protection at my house." No, maybe a bit too honest.
"A rake and a gambler of mutual acquaintance was about to tup her, but had an epiphany and came to me to rescue her instead." No, a bit too blunt.
"Your niece was in a carriage accident. When I recognized her, I ensured she was safe and in the care of my housekeeper. I thought she would be more comfortable being in the care of someone she knew when she awoke." Yes, he thought that would work.
When he arrived at the house on Gracechurch street, he was impressed. Although not ostentatious, the house was of a good size, well taken care of and befitting a prosperous merchant. He wondered if Elizabeth was on her way to the Gardiner's when she was taken. That was a story that would have to wait.
Despite the late hour, Mr. Gardiner received him in his study and Mr. Darcy introduced himself, then quickly told the story he had settled on.
"We were wondering what had happened to Elizabeth. She was due to arrive by post coach earlier this evening, but we assumed she must have been delayed leaving Meryton. Since she turned down Mr. Collins, her mother had been making her life difficult and my wife suggested that she come and spend time here with her sister Jane before she went to visit her friend Charlotte Lucas, now Collins, in March."
This information floored Mr. Darcy. Mr. Collins had asked for Elizabeth's hand? How could that be? How could that toady think he was fit to be Elizabeth's husband? The man had brashly introduced himself at Bingley's ball. She had turned him down and then he went on to marry her friend! He was the heir to her father's estate, a good match on the surface, but he knew that Elizabeth could never be happy with such a ridiculous man.
Mr. Gardiner called his wife into his study to deliver the news. She was very appreciative of Mr. Darcy saving her niece. She stated that Elizabeth had mentioned him in her letters recently and she was glad to make his acquaintance. This made his eyebrows raise. She agreed that it would be best if she was present when Elizabeth awoke. She quickly excused herself to go pack a small bag and would leave with Mr. Darcy as soon as possible. Her husband would stay to send an express to his brother Bennet and fill him in with the details he had.
Chapter 3
The ride back to Darcy house was spent filling in Mrs. Gardiner with as much as he knew, or at least as much as much he was willing to share at this point. Elizabeth was still unconscious, for reasons unknown (or actually unwilling to be shared) when he left to go to Gracechurch street, but the physician had been called for and was expected soon. He didn't know any particulars about the accident, and was particularly vague about how Elizabeth came to be at his house. He was hoping that Elizabeth would not remember anything about her time at the brothel, but certainly wasn't going to borrow trouble by bringing up the subject before he had to.
When they returned at Darcy house, Mr. Darcy introduced Mrs. Gardiner to Mrs. Wainwright, the housekeeper and the two women went to attend Miss Elizabeth. The housekeeper had gotten Miss Elizabeth changed into one of Miss Darcy's nightgowns and had her tucked into bed in a guest room, awaiting the physician. The young lady had not yet awoken and Mrs. Wainwright was beginning to get worried about the whole scenario.
The physician had not yet arrived, but was expected shortly. Mr. Darcy left word with his butler that he wanted to speak to him before he examined Miss Elizabeth and certainly before he spoke to Mrs. Gardiner. Having him blurt out where she was found or that she was under the influence of laudanum was probably not very helpful at this point.
When the physician was announced, Mr. Darcy met him with trepidation. "Thank you for coming so quickly Mr. Benningan. There are a few particulars you need to know before you see to Miss Elizabeth." he paused. "I met Miss Elizabeth Bennet in Hertfordshire. He father's estate bordered my friend's. She was on her way to London, but did not arrive at her Uncle's house this evening. I was notified, by, a common acquaintance, that she had been taken to a brothel, by some unknown ne'er do wells, and probably dosed with laudanum. I immediately went to retrieve her and install her here under the care of Mrs. Wainwright. She has not yet awoken. I went to retrieve her Aunt, Mrs. Gardiner, who is with her now. Obviously, I have not told her that her niece was found in a brothel, nor that she had been given laudanum. I told her that she had been in a carriage accident and have been vague about how she came to be at Darcy house. I am trying to preserve Miss Elizabeth's reputation as best I can."
"Well, that is quite a story. Let me attend her now and I will carry your story as best I can with her Aunt. Are you needing me to, um, ascertain, um, since she had been...there?"
"No, I found her still wearing her traveling cloak, bonnet and boots. I believe she was not, um,"
"Yes, well, okay, I will see to her now and follow along with the story we have so far. I will come back to see you afterwards."
"Thank you. I appreciate your help."
With that, the physician left the study with a footman to see Miss Elizabeth.
Miss Elizabeth was just starting to fight her way to wakefulness as the physician was announced.
"Mrs. Gardiner, I am Mr. Benningan, Mr. Darcy's physician. He has asked me to examine Miss Bennet to see how she fared after her, um, carriage accident. You are her aunt, I understand? What can you tell me about her?"
"Sir, Elizabeth has always been a healthy, active girl, never sick a day in her life. We were expecting her to arrive from her father's estate near Meryton by post earlier today. When she didn't arrive, we assumed she had been delayed leaving Hertfordshire, until Mr. Darcy arrived with the news that she had been in a carriage accident and that she was here, in his house. He didn't tell us much about the accident, I guess I will need to ask him more about it later. He seemed very worried about her."
"Let me examine her and I will see what we can do for her. Has she awoken since you have been here?"
"No, not entirely. She had just started to stir when you arrived."
"Alright, let me see if we can awaken her with some smelling salts." he said as he waved the vinaigrette under her nose.
The world had been attempting to intrude on her notice. She could hear quiet voices, but could not for the life of her make out what they were saying. She could hear herself breathing. She could feel the weight of the counterpane on top of her. All these sensations swimming around her, yet she couldn't quite make sense of them. Where was she? Not at home, she decided as there was no giggles, dirges or shouting in the background. No, maybe she was at her Aunt and Uncle's house. But surely she would hear her nieces and nephews. And she didn't remember arriving at their house. She didn't remember changing coaches in London, she didn't remember...
All of a sudden Elizabeth started to shake her head and cough. As she started to return from her somnolence, she began to act agitated.
"Elizabeth, it is I, your Aunt. Calm yourself. You are safe. No one will hurt you." her Aunt tried to reassure her.
Elizabeth calmed a bit as she heard her Aunt's voice. As her eyes fluttered open, she relaxed as her Aunt's face came into focus. "Oh, thank goodness you are here. I had the most distressing dream. Thank goodness it was just a dream." As she took in her surroundings, she added, "Where am I? This is not your house."
"You are at my friend's house. All will be well. You were in a carriage accident and the physician is here to examine you. Mr. Benningan, please go ahead." Mrs. Gardiner said.
"Miss Bennet, I am Mr. Benningan, Mr." he paused. "A physician. I just need to ascertain if you have any broken bones or other injuries. Can you tell me how you feel, do you hurt anywhere?"
"I, um, I feel a bit dizzy. Like I've had a bit too much punch, but I don't remember drinking any."
"What is the last thing you remember?"
"I, um, I remember riding in the post coach from Meryton to London. Since it was on short notice, my father couldn't accompany me to town. I was to catch another coach at the coaching station at Piccadilly Square that would take me to my Uncle's house in Cheapside. I think I fell asleep in the first coach. I don't remember changing coaches. A nice older lady across from me offered me a drink of tea from her flask. It tasted funny, but I didn't want to be rude after she had offered it to me so nicely. I really don't remember anything after that. I guess I must have fallen asleep. Was that when the accident occurred?"
"Thank you Miss Bennet. Do you hurt anywhere? Legs, arms, head, stomach? Do you have a headache? I could leave some willow bark tea if you do." She shook her head to each inquiry. "No? Very well, I will check on you again tomorrow to make sure there is no lasting effects from the, accident. I think you will be just fine after a good night's rest. Good night Miss Bennet, Mrs. Gardiner." With a nod to them, the physician left.
"Oh, Aunt, I am so glad you are here. I feel so, so, out of sorts. Does no one know how the accident happened, how I ended up here?"
"You need your sleep, Elizabeth. We will talk more in the morning. Get a good night's sleep. I will be in the next room over, just call out if you need anything."
"Good night, Aunt. I am glad you are here."
"Good night, Elizabeth. I am glad you are safe."
Chapter 4
Mr. Benningan knew his way to Mr. Darcy's study. He had been treating the Darcy family since long before Mr. Darcy was born. The door was open and he stood in the doorway watching Mr. Darcy before he made his presence known. He was pacing back and forth with a very concerned look on his face. So, this is not just some random woman that ended up at Mr. Darcy's house, thought Mr. Benningan. Hmm. Very interesting. He had never seen his friend act concerned about any woman before, except of course, his sister Georgiana. He cleared his throat as he entered the room.
"Miss Bennet will be fine in a day or two. No sign of broken bones, or such, from her, um, accident. No sign of, um, other injuries. I think she just needs to sleep off the laudanum, and will be right as rain by tomorrow."
"Thank you Mr. Benningan. I appreciate you coming out so late at night, on such short notice. I was beside myself with worry."
"I understand. So, how long have you known Miss Bennet?" asked the physician.
"Since the fall. I met her in Hertfordshire when I stayed with a friend, helping him get his estate in order. A, um, mutual acquaintance tipped me off to her location and that I needed to get her away from there as fast as possible. Is she awake? Did you get any details from her?"
"She told a story of being on the post coach from Meryton to London, when a friendly, older lady offered her a drink of tea from her flask. She said it tasted funny but didn't want to be rude to her, but that she didn't remember much after that. I doubt we will ever know the rest of the story, and as long as she doesn't remember anything, it might be best to let it lie. The ruse of a carriage accident should suffice for now. I will check on her again tomorrow."
"Thank you, sir. Let me see you out." said Mr. Darcy as they left the study.
The next morning, Mrs. Gardiner looked in on Elizabeth. She was still asleep. A maid sat in a chair nearby, attending some mending. "Please let me know if she awakens," said Mrs. Gardiner.
"Yes ma'am," replied the maid. Mrs. Gardiner made her way down to the breakfast room, hoping to run into Mr. Darcy. She found him in the breakfast room and he stood as she entered.
"Good Morning Mrs. Gardiner. How is our patient this morning?"
"She is still sleeping. Thank you, and your staff, for your kind attention to her."
"No problem at all, I assure you. Please, help yourself to some breakfast. If there is anything else you would like, please let me know."
"This looks delicious Mr. Darcy. Thank you."
As they began their breakfast, neither one brought up what was on their mind. Mrs. Gardiner wanted to know how her niece ended up at Mr. Darcy's house, since the Piccadilly Square coaching station was nowhere near here. She knew they had been acquainted in Hertfordshire, but she was unsure of how to bring up the subject.
"We were quite amazed to find you on our doorstep last evening, Mr. Darcy. I didn't even know you knew of our existence."
"Miss Elizabeth had mentioned you, fondly, during my time in Hertfordshire. I thought it best if someone she knew was with her when she woke up, from her accident that is."
"Thank you sir, we appreciate your kindness to our niece. I am sure she will be well enough to travel to Gracechurch street today."
"There is no need for you to rush off. You are both welcome here as long as is necessary for her health. I would hate to see her re-injured by rushing her journey."
"It is a scant five miles, sir. I doubt she would have any trouble with such a short journey."
"As you wish, madam, but please, don't feel like you need to hurry your departure. I am well pleased to be of service to you as long as necessary."
"Thank you sir. I will see how Elizabeth is feeling when she awakens."
The rest of breakfast was spent in mindless small talk and pleasantries. Shortly thereafter, Mrs. Gardiner excused herself to see to her niece.
Chapter 5
When Mrs. Gardiner returned to her niece, she was awake and asking the maid questions. "Whose house is this? How did I come to be here? Did they find my trunk after the accident?" The maid did not know how to answer her. She had been told that there had been a carriage accident and that Mr. Darcy knew the young lady previously, but that her location at Darcy house was to be withheld for now. Before she could answer, Mrs. Gardiner entered the room and she was dismissed.
"Elizabeth, it is good to see you awake. How do you feel?" her Aunt asked.
"I am a little bit tired and feel a bit fuzzy in my head still. Did I hit my head in the accident? Did they find my trunk? These are not my night clothes. I would like to change. Where am I? Whose house is this? It is very fine."
"I am afraid they did not recover your trunk from the accident, I will have to inquire about that. I have sent to Gracechurch street to have some of the clothes you left last season brought over. They should arrive soon. No hurry to get up yet, you are still feeling the effects of the accident and should rest longer before you get out of bed." her Aunt replied.
"You still did not tell me whose house we are in. This obviously is not a hotel, nor a hospital so it must be someone's private residence. I assume we are in London." Elizabeth was getting agitated and her Aunt debated with herself what to tell her. She decided that telling the truth was usually the best.
"Do you remember Mr. Darcy from Hertfordshire?"
"Yes, Aunt. Is this his house? How did I end up here? I assume he lives in some posh part of town, hardly along the coach routes."
"I am not sure how you ended up at Mr. Darcy's house. He came to Gracechurch street late last night, about 11, to tell us that you had been in a carriage accident and that he thought you should have someone you knew with you when you woke up. That's how I came to be here with you."
"That was," Elizabeth paused. "That was unbelievable. Mr. Darcy did that? What ever prompted him to do that? How did he even know you or where to find you?"
"He said that you had mentioned us when he was in Hertfordshire. I am ever so glad he found us. I told him at breakfast that we would be leaving as soon as you are well enough to travel, but he insisted we stay until you are completely recovered."
"I, I will have to thank him. I don't know why he would go to the trouble. We were indifferent acquaintances at best in Hertfordshire. He certainly seemed to disdain our company."
"He doesn't seem like that at all, to me." answered her Aunt. "He has been gracious and kind and very obviously worried about you. Are you sure he was that indifferent to you? You told me in your letter that you danced with him at Bingley's ball. Did he dance with any of the other local ladies? No? Hmmm."
"Aunt, don't be ridiculous. Mr. Darcy inhabits the highest level of the ton. There is no way he would, or even could, give notice to a country maiden with no dowry, no connections, nothing to promote herself. You have been reading too many novels, I think. I will have to talk to Uncle about that." she teased.
At that moment, a knock on the door halted their discussion. "Come" Mrs. Gardiner said.
The door opened to a maid carrying a tray mounded over with breakfast foods, tea and coffee. "Begging your pardon ma'am, the master asked for a tray to be brought up in case the Miss was hungry. I can fetch anything else if it is not to your liking."
"This looks fine," Mrs. Gardiner responded. "Please thank Mr. Darcy for his thoughtfulness."
"The courier from Gracechurch street should arrive soon, ma'am. I will have the footmen bring the trunk up as soon as it arrives."
"Thank you" Elizabeth replied and the maid made a curtsy and left.
Elizabeth hadn't realized how hungry she was. As she surveyed the tray, she found several of the foods she had enjoyed when she stayed at Netherfield, tending to her sister. And lemon for her tea. How had he remembered what she liked, even how she took her tea? The man perplexed her greatly.
Elizabeth ate her fill as she talked with her Aunt about how soon they could leave.
"I believe the physician is to return to see you today. We can ask him when he thinks you will be well enough to travel. I would hate to see you become poorly due to rushing away. Mr. Darcy was very clear that he wished you to stay as long as is necessary."
"Yes, but we must not become a burden to him, Aunt."
"Oh, I doubt very much that he sees you as a burden, Elizabeth. We will have to wait at least until you are strong enough to walk to the coach on your own. It would not do to have Mr. Darcy have to carry you again."
"Again! Oh, no, don't tell me that Mr. Darcy had to carry me!" she hid her face in her hands. "Oh, I will die of embarrassment when I see him next. Maybe we can sneak out and catch a hackney cab."
"We will do no such thing Elizabeth! You must thank Mr. Darcy properly for all he has done for you. Don't be missish. You state that your courage always rises to any challenge. Well, here is your next challenge. You will look Mr. Darcy in the eye and thank him as a proper lady would."
"Yes, Aunt," was all Elizabeth could quietly say.
"Rest now dear, I will let you know when your trunk arrives." Elizabeth snuggled down into the very comfortable bed but was not tired.
"I noticed a stack of books on the side table, maybe I will read for a while, Aunt."
"That's fine, dear," and Mrs. Gardiner left to find Mr. Darcy. She wanted answers to the same questions her niece had asked.
Elizabeth looked through the stack of books, obviously left just for her. She noted several of the books that they had discussed at Netherfield, ones she either said she had not yet read or that she had enjoyed. He remembered that too? "Oh, goodness, Mr. Darcy, you are a surprising fellow," she mumbled.
Chapter 6
After inquiring from a few maids and footmen as she made her way downstairs, Mrs. Gardiner found Mr. Darcy in his study with the physician. Their conversation stopped as she entered.
"Mrs. Gardiner, how is our patient this morning?" asked Mr. Benningan.
"She seems fine, sir. She ate a huge breakfast," she turned to Mr. Darcy, "Thank you sir." He nodded. She turned to the physician, "She is anxious to go on to Gracechurch street as soon as you decide she is well enough to travel the short distance."
"She must not be moved too soon!" stated Mr. Darcy forcefully. Her Aunt glanced at him. "Hmmm." she thought, "a very interesting response. Mr. Darcy."
"I will go up to see her now, if she is awake," the physician said.
"I will take you to see her, sir," Mrs. Gardiner said. "She was reading when I left her a few minutes ago."
After they left his study, Mr. Darcy paced as he tried to figure out what to do next. He couldn't keep Elizabeth here any longer than her Aunt would allow. Could he call on her at Gracechurch street? Would her Aunt allow that? Surely he would need to check up on her, to make sure she suffered no lingering effects from, um, the carriage accident.
He thought that maybe he should tell her Uncle the truth about how she came to be at his house. Yes, once Elizabeth was well, he would go to Gracechurch Street, to make sure she was well of course, then he would request a private audience with her Uncle and tell him the truth. He didn't want Elizabeth to know the truth, no need to burden her with that, but he felt that her Uncle should know. What her uncle decided to tell Elizabeth, or her father, was not up to himself.
The physician returned to report to Mr. Darcy that, yes, Elizabeth was on the mend, but no, he didn't think she should travel just yet. She was still a little dizzy on standing and one more day abed would probably be all she needed. If she felt better this evening, she could come downstairs for a little bit, but to make sure someone walks with her on the stairs until her dizziness is entirely gone.
Mr. Darcy saw the physician out then tried to attend to his business correspondence. That was a hopeless task this afternoon. His mind kept wandering to the guest room upstairs where Elizabeth was resting. He needed to remind himself that she was properly titled "Miss Elizabeth", even if she had been just "Elizabeth" in his mind since he saw her in that awful place; even before that if he was honest with himself. He had been taken with her in Hertfordshire, but resisted the attraction. He needed to marry from the ton, surely. Did he not?
Maybe there were more important factors than wealth and connections when he considered marriage. He had plenty of those two things. What he didn't have was love, companionship, and someone who looked up to him, respected him for the man he was, not for his position in life. Well, that was the end of that fairy tale. He knew Elizabeth didn't like him. He did not make a good impression in Meryton. His cold treatment of her neighbors did not sit well with her, did not make her happy with him. If he was honest with himself, he was not too happy with himself either.
Could he change her opinion of him? He didn't want her gratitude for what he had done. He didn't even want her to know what he had done. He knew she didn't pander to him due to his wealth or status. All the better. He didn't want a wife who only married him for those. He knew very well that she would not marry him for those reasons. But, maybe, just maybe he could convince her that he was more than that. Little did he know that her attitude towards him was already subtly shifting. Any man who took the trouble to remember her favorite foods, how she took her tea and her favorite books, was already on his way to removing himself from her brown books.
The afternoon passed slowly for both Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth. He was counting the hours until he would see MISS Elizabeth again and she wiled away the hours in a favorite pastime, reading, and thinking about the man who seemed to be filling her thoughts today. Maybe she had misjudged him. Between the courtesies he paid her and her aunt and the approbation towards him of all his staff, maybe she had to rethink her opinion of the gentleman. She put down her book and wandered off to sleep with thoughts of a tall, handsome gentleman. She had pleasant dreams indeed.
Her trunk had arrived as she slept and her aunt came in to see if she would feel up to dressing and coming downstairs after dinner to sit in the parlor for a while. A sense of déjà vu from the evening at Netherfield attending her sister Jane washed over her. She was still troubled by the Netherfield party all decamping to London when she thought her sister and Mr. Bingley had a future together. A note from his sister declaring that her brother had a tendre for Mr. Darcy's sister put paid to that fairy tale.
Elizabeth dressed and left the room on her Aunt's arm. The physician had been very clear about having someone walk her down the stairs, even though she had told him that she was fine and there was no need. Her Aunt was not about to let her take the stairs on her own. Oh well, small price to pay to get out of that room for a while. Elizabeth never did well being confined. Even if she couldn't go outside for a walk, a walk to the parlor was better than being cooped up in one room, even a very fine room like the one she inhabited.
As they made their way to the stairs, their host, Mr. Darcy himself came upon them just before they descended.
"Miss Elizabeth, I am so very happy to see you looking so healthy after your accident. How are you?"
"I am fine Mr. Darcy. I must thank you for all the trouble you have gone to on my behalf. There is no way I can thank you adequately."
"It was no trouble at all Miss Elizabeth. I was glad to be of service. May I escort you down the stairs?"
"Um, yes, of course Mr. Darcy, if you would like to, that is. Thank you." she blushed.
Mr. Darcy put her hand in his elbow and placed his other hand on top of hers. "Shall we?" he said as they proceeded slowly down the stairs.
Chapter 7
The conversation was a bit slow to start. Mr. Darcy asked after her health and asked what she planned to do once she removed to her Aunt's house.
"Hopefully, not much. I came to London to get away from the noise and cacophony at home. My mother, I love her dearly, but she was getting on my nerves." said Elizabeth.
"Is she still pestering you about turning down Mr. Collins?" asked her Aunt.
Elizabeth shot her a look that left no doubt she was not happy with her Aunt bringing up that subject. "Yes. End of story." was all Elizabeth said.
Mr. Darcy quickly changed the subject and they talked of the books he had had sent up to her room. She thanked him for his thoughtfulness and inquired how he remembered such trivia. He just blushed.
Her Aunt told Elizabeth that Jane couldn't wait to see her at Gracechurch street.
"Is she still so heart broken, Aunt?" Elizabeth said. She watched Mr. Darcy's reaction. It was unreadable, but since she knew he always tried to be the master of his expressions, she knew not what to think.
"Oh, yes, Elizabeth, I am afraid she is. She won't talk about him, but I know she waited at home everyday for two weeks, hoping for a return visit from his sisters. They finally came, stayed 10 minutes, then made some excuse about being so busy and were never seen again. I hope she gets over it soon. I have offered to introduce her to other gentleman, but she will not allow it."
This got Mr. Darcy's attention. Miss Bennet actually had feelings for Bingley? Maybe he had the wrong end of the stick here. Maybe he should bring Bingley with him on his sojourn to Gracechurch Street. Bingley had been moping around their club, not wanting to go to balls where his sisters wanted to introduce him to what they determined to be 'eligible young ladies'. The thought of the both of them paying attentions to the Bennet sisters sat warmly with Mr. Darcy.
Shortly thereafter, Elizabeth stated that she was tired and should retire. Mrs. Gardiner stood to escort her upstairs, but Mr. Darcy was beside Elizabeth before she could get there.
"Please allow me to escort you up the stairs, Miss Elizabeth. It would not do to have you injure yourself on the way up."
"Thank you Mr. Darcy, I appreciate your kindness."
"Oh, it is nothing at all madam. I am glad to be of service."
They slowly ascended the large staircase with Mrs. Gardiner lagging behind, busying herself with looking at the artwork on the walls. They discussed her removing to Gracechurch Street the following day.
"I had hoped that you would allow me to call on you at your Uncle's house in a few days, to see how you fared."
"Oh, sir, there is no need for you to do that. I am sure my Uncle could send a note if you needed him to."
"There is every need for me to do that. I want to do that, please allow me the privilege." She nodded and then he continued, "I also have a friend in town who I suspect would like to visit that pleasant part of town also." He raised his eyebrow.
Elizabeth finally caught his meaning. "Well, sir, of course we would be pleased to see you, and your friend, at Gracechurch street. Thank you for your kind consideration. I am surprised that he would wish to visit. His sister intimated that he was enjoying spending time with your sister."
"My sister! How dare Miss Bingley start rumors of that type. My sister remains at Pemberley and has not seen Bingley in a very long time. She is not even out yet! I believe the two of them see themselves almost as siblings. I do not see any closer relationship forming there." He tried to calm his countenance. They had arrived at her door and her aunt was nowhere to be seen.
Still holding her hand from ascending the stairs, Mr. Darcy raised her hand to his lips and gave it a gentle kiss. "I hope you sleep well Miss Elizabeth and I look forward to seeing you tomorrow. I hope you will be well enough to join us for breakfast."
"I am sure I will be sir. Good night." Elizabeth said as she opened her door. One last look and she slid inside her room and leaned her back against the door. "Oh goodness," was all she could whisper.
Chapter 8
The following morning, Elizabeth was well enough to join her aunt and Mr. Darcy for breakfast. He, of course, just happened to be at the top of the stairs again as they arrived to descend. She allowed him to take her elbow as she went down the stairs. "Can't be too careful, Miss Elizabeth," he said.
After breakfast, Mr. Benningan arrived and they removed to her room, with her Aunt on her arm ascending the stairs. After many questions, he gave her permission to travel to Gracechurch Street stating, "I am very glad to see you have no lingering effects from your ordeal, Miss."
"Oh, I hardly would call it an ordeal, sir. Carriage accidents happen every day. As long as you didn't have to set any of my bones, I am quite happy with the outcome." said Elizabeth.
"Quite so, miss." the physician replied.
"You will please forward your bill to Mr. Gardiner, you can reach him through Gardiner Imports in Cheapside." said her Aunt.
"The bill has already been taken care of, ma'am. Never for you to worry about it."
"I must insist," replied her aunt. "Mr. Darcy has been more than generous with his staff and his time, we surely can relieve him of this, at the very least."
"I myself do not intend to get in Mr. Darcy's brown books, madam. You will just have to trust me on this. Good day madam, miss." and the physician took his leave.
"I am afraid this is the way with people of his status, Elizabeth. We are best to just be gracious about it and let him have his way. I doubt he would even notice the cost on his ledgers. Let us go pack. Mr. Darcy has offered the use of his coach to return us home."
As the footmen carried Elizabeth's trunk down the stairs, Mr. Darcy again appeared to escort the ladies down.
"I must thank you again for your gracious hospitality, Mr. Darcy. I shudder to think what may have happened if you had not come to my rescue," said Elizabeth with a slight tease in her voice. She really wanted to ask him how she had come to be at Darcy House, but she couldn't make herself ask the question. Mr. Darcy had seemed reticent to discuss the matter and she decided to let it go.
He shuddered to think what may have happened to her if he had not come to her rescue. Hopefully, she will never be the wiser as to how close to ruin she had been. He just smiled at her. He doubted that he would ever find out exactly how she came to be...there. He was afraid that trying to get further information might risk exposing her presence in that unsavory place. Other than the loss of her travel trunk and reticule, he guessed it all worked out as best as could be expected.
"I am very sorry that we were unable to recover your travel trunk. I hope you did not lose anything of great value." Mr. Darcy said.
"Oh, do not worry about that. Other than a few of my favorite dresses, there was not much in the trunk. I had five pounds in my reticule that was lost that my father had given me to spend in London, but I usually only spend my money on books when I came to town. Well, that and little trinkets for my nieces and nephews." said Elizabeth.
At the front door, a maid helped Elizabeth into her travel cloak and bonnet. Mr. Darcy then walked her down the front steps to his carriage that awaited them.
"I am glad that I don't remember the carriage accident; it would not do to be afraid to travel by coach or I would never leave Meryton again!"
"Safe travels Miss Elizabeth, Mrs. Gardiner. I will see you in a few days." said Mr. Darcy.
Once ensconced in the very comfortable coach, Mrs. Gardiner turned to Elizabeth. "What was that all about?"
"Mr. Darcy has asked for permission to visit me at Gracechurch Street to see how I fare. He also hinted at bringing his friend, Mr. Bingley. I think our discussion about Jane being broken hearted has made him ponder their potential relationship. I know his sisters did not wish for the match, but I think Mr. Darcy sees no impediments to his friend's happiness with my sister. Only time will tell."
"Oh! Goodness this will be interesting." exclaimed her aunt.
The rest of the trip passed in discussing her nieces and nephews and what they would do while she was in town.
Mr. Darcy's groom and footmen were very attentive when they arrived at her Aunt's house. She thanked them before she turned to enter the house.
Reuniting with her sister was very emotional. Elizabeth assured Jane that she was fine, nothing was broken and other than the loss of her trunk, she was none the worse for wear. She wanted to hear all about what she had been doing with their nieces and nephews and heard all about their games and trips to the park. Elizabeth decided not to mention Mr. Darcy's impending visit, nor whom he might bring along. When they were alone tonight before bedtime, she would try to ascertain her sister's thoughts about Mr. Bingley, but that would have to wait until the children were in bed and they had uninterrupted time to talk.
Chapter 9
It would be hard to tell who had the longest next two days, Mr. Darcy or Elizabeth. Mr. Darcy tried to attend to his estate business and finish up his correspondence so he could devote the following days to visiting Gracechurch Street. His other task was to get a note to Bingley to have him meet at their club, White's. This was not a discussion to be had around his sisters.
The following day, Darcy and Bingley met at White's over lunch and a few brandies.
"So, what has you so excited that you insisted we meet today, Darcy?" asked Bingley.
"I wanted to discuss Hertfordshire with you."
"Oh. That. Well, I doubt I will be going back there any time soon. My sisters are dead set on staying in town for the season and not returning to "the country bumpkins" as they say. I must say that I miss being in the country and I miss the good friends we made there." Bingley had a far away look in his eyes.
"Anyone in particular?" asked Darcy.
"Well, yes, one angel in particular. I can't seem to forget about Jane. My sisters don't think she would have been a good match for me, but I don't see it that way. She is a gentleman's daughter, she is above me. Even without any dowry, she would still raise my standing if we married. My sisters, and you, if I remember correctly, thought she didn't have any feelings for me and was only paying attention to me to make her mother happy. I didn't believe that then, and I still don't. If only I could see her again and ask her herself what she thought. Oh, well, wishes don't always come true."
"What if she were in London? Would you go to see her?"
Bingley jumped from his seat. "What? She is in London? Since when? How long have you known that? Where is she?"
"Calm down Bingley. Yes, she is in London and has been here for a few weeks. Miss Elizabeth was traveling to see her when she was in a carriage accident and ended up staying at Darcy house for a few days while she mended." Bingley's eyebrows shot up. "Her Aunt Mrs. Gardiner from Cheapside came to stay with her, it was all properly done. Both the older Bennet sisters are staying with their Aunt and Uncle on Gracechurch Street in Cheapside for the time being. I am going there tomorrow to see how Miss Elizabeth fares. Would you care to join me?"
"Why can't we go now? I haven't seen her since November 26th! That has been a long time! Let us go."
"Hold on now, you can't just go barging into their house. They are expecting me tomorrow and I may have hinted to Elizabeth that I might bring you along. She will make sure her sister is up to visitors then. Relax. You need to spend some time deciding what you are going to say. You left Hertfordshire with not even a parting visit. She may not be happy to see you. You might need to grovel a bit to get back in her good graces. Tomorrow will be soon enough. Meet me here at 10 tomorrow morning. Oh, and, don't tell your sisters where you are going. They knew Miss Bennet was in town and even visited her at her Uncle's house. I don't think they are going to help you woo your lady love." The expression on Bingley's face told Darcy that he would be having words with his sisters once things were settled with Miss Bennet. At least he hoped so.
During this time, Elizabeth was busy with her nieces and nephews, playing games, practicing piano and going to the park. She was also busy preparing Jane for the possibility of a visit from Mr. Bingley. She vaguely hinted that Mr. Darcy would be coming to check how she fared and mentioned that Mr. Bingley was his friend and wondered if they spent time together in London. She didn't want to tell her sister that Mr. Bingley might come, but didn't want her to be totally surprised if he showed up tomorrow.
The following morning, about 10:30, proper visiting hours you know, the Darcy crested coach pulled up in front of 35 Gracechurch Street. Elizabeth made sure that Jane was in the parlor sitting near the front window, working on her embroidery (the light was better there, she said) while the children were at their lessons, when she heard a coach stop out front.
"Jane, can you peek out and see if that is a visitor for our Aunt?" Jane drew the curtain aside, just a little bit, so she could see the arrivals.
"It is Mr. Darcy's coach, Elizabeth. He said he would come. Oh, he is getting out now, and, and, um" Jane stopped.
"And?" Elizabeth prodded.
"And Mr. Bingley is with him! Oh goodness. What is he doing here? How is it that he comes with Mr. Darcy? I guess you were right that they are friends and may spend time together in London." She turned to her sister. "Lizzy! You knew he was coming today. That is why you insisted I wear my best day dress and you took so long to do my hair this morning!"
"Relax Jane, they are just friends of ours, come for a social call. I will let our Aunt know they have arrived." Elizabeth left to find her Aunt and arrange for tea to be served before the gentlemen were announced in the parlor.
"Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley, mum" announced the maid with a curtsey.
"Gentlemen, welcome to our home. Mr. Darcy, would you do the introductions?" her Aunt said with all civility.
"Mrs. Gardiner, may I present Mr. Charles Bingley of Netherfield, Hertfordshire. Bingley, Mrs. Gardiner is aunt to the Miss Bennets. I believe you remember Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth."
"Mrs. Gardiner, it is a pleasure to meet you finally. Your nieces have told me many nice things about you and your family. Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth, it is so good to see you again, it has been too long. Please forgive my hasty leaving of Meryton"
Jane could not speak. Elizabeth came to her rescue. "Mr. Bingley, it is good to see you again, it truly has been too long. How are your sisters and your brother? Are they in London still?"
"Um, yes Miss Elizabeth, they are still in London. They are well. They wanted to stay in town for the season, but I hope to return to Netherfield before long. How was your trip to London?" As soon as he said that, he kicked himself. He always got a bit tongue tied around Miss Bennet, but that truly was the most thoughtless thing he could have said.
"Oh, as these things usually are, long, dusty and boring. I was glad to arrive here safe and sound. Please, have a seat, tea should be along shortly." She smiled at the gentlemen and motioned for them to sit, indicating that Mr. Bingley should sit across from her sister as she took a seat near Mr. Darcy who looked amused at the banter.
After tea was served, Elizabeth asked Mr. Darcy his opinion about a book she had near the fireplace. They got up to go to see said book and Mr. Bingley took the opportunity to move closer to Miss Bennet. "What are you working on? It looks quite intricate." Another comment that did not show him to advantage, but he was still tongue tied in Jane's presence.
"Oh, just a handkerchief for my Aunt. I was showing my nieces some stitches earlier and just continued. Nothing special."
"It is beautiful." He was staring at her and she took the chance to look up at him at that point. "I am sorry Miss Bennet. I have no excuses for my behavior but I hope at some time in the future, you might forgive me and allow me to make amends."
"I, I, don't know what to say Mr. Bingley. Your sister wrote that you would not be coming back to Netherfield and that you were busy with Mr. and Miss Darcy."
"Miss Darcy? I haven't seen her in a long time. She is at Pemberley with her companion and I doubt she will be in London any time soon. She is only16 and is not out yet. Whatever could Caroline have meant?" Then he remembered what Mr. Darcy had said about his sisters visiting Gracechurch Street and they never told him that Miss Bennet was in town.
"My sisters had come to visit you here. I just heard this from Mr. Darcy yesterday. I did not know you were in town or I would have come to visit you weeks ago. Please forgive me."
"It is not your fault that you didn't know I was in town. I am glad you have come to visit with your friend today."
"May I come to visit you again? Should I talk to your Uncle first?" The surprised look on her face made him continue. "Miss Bennet, I would like to ask you for a courtship. I should have returned to Hertfordshire and asked you there."
"Mr. Bingley, I do not know if that would be a good thing." Jane paused and Mr. Bingley's agitation grew. "Your sisters obviously do not wish for you to pay attentions to me and you must give credence to familiar wishes. I would hate to sew discord in your family."
"No, Miss Bennet, that will not deter me. I have let my sisters have too much say in my life for a long time. It is time for me to work to obtain what I want, not what they want. I wish to ask you for a courtship, if you can forgive me my previous sins against you."
Jane looked down and took a minute to think of what she wanted. Was she ready to forgive the man who still made her heart beat faster? Was he sincere in his apology? Could she she trust him? A courtship was not an engagement, but if the feelings she still held for him continued apace, she believed her answers to these questions would be yes. "Yes, Mr. Bingley, I think I would like to get to know you better, if that is what you truly want."
"Is your Uncle home? I could speak to him today, that is, until I can speak to your father."
"My Uncle has authority over us when we stay in London. He should be home soon. He usually comes home mid day to lunch with my Aunt and the children before he returns to his offices." She raised her voice a bit. "Will you and Mr. Darcy stay for lunch?"
Ever the consummate hostess, her Aunt chimed in immediately, "Please say that you can stay for lunch, if you don't mind having the children at the table, that is."
"We would love to stay, thank you madam." Mr. Darcy said. He and Elizabeth had been discussing a book in a quiet tête-à-tête near the fireplace. Mrs. Gardiner left to give instructions to the staff and the two couples continued on in their cozy discussions until Mr. Gardiner arrived.
After lunch, it was a bit of a comedy with both gentlemen wanting to speak to Mr. Gardiner alone. Mr. Darcy knew what his friend was going to discuss, so he let him go first. When Bingley left the study with a smile on his face, Mr. Darcy felt bad that he was now going to make Mr. Gardiner unhappy.
Mr. Gardiner was aghast as the story unfolded. He felt bad that they had just assumed that his niece was delayed at home, but Mr. Darcy told him that there was no way Mr. Gardiner would have been able to find her and only by too many lucky circumstances was Miss Elizabeth safe. He promised Mr. Gardiner that Miss Elizabeth's reputation was preserved and if that should be determined not to be the case, he would certainly step up to make it so.
At the end of their discussion, Mr. Darcy turned to Mr. Gardiner. "I would like your permission to call on Miss Elizabeth. I would want to ask you to allow a courtship, but I think she has been through too much lately to bring up the topic with her, just yet. She needs time with her sister and your family before I could wish to have that conversation with her. I hope you understand why I delay."
"Certainly I do, sir. It is very convenient that her sister and your friend are going to need chaperones; I assume you do not mind the task."
"Not at all sir, not at all," he said with a smile.
Shortly thereafter, the gentlemen took their leave, promising a return visit in two day's time. Jane and Elizabeth spent the rest of the afternoon discussing their respective gentlemen's attributes. By the time a week later when Mr. Darcy had the fortitude to ask Miss Elizabeth for a courtship, Mr. Gardiner was not the least bit surprised by the request for another private interview.
Elizabeth decided to cancel her trip to Kent to see her friend Charlotte in her new home, wanting to stay in London with her sister, and of course, her suitor. These courtships went along as they generally do, with lots of quiet conversations in the parlor and walks with the children in the nearby park. A few excursions to the theater, in Mr. Darcy's private box of course, went a long way to introducing the Bennet sisters to the notice of the ton. The courtships were all the easier for being undertaken away from their Mother. Within two months, both couples were engaged and had set the date for their double wedding, the particulars of which are a whole another story.
The End.