4 August 1812
Elizabeth Bennet turned slowly, absorbed in the breathtaking beauty of the landscape before her. The verdant greenery and the expansive fields stretched out to the horizon, interrupted only by the gentle undulations of distant hills. A short distance away, her uncle and aunt, the Gardiners, were seated upon a flat rock, engaged in a quiet and amiable conversation while resting. At Elizabeth's side, Colonel Weston, resplendent in his military uniform, observed the admiration that illuminated her lovely features with keen interest.
For nearly a month, Elizabeth and the Gardiners had been enjoying their vacation in the northern regions of the Kingdom, where each day unfolded with new and delightful experiences. They explored magnificent natural landscape, from rolling hills adorned with wildflowers to tranquil lakes reflecting the azure sky. Their excursions were not limited to nature alone, they visited picturesque villages and beautiful mansions. Elizabeth cherished these moments of exploration, each one deepening her appreciation for the beauty of the world beyond Hertfordshire.
They would start their journey back in one week, with an expected arrival at Longbourn by the end of the month. While she looked forward to seeing her family, particularly Jane, she felt a tinge of reluctance to leave behind the tranquility and beauty of their northern retreat.
Three weeks prior, the party had arrived in Lambton. It was the town where Mrs. Gardiner had lived before getting married. In Lambton, several of Mrs. Gardiner's friends resided, as well as her younger brother, Colonel Weston.
Colonel Weston was twenty-eight; he was not conventionally handsome, but his education, amiable demeanor, integrity, and intelligence bestowed upon him a unique and compelling charm. Elizabeth had been introduced to Colonel years earlier in London when she was merely sixteen, and he was a young captain. Although the young officer had admired the sweetness and classical beauty of Miss Jane Bennet, it was Elizabeth's vivacious spirit, unconventional beauty, and keen intellect that had truly captured his attention. Nonetheless, due to their youth and lack of financial means he could not pursue a courtship at the time.
Since that time, Colonel Weston's circumstances had changed significantly. He had established a reputable career in the army and inherited a residence in Lambton. While not affluent, he was financially secure enough to support a family comfortably. He was recuperating from a battle wound and had a month of leave remaining before he was due to rejoin his regiment. Consequently, he had chosen to accompany the Gardiners and Elizabeth for the remainder of their travels.
"Uncle, might we ascend that hill?" Elizabeth inquired, her finger indicating a modest rise a hundred feet away. The sight evoked fond memories of Oakham Mount, her favourite place in Hertfordshire.
Mr. Gardiner, offering a faint but affectionate smile, replied, "Your aunt and I, Lizzy, lack the stamina you so evidently possess. We find ourselves quite fatigued already." He then turned to his brother-in-law and added, "Patrick, would you be willing to accompany Lizzy to the summit of that hill?"
"Certainly," Colonel Weston replied with an accommodating smile. "May I have the honor of escorting you, Miss Bennet?"
Elizabeth accepted his arm with a gracious smile. Together they commenced their ascent of the hill. Although Colonel Weston gallantly offered assistance on the more challenging parts of the climb, Elizabeth was accustomed to physical exertion and required little aid.
As the young couple moved further away, Mrs. Gardiner turned to her husband and remarked in a subdued tone, "My dear, it appears Patrick has developed an interest in Lizzy. It would not surprise me if he were to propose before we return to Longbourn."
Mr. Gardiner sighed deeply; concern etched upon his brow. "Yes, I have observed his evident interest. Moreover, it seems that Elizabeth also enjoys his company. Yet, I cannot help but feel a twinge of apprehension."
Noting the expression on her husband's face, Mrs. Gardiner inquired, "Do you disapprove of my brother's interest in Elizabeth? You are aware that Patrick is a man of honor and integrity. While he could not offer all the luxuries to which Elizabeth is accustomed, his income exceeds three hundred pounds."
"I am fully aware of that, Madeleine," Mr. Gardiner replied, his tone serious. "I hold your brother in the highest regard. However, my concern lies in the unpredictability of his profession; he may be summoned back to the continent at any moment, and he cannot rescind his commission."
"I understand and share your concerns," Mrs. Gardiner responded with an expression of melancholy. "However, Lizzy is a sensible girl and knows the uncertainties of his profession."
Mr. Gardiner remained thoughtful, gazing after the pair as they climbed higher, their laughter mingling with the rustle of leaves. "You are right, my dear. Let us observe and hope that whatever comes it is in Lizzy's best interest."
10-11 August 1812
The travelers arrived in Lambton on the day they had planned. Colonel Weston had extended an invitation for the Gardiners and Elizabeth to stay at his residence. However, given the relatively modest size of the Colonel's home and the presence of only one maid, they politely declined the offer and opted instead to accommodate themselves at the inn.
The following morning, while Elizabeth was dressing and arranging her hair, her aunt informed her that Colonel Weston was waiting for her at the private room of the inn. Surprised by his early arrival, as it was two hours early than the time they had previously scheduled for him to pick them up. She swiftly completed her preparations and descended the stairs.
Colonel Weston, attired in his military uniform, wore an expression that conveyed both concern and determination. Upon Elizabeth's entering the modest room, he rose with a smile that struggled to conceal his underlying sadness. After exchanging the usual civilities, the Colonel said, "Miss Bennet, I deeply regret that I cannot accompany you today. I have received urgent orders from my superiors and must depart immediately for the northern region of the country. Several soldiers of my regiment are already there."
Before she could offer a response, the Colonel gently took her hand, gazed into her eyes with earnestness, and continued, "Although I had hoped to have a few more days to enjoy your company and to become better acquainted with you, I cannot leave without first expressing my feelings and intentions."
Elizabeth blushed. The Colonel inclined slightly, kissed her hand with tenderness, and proceeded with a firm and affectionate tone, "Miss Bennet, during these past weeks, the admiration I initially felt for you has evolved into a much deeper and more tender affection. I find myself constantly thinking of you and longing to be in your presence. I assure you that I have never experienced such sentiments towards any other lady, and I am confident that these feelings will only grow stronger."
He knelt before her, his gaze sincere, and with a clear voice asked, "Will you do me the great honor of becoming my wife?"
Elizabeth closed her eyes, allowing the weight of her decision to settle upon her. She admired Colonel Weston's character and his integrity, yet she was aware that she did not harbor the romantic love that she had always believed should accompany such a commitment. Love, in truth, was an experience she had yet to encounter, and she understood that, in her society, few individuals married solely for love.
After rejecting Mr. Collins, her relationship with her mother suffered significantly. The tension between them had escalated, transforming their interactions into a series of strained conversations and disappointed looks. Elizabeth recognized that if she were to reject another marriage proposal, particularly one as promising as Colonel Weston's, the situation would likely deteriorate further, adding to her mother's distress and disappointment.
Yet, despite her uncertainties, she genuinely enjoyed Colonel Weston's company. There existed a strong possibility that her feelings for him might evolve and deepen over time, leading to a companionship that could blossom into love.
With determination, she opened her eyes and met his gaze with resolve, "Yes, Colonel Weston. I would be delighted to accept your proposal."
The Colonel, visibly moved, beamed with joy. He stood and gently leaned in to kiss Elizabeth softly on the lips. Elizabeth closed her eyes, savoring the special moment. It was a brief but heartfelt kiss, and upon reopening her eyes, the Colonel asked, "May I address you by your given name when we are alone or in the company of the Gardiners?"
Elizabeth nodded, and the Colonel added, "I would prefer if you called me Patrick rather than Colonel Weston."
"Very well, Patrick."
"Thank you, Elizabeth. You have made me the happiest man in the world. Once I complete this mission, I will travel to Longbourn to speak with your father. May I correspond with you in the interim?"
"Yes, you may. Do you know how long you will be in the north?"
"I cannot say with certainty; however, I estimate it will be several weeks. Regrettably, there are significant disturbances due to the recent deaths of workers in factories and mines. The local militia is overwhelmed and has requested assistance to manage the situation, which shows signs of a potential rebellion."
"I hope the situation in the north can be contained. I have heard and read that working conditions in factories and mines are deplorable, and accidents are not uncommon."
"Sadly, in many cases, you are correct." He sighed deeply, "I hope the situation improves, and it will not be necessary to implement drastic measures."
They continued their conversation on various subjects for a few more minutes until the Gardiners joined them. Before his departure, the Colonel stayed for breakfast and spoke briefly with Mr. Gardiner regarding his engagement to Elizabeth and his plans to visit Longbourn as soon as possible.