Yet the Son was to Come Ch 1-5

Chapter 1 – April 1814, Longbourn

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a married man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of an heir.

This is an obligation which has proved difficult for many a married man and woman, for while a mamma might scheme and plot her daughter into a winning engagement, no one is quite a match for the Almighty, who bestows male children as He wishes. Many a man has sought to assure his victory, by marrying a young, healthy lady with a fine family lineage of strong vigorous baby boys, only to be thoroughly disappointed in his venture. 

Such it had been with Mr. Bennet. He had married a woman of youth and beauty and very soon after their marriage they had announced further joy. The mother and child had been equal to the task, but girl had followed girl, and after the fifth, he had found himself forced to accept that no more were to come. From that unhappy realization, it was such that the girls, prevented by entail from inheriting Longbourn, must marry well. Happily, Mrs. Bennet’s eager work towards that endeavour had not prevented three daughters from finding acceptable matches; three years had now passed since that most interesting time.

“Mr. Bennet, do you not find it so dreadfully quiet now that Kitty and Mary are gone to town?” Mrs. Bennet was sitting opposite her husband in the drawing room, she positioned in her favourite chair and he on the well-worn sofa, this small comfort the only boon that Mrs. Bennet perceived from the lack of daughters and company.

“Indeed, my dear.” Mr. Bennet did not raise his eyes from his book to answer. He had been impressed upon, by the departure of his two remaining daughters, to remain out of his library, but he saw no evil in bringing a book with him. Mrs. Bennet was working on a small bit of clothing, intended, Mr. Bennet was sure, for the next grandchild. The sun had now set but the candles were lit and Mrs. Bennet was so practiced at her work that she scarcely needed her eyes. She was working on the buttons and completing them with the ease and skill of a woman who had sewn a hundred such pieces in her time.

“It is so hard to have our daughters gone from us. I thought we should have joined them in Town. I am sure Lizzy and Mr. Darcy would have us at their home; it is such a large one and so well situated. It would be no bother for them. I had wished for Mary to remain, but Mr. Darcy was so good to find her a master to improve her playing. After she refused to attend the season with Kitty, she suggested private lessons at a school in town. Mary so desired to go and I could not deny her. I suppose Mr. Darcy could do nothing less; she is his sister now as well.”

“Yes dear,” Mr. Bennet did love to visit his daughters but he hated town and during the season, he hated it more. He would visit Pemberley once the Darcys had returned thither. With all of them in town there was little prospect of seeing the girls at all. They would be too busy with Kitty and Georgiana, escorting them to dances and entertaining an endless parade of guests.

“And for Kitty to be out for the season in London with Jane! I am sure Mr. Bingley will be delighted to escort her. He and Jane still love to dance, and they will be so attentive to Kitty, I am sure. They are ever so caring to her, though she does seem to spend the most of her time with Miss Darcy at Pemberley. I have noticed that she has become quite a different girl. She is much like Jane and Elizabeth and even they have improved. Our daughters have such noble airs now.”

At this Mr. Bennet said nothing but continued to gaze at the volume in his hand. Mrs. Bennet needed little encouragement to continue.

“I have engaged Sir William and Lady Lucas to come tomorrow; they have not dined with us in so many days. And they will bring their children, I am sure, and then it will be crowded again. Longbourn does not feel the same now that so many of the girls are married. Though they were married so prosperously, even Lydia’s marriage was to an officer and I did have my eye on a red coat in my time. But with the Bingleys purchasing an estate so far from me, and Lydia still in the north, and the Darcys so busy with the affairs of Pemberley, I feel we do not see any of them enough. It is far too quiet, and I cannot arrange to visit or indeed to arrange company here every night. And so, we are finding ourselves, Mr. Bennet, quite alone more days in the week than I should like.”

Mr. Bennet assented and looked up at his wife. She was as she always had been. He had married her for her youth and beauty, which at two-and-forty she retained enough to still be considered reasonably handsome. She was a woman of little understanding and a nervous temper but now with less to divert her energy. With three daughters married, and two married well, one might suppose that she would improve and become less nervous and silly, but her temper had been set long ago. Now, without a single daughter to escort and plan for; she found herself with nothing to occupy her time. 

Mr. Bennet had not paid his wife much attention in the years prior, but now it was impossible to avoid her need for conversation and company. They settled by necessity into a new arrangement where Mr. Bennet was within the library less and he engaged in cards or conversation when no company could be found. Occasionally, as he had this evening, he even went so far as to bring a book and read while Mrs. Bennet sewed, doing her best to distract him with news of the girls or the neighbours. They passed the time in relative pleasure and some more felicity than either had found until then in their marriage.

“Lady Lucas is now looking to settle her third daughter. I understand there is a curate from a nearby town, I cannot recall the name, and he has been calling lately. She is very certain an offer will come any day. I suppose the whole family will be settled as clergy. I must say I continue to be surprised at how well they settled Maria. Five hundred a year! They said Mr. Collins helped with the match. I did think that Lizzy should have accepted him, you know. But then it ended so well for her I cannot say she did not do the right thing. 

“The second son, of Lady Lucas I mean, has already taken orders and I have heard they are looking to have him placed in a living. But then how could they purchase one, for they have so little money and the principal of it they must want for the eldest son, William. As you know, they are meaning to marry him well. The property, I think, is not enough to tempt a woman of the likes of ten or twenty thousand. I think they must get by on much less. But Mr. and Mrs. Collins, they will have Longbourn upon your death Mr. Bennet rather than one of our dear girls! I am glad that our girls are so well settled, and I know that Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley will provide. They are so good to us!

“And Maria should be having a child soon, I am certain. We have yet to hear but I must imagine Lady Lucas having news of it soon. I am sure I will be relating more happy news myself! I was surprised indeed that Lydia did not have a child straight away, but now she is expecting to enter confinement, and so far from home. Three years of marriage without a child; it might not seem like a very long time, but she was so young, just sixteen when she wed. Why you and I, Mr. Bennet, had Jane before the first year was up. But, however, when she visited last, I gave her many instructions in that domain and now the best has come of it.

“But the other girls get along well! Jane had two at once, and two boys all the better! I cannot think what that would have done to my nerves if I had twins. She and Mr. Bingley must be so delighted. Lizzy has the one, who will inherit all of Pemberley one day. I daresay I expect another any day! We must go to Pemberley. That would certainly be a change, for there we would dine with fine families every night. But, however, the Darcys will be in London for the season as well. Kitty shall see them but you, Mr. Bennet, will not allow us to go to town, so I suppose I shall see little of my daughters at all! It is so hard to have them married and settled so far from home. It is so quiet here now.”

Having spoken for some time and arrived back at her first sentiment, Mrs. Bennet was momentarily lost for anything new to say. Mr. Bennet heard little of it. By now he was reading in earnest, and she was saying nothing he had not heard many times before. He made sounds of assent as his wife required but was happy to continue as he was, contributing little but satisfying Mrs. Bennet’s desire to speak of anything to anyone. Thus, they continued in this arrangement for the four months of the season until Kitty and Mary returned home.

Kitty,

Tell me all you can about the balls and the men of the season! I have not heard from you for an age, and I am wild for stories. I long to be there but of course Wickham will not allow it. He says I must stay close to home in my condition- what a bore! You know I long for fun. He is in London now, for no rule applies to him, but I hardly think you will be able to see him with Mr. Darcy around. I have a new friend; you must meet her. Please write to Papa and entreat that he let you visit me! You will love Newcastle; it has so much society. I imagine us sitting and laughing all day! I am sure I would get you a husband in a week and married by a fortnight. Lord, what a laugh that would be! I am well- I am sure Jane will want to hear but tell her nothing else. Elizabeth and Jane cannot send funds without scolding me- it is such a torment. But now I must go, as we are to dine with Captain Frasier. Put in a good word for me with Lizzy!

-Lydia Wickham

Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy,

I hope this letter finds you, Mr. Darcy, and young Fitzwilliam well. I had hoped to be able to put off my entreaties for some time, but the rent is not paid, and we shall be forced out before the baby even arrives! I know that you sent me money enough, but the wife of an officer has social obligations as you must know. I have had hardly a thing to wear as this child is determined to ruin all my clothes. I have spent some money to purchase a new dress, for I could hardly wear a stitch I already had. We have only until Midsummer Day to find enough for payment. I have even set aside a nursery for the child. And our girl will go soon if we have not the money to pay her. I cannot think that your nephew or niece should be brought into the world with so little. I ask for only for some small amount until Wickham returns from London. Twenty or forty pounds should do well enough to get us through.

Love etc. Mrs. Lydia Wickham

Dearest Lydia,

My dearest daughter, I hope that this letter finds you and Mr. Wickham in good health. We have not heard a word since you wrote with the happy news, and I am eager to hear that the baby clothes and monies were delivered. Your father and I are well, though he will not permit me to travel for your confinement. I am much disturbed, for it is your first and a girl ought to have her mother! But Elizabeth assures me that you will be attended to and I must trust in her resources. Write to me soon and ease my nerves. I cannot but think of you daily.

Lady Lucas just told me that Bridget Lucas is to marry a curate, Mr. Evans. He seems a generally good sort of man, though nothing to your Wickham or Jane’s Bingley. He is very tall- why even your father had to look up to greet him, and has a kind look about him. Bridget is sewing most of the dress herself, poor dear. I will let you know how it all looks once the happy event is come. I have so little else to write, for I have not gone to the Assembly with both Kitty and Mary from home- I have hardly seen a new dress in a month!

Your father will not forward anything; he is so tiresome! But I will enclose enough for the post and some for a smart bonnet. I expect a letter from you any day; I know you must have written me and it has become lost. You would not neglect your mother so grievously.

Your loving mother etc. Mrs. Bennet

Chapter 2 – April 1814, London

Georgiana Darcy stood as tall and straight as her body and dress would allow. Her aunt, the countess, was at her side; her sister Elizabeth and Kitty were behind her. Georgiana tried to breathe deeply but her attire hardly allowed it. The dress, which had been nearly a year in the making, swathed her with fabric and entirely hid her form. Her high waist now supported the billowing skirts required for the presentation ceremony. Georgiana had practiced for months, wearing the hoops with the hope that she would become accustomed to them, but she did not usually wear them and she felt strange. Her steps were small and graceful out of necessity. Her head, decorated with a silver bandeau and high feathers, was perfectly erect. She was the daughter of a lady, the niece of an Earl, and sister to a perfect brother; she was determined to maintain her composure.

The dress Georgiana wore displayed her most careful embroidery. She had spent many weeks with Kitty at her side, sewing the elaborate blue flowers about the neckline and voluminous hem. Three women had sewn the actual bodice and skirts over the course of a month. The bandeau was her late mother’s and was decorated with pearls. Thousands of pearls danced around the embroidered flowers of her white gown. She knew well that the effect was stunning, but in the crowd of women ready to stand before the queen she seemed more like a single pearl lost in a sea of multitudes. Paradoxically, she also felt like every daughter and mother were looking her way and determining her worth. She knew her face was pale and the white satin she wore would do little to hide it.

Kitty, whose family claims were far less impressive, stood with relative calm behind her dearest friend. While she was under the care of the Bingleys in London, Elizabeth, who had been presented after her wedding, accompanied her. Kitty’s dress was far more modest than Georgiana’s; Mr. Bennet had supplied what monies he could, but Kitty knew that without the patronage of her brothers she would not be standing waiting to meet the queen. The fabric was less fine and while her bandeau and necklace had diamonds, there were none adorning her gown. She had chosen to sew rose vines along her dress, which started at her hem and climbed almost to her waist. Kitty, desiring to deserve this honour, had worked her fingers numb to prove her devotion and thanks. She had never felt so pretty in her life and imagined herself shining amongst the throng of other marriage hopefuls.

Georgiana’s name was called and she walked towards the queen. Her mind was in turmoil. She would hate to disappoint her family, but to be “out” and in society was overwhelming. Georgiana approached with all the propriety she could command, curtsied, and made her greeting. The queen addressed her with a mild tone. Georgiana heard nothing. She smiled in reply and, seeing that nothing more was required, walked backwards, keeping her eyes on the ruby encrusted fan the queen had opened. She re-joined her aunt with overwhelming relief. The first was over. Elizabeth smiled as she passed.

Kitty was announced next. She focused on the task, and while she was nowhere as graceful as Georgiana – her step had too much of a spring of excitement – the queen accepted her, and she exited. Kitty seemed to have Elizabeth’s composure in the face of rank and circumstance, for though many a well-bred lady has blanched at the prospect of presentation, neither of the sisters had been much alarmed. Elizabeth had been presented a few months after her wedding, the gown had needed time to prepare, and she had endured the ordeal with commendable fortitude. Kitty walked arm in arm with Elizabeth in rare levels of agitation.

“I have never been so excited. The balls we will attend! The gentlemen we will have the chance to meet. It is so delightful! It is hard for me to express it, but you must know I am very grateful.”

“You have made yourself worthy of the honour, Kitty. We could hardly expect Georgiana to do it without you. She was not inclined to be presented at all until you encouraged her.” Georgiana was now nineteen and it would be the first season in London for both her and Kitty. Jane and Elizabeth had never explicitly taken Kitty out of society, but it seemed natural as her friendship with Georgiana developed to treat them in a similar manner.

Georgiana walked with her aunt to the carriage was helped up with some difficulty. She burst into tears as soon as the door closed. Kitty held her hand as they departed for the Darcy’s house in town. They were alone within, the carriage, ample though it was, could hold little more than two girls in hooped petticoats. The older women were following in another carriage.

“You were perfect Georgiana! Why are you distressed?”

It was some time before Georgiana was composed enough to speak. Another day they might have already been at home, but the road was thick with other carriages bearing similar loads. Kitty waited with patience: she knew her friend’s temper.

“I am all fear. To dance with men I do not know, to have them speak to me on topics that I might not have prepared, to leave home– it is all terror to me! And now that I have accomplished this task the next lies before me. For nearly three months there will be engagements almost every night! My uncle has already secured more than ten invitations to private balls.”

“Your brother will not ask too much; he has already assured you that we need not attend every ball or stay until the last set. I daresay he and Elizabeth would much prefer if you stayed another year with them. A woman is not often matched the first year she comes out. We have two years at least if not more for yourself. With your fortune there will always be another season; Caroline Bingley has been out for almost five years now and she does not worry at all.”

“She wasted much of that time on a fruitless pursuit.”

“How could she not, if there was the smallest hope?” Kitty laughed at her own words and Georgiana was able to join weakly. While Georgiana knew what her her friend spoke was true, she did not feel relief. Her family was untitled but old and very wealthy. The expectations that her brother had tried in vain to shield her from would not be ignored. Georgiana was to maintain the family’s good name and marry well. Her aunt, Lady Catherine, had spent enough hours demanding a titled match the last time they visited that Georgiana was surprised that such a man had not appeared in the room!

Kitty was merely happy and excited. Living with her sisters, she had become much more aware of the world and its charms than she had been before. She wished for an officer, not because she wanted to follow the example of Lydia, for now she understood that evil more fully, but because she might travel and open herself to new people and ways. A second son with a secured commission would be no evil in her eyes. For though her sisters had married so high that they would forever be the talk of Meryton, Kitty was now finding what happiness would mean to herself and she no longer thought to compare herself to Jane, Elizabeth, or even Lydia.

There was only one other matter that Kitty imagined as necessary for a proper match: she wanted her husband to be kind. More than her sisters, Kitty had felt the barbs of her father’s wit. Lydia had laughed, Mary had been silent enough not to draw attention, and neither Elizabeth nor Jane had been the object of much contempt. Kitty had felt the unkind words of her father and did not wish to return to such a situation. She hoped to pass from the care of her kind sisters to the care of a man who did not feel such an impulse to deride the women in his protection.

The carriage stopped at last at the house and the girls were ushered inside. With three servants between them, they were assisted out of their gowns and hoops. Then new gowns were brought, both decorated as replicas of the court gowns but in the modern style. The bandeaus remained and there was only enough time for the girls to take a small meal before they were both escorted to the ball down below. Georgiana would start the dance and Kitty was to follow, but she did not begrudge her friend the honour. Kitty would always follow.

The night was long and filled with dancing. Georgiana found herself equal to the tasks before her, as almost every partner for the dances talked of the same things. The insipidness that might usually bother her was instead a balm to her nerves. She moved through the night with more confidence than she had often found in social engagements. It seemed every man was waiting to be pleased and her efforts never went awry. The parade of young eligible gentlemen passed before her with little remembrance, not a one stood out to her as she knew Elizabeth had to her brother. Finally, the patience that her brother had advised took hold within her, and she was able to smile more freely and dance with true ease and grace. She might not find her own match this night, or the next, or this season. Her family would wait, and her fortune would never allow her to be excluded from society. The next partner did not meet with her liking at all, but she laughed and enjoyed the dance.

Georgiana could not know that while her spirits rose, her friend’s had experienced a rapid decline. Kitty had never felt such mortification or felt so keenly the lowness of her situation in her short years. While she had moved in her sisters’ circles for some time, it had not yet been with a clear intent to marry. Kitty realized now with shame that she had set even her modest sights too high. Too many of her partners only wanted to hear about Miss Darcy. She imagined they must be thinking to themselves, “There, beside Georgiana, was a poor girl of hardly a thousand pounds.” Her fine clothes, held in such high esteem only hours before, now seemed like a cruel trick. Her mother’s desires to raise her to the height of her sisters felt impossible.

After the first dances and the meal, Kitty thought to talk to Jane and make an excuse to return home, but Jane and Bingley had joined the dance and were therefore unapproachable. Kitty watched them for a moment, their eyes locked as they twirled together, and she was reminded of the strong attachment they had formed, despite hardship and circumstances. Kitty turned to see her second sister going to join the line as well, Mr. Darcy obligingly accompanying her. The two couples seemed to see none but their partners.

A young man approached Kitty to join the set. She pushed her feelings aside and accepted his hand. She fought to regain her composure by remembering how long a journey Lizzy had taken to find happiness with Mr. Darcy. How silly she had been to expect this to be easy! She reprimanded herself for her foolish disappointment and smiled at her partner. There was time enough to find her own sort of love.

Louisa,

I long to see you! Pray tell me you will not be much longer in Bath. This is just the time for your irksome husband to imagine himself ill, for I cannot endure the season without you. The men, the fortunes, the company: they are all the same. I have not found a single man yet worthy of my hand and I can anticipate every word from these insipid novitiates. Kitty stays with us, but you know I cannot speak to her as I can to you. Darcy is all kindness to his sister and has no time for conversation; Georgiana is consumed with the season; and Jane and Charles have not your temper. I hardly know what to do!

Let me tell you of a Sir John, whom I happened across last night. While he had fortune enough, and true rank, I have never met a man with so little intelligence! He observed to me that my ruby necklace was red! I believe I could have managed a more lively conversation with my nephews and they have but six words between them. I hardly knew what to think but he was soon engaged with a very pretty, older woman and her daughter, who did not even seem ready to be in society. If she was sixteen, I would be surprised! The mother seemed to be saying everything and the daughter was standing there looking very alarmed. But she did me the favour of keeping him away, for I was out of polite words for such a simpleton.

Where can I find another Fitzwilliam Darcy? If you discover someone of the like in Bath tell me of it and I will come. There is nothing to hold me here and you know Charles will make sure I am safely conveyed.

With all the love in the world, Caroline Bingley

Chapter 3 – May 1814, London

Georgiana and Kitty, arm in arm, walked slowly through the park. It was a warm spring day, not yet too hot to enjoy the outdoors of London. Fitzwilliam, Charles, Jane, and Elizabeth were following behind, speaking quietly with each other. Jane and Elizabeth were undoubtedly discussing the men they had seen with their younger charges and planning for the visits and dinners to come. Fitzwilliam and Charles were planning a small party with some of their mutual friends in town. Charles was suggesting additional slight friends to invite with the same rapidity that his friend was objecting to their inclusion. It was inevitable, however, that the final party would be larger than Fitzwilliam wished and smaller than Charles thought absolutely necessary.

Georgiana and Kitty had been walking in silence, but it was broken by Georgiana’s observation, “I was very charmed by Sir Richard’s attention last night, but he spoke so fondly of his country seat in Dorset. He seems a very amiable man, but I cannot imagine residing so far from home. He suggested that he only comes to London when required and hardly ever desires to go elsewhere.”

“Perhaps a man of his consequence may not see many charms in traveling until he is married?”

“I would not feel confident in a change of inclination after marrying, I believe that having a wife and children would make a person even more fixed at home.”

“If you are speaking of visiting Pemberley, I suppose you might venture to travel with your brother?”

“I cannot say it feels proper to depend upon it, Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth only travel apart if there is great necessity or a very short trip. If I am to find a husband I truly esteem, I doubt I would want to be parted from him.”

“Perhaps you ought to ask, before venturing further into conversation with any of these fine gentlemen, if the person resides in Derbyshire.”

“Do not be so silly Kitty, I cannot think that Yorkshire or Cheshire would not do as well!”

Kitty laughed with her friend, “You must secure the first son and then recommend me to the younger brother. Would it not be great fun to be settled in the same parish? I could see you just as often as I do now!”

“That is such an excellent plan! However, I thought you were speaking to a very fine man, a few days ago, what was his name? He was wearing an exceptionally smart blue coat.”

“Mr. Easton, we had spoken a few times together and danced more than once. He seemed so much a gentleman and very fashionable, but when I mentioned his absence at the last party to Elizabeth, she said he was required elsewhere.”

“Are you very disappointed?”

“He did seem a very amiable man. He was such an excellent dancer, never moved amiss! I was not certain of his inheritance or profession; I cannot say he spoke much of that. He was always interested in the party and the people.”

“I am sorry that he has gone. I hope another gentleman might distinguish himself as your favourite.”

Kitty did not reply, she had been suffering silently the weight of her friend being the lady of foremost attention at nearly every gathering. Mr. Easton had been one of the first to speak only to her and he had only mentioned Georgiana in passing. The prominence of the Darcy name and fortune was difficult to overcome and Kitty knew she could not blame her friend for it.

Georgiana was ignorant of her friend’s troubles, blinded by overwhelming difficulty herself. As introductions had passed and true conversation began, she was again afraid and overwrought. Conversation was tiring and difficult for her. She feared too much expressing the wrong sentiment, forgetting a name, or connection. She was always glad when she was asked to play, there was comfort enough in the well-practiced task of the pianoforte. A morning of visits, however, left her more tired than she had ever imagined she could be. Her mind was often turned to Pemberley and escaping to the company of those she knew well.

Jane and Elizabeth were at the same time also speaking of Mr. Easton, though their conversation was much different than their sisters’.

“I am not certain,” Jane was saying, “That we ought to hide the nature of Mr. Easton’s departure from Kitty.”

“I share your feelings Jane, but I think it is for the best. She is still young and if she knew that he wanted to marry her, she might remain attached to him. It is better that she never knows. It is most unfortunate that his character is not what it seemed. I had thought that a man who was already in possession of a good fortune might be the ideal partner for Kitty, but Fitzwilliam inquired carefully and he had the greatest confidence in the source.”

“It is hard for me to understand how he could have been so cruel to his first wife. For her to have even sought a separation! Perhaps her death was felt acutely and he wishes to do better? Do not scold me Lizzy, I will not try and make him good and pure. I may give more grace to the world than you, but our brother Wickham has taught me the true nature of some men.”

“I would rather be on your side, Jane, and wish Mr. Easton as reformed as you hope. However, I cannot entrust my own sister to his care without more assurances than his appearing amiable now. A man might appear however he wishes when he woos. You and I have been fortunate, I think, to find husbands who have proved themselves to be as good as they seemed to us before our marriages.”

Jane smiled, “Yes, once you saw what Darcy truly was.”

“Jane, I have never felt more a want of truly knowing a man’s heart. For myself, there was only shame in not earlier recognizing what Wickham was and allowing my prejudice to blind me to Fitzwilliam’s true nature, but now that Georgiana and Kitty are in our care, I feel more urgently a wish to know the true character of each man we meet! If blindness on my part were to leave either of them unhappily matched, I know not what I would do or how I might forgive myself for it.”

“We have had the good fortune of mixing with society, we did not know how secluded we were in Hertfordshire. Even our visits to London with the Gardiners never taught me what society could really be. I was left thinking too well of everyone and I had no real experience to learn from.”

“Do not think too harshly on your past mistakes, I thought myself a true judge of character after only observing four-and-twenty families! We should not speak of it more, nothing good can come of dwelling on our past mistakes. We have both come to know the truth of the world and society; it all worked out well in the end.”

“This whole affair makes my heart ache for our poor mother, what she must have felt when we were all at home still.”

“Our poor mother indeed! It has been clear to me for some time that she went about it the wrong way, that she could not show propriety or presence of mind. I am certain that she did more harm than good for us and a great deal of harm to Lydia. Yet, we cannot truly feel what she felt. If we are to have daughters, they will not want for husbands.”

“I hope that she is all the better for Kitty being under our care, and Mary cannot but improve under proper instruction.”

“No, I daresay she cannot get any worse, Mary I mean. Though I might talk of Mamma as well.”

“Lizzy, you must not speak so!”

Elizabeth only laughed and the sisters continued in perfect unity of mind. They both had some fear of Lydia’s continued influence on Kitty and despite a long separation between them, there was still a fear that Kitty might take the same path. Elizabeth and Jane were determined to make a very respectable woman of Kitty and they had already noticed a great improvement in her manners and temperament. Elizabeth had every hope that Kitty would soon find a gentleman who might make her happy and comfortable. There were still enough weeks of the season to hope that it would end in an engagement.

Mrs. Elizabeth Darcy,

Please be assured that I am well and that my studies have been as fruitful as you and Mr. Darcy hoped for. I am anxious for you to discover that your benevolence was bestowed on a worthy sister. I am told and am torn between the retelling and the duty of humility, but I feel that it must be related as a proper fruit of your investment, that my playing is a good deal improved and my voice only second in talent among my peers. I have reflected that one cannot correct faults within one’s self for one’s perception is not enough attuned to one’s own failings. The corrections I have humbly accepted as part of my education lay in areas I hardly suspected: several selections were beyond my natural voice. By knowing more deeply myself and my limitations, I have been able to improve. My recollections of previous performances now bring some small amount of shame, for I am now conscious that I attempted notes beyond my ken.

I can write no further without falling into the traps of pride and vanity. I hope to see you and your family soon and to repay in some small way the kindness you have shown me. Our aunt and uncle send their love and regrets that visiting has not been more often possible. I am sure your social obligations have been as overwhelming as my studies have been,

Humbly and etc. etc. Miss Mary Bennet.

Chapter 4 – May 1814, London

After a dinner with only the family party at the Bingley house, the women, Jane, Caroline, and Kitty, withdrew. Charles had some business to attend to and Jane was anxious to see her boys; her two sisters left to each other. Kitty, who while living with the Bingleys had not often been alone with Charles’ sister, was at a loss at what to say. Usually Georgiana was present or one of them had news of her, as an object of mutual interest, but they had both seen Miss Darcy that morning.

“It shall be rather dull evening if we are to have not a single visitor,” Caroline said, yawning, “I wonder that Jane did not send out invitations for tea.”

“We have had so few nights without guests,” replied Kitty, after a moment’s hesitation, “I hope we shall read a play again. I have enjoyed that very much.”

“I enjoy attending a play, reading at home is no comparison.”

“Your brother reads so well.”

Caroline laughed, “Charles? If you think he is a superior reader than you have not experienced enough of society yet. Charles reads passably well, but he often skips words or flips the sentence backwards; have you not noticed?”

Kitty shook her head, “But he does read with passion.”

“Passion he has, but not execution. When one has heard a true proficient, anything else is misery. I only hope that you shall one day hear someone worth listening to.” With this, Caroline stood and began to walk around the room, “There are only so many evenings left; we ought not waste them.”

“Jane said Colonel Fitzwilliam may come for tea,” Kitty suddenly remembered.

Caroline’s face brightened momentarily, “Did she? We ought to have invited the Darcys for dinner, then he would have certainly come. He is just the sort of man to improve a family party! Excellent manners, do not you think?”

“Yes, he is very agreeable. But the Darcys are dining out with the family of Sir Richard.”

“Have you no guest you would like to invite in particular?” Caroline said, without much apparent interest.

“No. At least, I do not think so,” said Kitty. There had been no man recently whom she had felt admired her.

“Yours is a certain type of case,” Caroline mused, “but then I have known matches of great disparity! And you will do much better here, among our connections, than you could ever have done at home.”

Kitty blushed, and against her better judgement, replied, “I wonder with all your superior connections, how you are not married by now.”

Caroline laughed heartily, which assured Kitty that she had not offended, before replying, “Oh! I have not yet married because I can afford to be fastidious. My friend -Mary Jennings that was- with a fortune equal to my own and far worse connections, caught herself a baronet. I shall not accept any censure for desiring the best for myself. Dear Louisa might have married in haste, but I have learned prudence from her mistakes. And Charles-” she stopped and smiled wryly at Kitty, “I have become too nice in my old age.”

“I did not mean-” Kitty

Caroline interjected, “You were bred up in a different school, but do not misjudge patience for a lack of prospects. I will be surprised if dear Georgiana does not reject a suitor or two before she settles. Even you can afford some discretion now that the fighting men are back from the continent. I seem to recall you had a penchant for a man in uniform.”

Kitty blushed, and in defence of her recent better conduct, said, “That was some years ago.”

“It is not an affront,” Caroline said, still moving about the room without purpose, “many a man has made a good fortune in the war. Now they are all home to be merry and settle. A happy disposition and artless affection may be just what they desire.”

“I have not yet attracted any serious attention,” said Kitty softly.

Caroline glanced at her, “One is never sure of anything until the gentleman speaks.”

Kitty nodded and said quickly, “No, yes, of course. I do not presume anything.”

Miss Bingley seemed in a mood for giving advice and she continued, “The most important thing is connection, dear Catherine. Never lose the intimacy of any great family if you can help it. And remember, there is no benefit from dwelling on past disappointments.”

The door opened and Charles and Colonel Fitzwilliam entered. Caroline winked at Kitty before greeting the guest. Kitty was unsure what she meant by it, but she was wise enough not to ask.

“How good to see you again, Miss Bingley,” said the Colonel.

“Is the society so poor elsewhere that you have been forced to endure the journey to Hill Street?” Caroline replied.

“Must I only come here if I find no diversion anywhere else?” said he.

“I cannot expect anything better; I am sure I will find the Darcys are dining out?”

Kitty was about to remind Caroline that she had just informed her of that fact, then she remembered the wink and remained silent.

“It is true, they are engaged for the evening. I apologize for the insult to your hospitality,” said he.

“I believe we shall recover from being considered second to your cousins,” said she.

“Allow me to make amends,” he said gallantly, “shall I lose at cards?”

Caroline laughed, though Kitty noted that her laugh was different than before, lighter and perhaps more elegant, “No, that shall not do, you have not recovered from your last visit. My dear sister has suggested we pick up our reading of Hamlet? Are you equal to the Danish Prince?”

Kitty was about to protest, for Charles had been reading the principal part, but Bingley seemed entirely pleased to give way and they were soon all seated. The difference in the Colonel’s ability was not lost on even the untrained ear of Kitty, though she wondered why Miss Bingley had suggested reading after so much apparent disdain. Caroline herself had not read with them before but she made an admirable Ophelia and Charles was far more suited to the comical Polonius than he had ever been to tragic Hamlet. Without much further thought to Caroline’s intent, Kitty found herself thoroughly enjoying the evening.

My dear Sir,

I pray that you and yours are in good health. I am pleased to appraise you of mine and Charlotte’s recent activities, retired and bucolic as they may be. We anticipate a good harvest of grain this year in Kent, but in my fields, I flatter myself that there is a particular verdancy I have not had the pleasure of observing in previous years. My dear Charlotte attributes the difference to my meticulous care and I shall not in good conscious contradict a lady. May I wish your harvest to be as bountiful this annum.

My young William is admirably grown and well-spoken and we have some expectation of another young olive branch. We have been blessed indeed with a fruitful year in all ways. Her ladyship continues in her condescension and attention. Miss de Bourgh has had a favourable turn of health and there is great hope that she will be able to travel with her mother to London or Bath later this year.

I am, dear sir, etc. etc.

Chapter 5 – June 1814, London

Breakfast over, the inhabitants of the Darcy house had their usual employments before morning visiting. Georgiana went to her instrument or watercolours, Elizabeth to her writing desk or to meet with the housekeeper, and Fitzwilliam to his study. Kitty, who had stayed with them after a late party, was with Georgiana. Elizabeth had hardly begun a letter to her mother when her husband joined her.

“Is someone here already?” Elizabeth asked, rising.

“No,” he said, then after some hesitation, continued, “You did not eat.”

Elizabeth shook her head, “I was not hungry at breakfast; we had such a late night. I will order something before we depart.”

“You have not been hungry for four days.”

“How can I spare you from anxiety if you continue to be so very perceptive?” Elizabeth said archly.

“I did not ask to be spared,” he said seriously.

“Then I wished to save myself from your worries. If I am expecting a second confinement, it is far too early to be certain.”

“It would be too early, if you were not so similar with our son. Was I mistaken last night or are you again adverse to the scent of pork?”

“Will it make you any more easy, knowing that everything was well the first time?” The look on his face was enough for Elizabeth to know that the answer was no. She tried to speak lightly, “There is nothing to be gained by near a year of worry. You must try to only think of the future in a way that can bring you expectations of pleasure. Our son shall have a playmate.”

“If I were to accept all your sanguine axioms, I would be a far different man than the one you married.”

“Be that as it may, there is nothing to be done. Well, besides offering our guests different fare so that I may sit for dinner in relative comfort. It makes one wonder why you would wish to know at all.”

“I would rather know anything of importance as soon as may be.”

Elizabeth smiled, for she knew the truth of it, “If you must concern yourself about something, I think it is likely that Georgiana will refuse Sir Richard, if it comes to the point.”

“Did she speak to you?”

“Oh no, she is far too modest to suppose that an offer is imminent. But from my observations, she is not as attached to him as we might have hoped.”

“If I did hope, it was only because his family, disposition, and situation are worthy of my sister,” said he, “I have not interfered.”

“No, it is very commendable, you have only interfered once in the season. And I cannot fault you for warning that man away from my sister. You have been the picture of discretion.”

“It is still my opinion that you should have told her the truth.”

Elizabeth frowned, “She seems to have forgotten him. What good can it do her to know a man of uncertain character wished to make an offer? I think it is better for her to enjoy herself then dwell on what could not have been.”

“What will your mother think of our mutual failure to dispose of our sisters?”

Elizabeth laughed, “She will think both of us extremely negligent, but I would never be easy if I had her absolute approval. My mother has her merits, but encouraging discretion when considering marriage is not one of them. If I had followed her axioms, I would be married to Mr. Collins.”

“Let us be thankful that you are not absolutely devoted to filial obedience.”

Elizabeth smiled, “Neither is little Fitz, though I trust he will be better behaved when we return to Pemberley. His poor nursemaid is run ragged.”

“He cannot do better than becoming like his mother,” said he affectionately. And then more seriously he added, “Neither of us can exist without you.”

Elizabeth embraced her husband, “You must try not to worry,” she whispered, “it is far beyond our power to control.”

Georgiana and Kitty were sitting together at the grand piano, attempting a simple duet. Since living with the Darcys, Kitty had taken up the piano and played with middling proficiency. She could tell Georgiana’s attention was not engaged, for her accomplished friend was missing more notes than she was.

“Whatever is the matter?” she asked, as the finished the song.

Georgiana said in a low voice, “He proposed.”

Kitty gasped, “Last night? At the Frasers?”

“Yes.”

“What did you say?”

Georgiana looked exceeding uncomfortable, “I said no.”

Kitty tried to look conciliatory, but her words burst out, “Why? He was a lord!” Seeing the effect on her friend, she recollected herself, and in a less urgent tone, said, “Do not be anxious, I am sure your brother will understand.”

“Will he? I know that he and Elizabeth were very pleased when we visited the family. It is what everyone expected of me,” she said miserably.

“They only expect you to be happy.”

“I could not imagine myself being happy.”

“Why not?” said Kitty, her curiosity again overcoming her attempts at sympathy.

“He seemed like a very good sort of man,” Georgiana said, “and it was not only the separation from my home; a girl must expect to be transplanted. But I could not love him as I wished. I would not want to marry without love. Am I foolishly expecting too much?”

“No! To marry without affection would be horrible indeed!” Kitty recalled what Caroline had said and repeated, “You are rich enough to be choosy.”

Kitty embraced her friend, and Georgiana whispered, “It was horrible, he was very disappointed.”

“Of course he was! Who would not love you?” Kitty said, without a hint of the bitterness she felt. It was not Georgiana’s fault that their attractions were so distinct. “He will rally and find another, though he cannot find your equal.”

“I could not do this without you,” said Georgiana. And they remained together, Kitty trying, in her unsophisticated manner, to talk her friend into better spirits, and Georgiana doing her best to recover herself, until the first callers were announced and they both required better composure. Kitty tried to forget her disappointed heart, there would be no proposal for her.

More soon!