A Governess for Longbourne Page 5

  Little did she know, Mr. Bennett was watching from his hidden place in the dark of the sitting room across the Foyer, with a clear view of his library door.

  "Mr. Bennett, Sir." "Yes, Hill, What is it?" "There is a workman outside, says he was sent by Mr. Darcy." She said as she handed him the note the man had given her. "Show him in."

  The burly man came in, a little dusty from the road, with hat in hand and Mr. Bennett said after indicating that he should sit, "A chair with wheels?" "Yes, Sir. A Doctor in London has been recommending them for invalids and those who find it hard to walk, even with a cane." Baker went on to describe how Mr. Darcy had sent him with the chair for Mrs. Bennett, and materials to incorporate a ramp into the existing stairs, if Mr. Bennett allowed it. "He did mention sending you, in his letter a few days ago. My reply could not have gotten there so soon as to have you here already. When did you leave London?" The response left him in no doubt of the gentleman's suitability for his Lizzy, for Darcy had sent his man the same day as the letter requesting her hand in marriage, and in the note sent with the man, said this was a gift, no matter his decision on the gentleman's application.

  The chair was carried above stairs and Baker answered any questions Rebecca had about it before returning below stairs and beginning measurements for the ramps to allow the chair down the stairs, controlled by only one person, rather than it having to be carried down. The ramps were made of thick boards, that would not sag over the risers with the weight of the chair and it's passenger. He fastened them to the base of the handrail with miniature door hinges, and against the wall, in a fixed position, this would allow the ramp to move and make room for walking up and down and use of the handrail with grace by the ladies certain to be traveling on it.

  Later, when they were all at breakfast, Mary asked about the worker on the stairs. "He is installing a ramp for your Mother's new chair with wheels. Mr. Darcy, your sister's new fiance sent it." The shocked responses from the daughters around the table were nearly mono syllabic. "Sister?" "Darcy!" "Engaged?" Mary, Kitty and Lydia chorused. "Yes, and Jane is to wed Mr. Bingley in a double ceremony on Christmas Morning. "What?" Lydia shrieked. "A double ceremony, and so soon! It is not fair." She continued her complaints, but at a much lower volume at Mrs. Young's rebuke; muttering about the limited time preventing the requisite parties and assemblies, and faint that she would be allowed to even go to the parties if they were to happen. While Kitty remarked on the joys of planning, and the happiness of Jane and Elizabeth, Mary on Lizzy's change of heart; Mr. Bennett gave direction regarding the three girls clothes for the blessed event, which required Mrs. Young to accompany Lydia with Mary and Kitty to the dressmaker's for something made special for the occasion, as Mr. Bennett was feeling especially generous.

  Mrs. Young schooled her features into the acceptable gentle smile of the governess, inside she was wearing a calculating grin, a triumphant look in her eye. Here was the perfect opportunity for her plan! With such connections, and the coming fortune, he would jump into her scheme! And the trip into town would giver her the perfect opportunity to set it in motion!

  Lydia was rushing ahead of her sisters, but keeping a more sedate pace than she was wont to prior to Mrs. Young's arrival, Mrs. Young herself kept a measured, lady like pace and seemingly by sheer force of will, keeping her charge's exuberance within nearly acceptable levels. Mary gently pulled on Kitty's arm to urge her to slow and to lag behind Lydia and Mrs. Young a pace, motioning her not to say anything until they were out of hearing distance. "What is it Mary?" Kitty asked. "What do you think of Mrs. Young?" "Why, What are your thoughts?" "Something about her tells me she is hiding something and not telling her true purpose," Mary confided. "I cannot describe fully what I see or feel about her, only that when I first saw her, I thought of a jackal, not for her looks, but something intangible." "A cunning animal, a jackal. We shall have to observe her Kitty, and see what else we learn."

  Kitty waved to point out a lovely patch of late blooms that the recent frosts had not yet killed, and it as good that she had changed the subject, for at that moment their company turned around and Lydia rudely urged them on, without reprimand.

  "Does anyone else remind you of a creature?" Mary asked. "How about Mr. Grove, Uncle's clerk?" As they drew closer to the others, Kitty replied, "A farm horse, steady, respectable and dependable." Mary smiled. "And the soldiers at camp?" "A flock of starlings who can't keep certain order." She laughed, for just last week, they had observed some of the drills and every turn, about face, or other command, there were always a few who could not keep time. "And the officers?" "The bright birds that sit on the fences fluttering their wings and drawing attention." At this, Mary and Kitty laughed and laughed. "What is so funny?" Lydia asked, miffed that someone other than her had caused laughter when she was around. Kitty mumbled something about her not finding it funny, and Mrs. Young said that in groups, it was improper to have inside jokes. For the rest of the distance to the Meryton Dressmaker's shop, they kept their discussions to the weather, books and new music; none of which interested Lydia and did not volunteer comment on.

  The dressmaker, Miss Breton was quite surprised to have the Longbourne party there again so soon; it had been since before Mrs. Bennett's illness that the girls, namely, Lydia, were in more than once a season and not more than two dresses each. To Mrs. Young's satisfaction, Lydia was happy to supply the needlewoman with her desired gossip, the request thinly veiled in her phrasing of delight at serving them again "so soon" and for "such fine gowns". "Our Sisters are getting married at Christmas! Jane is to wed Mr. Bingley, as we all knew she would." She said, preening in the mirror, testing colored fabrics against her skin. "And Lizzy is to wed that vile Mr. Darcy!" A disgusted look marring her pretty features. Lydia did not stop her SPEECH on the subject to allow any questions, or for any sort of congratulatory comment. "His fortune perhaps renders him a little less repulsive, but how could anyone wish to marry someone who does not dance?" She exclaimed. "Brooding, boorish..." Mrs. Young tuned her out. She thought, These biddies will have the story spread far and wide throughout town within a half hour, and it is sure to reach Mr. Wickham's ears, just has I planned.

  Rosings Park

  Nephew,

  A report of an alarming nature reached me two days ago, and immediately applied myself to searching out its veracity and set out to make my sentiments known to you. The company you recently keep, is not to be borne! The nephew of an Earl, the grandson of another, and the Master of Pemberly should not be keeping company with one such as her.

  Her fortune and connections are so laughably below you, she could be nothing more than a fortune hunter. I had thought you far too beyond a simpleton to not see it.

  Think of the example you set for Georgiana! Seeking out the company of your inferiors whilst shunning the society of the sphere in which you have been brought up! It is enough that you keep company with this Mr. Bingley and call him "friend"; but to openly court a woman of such inferior birth, whilst a gentleman's daughter, her mother's brother is in trade, and her sister married an Attorney: Such low connections should never be acceptable to the families of Darcy and Matlock.

  Think of your Father, and the legacy he has left you, should the shades of Pemberly be so polluted by such scandal! Keep your mind on your duty to Georgiana's future, to Pemberly and to your promise to Anne, and do not be swayed by a pretty face. Such a girl could never be Mistress of Pemberly and fill your dear Mother's shoes.

  Mark my words Nephew, such company can only come to such an end.

  The letter had no signature, nor for that matter, required one. There was only one person who would say such things to Darcy, and he knew that such malice could only be spewed by his Aunt - Lady Catherine De Bourg. Everything pointed out in the letter were things he had already considered and thought them either of little consequence or complete falsehood. He had no doubt that his Elizabeth would be a fine Mistress of Pemberly and of Darcy House in London. If she required assistance in anyt
hing, his capable housekeeper Mrs. Reynolds would most certainly be able to provide the information required for her to make the right decision. As for the allusion to an engagement to his cousin, such an arrangement had not been more than an amusing comment while smiling at the new babe in her cradle, words spoken by Lady Catherine, no less and Lady Anne Darcy had no more than given an amused smile before telling her sister that her son, and his cousin would wed for happiness and love, nothing else.

  In this he was absolutely certain, his mother would be most proud of his choice, and would have loved his Elizabeth. While shy and withdrawn, much like Georgiana, Lady Anne Darcy had a quick wit, much like his Lizzy, and was able to see through people to their true intentions. 'Yes, his mother would heartily approve.' He thought with a smile, before putting the letter aside and tending to more important matters than his Aunt's displeasure.

  He had matters of business to settle with his steward, and other ventures here in London to deal with before leaving in less than two weeks for Netherfield, and the happiest day of his life.

  "Lydia, there are callers downstairs, that will be enough studies for today, it is time to put everything you have been learning into practice!" Lydia dropped her work so fast, the book slamming on the table echoed in the small room. She jumped up beside the table and presented herself for inspection. "Do I look quite ready? Will I do?" Mrs. Young took in the lay of her dress and smoothed the ribbon at the low neckline. "You will do quite nicely." 'Quite nicely indeed.' Mrs. Young thought, 'she would have her revenge on them all!' Lydia was just the type to ensnare Wickham. Bold, brash, beautiful as could be, with blonde hair and a ready laugh, despite her shortcomings; 'oh, she would do quite nicely indeed!'

  She faded into the background in the parlor, for her plan was working out quite nicely. Mr. Wickham had not been able to take his eyes off of the bold beauty since she stepped through the door, not even to notice his own acquaintance enter behind the young lady. The officers Saunderson, Wickham and Foster, together with Mrs. Foster were come for tea and an afternoon game of cards at the invitation of Mary and Kitty when in town to pick up their three dresses that morning.

  Mrs. Foster was proving to be quite a gossip as the first thing she shared was that Captain Denny was seen calling on the Uncle of Miss Mary King of the ten thousand pounds, just that morning, and as the two had exited shaking hands, "one wonders" she said, "that they did not have a happy discussion." This was the first Mr. Wickham deliberately paid attention to any particular conversation, she noticed how his ears perked at the amount, and his eyes drooped upon the happy news. She decided to intervene. "Here is your tea, Lydia." she placed her own , untouched, cup above her elbow, placing herself so that Mr. Wickham could not help but see her.

  "Mrs. Young!" He exclaimed, curtly bowing. "What a surprise!" "Indeed Sir, quite an unexpected pleasure," Mrs. Young acknowledged. "Wickie, how do you know my friend Henrietta?" The early presumption of a nickname did not escape her notice. Mr. Wickham was, for once, at a loss for words. "Mr. Wickham and I became acquainted in recent years, we met here and there." She supplied vaguely. Lydia was quickly drawn back into the game, her attention span being what it was, and Mrs. Young and Mr. Wickham found an open, nearby settee and chair for a tete a tete. "You are far from your usual circles, Mrs. Young." Wickham said, stating what was obvious but to the two of them. It was true Mrs. Young had only previously been employed by members of the ton, or close neighbors. "Not so far." She replied, implying that Mr. Bennett's worth was far above what it actually was, without outright lying. He caught immediately what she was not saying and asked, "The Lady is unattached then?" "Quite unattached." "I have heard rumors that her sisters are to wed, one to a certain gentleman." "Yes, Mr. Bingley is the current occupant of Netherfield, and the other, Mr. Darcy of Derbyshire." She confirmed in unspoken agreement with George Wickham to not let on the extent of their own acquaintances with the gentleman, for if any bit of the story got out, it would ruin everything.

  While most of the occupants of the room were happily engrossed in their entertainment and refreshments, Mr. Bennett was quietly observing all that passed between the two conspirators. No one knew this, but He knew every word that had passed between them for he was adept at lip-reading. Here was something to watch for. He silently blessed Jane and Lizzy's letter, and the warnings it had contained, for without it, he would have been watching Mary and Saunderson for the amusement of seeing his straight-laced, pious daughter blushing under the attentions of the less than un-pre-possessing man.

  A flurry in the foyer drew his prompt attention. "My dear! It is good to see you downstairs again." He greeted Mrs. Bennett with a kiss on the hand, meeting her before the stairs. She rewarded him with a bright smile, the left side of her face not drooping as much as it did before. "She is doing quite well today, Sir." Rebecca said to his unspoken question. "Come in, my dear, and meet some of our new neighbors. He placed her hand on his arm to escort her as he once was most proud to do, and was proud of again. Here was the lady who had stolen his heart those twenty years ago, and despite her fits of nerves over the years, had only ever had their daughters best interest at heart. He turned and walked back into the parlor, Mrs. Bennett sitting proudly, holding herself up in the chair as gracefully as she once did. "Mama!" Kitty exclaimed, rushing over to her. "You are looking well!" Mrs Bennett smiled and placed her good hand shakily on Kitty's face, causing her to tear. Mr. Bennett broke them moment gently dismissing Rebecca to a well-deserved rest and began introductions, starting with Colonel Foster. Conversations again flowed and laughter abounded. It was to this happy scene that Mr. Collins was announced.

  "Mr. Collins! You are very welcome!" Mr. Bennett said with alacrity. "My dear, Mr. and Mrs. Bennett." He intoned with a smarmy bow. Any awkwardness he felt upon entering a house in the midst of an entertainment, he quickly overcame and was soon enlightening his captive audiences with the veneration of his noble patroness, Lady Catherine De Bourg. The party ended at sundown, though Mr. Bennett suspected certain persons with it might wish to stay longer, it seemed each could only take a certain measure of Mr. Collins' rapturous praises of another human being, and endure only so many occasions of the re-telling of the majesty of Rosings Park.

  Dinner proved amusing, Mrs. Bennett was in her place at the foot of the table, Mr. Bennett in his, Mary, Kitty and Lydia on Mr. Bennett's right, and Mr. Collins to his left, beside Mrs. Young who, according to Mr. Collins, was an angel for volunteering to assist Mrs. Bennett with her meal as may be required.

  "The garden in which stands my humble abode is separated only by a lane, from Rosings Park." The title of the home being said with reverence, whether for dramatic effect, or that Mr. Collins thought the costly building deserved, Mr. Bennett could not determine. "A mere lane, eh, fancy that, Kitty!" He chuckled. She smirked back at him and sipped her soup. As he continued the praises of Lady Catherine and her daughter, Mrs. Young asked politely, "And has she been presented at court?" "Unfortunately, Miss De Bourg suffers from a sickly constitution which unhappily prevents her being in town, but bears up under it with such grace and good humor." "It sounds as if the British court has been deprived of it's brightest ornament, Mr. Collins." "Quite right, Mrs. Young. She would indeed grace the court, and a debutante without equal to be sure." Taking a sip of his water caused a lull in Mr. Collin's speech, which allowed Mr. Bennett the sight of his pointed attentions at Mary, who was quite discomfited.

  "It is good that you have joined us, just at this time, Mr. Collins. For in just days, my eldest daughters shall be home to celebrate their weddings." "That is fortunate indeed, Sir. To be here with you all on such happy occasions." Kitty whispered toward her soup for Mary's hearing, "A snail." Mary nearly choked on the bit of bread in her mouth, but composed herself admirably. "To whom, may I ask, do I have the distinct pleasure of watching your daughters commit their lives?" Mr. Bennett's reply, formulated with false pomposity in equal measure to Mr. Collins' own, was interrupted by Lydia, "Jane is to wed
Mr. Bingley, a wealthy gentleman who is new to the neighborhood and Lizzy is to marry Mr. Darcy, who is twice as rich, and by half," She gloated with a giggle. Mrs. Young had taken her to task about revealing her feelings and opinions on Mr. Darcy in public, so she was careful to not repeat the rest from her discourse at the clothier's.

  "Mr. Darcy!" Mr. Collins exclaimed. "Is this Mr. Darcy, the Mr. Darcy of Derbyshire?" emphasizing the word to express the caliber of the man to whom he referred. "Yes, there is only one Mr. Darcy and Derbyshire I believe." Mr. Bennett said, puzzled. "Oh, dear. Oh, dear." Mr. Collins muttered, clearly upset by the revelation. "Mr. Collins?" Mrs. Young probed gently, knowing full well what had caused the upset. The three girls watched Mr. Collins with expectant glances. "I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news, Mr. Bennett." "What could possibly bad news about this?" Mr Collins replied earnestly, Mr. Darcy cannot marry my cousin, he is already betrothed to Miss De Bourg; and has been since they were children!" Kitty and Mary looked shocked and crestfallen, while Lydia ate up this new information as a cat eats a bowl of cream. "You are mistaken Mr. Collins, Mr. Darcy informed me of that false report himself." Mr. Collins began stammering about Lady Catherine's wishes, and Anne's hope, but Mr. Bennett continued. "Mr. Darcy informed me that while that may have been the wishes of Lady Catherine, it is not the wish of himself or of the lady." "But, Lady..."Mr. Collins trailed off. "There is no impediment." Mr. Bennett said with finality.

  Mrs. Young observed all this while keeping her focus on Mrs. Bennett, who, while she could not speak, she retained her ability of facial expression and her every thought played out on her face. 'That will teach you, reaching so far above your station.' Mrs. Young thought. 'Stew on that awhile, your precious daughters shall stumble, and perhaps even be left at the altar as I was.' To anyone looking on, Mrs. Young was a disinterested bystander, but within, she was seething with bitterness.