Fan Fiction

I posted this yesterday, but it seems to have disappeared. So I am posting it again. A Tale of Two Letters The Earl of Matlock's house in Bath. The Earl of Matlock was going over his correspondence for the day. Along with the usual bills and letters from friends, political allies, and business associates were two letters--one from his sister and one from his nephew. After making a quick perusal of these letters, he chuckled to himself. Then went to seek his wife. The Countess, who was unfortunately stricken with rheumatism, was in the breakfast parlor, going over her personal correspondence. "My dear, I have just received two letters, which I think will interest you greatly. One is from my sister," the Countess frowned, for she did not get on with Lady Catherine, "and one from our nephew, Darcy." "By all means, read the letter from Darcy, but I am sure you can keep Catherine's correspondence to yourself," the Countess replied. "I am afraid not, my dear, as much as would like to," stated the Earl, "in fact, I shall begin with her letter." Brother, I am writing to inform you that our nephew, Darcy, is contemplating marriage .... "Darcy's getting married," interrupted the Countess. The Earl gave her a look over his reading glasses. "All right, my dear, I will keep quiet, I promise," the Countess smiled, before taking a sip of tea. .....to a most unsuitable party. The young woman has neither fortune nor connection to recommend her to the family. She has, I know, relatives who engage in trade. Darcy has been so caught in her wiles and allurements that he has forgotten what his duty to the family is. It is my belief that she is an adventuress, who will bring disgrace and ruin upon all the family. It is your duty as head of the family to remind Darcy of those obligations and hopes long held within the family. My own entreaties...... "More like lectures, if the truth be known," the earl commented, which earned him a reciprocal look from the Countess, he coughed to clear his voice before continuing, My own entreaties have fallen on deaf ears. Your son, Edward, has met this woman and I am sure he will verify that is not suitable to be mistress of Pemberley. Therefore, if my nephew persists in marrying this nonity despite all our objections, you must make it that the entire family will disown him--as I have already informed him we would. I know that you will follow my wishes in this matter. Your sister, Lady Catherine de Bourgh "Spiteful old witch," the Countess said. "As if she would approve any bride for Darcy other than Anne. To ask us to participate in her own maliciousness....." "My dear, calm yourself," the Earl interrupted, "I still have Darcy's letter to read." "Catherine always vexes me," the Countess replied, before taking another soothing sip of tea, and choosing a biscuit to nibble on, instructed her husband to read Darcy's letter.

Part 2. My dear Aunt and Uncle, I hope this letter finds you well, especially you, my dear aunt. I sincerely hope that taking the waters will prove beneficial to you health. I am writing to you with two purposes in mind. The first, and most important, is to inform you that you may wish me happy. I recently sought and received the hand of Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Miss Bennet is a lovely young woman, in both character and countenance. I am, I believe, the most fortunate of men. While I shall not bore you with the details of our courtship..... "Bore us with detail, no my dear boy, I want details, " mumbled the countess, as she selected another biscuit. Please be assured that I have no doubts as regards Miss Bennet's sentiments, as Lady Catherine might have led you believe. As you will undoubtedly guess, Lady Catherine is not pleased with the match. She may have already informed you of her displeasure--I know not--but I beg you will disregard any remarks made by my aunt until you have the pleasure of meeting Miss Bennet for yourselves. My cousin, Edward, who has met Miss Bennet, can tell you what an estimable young woman she is. The second purpose of this letter is to invite you both to Netherfield (the home of my good friend, Mr. Bingley, who is to wed Miss Bennet's eldest sister) until the time of the wedding. I perfectly understand if your health, my dear aunt, prevents you from making the journey. I would not wish to cause you any injury, as you are well aware. If you are unable to make the journey, I beg you will allow me to bring Miss Bennet to visit with you after we are man and wife. Your nephew, Fitzwilliam Darcy The Earl finished reading the letter. He looked at his wife, "Well, my dear, what to you think?" he asked. "I think that it is a very good thing that Edward is on his way to visit us, "perhaps he can fill us in on the details that Darcy thought would bore us. I cannot say whom I am more vexed with at the moment--Catherine or Darcy." "But, my dear, do you not think that Catherine might be right. Darcy would not be the first man to have head turned by a pretty woman, whose only real interest is fortune and position." "Darcy has been avoiding those women for the past ten years. It is my belief he can spot a fortune hunter at a hundred yards. No, I do not think Catherine could be right--but I will wait to pass judgment until we have questioned Edward."

Part 3. Col. Fitzwilliam arrived later that afternoon, just in time for tea. After the usual pleasantries and inquiries into the health and well being of all, the Countess launched her objective. "So, Edward, do tell us about this young woman Darcy is marrying. Tell us about Miss Bennet." Col. Fitzwilliam, who had just taken a sip of tea, had a most unfortunate response. The Countess handed him a napkin so that he could clean up the tea that now soaked his lap. An interesting response, thought the Countess. His parents were staring at him, expectantly. "Mother, Father, I hate to be disobliging, but I must beg you will leave off questioning me until I have time to change," he quickly exited the room before his parents could forestall him. Finally, the Countess thought as her son re-entered the drawing room (though Fitzwilliam had only taken a quarter of an hour to change). "So Darcy is to marry Miss Bennet?" the Colonel asked. "Yes, we received a letter from him today," here the Countess paused, "and also one from Lady Catherine. Both of these letters tell us to apply to you for collaboration of their contents. My dear," the Countess said to her husband, "perhaps you should read the letters to Edward." Edward Fitzwilliam listened to his father reading the letters. When his father finished reading both letters, he got up and looked out the window (in a manner quite reminiscent of his cousin). He was not sure how much Darcy would like him to relate to parents, and he needed to choose he words carefully. "Lady Catherine is justified in saying that Miss Bennet has neither fortune or connection in her favor, but as my cousin needs neither, I cannot see how this can be of great importance. Miss Bennet is indeed an estimable young woman, and will suit my cousin very well." If he thought that this answer would suit the Countess, he was wrong.

Carolyn! Great job...most interesting....are you to stop there? Are we not to hear what their impression is to be? I love it!

Thanks for re-posting this Carolyn. It must have fallen into the cracks during our day of chaos.

Part 4. "Edward, come away from the window," the Countess ordered. She indicated the chair next to hers, and Fitzwilliam reluctantly sat down. "Since your cousin has been so disobliging as to not bore us with details you must do so." "Mother, I am not sure I will have the answers to your questions," the Colonel confessed. "I am sure you will do your best, that is all I ask. Now, tell me where and when did he meet this Miss Bennet?" "I believe it was last fall, when he visited his friend Bingley's house in Hertfordshire." "So the attachment is of long standing then?" the Earl asked. He felt some relief at this information. Darcy, he knew, would not be fooled for a long period of time if the young woman was merely after his fortune. "Yes, I believe so. I met Miss Bennet when Darcy and I visited Lady Catherine last Easter. She was visiting her cousin and his wife," thus the Colonel began to relate the whole of cousin's attachment as he knew it, being careful to omit the private conversations between Darcy and himself. "I found her to be lively, witty and intelligent young woman. Darcy is truly taken with her. He loves her and she would , I believe, only accept his offer of marriage if she returned his feelings. Miss Bennet is truly a fine a young woman, whom I do not doubt will make Darcy very happy." The Countess looked at him as if expecting more. Fitzwilliam struggled for something to say that would persuade her to leave off questioning him. Not quite knowing what to say, he found himself saying, "She makes him smile." The Countess leaned back against her chair with a small smile on her face. Fitzwilliam was at a lost why the last should have satisfied her curiosity when everything else had not, but he was not about question this bit of good fortune. Instead, he decided to take advantage of the situation. "I cannot abide by Lady Catherine dictates. I will be there when Darcy marries Miss Bennet, and I hope you will be, too." A servant came into the room to announce that dinner was ready. "Oh, I would not miss it for the world," said the Countess, as she began to rise from her chair. Fitzwilliam quickly offered his assistance. The Countess, walking toward the door with her son by her side. "You have made me extremely curious to meet Miss Bennet," she said as they entered the hallway, "more so, by what you so artfully sought to avoid telling me." The Colonel stopped. The Countess patted his arm, "Do not worry, I shall not press you on the matter. It is obviously a confidence between y u and Darcy, and I would not wish you to break a confidence." The Countess left Fitzwilliam standing in the hallway. His father stopped beside him. "Your mother is a very special and insightful woman," he remarked. "Yes, she is. Sir," the Colonel began, only to be interrupted by his father. "I also do not wish you to break a confidence between yourself and Darcy. I shall write to him accepting his invitation. But come let us go to dinner, for cook has made all your favorite dishes and I am anxious to get to the apple tarts for dessert." The Earl escorted his still bemused son into the dining room.

Part 5. The next morning the Earl sat down and wrote two letters in reply to those he had received the day before. His nephew received his with great joy. My dear nephew, I am most delighted to hear of your engagement. I am sure Miss Bennet is a lovely young woman whom I will pleased to welcome into the family. Edward is visiting with us and echoed your praises of the young woman. My wife is extremely anxious to meet Miss Bennet, and insists that we visit you at Netherfield as quickly as can possibly be arranged. Your letter has greatly improved her spirits and she says nothing will refrain her from being at your wedding. I will send an express so that you will know exactly when to expect us. Your Uncle, Gerald Fitzwilliam, Earl of Matlock. His sister received hers with a great deal of anger. Sister, I will not bother Darcy with your foolish rantings. No one but you ever had any expectation of Darcy marrying Anne. I feel that it is my duty as head of the family to make Miss Bennet welcome. Edward speaks nothing but praise for the young lady. Catherine, you are only doing yourself a disservice if you persist in your resentment. I will not be party to it, and neither will my family. In this matter you will have to stand alone. I am sorry if my sentiments cause you pain, but I will not follow your wishes in this matter. Your brother, Gerald Fitzwilliam, Earl of Matlock

Carolyn, what a treat you have given us.

Carolyn, that's fantastic. I LIKE the Countess. Especially "Bore us with details, I want details" She sounds like a fine old gossip.

Well done, Carolyn. Very well done, indeed!

Carolyn's story has been posted to the Guild.

The Sanwich Man is here.

Oh Carolyn! "She makes him smile." I love that, so sweet! Thank you. I agree with kate, I like the Count and Countess very much and should not be sorry to know them better! ;-)

Oh Carolyn! "She makes him smile." I love that, so sweet! Cheryl, you stole my line! Carolyn, it's WONDERFUL!

Exactly Cheryl and SusanC, to all : a new found career aka a star(writer) is born Aspiring to become a thespian Cheryl, would see you casted as the lovely Countess ;)

Well done Carolyn! Brava!

Carolyn, it's just wonderful. I saw the start of this when you first posted it, but it's even better now that it's finished! I, too, love the Earl and Countess - details, I want details! Should we get her into this group?????;-)

Thanks everyone. I like the Countess alot--I am sure she will appear again.

HC: You've designed the book cover before writing the story! I love it, but would Fanny Price (Bertram?) ever approve of anything so ostentatious? ;)

What a HOOT! JFTR, my DH asked me to clarify that it's the shoot'em up car chase scene that he has been waiting for. I still think it sounds like FP:GE will do the trick!

Guys -- the new drool topic of yesterday and the day before (#200) was accidentally destroyed, so your last few chapters of "Young Fitz" are gone from the board, Inko... Carolyn, the phrase "foolish rantings" may have accurately described his thoughts about her, but it wouldn't have been at all usual to include such a phrase, addressed directly to the recipient in the second person, in a letter of the period (since it would have been a breach of conventional propriety)...

It was already posted in the Derbyshire Writers' Guild, H.C., but in case anyone hasn't seen the next 3 chapters, I'll re-post them now: YOUNG FITZWILLIAM DARCY--Part 15 The three weeks in London which followed the four at Rosings were delightful for Fitzwilliam. He missed his uncle John, who had rejoined his regiment, and Pierre, who had remained in Kent, but the town provided such constant fascination and interest that the days seemed to fly by with greater rapidity than he had ever known. Every morning Mr. Stone would hurry him through his lessons in order to leave plenty of time to visit one or another of the major attractions. They visited the Tower of London where Fitzwilliam was thrilled with the history of its famous prisoners, the prisons and different towers, traitor's gate leading from the river, the ravens in the courtyard and the famous Yeomen, guardians of the Tower. They visited the Guildhall and other famous buildings in the heart of the City of London. One day they even journeyed as far as Hampton Court, the famous palace of Sir Thomas More and Henry VIII, where they were happy to find another maze. Fitzwilliam accompanied his father on some of his business visits in the City and to the new shops in Oxford Street. They watched a parliamentary debate from the visitors gallery in the House of Commons and another from the gallery in the House of Lords where they saw his uncle, the Earl of M....., seated with all the other peers of the realm. There were walks with his mother in Kensington gardens and visits to new art galleries where they both delighted in seeing the portraits of Gainsborough and Reyn lds and Lawrence. He accompanied his parents on visits to their many friends in town and found himself quite easy in their company; and he mingled with his parents' friends when they called at their house in the evening before they withdrew for dinner. One highlight of this visit to town was an evening at Vauxhall gardens. There was so much to see that Fitzwilliam did not know which way to turn; there were tight-rope walkers, jugglers, vocal concerts, and horses with acrobatic riders in different parts of the gardens. The evening ended with a large firework display which absolutely astonished him with its power and beauty. He never knew that so much amusement could be sampled in one evening. Another highlight were two visits to the theatre. They saw Sheridan's "The Rivals" which Fitzwilliam thought very funny; he laughed so much when Mrs. Malaprop was on stage that he decided he had to read the play to find out what he had missed. They also saw Shakespeare's "Henry V" which prompted Fitzwilliam to wish he were an actor. He would like to be the King who advises his men: "This day is call'd the feast of Crispian. He that outlives this day, and comes safe home, will stand a tip-toe when this day is nam'd, and rouse him at the name of Crispian... and Crispin Crispian shall ne'er go by, from this day to the ending of the world, but we in it shall be remembered--we few, we happy few, we band of brothers; for he today that sheds his blood with me shall be my brother." Now, when England was again at war with France, he would like to declaim: "Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more; or close the wall up with our English dead. . . . when the blast of war blows in our ears, then imitate the action of the tiger: . . . Follow your spirit; and upon this charge cry �God for Harry, England, and Saint George!" Written over 170 years earlier, it was yet a rousing speech for Fitz' time and stirred the audience to cheers. After the play finished, he told his parents: "If it were not for Pemberley, I think I would like to act on the stage." They smiled but told him very firmly that acting was not a respectable profession and certainly not a suitable one for a member of one of the best families in England. They suggested, instead, that he should read Shakespeare's plays and learn some of the dialogue for his own r their amusement. It was late May before the party returned to Pemberley. Fitzwilliam, while excited about everything he had seen in town, was equally happy to see the familiar park and house again. He was eager to find Miss Field and George to tell them about all his adventures, and to try and interest George in Shakespeare's plays in the hope of having an accomplice in his attempts at acting. George, however, was not interested in anything that sounded too much like school work; instead he related his latest pranks i the village, news of his sisters, and the latest gossip from Lambton.

YOUNG FITZWILLIAM DARCY--Part 16 During the summer Fitzwilliam again tried to persuade his father to teach him how to use a gun; he wanted to be able to shoot with the party due to stay at Pemberley for opening day of the grouse season. Thomas discussed this wish with Lady Anne, who was adamantly against the idea, and with Mr. Wickham who saw no harm in it, but agreed that perhaps one more year's wait would be better. "I wish George were more interested in the land, the hunt, and shooting," Mr. Wickham told Mr. Darcy, "but I am afraid his mind seems to be more occupied with the shops in Lambton, entertainment, and making himself agreeable to all." "Well, confidentially, I wish Fitzwilliam had some of George's ability in that last department," Mr. Darcy replied, "he was easy enough with our friends in town last spring, but I fear that he is very uncomfortable with anyone not in our immediate circle. I enjoy George's easy manners." When he found Fitz near the stables his father said: "I am sorry Fitz. You will be disappointed, I know, but we all think it better you wait another year before you learn to handle a gun." "I was afraid of that, father. Was mother against the idea?" Fitz asked. "Yes, she was; I was not much in favour of it either and even Mr. Wickham said it would be wiser to wait another year. Come, Fitz, let us ride together." They rode over the fields and Fitz soon left all disappointment behind; he had never held very high hopes of learning to shoot this year and by the time they finished their ride he was quite prepared to wait until next year. Late in August and all through September, while the shooting parties were occupied in the fields, George showed Fitzwilliam how to bring down a bird without a gun. They rode into Lambton and on the green they collected horse chestnuts under the largest tree. They then took their collection to the smithy who punched holes through the chestnuts; George showed Fitzwilliam how to string two or three of them on a long piece of string, swing it around above his head a few times and let the weighted string fl off at a bird. This crude weapon rarely hit its target and, if by chance it did, it only maimed the poor animal. Fitzwilliam thought this very poor sport, but he liked the chestnuts well enough and liked to swing and aim the weapon at a tree or at a fixed spot in a haystack, one day even scaring a young farm hand and farm girl sitting on the far side of the stack. The two boys continued riding to Lambton nearly every day and were often joined in their hunt for chestnuts by some of the local village boys. George seemed to know all of them; he joked and laughed with them while Fitzwilliam stood by, wanting to join in the fun and not quite knowing how to do so; when he finally tried a joke they all stopped to look at him as if he had spoken in a foreign language, as if they did not know whether to laugh at the joke or at him. He felt very disconcerted, took his che tnuts to the smithy, and mounted his horse to head back to Pemberley, leaving George to make his own way back. Luckily the chestnut season was soon over and Fitzwilliam had no more reason to join George in his rides to Lambton.

YOUNG FITZWILLIAM DARCY--Part 17 Edmund Stone reported regularly on his pupils' progress to Mr. Darcy, but as he entered the latter's study in January 1794, his mood was depressed and his countenance very serious; he did not look forward to the coming interview for, once again, he had nothing good to report on one of his pupils. "We have tried everything, Sir, and nothing seems to prevail with him," Mr. Stone admitted to Mr. Darcy, "he will not apply himself to his studies; George has a good mind which, I fear, he is determined to waste in the pursuit of pleasure." "What do you suggest then, Mr. Stone?" asked Mr. Darcy. "I have talked to him repeatedly of the need to concentrate on his lessons, but it does not seem to have had any effect on him; I am quite at a loss as to how to handle him." "His manners are excellent, but I do detect a certain frivolous attitude to any serious converse," Thomas Darcy thought aloud, asking "would it help to call Mr. Wickham to hear our concerns regarding his son?" "I have talked to Mr. Wickham several times, but I fear he is not at home with him enough to prevail upon his son. I think it is Mrs. Wickham's influence that diverts George from any serious application. Miss Field and I both think that it is time to consider sending him to a boarding school away from this mother's and sisters' company," Mr. Stone suggested. "I think you may be right. And what about Fitz? How is his progress? His mother and I do not want him to go away to school just yet, although I know he must do so in another year or so." "I wish every student were like Fitzwilliam," Mr. Stone replied, "he truly enjoys learning; he has great curiosity and wants to know as much as he can. In fact, if there is any fault with him, it is that he is often too serious; he does not like to waste his time and gets irritated when George disrupts the lessons." "Then you do not think Fitz will be lonely if George goes to school and he stays here?" "Perhaps a little lonely when he rides or plays outside, but I think he will be delighted to have his lessons alone without the interruptions, without the divided attention," the tutor replied. "If that is the case, I think your suggestion of sending George to school is a sound one, Mr. Stone. If you will recommend some suitable schools, I will talk to Mr. Wickham and see what can be arranged. I do not think he can go before the Michaelmas term, however, so you will have to struggle a little longer. Thank you for this recommendation, Mr. Stone." After the tutor had left the study, Thomas Darcy sat staring out of the window and thought that perhaps he had made a mistake in taking such an interest in George Wickham. Pleasing smiles and an easy manner had clouded his vision and made him overlook a lazy and vain disposition; perhaps his interest had raised George's expectations, as Anne had once suggested, into thinking of himself as an equal to Fitzwilliam. "Let us hope that boarding school will cure these evils and make him a more serious stude t; he might yet be able to pursue a career in the church," he reflected.

Carolyn - a lovely story. Every character likeable - believable - and, of course, Lady C gets hers in the end. Perfect!!

HC, first off, I love the Fanny logo and I hope you will actually follow up on this idea, Bravo! Secondly, lighten up buddy. It's call Fan-Fiction! The ordinary rules don't apply here, and I for one am sure that if I know someone will be following after and correcting me, I shall never write again!

una pretiosa Margarita No comprehende. Por favor ...er... explana----high school Spanish was way too long ago! :-)

tequila, triple sec, limeade, lots of crushed ice, salt on the rim - that's what I understood, Meggin

I did not think it was in reference to me, just curious. Margaritas I know very well (love the salt!), una means "one" (feminine ending), but pretiosa has me stumped. Could it mean "pretty"?

so then, maybe it was for you? (you can tell, my Latin is nonexistent, as well)

so then, maybe it was for you? blushing furiously I think not (and now it seems that I was fishing for compliment! ;-)

Boy your minds are on the profane when they should be on the sacred! ;-) I thought "UNA PRETIOSA MARGARITA" would be an appropriate motto for a Price family coat of arms, since it's taken from the Latin Bible (vulgate) where the King James Version has "A pearl of great PRICE" (Matthew 13:46). "Margarita" is the Greek and Latin word for "pearl"...

I have written a bit more of my hypothetical story: "What if Lady Catherine had not interfered" (leading to Darcy and Lizzy never realising they are in love with one another). I have written it through Jane and Bingley's wedding. The first half of this part was shown before, but has been edited again since then. Here is the direct link (the story is already at the Guild): Between Love and Loss

H.C., now my face really is red. I knew (of course) that Margaret means "pearl" in Latin but somehow I've never gotten around to reading the bible in anything but the King James version. ;-)

Ann, please finish this soon. I cannot bear to have Elizabeth and Darcy so distressed. It is so very well written that I eagerly await more.

Thanks, I will try, but I have been working on this sinve at least October!!

HENRY; ROTFLOL You've put so much work into the logo, now we want the content.

PLEEZ ANNIE, finish it ASAP! It is so wonderful!

Henry FYI - the Mormon Church also has a book called The Pearl of Great Price. It contains translation of papyrus by Abraham and Moses. No latin I believe, just ancient egyptian.

Inko; lovely, and do take your time. We will find some other diversion to fill our time until you are ready. Cindy; since HC's book started with a suggestion resulting from 'tandem' writing, perhaps you could persuade your husband to write the necessary car chase scenes. HC: please let us know if you would like some assistance with certain other chapters of your book. I'm sure that we have many proficients here who would be willing to help you out! Wendy, in particular, comes to mind for her excellence in scenes that involve vacuum cleaners...

Carolyn, your letters and their reception are so well done, loved the tea on Fitzwilliams lap and when he looked out the window like his cousin... And the Earl chuckling was great...biscuit nibbling made my mind wander... And agree that Ann has left us with our hearts aching for Liz and Fitz. Rather interesting to have Lizzy suffer from her own medicine. I am not really as heard-hearted as that sounds. But I feel sure that it will all come to a happy ending, though Ann is determind to torment us in this delightful way. Thanks

And that sequel on Fanny Price and the Moral Rearmament of the Marsians sure has the makings of a bestseller, from the outside at least...

Carolyn, I am so glad you posted this story again since I missed it the first time; it is wonderful. (Like the others, I loved that "she makes him smile.") Inko, I really enjoy your storytelling. I love your attention to small detail such as the chestnuts. Eagerly awaiting the next installment. Ann, lovely. I know you will be busy with your new job but please get our two lovers back together soon.

ELIZABETH AND DARCY: THE SEQUEL PART 4 Elizabeth Bennet Darcy had never felt more miserable and wretched in her life. Mr Bennet, although much improved as a result of her tireless efforts and attentions, was was still very weak. Elizabeth could not bear to be a minute away from him; many a night, she found herself falling asleep at his side, using one of Mr Bennet's treasured books as her pillow. What truly vexed Lizzy was the insipid, negative platitudes of Doctor Wentworth. The continuous reassurances from both Jane and Bingley concerning th man's character and reputation as one of the best doctors in four counties did little to ease her distress. To be utterly honest, Wentworth's bony frame, thining voice and ashen pallor repelled her, as did his endless repetitions that Mr Bennet could not be expected to live many more nights. Weighing even more heavily on her mind, this very evening, was the strange behaviour of Mr Darcy. It had been four weeks since Elizabeth and Mr Darcy had arrived at Longbourn; for most of that time, however, Lizzy had borne much of the the stress of Mr Bennet's illness alone. Urgent business with his steward had called him twice home to Pemberley and even once, this very week, to London. It pained Elizabeth, in particular, that since leaving Pemberley, they had spent only one night together as truly man nd wife. Even during the rare moments that they were alone, Mr Darcy seemed forever distant. Indeed, his thoughts seemed far occupied by some other place and some other perplexing matter. On many occasions, most especially the night before his departure for London, Lizzy would catch him eyeing her intently. Sometimes, in the privacy of their bedchamber, she even believed he was on the verge of divulging the reason for this unease, only to be interrupted by Jane or one of the servants. "Is it my family, once again?" Lizzy thought anxiously. With a blush, she knew that she could not expect him to abide on a daily basis Mrs Bennet's and Mrs Phillips's endless parade of vulgarities and dramatics. As in the days of their engagement, she did all she could to shield him from these embarrassments. Within a week of their arrival, she and Darcy had even removed themselves to Bingley and Jane's comfortable, gracious home in Meryton. Mr Darcy's apparent lack of concern for her father, however, was one mystery that Lizzy could not explain or justify. One of the happiest circumstances arising from her marriage to Mr Darcy was the camraderie that had slowly begun to develop between her father and husband. Elizabeth was particularly touched by the exhuberant attentions that her husband had shown Mr Bennet upon his first visit to the Pemberley library. Mr Darcy could not have been more kind or more indulgent. Heightening her anguish, then, was the realization that since arriving in Hertfordshire, Mr Darcy had been, at the very least, indifferent to Mr Bennet's sufferings. To Elizabeth, it seemed that whenever she chanced to mention her father's condition, the topic of conversation would irrevocably be changed to some news from Pemberley or a letter from Georgiana. Upon his return from London this afternoon, Elizabeth had determined to ask him the real reason behind this puzzling behaviour. A prior engagement a Lucas Lodge, however, had intervened once again. Elizabeth bitterly reflected that she had hardly had five minutes alone with Mr Darcy all evening. Tentatively getting up from her dressing table, Lizzy pressed her feverish cheek against the windowpane. To her shock, she noticed that her hands were trembling. Turning, her eyes met Mr Darcy. Instantly, Lizzy wondered how long he had been standing there, observing her. She was still amazed by the power that his touch exerted over her, as he playfully wrapped his arms about her. "Dearest, loveliest Elizabeth. Have I told you how beautiful you looked this evening?" For the first time since their marriage, Elizabeth instinctively pulled away from him. "I thought you had barely noticed. You seemed so captivated by Maria Lucas. She is an excellent dancer, is she not?" "Maria Lucas...," he said disbelievingly. Smiling, he tried to affect the playful, lively tone that had so bewitched him, all of those months ago. Realizing, however, that she was, in fact, serious, he abruptly replied: "Maria Lucas was the only young lady without a partner. As your dear friend, Mrs Collins' sister-I felt it proper and my duty to dance...." "Really! You astonish me! I can remember a time when you were in no humour to give consequence to young ladies who were slighted by other men." "Darling Elizabeth-what is the matter with you? Indeed-you look very ill. You're trembling. Come sit by the fire." Concern etched over his face, Darcy once again sought to take her in his arms. "I should ask you the same question. NO! Don't touch me! Don't ever touch me!" All at once, the room went black. Lizzy no longer knew where she was or what she was saying. The last thing she clearly remembered was the stricken face of Mr Darcy as he bent over her, desperately calling for Jane.

Don't shoot me. All will be resolved most pleasantly and happily.

All such lovely stories here! Imagine CF is here listening to them in this rapt posture... http://www.grin.net/~meluchie/firthlist/fl_colin.htm

Sorry, this is the one I meant (but the above is nice also) ;-) http://www.grin.net/~meluchie/firthlist/caretaker4.htm

Lovely, Cass. I've got two quick questions. Will Mr. Bennet live??? and, two, are Lizzie's hormones working overtime at this point????;-)

Don't shoot me. All will be resolved most pleasantly and happily. And soon? Please, please, please! ;-)

Inko, that's what I was thinking

Mari, DH says, "What's to write? Dialogue would only detract from the action." This is a faithful narrative of all that he said. For my part, I'll answer that he's more a notes guy than a words guy. When he's written songs, he seems to stress out about the lyrics much more so than the tune. However, both manage to turn out beautifully! Therefore, I think he'd be happier to write the theme music for the BBC/A&E adaptation of FP:GE than be involved in the collaboration on the story itself.

By the way, I think I should warn people that the next section of my story will have Lizzy marrying someone else--not Darcy--(most of this part is written, but still needs work and an entirely new section before I post it). But please have no fear--I do get Darcy and Lizzy together in the end. My story is more of a Persuasion meets P&P story.

oh, Ann, do hurry

Cindy -- "The BBC/A∓E adaptation of FP:GE" As a certain fictional character might say ``A lady's imagination is very rapid; it jumps from a raw idea to a finished book, and from a finished book to a BBC/A&E adaptation in a moment. I knew you would be wishing me joy.'' I might actually write a little bit of it, since the idea has gotten a nice (if bemused) reception (I sort of have an idea how the beginning might go); but don't expect very much... And Cindy's DH -- no car chases, because the Galactics use an infinitely superior technology to crude petroleum-burning, smog-belching contraptions that actually have moving parts (gasp!!! how frightfully archaic!!), and don't even travel along the local direction of gravity (that's "up and down" to you.. )

ELIZABETH AND DARCY PART 5 When Elizabeth finally awoke, she could no longer recollect the day or even the hour. The last few days had passed by in a intangible haze, an endless spectacle of strange voices and wrenching pain. It was the first time in her life that she had ever been truly ill. The one constant in this nightmare was Mr Darcy. Even in her state of semi-consciousness, Lizzy vividly recalled his firm, deep voice, insistently begging her not to leave him. Slowly opening her eyes, Lizzy gazed at her sister Jane's smiling face. "Dearest Lizzy. Is there anything I can get you? You gave us all quite the scare. The doctor has assured us that you are going to be fine. A slight fever-I believe. "But Jane-where is Mr Darcy?" "He left this morning for Pemberley. The doctor swore to him that you were no longer in danger. Charles and I both prevailed on him to attend to his business, leaving you to my care. Although, I am certain he would not have gone if he had known you would awaken so soon. Lizzy-I have never seen a man suffer more than Mr Darcy, these past few days. He never left your bedside for a moment. I don't think he slept once. They had to pry his arms from you when the doctor arrived. Nothing could be done that he di not do himself. He would only let Doctor Davis attend you. "Doctor Davis?" "Yes. Did you not know? Mr Darcy brought Doctor Davis with him for London to consult about Father's illness." Jane's last words echoed a hundred times in Lizzy's ears. "So this was the reason behind Mr Darcy's mysterious trip to London," she thought shamefully. How could I have suspected Darcy of indifference!" All at once, every anxious look and hestitant conversation of the past few weeks took on a richer, bittersweet meaning. Sincerely concerned for her father's health and his dearest Elizabeth's own happiness, Mr Darcy had borne the entirety of the expense of seeking out and enticing one of the most eminent d ctors on the Continent to Longbourn. Instantly, Elizabeth knew that he had done it for her. And her heart filled with the deepest love and gratitude. How much her family owed Mr Darcy, once again. He was truly the best man she had ever known. "Oh Jane-do tell me. How is dearest Papa?" Lizzy managed to utter, her dark eyes shining with emotion. "The good doctor expects him to make a full recovery. Although, Papa would only yield to the good news, upon learning that Mama had decided it was time to leave her vigil upstairs....Lizzy-what is the matter?" "Oh Jane-you do not know the hurtful things I said to Darcy. I cannot bear to repeat what I said that night. How could I have misjudged him?" "Dearest Lizzy," replied Jane confidently, "whatever quarrel you and Mr Dacry may have had cannot last for long. Only last week, Charles and I reflected that we had never seen two people more madly in love."

Yeah Cass! You didn't kill off Mr. Bennet! Thank you! But, do we get to see the reunion scene between Darcy and Lizzy? Pretty please? ;-) I know she must gain her strength back first, but then...;-)

Quick post ...BEWITCHED, BOTHERED and BEWILDERED. Part II or OTHERWISE ENGAGED part 1 The windows of the great stone building were spreading their light into the dark of the gathering November dusk, and every time the door was opened a flood of light and music found it�s way to the courtyard. Guests had been arriving for the last hour and Mr Darcy, who had been at first calmly seated listening to Sir William Lucas and some of his neighbours discussing where to buy the best thoroughbred mare, acted upon an increasing restlessness and started to walk about in his usual manner. From time to time he would look out to watch for newcomers. After a while, as he was pausing at one of the great windows overlooking the drive up to Netherfields� main entrance, he observed that yet another carriage had arrived. It�s inhabitants were assisted down to the ground and soon an abundance of colour in the form of gowns, ribbons, flowers and lace was moving up the steps. He had by then identified the bearer of one very obvious fethered head dress to be the trying Mrs Bennet and as his gaze was eagerly searching the faces around her, soon enough found w at he was looking for; Miss Elizabeth Bennet in a silk evening cloak of a glossy brown shade with a hood covering her hair and thus, in an enchanting manner, framing her face and eyes. Those were, that instant, lifted up to the facade and began to form an inquiring expression as she caught him watching her. Was it the many torches, held by footmen to assist guests safely into the house, that were reflected in the flash of her glance? He immediately took one step away from the window, and severely reproaching himself on so imprudent behaviour, hastened back to the ballrooms which were by that time swarming with guests. Later there was some minor commotion among the groups of guests, as their host made his way through the rooms, politely conversing with Jane Bennet on his right arm and Elizabeth Bennet on his left. Darcy, sensing this slight stir, turned his head and absolutely started with admiration at the sight of Elizabeth. She was wearing a most becoming yellow gown that closely followed the upper part of her body and was lowcut showing the skin of her lovely neck. There was a twinge inside him. The shade brought ab ut a bewitching glitter and sparkle in her eyes and in her dark curls, tiny white flowers were skilfully intertwined. Though he had recently decided not to let her presence affect him like he had permitted it to do during her stay at Netherfield, it was not in his power to ignore her appearance.He found her remarkable beauty to be quite stunning and was now practically unaware of what he was doing. He turned round to be able to watch her adorable figure moving over the floor at Bingley�s arm. She was chee fully conversing and letting her eyes register what was around her. Was she looking for someone? Then he saw an officer approaching her with a smile of high esteem on his face. He must have had something agreeable to say to her, judging from the bright smile that flashed over her face as she answered him. Their conversation was continued and Darcy- with some inner emotion - saw her bite her soft lip, obviously from disappointment, as he could percieve that some of the light left her face and the look in er eyes was nearly dull for a moment. The next instant he was perplexed to have them both focus their attention upon him. He at once averted his own gaze to some nonsignificant object and was somewhat puzzled by the contents of their dialogue. to be continued...

continued... He walked away and took his stand by a window, in order to contemplate the possible cause for Miss Bennet�s displeasure and above all, to prevent any signs of his inner turmoil from being detectable . This renewed experience of her effect on him, in spite of what he had so sincerely intended, was not to his liking. He was used to be in full command of his outer and inner man, and it was now as if he was loosing control due to some deplorable emotional mishap. He could only believe that he had not been s fficiently on his guard, and that now he had seen her and got used to the way she looked, he would not again have his head quite turned. To ascertain that things were perfectly normal, he approached to make some polite enquiries. She replied in a civil but rather cold manner, whereupon she turned away with a noticeable degree of ill-humour. As he had no idea that she blamed him for Wickham�s absence and was resolved against any sort of conversation with himself, Darcy was a bit surprised. Still every proof of her prejudice against him and of her total lack of ingratiation were the very reasons that once more enticed him into paying attenti n to Miss Bennet. All his life, he had been accustomed to women smiling at him, admiring every word he uttered and by every other possible method trying to make themselves agreeable to him. They wanted his name, his wealth, his connections, his estate and - though he had rarely been aware of it - some might even have wanted his person. He was sick and tired of it. He had never been allowed to approach a woman on his own initiative, using his own ingenuity and social ability. He was not used to it at all. He really did not know how to carry it out successfully. It was a challenge and he reacted to it with instants of irresolute wariness, moments of firm resolution , an irregular pulse and a pleasureable sense of vitality.

Re: 58 But, do we get to see the reunion scene between Darcy and Lizzy? Pretty please? ;-) I know she must gain her strength back first, but then...;-) Yes, Cassandra, please do. Ann, I loved it. Such a pleasant way to start the day.

ann, words escape me Some words do not: some might even have wanted his person

To all the ladies who have written stories, thank you. I have not commented before, but I want you to know that I truly admire your writing talents and really appreciate that you share them with us here. I have begun to read these little vignettes over and over with such regularity that I haven't reread any portion of P&P for over a week now. Thank you, thank you, thank you. And, please don't stop! Linda

HC, I cannot clear this with DH before posting (still snoozing), but I believe that whatever the conveyance, the effect is pretty much the same.

esp., so long as the "shoot-en-up" part remains intact

Mari, re: #42 - how do I search on "vacuum cleaner" so I can try to discover the meaning in this? I'm guessing it predates my finding y'all here

plez disregard #66 - just refound the vacuuming scene

some might even have wanted his person. No, I cannot allow it! Whatever can you mean? Ann, thank you so much for a great story!

Ann R., you rule! Very nice work indeed!

how lovely to start the day with a good cup of coffee and a heartwarming/heartthrilling nouvelle

not fully awake yet duh

He had never been allowed to approach a woman on his own initiative, using his own ingenuity and social ability. Excellent!!!

Ann2: some might even have wanted his person Why Ann dearest, whomever could you mean?

Cheryl, Carolyn, any one that I missed: Thanks. More is coming, when I get some time. And yes-after torturing them so horribly, I am planning the most ROMANTIC of reconciliations.

Cass, thank you for saving Mr. Bennet; take your time, but we're anxiously awaiting Darcy's and Lizzie's reconciliation - what a hot time in spring that will be!!;-) Anne2, your story is really beautiful. Some might even have wanted his person! I plead guilty!!!;-)

I go away from this board for 48 hours, and look what happens!Wonderful, all of you! Superb bed-time reading! Inko, I'll say this again in case you didn't see my response posted on disaster day- you have made such a nice derangement of epitaphs!and the bit about the horse chestnut seeds- I shall have to conker this! Ann2, you have given us a treasure in "Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered" I like it very well indeed!

Thanks to all who participate to this thread. It's so imaginative, romantic, heart-wrenching and suspensful. I just love it!

Here is a "sequel" to P&P Chapter one. Any comments? CRISIS AT PEMBERLY CHAPTER ONE Rain danced in waves across the pond in front of Pemberly Manor. From the Eastern most window of the Great Hall Mrs. Elizabeth Bennet Darcy gazed upon the scene but her mind was engaged elsewhere. Her thoughts were not upon the events of today, despite a frantic race to Plymouth currently in progress by William, her husband of one year, to prevent his sister, Georgiana, and Captain Denny from boarding the sailing ship Oceana bound this eve for the American colonies. Rather it was the long anticipated Pem erly ball held only a fortnight earlier that had precipitated this event which now occupied her attention. How different things had been in the month prior as preparations were set forth. As invitations were prepared announcing the First Anniversary Celebration of the Darcy�s betrothal, Lizzy had looked forward to a reunion of relatives and friends not attempted since their wedding. Owing to the distances to be traveled by many of the guests, including her parents at Longbourn, the ensuing weeks would see the arrival of many parties to be lodged at Pemberly. Her mother had insisted that she and Mr. Bennet and her two sisters come two weeks early so as to acquaint herself with the environs and to ensure that the preparations under the purview of her daughter were properly made. Mr. Bennet, on the other hand had already made several visits on his own during the course of the past year was quite comfortable with the surroundings in contrast to the obvious astonishments of the rest of the family. The impact of the manor, however, was soon replaced by Mrs. Bennet�s condescension to provide her daughter with endless advice for maintaining a superior place among society�s elite. Perhaps it was t e strained relationship with her mother, which may have dated to her rejection of Mr. Collins, a prior suitor, that was the source of many subsequent disagreements that ensued over proper decorum. From that point forward the joy of subsequent arrivals were somewhat lessened by her mother�s numerous attempts to account for the guest accommodations at Pemberly. Finally the day of the ball was at hand. The Bingleys, Elizabeth�s sister and husband Charles, were the first of the day to be warmly greeted by the Darcys regardless of their having traveled only a quarter mile as their closest neighbors. Of great import was the news that her brother-in-law had received a letter from an old friend, Kalon of London Square, soliciting his interest in the Chair of Commons recently vacated by a Sir Malcom Boyd. After some minutes of highly animated discussion, several mem ers of the militia party appeared at the doorstep including Captain Denny and a few familiar faces from their former station in Longbourn. Their presence at Pemberly was singular, but a few of them were close to the Bingleys having attended a ball at Charles� former residence of Netherfield and were well known to Lizzy�s younger sisters. They were summarily put to work supervising the last minute decorations. Among the arrivals later in the day were the Gardiners, Elizabeth�s cherished aunt and uncle who also exhibited some familiarity with the facilities having visited the house several times since the wedding. Of great surprise, however, even with the issue of a very cordial invitation, was the arrival of Lady Catherine de Bourgh of Rosings� Park, William�s aunt, who had avowed never again to set foot at Pemberly owing to the disadvantagement of Elizabeth�s relations. She was accompanied by her daughter and Colonel Fitzwilliam, a cousin of her husband. Elizabeth regretted that the Collins� were nable to join the party due to the illness of Charolette�s father Sir William Lucas. Lastly of import were Mr. Bingley�s sister Caroline with Mr. and Mrs. Hurst, her constant companions now that they had taken up residence in London. Noticeably absent in the guest list of 400 persons was Elizabeth�s sister Lydia Wickham and her husband now occupying residence over 200 miles to the North. It was not, however, for the reason of distance that an invitation had not been forthcoming, rather it was for the numerous improprieties in the pursuit of fortune and pleasure which had offended most who knew Mr. Wickham, and his attempt to disparage William prior to his marriage to Elizabeth. At precisely 8 P.M. the ball was in maximum attendance with introductions complete and music in full discourse. Many sites of highly engaged conversations testified to the uncomfortable distances between old friends and the delightful atmosphere of this long awaited reunion. Of especial attention was the presence of Georgiana, Lizy�s sister-in-law who at age 17 still made her primary residence at Pemberly in the care of the Darcys. A small crowd had formed about the married couple; many were curious ab ut recent developments and life at the estate. It was a joy to both to relate the adventures of their deepening mutual awareness and the discoveries of the individual preferences of each other encountered in daily life. During the discourse, Elizabeth had been astonished upon glancing across the room to see her mother attempt conversation with Lady Catherine. �It was so good of you to visit Longbourn last year, we were all greatly honoured.� � I must apologize that you were not received well by Lizzy, sh has often been presumptuous in the address of her elders.� �My daughter Kitty, on the other hand, is fast learning the manners of society although she is limited in advantageous contacts.� �Does she read or play an instrument ?� replied Lady Catherine as her demeanor changed rapidly with an appeal to her interest in providing education to young ladies in the propriety of society. �During the past year she has worked to improve on both accounts but is not so good as her older sisters. Unfortunately mu h of her youth was distracted by the guiles of her sister Lydia.� said Mrs. Bennet. Lady Catherine was now somewhat attentive and commanded, �Bring her to me.� Kitty, however, was presently engaged in conversation with her new found friend Giorgiana. Following the wedding there had been little opportunity for acquaintance until now. The family�s early arrival at Pemberly had provided a time for interaction. At first Kitty had been intimidated by the formality of Giorgiana�s conversations and devotion to music. Gradually the conversations turned, as is the case for girls of that age, to the males of their friendship. It was here that the militia which so freque tly occupied the attention of Lydia and Kitty prior to the former�s marriage to Wickham was introduced to Mr. Darcy�s sister. While Giorgiana was well aware of a soldier�s place in the status of society, nevertheless, the attraction of a uniform was not without some merit. Kitty could see no better felicity than to provide her friend with an introduction of Captain Denny at the first opportunity of the evening. She did not have to wait long as those in uniform were somewhat lost in the huge gathering of s ciety�s best and were desparately seeking familiar faces especially of the opposite gender. �Miss Darcy, may I present Captain Denny of the 4th Militia currently stationed at Brighton� began the acquaintance of future impact its particiapants could never have fortold. �At your service Miss Darcy...� Following the perfunctory bow and curtsey their eyes briefly met. Giorgiana was impressed by the military precision of the act as well as a kindly face. For Richard Denny, however, time had ceased to pass. An instant captivation by her beauty had left him weak and off balance. From a distance he heard his own words attempting speech of little consequence. Nor was he concious of Mrs. Bennet�s arrival at that moment; who with no particular attachment to Giorgiana, had interrupted the discourse with a summons for Kitty. Never had he felt such wonderment. Here were two kindred spirits put on this Earth that were meant to share the experiences of a lifetime. And the face into which he now gazed was instantly a universe of magic. �If you would be so kind, may I have the privilege of the next dance� he managed at last to speak. Her reassuring smile gave him the courage to continue the conversation until the mu ic of the present dance had terminated. Ten paces away Fitzwilliam Darcy (Elizabeth preferred �William�) had been engaged in a review of the topic of Bingley�s letter when the spectacle of his sister �s dance involvement with her new partner was noticed. �Is not that a former boyfriend of Lydia dancing with Giorgiana? � he interrupted his own dialog. �I believe it is; it is Captain Denny. Don�t they make a handsome pair?� was Bingley�s innocent response. Across the Great Hall Elizabeth, with perhaps equal surprise, had made another discovery of Caroline Bingley standing up with Colonel Fitzwilliam. Both immediately became eager to consult with each other over the impropriety of the events which appeared to be unfolding.

Caroline: I shall have to conker this! LOL Caroline. Do you think that's what he said after his fencing bout? Is that why he had to rush off to Pemberley??? Thanks for your kind comments - I did see them earlier and Amy came up with the question "Conkers"??

Cassandra - great! Thank you so much for having Mr. Bennet live. Can't wait for the reconciliation. Ann2 - I so enjoy your stories. It give me an opportunity to re-live the movie with you wonderful prose. Tom - Welcome. Really enjoyed your story; can't wait to hear more.

Explanation of the "Conkers" comment The horse-chestnut tree, though not native to Britain, is commonly found there. The golf-ball sized seeds, shiny, brown and irresistable to children, are often strung on strings just as Inko describes in her story, but rather than use them as weopons for catching small game, they are used for a game called "conkers." One player holds his string at arm's length, whilst the other takes a swing with his, and tries to hit his other opponents conker. A broken conker is the loser. Pickling the conker hardens it(but is cheating!-just the thing Wickham might do.)"Conker" is thought to derive from the word "conquer" I think that Darcy's line"I shall conquer this" and his later reference to the horse-chestnut tree is a pun made by Andrew Davies. I hesitated to put it on Arnessa's Pun topic because it's not Austen's words and I am still not sure if there isn't more of the joke in the screenplay yet. end of boring lecture Tom- I was really intrigued with your story.Please continue!

I now see the light, thanks Caroline

Here's another one for all my fellow Knightley-lovers. Cautionary note: I use actual wording from Jane Austen's Emma here throughout the story. I am not in any way attempting to plagiarize -- it's all in fun to support my supposition that both Emma and Mr. Knightley were going through hell! I started to italicize those sections, but it got to be difficult when I was only using fragments, so I left them out. If you haven't read Emma for awhile, have fun finding them! Mr. Knightley'�s Side of the Story Mr. Knightley immediately got up, and in a manner decidedly graver than usual, said, "I would not go away without seeing you, but I have no time to spare, and therefore must now be gone directly. I am going to London, to spend a few days with John and Isabella. Have you any thing to send or say, besides the `love,' which nobody carries?" "Nothing at all. But is not this a sudden scheme?" asked Emma. "Yes--rather--I have been thinking of it some little time." Though he must go to London, it was very much against his inclination, that he left home at all. He found himself unable to linger any longer, and immediately took his leave. Once outside, he mounted his horse and rode off at a gallop. Mr. Knightley was a man used to being in control of his emotions, and that made his present circumstance all the more difficult. He had cared about Emma for so long that it was instinct to him, but his affections were now somehow altered, almost without his notice. The very real probability of Emma'�s marrying Frank Churchill caused him great consternation -- not just for her happiness, but also for his own. He suddenly realized that he had never before considered even the idea of her marrying, which was foolish indeed. Of course she would marry, but when she married...these words gave his thoughts pause, and a few moments were then sufficient for making him acquainted with his own heart --� it darted through him with the speed of an arrow that Emma must marry no one but himself! But that was now impossible. How could he have been so blind to the change in his feelings for Emma? -- the blunders, the blindness of his own head and heart! To understand, thoroughly understand, his own heart was the first endeavor. How long had Emma been so dear to him, as every feeling declared her now to be? He had loved her and watched over her from a girl, but till now that he was threatened with its loss, he had never known how much of his happiness depended on Emma'�s place in his life. He now saw that he had been in love with Emma and jealous of Frank, from about the same period, one sentiment having probably enlightened him to the other. Yet, was it new for any thing in this world to be unequal, uncertain, incongruous, or for chance and circumstance (as second causes) to direct the human fate? He had no hope, nothing to deserve the name of hope, that he could have that sort of affection from her as that was now in question. That he was wretched, and should probably find this day to be the beginning of wretchedness, was the only certainty he could own. ________________________________________________________________________ Mr. Knightley reached his brother John'�s house at dusk, in as much turmoil as when he had left Hartfield that morning. He quickly repressed those feelings, however, became his gentlemanly self, and greeted his family with real warmth. The exchange of news with John and Isabella, the bustle of his beloved nieces and nephews, soothed his anxious heart greatly -- and he soon settled into the rhythm of their busy household. Even this respite from Highbury was not devoid of distressing elements, however: Isabella was simply an inferior version of Emma, and therefore that dear person was both on his mind and, in one sense, in front of him, at all times. He could not forget her for a moment. Some days into his visit, Mr. Knightley was sitting alone in the house when John entered. Isabella and the children were out in the city, and the solitude had given free rein to Mr. Knightley'�s melancholy thoughts. Although John had previously felt that something was amiss, he had not wanted to interfere unless his advice was solicited; now, his concern for his elder brother caused him to overcome his hesitations and speak. "George," he began carefully, "you know I would never impose upon you, but if there is anything you wish to discuss with me, I would be a most willing ear." On any other occasion, Mr. Knightley would have graciously demurred, but John had found him with his spirits so low that he welcomed a confidant -- he bespoke his despair. "It is Emma, John; I confess she is much in my thoughts." John, who had suspected this attachment for some time -- clearly far longer than his brother -- still kept his silence regarding it. "And what is it that troubles you about Emma?" "In truth, John, I know not where to begin." But begin he did, first telling John about Emma'�s apparent attachment to Frank Churchill and the manner in which she showed this preference, and ending with her abhorrent behavior on Box Hill. "I am ashamed to say that I berated her most grievously regarding the latter. I say ashamed, because although my comments were properly motivated by her mortifying behavior, the manner in which I delivered those comments was motivated by the basest jealousy of the influence that blackguard Churchill must have with her to cause her to behave in such a way! My shame was further strengthened the morning I left Hartfield to come here, when I found she had been to see Mrs. Bates -- to offer an apology, I'�ll warrant. I am sure she can never forgive me, John. We parted on the most awkward of terms." "You and Emma have disagreed before, George -- I do not find this cause for great concern. But, George, please forgive my bluntness in asking what I must: are you saying that you are in love with Emma? Is this what has so much occupied your mind during your stay here?" Mr. Knightley met his younger brother'�s eyes. "I would wish to say it with a less heavy heart, but yes, John, I am afraid that that is my dilemma. I have probably been in love with Emma for some time, but I seem to have been doomed to blindness. Little good it does me to discover it now, as she is to be attached to Frank Churchill any day; indeed, she may have accepted his proposal of marriage even as we speak." "Then you must return to Highbury at once. If she has not yet accepted him, you must let her know your feelings before she does. Have you no hope then that she returns yours?" "None at all, I�m afraid, John. She has made her preference for Churchill most clear, and she is angry with me regarding my own manner to her. I do not think she has ever in her life considered me as other than a friend. No, it is only I who have experienced this profound change in feeling." "George, I am most heartily sorry. You must do what you think best, but I wish to be of service to you in any way I can. For now, I will leave you with your thoughts," said John, rising and making good his word. Little time had passed (indeed, Mr. Knightley sat as before), when Isabella and the children returned with a letter for him from Mr. Weston. He did not open it for quite some time, finding himself half-eager, half-reluctant to see its contents. In the end, he knew he could not prolong the inevitable -- he would have to face Emma'�s attachment at some point, and the sooner he could begin to inure himself to its effects, the better it would be for him. The first portion of the letter was devoted to parish business, and Mr. Knightley actually relished the temporary diversion. Soon enough, however, the topic he was dreading was raised. Mr. Weston began by telling of Mrs. Churchill'�s sudden and unexpected death. No one had really believed her ill, so it was a complete shock to everyone. "I do feel for her," murmured Mr. Knightley, but the next item in the letter quickly drew his interest away from Mrs. Churchill. "I know hardly how to tell you, Mr. Knightley," Mr. Weston began, "but we have had other news of such measure of surprise as to almost totally eclipse the notice of Mrs. Churchill'�s death. There is no gentle way to approach such news, so I will not attempt it. My son, Frank, and Jane Fairfax are engaged, and have been secretly so since they met in Weymouth. The secrecy was necessary because of Mrs. Churchill'�s certain objection, but as that impediment no longer exists, the attachment has been made pu lic." "Upon my word!" interjected Mr. Knightley. "A blackguard indeed!" But his words, even though spoken aloud, belied his primary, unspoken thought: Poor Emma! How was she to accept this news? The letter continued, "As I know you understand, Mr. Knightley, there is one other whose feelings Mrs. Weston and I are most heartily cognizant of. It is no secret to you, I'�m sure, that we had hoped an attachment might be made there." Mr. Knightley read no further. Collecting his things, and saying goodbye to John, Isabella, and the children --� these actions were all performed in great haste, and he was on his way to Highbury within the hour. The weather was abominable -- in fact, Isabella had begged him to reconsider and take his leave the next day, but Mr. Knightley would not be dissuaded. His horse was a good one and surefooted, and he let him have his head, even occasionally spurring him on. He could not reach his destination quickly enough, and this rain and mud would occasion a brief stop at Donwell for a change of clothing, which his anxious spirits would ill allow. Every moment was a moment in which Emma despaired without his abilit to comfort her! ________________________________________________________________________ As soon as humanly possible, Mr. Knightley found himself at the door to Hartfield. He knocked, and was admitted. Miss Emma, he was told, was walking on the grounds, and he went in search of her. He finally espied her --� his dearest Emma! -- walking away from him. He called her name, and she turned -- he went to her. She was clearly surprised to see him, but he could not tell from her demeanor the lowness of her spirits. They exchanged civilities, which were quiet and constrained on both sides. She was first to mention Frank Churchill'�s engagement, and a few moments of gentle and heartfelt commiseration on his part acquainted him with the fact that she not in the least affected by it! For a time, the joy this confession elicited eclipsed all other feelings. His relief that she had not been made unhappy was great indeed, and he found himself then able to discuss with her the details of the engagement and the luck, or lack thereof, of its participants. At length, Mr. Knightley'�s own torment again rose in his heart -- yet it was now accompanied by the briefest glimmer of hope. If she had not been, and was not now, attached to Frank Churchill, could he then aspire to attach her himself? He attempted to speak of it, but was quickly rebuffed. Mortified beyond all measure, he knew not what to say and lapsed into silence. He scarcely heard Emma'�s apology and subsequent entreaty to speak to her as a friend. As a friend!! Every feeling in him recoiled from this eventuality, but he heard himself speak nevertheless --� indeed, he did not believe, at that moment, that he could have stopped himself from speaking. "Tell me, then, have I no chance of ever succeeding?" He searched her eyes. Finding no answer there, and afraid of her spoken response, he talked on -- for once, in his agitation, completely unable to curb his tongue. "I cannot make speeches, Emma:" he soon resumed; and in a tone of such sincere, decided, intelligible tenderness as was tolerably convincing.--"If I loved you less, I might be able to talk about it more. But you know what I am.--You hear nothing but truth from me.--I have blamed you, and lectured you, and you have borne it as no other woman in England would have borne it.-- Bear with the truths I would tell you now, dearest Emma, as well as you have borne with them. The manner, perhaps, may have as litt e to recommend them. God knows, I have been a very indifferent lover.-- But you understand me.--Yes, you see, you understand my feelings-- and will return them if you can. At present, I ask only to hear, once to hear your voice." He waited in terrible anticipation for her response, but when at last his dearest Emma finally spoke, the words were all he could have hoped for: the affection, which he had been asking to be allowed to create, if he could, was already his! She returned his feelings --� happy thought, indeed! -- and she had been as desolate as he during his visit to London! As each had despaired equally of the other'�s affection, they had even shared many of the same thoughts! They walked, and within half an hour, he had passed from a thoroughly distressed state of mind, to something so like perfect happiness, that it could bear no other name. She was his own Emma, by hand and word, by the time they prepared to enter the house. Pressing that sweet hand to his lips, Mr. Knightley said earnestly, "My dearest Emma, you do not know --� you cannot know --� how very happy you have made me." "On the contrary, Mr. Knightley," said Emma, smiling up at him, "I believe I can most fully appreciate what you are feeling at this very moment." ________________________________________________________________________ ...�and they lived happily ever after!

Susan that is excellent. Out does Ms Aylmer by miles.

Susan -- I like it immensely, truly I do! :-)

Yea Susan! You know, I find it most interesting how all of our stories dwell on the man's point of view, on the torments and longings and romantic yearnings of the man. One might think that we would most readily identify with the woman in the story and what she is feeling. I suppose it does make sense though...we are creating the kind of men that we wish would fall in love with us...a completely fictional character... (but I'm not bitter!) ;-)

Oh, Cheryl, how could anyone ever think you bitter! :-) But, as for why the stories are focusing on the hero's feelings, is it not partly because JA primarily focused on the heroine's? We want to know the heroes as well as we know the heroines -- when I think of P&P (the novel) I always feel like I have both characters in my head, that I feel both sets of emotions, etc. I like trying to get the other side of the story. One of the things I really liked about Darcy's Story was the time at Hunsford where Darcy sees Elizabeth as being attracted to him. It was nicely done.

"One of the things I really liked about Darcy's Story was the time at Hunsford..." Don't you meen Hunston?

Not sure if this is "fan fiction", but here's a cute post from AUSTEN-L: Date: Thu, 27 Feb 1997 11:26:15 EST From: Jane Amara Emma and Darcy: what a pair. I think they would be charming (if borderline insufferable snobs) together. That would leave Mr. Knightley free to marry Anne Eliot, who with her love of living in the country would be very happy. How could they not love each other? Then, it's an easy jump to Elizabeth Bennet and Captain Wentworth, and just think how much Mrs. Bennet would like his uniform. At least they could sail away and escape her. Lizzie might just be Louisa Musgrove with a brain. This new pairing keeps everyone at the social status they started with, interestingly, though that was not the goal.Jane Amara Cambridge, Massachusetts

as for why the stories are focusing on the hero's feelings, is it not partly because JA primarily focused on the heroine's? I know that's the case for me, Kathleen.

Jane, you horrible thing! ; ) How very disconcerting. I love it.

I like the idea of Elinore and Brandon, myself. All through the book and the movie I was hoping they would come to their senses and fall in love with one another.

I do not think she has ever in her life considered me as other than a friend. Poor dear Mr Knigthley.... His horse was a good one and surefooted, and he let him have his head, even occasionally spurring him on.He could not reach his destination quickly enough, and this rain and mud would occasion a brief stop at Donwell for a change of clothing, which his anxious spirits would ill allow Susan, I like the way this gets my imagination working. Well done! And Tom that bit about the rain on the Pemberley pond is great IMHO. Welcome. Inko and Caroline such fun to learn about concker. And Darcy thinking of it as a way out

Henry, glad you put up that post-most unsettling, but a hoot, all the same. susan, thank you for the breakfast reading.......and don't worry about the plaigirising(Who can spell on sundays)I twas fun looking them up!

Anne is back again! Anne, The Real Story Chapter 3 Anne rushed downstairs, on purpose to tell her mother right away about her lesson, and to thank her for giving her such a great teacher, but she had to wait till after supper, because Lady Catherine was very strict with the rule "Little girls are to be seen and NOT heard", so supper passed slowly to poor Anne. Lady Catherine spoke a great deal, about Mrs. King's visit, and how clever Mrs. King thought her to be, and how Mrs. King was jealous of Rosings Park, and how she won the card game against Mrs. King and Mrs. King her and Mrs. King there, which seemed like absolute nonsense to Anne, who would give England to speak, but couldn't, because her mother and Mrs. Jenkinson wouldn't allow it. Supper, however, was over at last, and Anne could finally talk, she began with this strange speech, forgetting grammar or politeness: "Oh Mamma! So very dearly thank you for givin' me a governess! I learned so much! 'Bout spellin' an' readin' an' I wrote my name six time and Miss Williams said I'm cle'er! And I read nice story! 'twas very jolly! Stay will she Mamma? Please? I'm sure she can teach me, I'm sure! Oh Mamma, Please!" "Miss Anne, you must remember you are sick! Don't talk so much, for heaven's sake! And leave the room immediately, sick people can't stay so long out of bed!" So Anne couldn't tell anything about her lesson, she was very disappointed, as you may easily imagine. Years afterwards, Anne always wondered how she couldn't realize her good fortune. She, however, obeyed immediately and went upstairs, and hoped the morrow would come soon, not knowing the power of the sorrow and terror her young heart was to recive. To be continued...

Oh, Aylet I feel so worried. What evil things will happen the next morning? I feel I would want to talk to Lady Catherine and teach her to be grateful for having this lovely little girl...

Ayelet, make sure that monstrous mother gets her deserts, won't you!Poor Anne!

Having received some encouragement, here is the next chapter. CRISIS AT PEMBERLY CHAPTER TWO �I understand that you are here directly from Rosings?� began Caroline Bingley as the dance got underway. �Yes,� replied Colonel Fitzwilliam as the next opportunity to speak availed, �I spend more time there now that Darcy spends less�. If the truth be known it was not Mr. Darcy�s absence that was demanding more of the Colonel�s time, rather the dire financial status of Rosings. As with many estates the cost of maintenance and standard of living were tailored to the size of its trust income; which in the instance of Sir Lewis de Bourgh was derived in part from the profit of his shipping business. Two threats arising subsequent to his death were now upon Rosings Park. First the income and death taxes of 1798 had become a substantial degradation to the profits of de Bourgh Shipping. The general community of estate owners was becoming more vocal towards setting aside this penalty for successful achievement, but no relief was yet in sight. Second, Lady Catherine had endowed several, indeed, eleven young ladies in the past five years to ensure that her tutelage resulted in the proper introduction of her prot�g�s to society. Unfortunately this sum had grown to nearly ten thousand pounds. �If another candidate is supported, I�m afraid, Lady Catherine will have to give up much of her style of living to continue at Rosings,� he pondered. �I should so like to see the manor, � continued Ms. Bingley, �as Darcy has often mentioned many of its particulars.� The Colonel was not unaffected by this opening from a handsome woman of taste. �Well, if you are really interested, may I be so bold as to suggest that there is a seat available on our carriage returning tomorrow. I would be delighted to show you the grounds myself.� �You are most kind, sir,� � I should look forward to the experience and will speak to my sister directly that I have made new arrangements for the return trip.� The dance had now ended and Colonel Fitzwilliam made his way towards his aunt to describe his new accommodation. �I see you have some potential my dear, and could benefit from a month at Rosings.� said Lady de Bourgh as the interview with Kitty Bennet concluded. It had been quiet at the manor for some time, lacking a new acquaintance since Elizabeth and Mira Lucas had been there and now the Collins� were away. Turning to Mrs. Bennet she inquired, �Would Miss Bennet be available to return with me tomorrow. There is a seat unoccupied in my carriage.� Mrs. Bennet was satisfied beyond her expectations. �Oh, yes mum, her things are all here at Pemberly as we have finished our stay of two weeks.� � I will inform Mr. Bennet of your kindness and opportunity, � as the two hastily departed. In their excitement the approaching Colonel Fitzwilliam was nearly caught off balance. Following the ensuing discussion, in which it was discovered that the carriage had been oversubscribed, Lady Catherine was outraged and commanded that the Colonel rescind his invitation. �Perhaps there is another solution,� he responded, �if Miss de Bourgh would consent to spend some time at Pemberly, I would speak with Darcy.� Mary de Bourgh of pale and reticent demeanor, showed interest in this suggestion for one of the few times in her existence under the oppressive parenting of her mother. �But this can not be tolerated� �Mrs. Jenkins would be out of sorts� �Who would see to my daughter�s needs of health?� objected his aunt. On the other hand, the thought of lively conversation at Rosings and a new Project was attractive. Yet she could not sit well with the thought of approaching Elizabeth Darcy with such a proposal. At last she relented, �Very well, I shall speak again with Mrs. Bennet and request her to forward the need for accommodation to Mrs. Darcy.� Mrs. Bennet, upon hearing the terms of the long sought tutelage, was also reluctant to confront her daughter with the requested favour given their somewhat strained relationship. Undaunted, however, she spoke with Mr. Bennet. �Mr. Bennet, you must ask Elizabeth to invite Miss de Bourgh for a month at Pemberly so that Kitty may return to Rosings with Lady de Bourgh. It is a good circumstance to improve herself at Rosings Park.� �Will she be less silly in the pursuit of gentlemen as a consequence?� was his reply. Nevertherless the thought of further peace in the Bennet household was an advantage not to be overlooked. �Mr. Bennet it is our duty as parents secure any opportunity to complete the education of our children!� her voice rose. �Yes, my dear,� he answered, �and I will attempt the entreaty, but why is it dependent upon Miss de Bourgh�s visit to Derbyshire?� The added explanation of Mr. Bingley�s sister�s invitation by the Colonel was further reason, for it indirectly benefited his favorite son-in-law. Thus armed he set off to find his daughter. �Darcy, I have a favour to ask that I may impose on your magnanimity, � Colonel Fitzwilliam began, � Miss de Bourgh has expressed an interest in a reacquaintance with Giorgiana, and an opportunity to exchange places with Elizabeth�s sister, Kitty, has arisen for our carriage return tomorrow. If she might be permitted to spend some few weeks at Pemberly, Lady Catherine would be most appreciative.� Mr. Darcy was shocked. �She has spoken of this on her own?� It had been at least five years since Miss de Bourgh had been at Pemberly with her mother; and it had been a visit replete with criticism of his attention to the wishes of his recently deceased father on the improvement of the estate. However, this proposed encounter with Giorgiana might prove a welcome distraction to the developments evolving across the ballroom concerning Captain Denny. �I confess an ulterior motive, Darcy. I have invited Miss Bingley to Rosings. She has voiced a desire to accompany us on our return,� the Colonel offered somewhat apologetically for the apparent deception. Darcy was now amused. The thought of Caroline Bingley with Colonel Fitzwilliam was not without merit. With an understanding smile he responded, �I understand, it is no great imposition to me but Elizabeth will certainly have reservations.� �Excuse me father but have you lost your mind?� was Lizzy�s reaction to the proposal. �What would I do with that sickly creature who thought herself once engaged to William? Why such haste in providing for Kitty�s patronage. Surely she may find another way to Rosings. And why has not Lady Catherine herself or Miss de Bourgh condescended to this address?� �I will not stand in the way of Miss Bingley�s quests, indeed, she might gain an affection towards Colonel Fitzwilliam which may improve her conduct towards us, but to endure Miss de Bourgh�s reticence and expose Giorgiana to the undoubted expression of Lady Catherine�s preferences is a price beyond my graciousness.� Mr. Bennet, however, was up to the challenge, �My dear consider the benefit to Miss Bourgh provided by the talents of Miss Darcy. Away from her mother who knows what improvement she may obtain. And consider the chance to ameliorate some of your mother�s prejudices towards William and the advantage of placing Lady Catherine in your debt.� These logical arguments caught Lizzy off guard and her position was softening as William Darcy approached. �Lizzy would you mind at guest from Rosings for the next few weeks?� he started. �It has been long since Miss de Bourgh has ventured this far and it would be a profit to all if Giorgiana could aid her development in public connection.� �If you are so disposed I will not stand against it,� was her congenial reaction to a degree of surprise to Mr. Bennet. �Thank you Lizzy, I know it will not be easy, especially having just completed preparations for the ball and accommodating its participants,� Mr. Darcy acknowledged and her father concurred. �I think we should now advance the offer to Lady Catherine and discuss the particulars,� he stated as they parted the company of Mr. Bennet. The discussion of the forthcoming plans went so well that William�s spirits were lifted to the point he experienced prior to seeing Giorgiana with Captain Denny. Indeed so favourably disposed was he that following the next dance, he proposed a toast to the success of his friend Charles in the pursuit of a chair in the House of Commons. A propriety which Mr. Bingley had no objections to being made public. Charles was not, however, looking forward to an anticipated three month�s stay in London without his beloved wife Jane. Jane had professed a desire to remain at home near Pemberly, having no strong attachment to the City where she had unsuccessfully last sought his attenti ns prior to their marriage. She did, however, rejoice in his venture and would not take anything from this moment despite her certainty that she was now pregnant.

...Anne, who would give England to speak... (Yes, but how would she ever get a word in edgewise!) I'm all anticipation, Ayelet! Tom, thanks for a very entertaining sequel!

Mary de Bourgh of pale and reticent demeanor, showed interest in this suggestion for one of the few times in her existence under the oppressive parenting of her mother. Did you mean Anne?

Dina: Yes, thanks. Do the quote marks come through or do they show up as numbers 2 and 3 (It may be an artifact of pasting from Word)?

Have enjoyed everything I've read, but am having a problem getting responses from about 75 to 100? Cassandra did you ever finish that great story? I only found it today, all these other poor people must be on pins and needles!! Capital idea on this BB -- so much talent. thanks

Tom, you are right- punctuation by numbers. Still readable though.

Yes Tom, they do not seem to work .I use the single apostrophe under the asterisk...I have printed your 'Chrisis two' and shall read it tonight; am looking forward to it.Anne (Yeago) all stories are collected at Derbyshire Writers Guild linked on top of this conference(= Austen )page.

Ann2- are we posting at the same time?

Hi Caroline, I should not be here at all..way too late.

Yeago-You are a dear!!! As soon as I get my "rise of the Parti Quebecois" paper finished, I'm going to return to Darcy and Elizabeth.

well...OK (darn) first things first!:-) I've printed a number of stories already! Good thing we've got fresh ink!

Parti Quebecois! Pray don't even mention that odious group!

CRISIS AT PEMBERLY CHAPTER THREE The music played until long after midnight. The rest of the ball was largely uneventful. For those who made note: Captain Denny danced four times with Giorgiana and Colonel Fitzwilliam three with Caroline. Eventually most of the guests returned to their accommodations in the house; a few, such as Mr. Hurst were in such a stupor that they had to be aided by servants in reclaiming their room. The party of militia left shortly after midnight for their temporary encampment near Lambton. Soon the manor was qui t and Jane had an opportunity to speak with Elizabeth in private while William and Charles sat in the next room. �Lizzy, you must not speak of my pregnancy to anyone until Charles has left for London in two days. I will not have him distracted or give reason to delay his trip.� �Of course if that is your wish, but this is cause for celebration and good spirits not worry or distraction.� was her response. � I am always here to support your needs and insist that you come to Pemberly while our husbands are way.� �Thank you, Lizzy I shall look forward to it and I will try to help you with Miss de Bourgh if she is truly as much an invalid as you make out.� By midday most of the guests had departed including an emotional farewell with the Bennet�s. Mrs. Bennet thanked Elizabeth many times for the inconvenience which had provided Kitty with the visit to Rosings. Her father nodded solemnly knowing the degree of imposition. Only Mary who also �looked forward to peace at home� seemed unaffected by the arrangement. The de Bourgh carriage had left earlier with its crew of new acquaintances. With the departures completed the remaining household was too exhausted t plan immediate ventures and Darcy withdrew to insure the proper wardrobe for his stay in London although unlike Bingley�s it was only to be for one week. Miss de Bourgh was left to be entertained by Giorgiana and a dialog appeared to have begun. At three o�clock Giorgiana requested a carriage to show Miss de Bourgh the grounds and partake of the fresh air. Elizabeth waved goodbye and returned to her husband for the short time remaining until his departure. The carriage traversed many of the estate�s private roads often barely as wide as their vehicle. After some time Giorgiana directed the driver to a small bluff which provided an excellent view of Pemberly to the east and overlooked its expanse all the way to Lambton to the west. �Isn�t this a wonderful spot to experience Derbyshire,� she exclaimed. Even Miss de Bourgh smiled as she gazed into the distance. �You can even see the Militia encampment at the edge of Lambton,� Giorgiana added. Indeed, in the far distance one of the soldiers could be seen taking a mount and ridding in the direction of their location. By seven that evening the light of day was fading as the long days of summer were nearly at an end. Both William and Elizabeth expressed some consternation as the carriage finally arrived at the front entrance. Giorgiana apologized several times and claimed that together with the beautiful sights and engaging conversation all measure of time had been lost. The following morning Charles appeared and after some regretful expressions toward the upcoming separation, he and William set off for London. The Manor again grew still without the conversation or traffic of the prior nights. Miss de Bourgh and Giorgiana had a late breakfast without much discussion but Lizzy could detect a degree of agitation in Giorgiana, especially when talk of the plans for the day were postponed until Miss de Bourgh could recover from a morning headache, undoubtedly from too much ex osure the day before. Giorgiana had just exited the room when a message was delivered to Lizzy�s table. �This note arrived moments ago, madam� reported her servant Thomas Reynolds. The message was a barely readable scrawl from the Bingley residence. �My mistress has fallen and is not able to move. Please come at once. Jonathon. � With great distress Elizabeth called for her outer garments and a carriage. �Tell Giorgiana where I have gone and send for Doctor Gracepool in Lambton. The trip to the Bingley house was made in record time. Rushing through the entrance, she noticed several bags packed near the foot of the stairs. And there, just descending was Jane. �Jane thank God you�re all right. I came as soon as the message arrived.� Jane looked surprised and puzzled, � Why Lizzy I was just about to leave for Pemberly. What message � Elizabeth stopped. With a great effort to calm herself she handed the note to Jane. �Why this is a forgery. Who would play such a mean trick?� Lizzy suddenly blurted �we must return to Pemberly at once!� The manor was deserted as the two women returned and quickly entered the Great Hall. �Thomas, where are Giorgiana and Miss de Bourgh?� Elizabeth demanded. �Miss de Bourgh is resting upstairs in her bedroom, but Miss Darcy left for Lambton shortly after your departure. She left a letter for you on the table.� Both Lizzy and Jane stared at the envelope�s address: �My dearest brother and sister-in-law�. Inside the letter read: Dear brother and sister: This is both the most joyous and sorrowful letter I have ever written. Joyous because I have found a love which I never dreamed possible. Captain Denny is the most polite, considerate and loving man I have ever met beyond the walls of Pemberly. But I cannot rejoice because of his station in life you would never approve of our union and so we must separate ourselves from Pemberly. Captain Denny believes that England itself could not provide refuge after your recovery of Wickham last year. We must, therefor , seek haven abroad where society is not an issue. Please do not condemn us as I will always be a part of a loving memory of life in your household. If you cherish my wishes please do not attempt to follow or interfere with our pursuit of happiness. I love you both and hope to inform you of whence we settle. Giorgiana �Stupid girl, � Elizabeth shouted. �I cannot believe this is happening, again,� added Jane with reference to Wickham�s elopement with Lydia. �Thomas bring back the carriage at once, we must try to reach Lambton before they depart! � Within minutes they were on the road at a gallop towards the encampment. Enroute Lizzy remembered her first journey through the surrounding countryside of Derbyshire. At that time she too had felt unworthy of Pemberly as Captain Denny must now experience, but for a man of h s station it must seem beyond all hope. Storm clouds were beginning to gather as they reached the town. Despite some traffic they reached the encampment quickly. As the carriage halted Elizabeth called to one of the familiar soldiers who were in the midst of packing up the equipment of the site, � Where is Captain Denny?� �Captain Denny? We haven�t seen him all day. He was not at morning mess call and most of his belongings are missing, � was the response. Elizabeth now realized her mistake in assuming hat Giorgiana and Denny were to join at Lambton and then proceed in an obvious direction. �He may even have been at the House as I left for Jane�s� Turning to Jane she reasoned, �Chances are good that they will either travel to London to escape detection and then board a ship for France or proceed west to Plymouth and thence leave for Canada or even the Colonies.� While the latter was more dangerous given the recent fighting between countries it made their recovery more difficult as well. �We must retur to the Manor and dispatch the letter to William!� The trip back to Pemberly was not so easy, however, for it had begun to rain. The journey seemed endless as the driver tried to make speed as best he could. Occasionally Jane would interrupt their thoughts with unanswered questions, �When do you suppose they first met, could it have been at the Pemberly Ball?� �Had you any suspicions of their involvement?� �Could she have confided in poor Miss de Bourgh?� Lizzy pondered these inquires. There had been a concern expressed by William at the Ball but it was quickly forgotten. Suddenly the carriage halted. Elizabeth leaned out in the ow driving rain, �What is it?�. �There�s been an accident, ma�am� the driver pointed ahead. It was difficult to make out as the water stung her face, but thirty yards ahead she could see the dark form of a buggy on its side in the roadway. And there on the ground beside it was an unconscious figure of a man. �It is Doctor Gracepool!� Jane exclaimed.