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.

Elizabeth and Darcy: A Sequel Part 6 "Why Mrs Darcy!" exclaimed Mrs Reynolds. "We did not expect you until next week. The master informed us that he would be escorting you back from Longbourn." "Yes-I know, Mrs Reynolds. But, I could not bear to be away from Pemberley a moment longer! I cannot tell you how much I have missed the grounds and my beautiful gardens. Lowering her eyelashes and subduing her voice, Elizabeth further added: "If anything the distance and time have only made me appreciate them all the more." Failing to detect the change in Lizzy's tone, as well as the deeper meaning of her words, Mrs Reynolds continued: "Mrs Darcy, it is indeed a pleasure to see you. And may I inquire M'am after your father's health. He was in my prayers constantly." "Thank-you, Mrs Reynolds," Elizabeth softly said, squeazing the elder woman's hands. "you are very kind. My father is quite well. His spirits and health improve every day." "Glad to hear it Ma'am. But, come. Let me take your things. You must be exhausted from your journey. I know Miss Georgiana will be delighted to see you..." As if hearing Mrs Reynolds' words, Georgiana Darcy swept down the stairs. "Elizabeth!" she cried happily. "I thought I heard your voice." Lizzy gazed affectionately at her sister-in-law. Indeed, as Mr Darcy had long wished, Georgiana had become as dear to Elizabeth as her own sister, Jane. She had heartily missed her. Their attachment was sincere, warm and all-encompassing. At the crucial age of eighteen, Georgiana Darcy was at the height of her bloom; her delicate features, flawless ivory skin and crystal-blue eyes were admired wherever she went. As Mrs Reynolds often reflected, Miss Georgiana was as handsome and talented a young lady as there ever was. Furthermore,under Elizabeth's tutelage and example, Georgiana had begun to emerge from her painful shyness and characteristic reserve. She was no longer afraid of making her opinions known or entertaining guests at the piano orte. Georgiana was as open and warm, as she was lovely. "Elizabeth-you do not know how much I have missed you. Pemberley has been so desolate without you. You must come to the music room and see the new music that Fitzwilliam brought from London. As you well know, he is too kind. I don't think there was ever a kinder, more loving brother. And, he told me that he means to have a ball at Pemberley, with your permission and assistance, of course." "A ball-that sounds delightful," Lizzy added, as Georgiana led her into the music room. But, tell me Georgiana-where is Fitzwilliam?" "He was called to town on business. We expect him back tomorrow. None of us had any idea that you were planning on returning to Pemberley, so early." "A sudden scheme of mine," Lizzy playfully retorted. "Although, it seems to have had far from the desired effect," she silently added. Instantly deciding that it was better to change the subject, Lizzy said instead: "How is Sir David, Georgiana? Is the young man as violently in love with you as he was when I left?" Blushing deeply, Georgiana whispered: "Oh Lizzy, he has asked for my hand!" "Oh Georgiana-I could not be more pleased and happy for you! Has he spoken to Darcy?" "There really hasn't been time. Brother has hardly been home a week and..." "Georgiana-you cannot believe that Darcy would refuse him. I have heard his speak on many occasions of his fondness for Sir David. His manners and sincere attachment to you are undeniable." "Yes. But, Elizabeth-you know his reserved disposition. He is almost too in awe of Fitzwilliam to ask. I know this is rather an odd request, but we would bith appreciate it if you spoke to him first. I know Brother still thinks of me as a child. And, Dearest Elizabeth-we all know that he cannot refuse you anything...."

And, Dearest Elizabeth-we all know that he cannot refuse you anything...." No, indeed! Two great stories, and Georgiana in both of them!Thank you, both of you!

yea, Cass! But get to the reunion girl! (and post it in drool...) ;-)

]yea, Cass! But get to the reunion girl! (and post it in drool...) ;-) Yeah, what she said, Cass.

Cass you are such a tease! Both new chapters (Tom's and Cass) great!

Tom, Cass -- WONDERFUL! We are so lucky to be the recipients of your towering talent! (I do heartily second Cheryl's most reasonable request.) :)

Yes-I'm a tease! But, I promise not to keep you in suspense much longer. I'll probably post a full-blown version in drool and a tamer one here.

Anne, The Real Story Chapter 4 Anne woke with sunrise, dressed quickly and waited to Miss Williams, who came rather quickly, although it seemed like years to poor Anne, and the French lesson began: they learned French for over 3 hours, and when Miss Williams decided they had enough of it, although Anne objected, and begged for "Just another story", she declared: "No, not another story, dear, but something better" "Better?" was the careful, doubtful answer. "Yes, much better, I am going to teach you to play" Anne stood with her mouth open for full 4 minutes, then she asked, still not sure: "Play? Play the piano? Really, truly? "Of course! And immediately, because time is running out faster than the wind" Miss Williams looked amused, and the lesson began, Miss Williams had her own way of teaching, a quiet and gentle, yet lively, sweet way, which always proved itself, before the hour was out, Anne knew the names of the notes and which key presented each, after another hour, she knew to play a little, short song, which delighted her little heart, and she played it over and over again, until even Miss Williams said gently, "That's enough, dear, will like to learn another song?" Anne certainly did. "So, here, look at this nice song, it's even longer than the other, 20 notes!" Miss Williams counted hastily. So they learned to play it, and after another hour, Anne could play it quite perfectly, when she suddenly noticed that somebody was climbing the staircase, the steps came closer, and Anne saw her mother standing angrily in the doorway. To be continued...

That Lady D -- what a spoilsport, Ayelet!

Darcy withdrew to insure the proper wardrobe for his stay in London so he is that particular Tom ..., something of a snob, eyh? He'll have to search for his sister all over the world now or...? I am so glad Anne met with Miss Williams, I truely am. I have missed the grounds and my beautiful gardens. Cassandra, that sounds like a quotation from the bible, beautiful! Will you let us overhear her 'talking' him into accepting it? Thanks for enjoyable reading.

Thank you all for your encouregement (spelling?), you do not have the slightest clue about how it helps!

Ayelet, I really enjoy your filling me in about Anne. I, like others I'm afraid, tend to discount her. I'm happy that you're sharing your perspective with us!

Hi folks. Sorry I haven't been able to update the Guild lately. I am presently without a computer (I'm at an internet cafe at the moment). My modem and my laptop are refusing to speak to one another, and after several days of trying to mediate the dispute, I finally was forced to call in the experts. My computer is currently in the shop. I hop to get it back soon, but probably not until the middle of next week at least. I'll post your stories to the guild as soon as I can.

CRISIS AT PEMBERLY CHAPTER FOUR All thought of Georgiana was set aside as the driver, Elizabeth and Jane raced to the prone figure. With some difficulty Dr. Gracepool was lifted into the carriage. The driver released the buggy�s horse as there was no sense in righting the vehicle since the left wheel had been shattered. Lastly Jane retrieved the medical bag as the carriage was turned around and they sped off towards Lambton. Gracepool�s colour was ashen and they were all dripping wet. The road had become even less passable and the traverse took nearly an hour. Darkness was falling as the Doctor was finally placed in his bed with the help of his wife and son. Nothing more could be done until morning. At Mrs. Gracepool�s insistence Lizzy and Jane were provided dry clothing and hot soup while the driver made for their accommodation at the Inn. Only after taking up residence there for the night did Elizabeth consider the delay this incident had introduced in apprehending the errant couple. �I hope they are as indisposed as we are,� she indicated to Jane. Jane was more concerned, however, that she was the cause of Doctor Gracepool�s misfortune, �If I had but come an hour earlier to Pemberly this event would never have occurred.� �Jane, you were not the least accountable for these actions. Better to put our time into planning what must be done for their recovery,� Lizzy admonished. They talked for a while. Jane had barely spoken the words �We have had enough excitement for one day� when a commotion was heard below followed shortly by a knock at their door. It was Robert Reynolds, son of Thomas, who anxiously reported, �Excuse me ma�am I have been seeking your place in Lambton for most of the afternoon. My father has been unable to locate Miss de Bourgh. When he went to inform her of your leaving for Lambton he discovered her room to be empty. All of her bags were removed. We searched the house and grounds. No transportation had been requested or taken from the stable.� The news made them both step back. Following their recovery, Elizabeth bade the lad to take food downstairs and stay the night at the Inn. After the door was closed, Jane spoke first, �Where could she have gone? Can she be involved in this scheme?� Lizzy followed, Has Captain Denny seduced her as well? Perhaps the lure of adventure and freedom from Lady Catherine gave her courage to give up her favorable position at Rosings. But what excess baggage for the couple.� Jane added, �there must have been a rendezvous on the grounds soon after Georgiana left the house.� The sun rose at last at the de Bourgh Manor. The previous day�s confinement by the abominable weather, had, nevertheless, given opportunity for the visitors to improve their acquaintance. Indeed, Caroline�s opinion of Colonel Fitzwilliam had steadily increased as their experiences and preferences were related. Kitty had found solace in the attention of Lady de Bourgh, but her enthusiasm in providing accounts of life at Longbourn was eventually curtailed when Lady Catherine admonished, �You will, in time, be given instruction by Mrs. Jenkins in the appropriate topics of conversation.� By nightfall it had been agreed that at first clearing a picnic should be scheduled to fully appreciate the grounds of Rosings Park. So it was that provisions were prepared early in the morning of the following day. Kitty was, with some difficulty, exercising patience to be off when at the last minute the Colonel remembered a business issue which could not be postponed. He begged a short deference and retreated to the study. At 11 o�clock the impatient mood of the party was interrupted by the arrival of an express from Mr. Darcy. The Colonel was summoned and upon opening the dispatch read: My Dear Cousin: I have received word from Elizabeth that Georgiana has eloped. A letter was discovered early yesterday which indicated that she and Captain Denny intend to abandon England at first opportunity. My quick review of the Times has revealed two immediate possibilities: the merchantman �Carlisle� departs today for Halifax from London Dock at 1400. The American Black Ball �Oceana� leaves Plymouth for Boston Saturday next at 1700. I will attend to the embarkment of the Carlisle and expect you to make haste to Plymouth to do the same with the Oceana. If they are not in my custody, I will join you at Plymouth on Saturday. Godspeed! William �Good God!� was the Colonel�s response. Caroline rushed to his side and reread the letter, �Georgiana has eloped!� Lady Catherine was stern in her reaction, �This Captain Denny must be dealt with in the severest terms. You must employ every means to prevent their departure.� The Colonel nodded, �I will leave at once. Bring me my horse!� It was at best a two day ride at the pace of an express for the 200 mile journey. He could reach Plymouth, if no obstacles were encountered by midday Saturday. Within minutes the Colonel was astride his mount and disappearing to the west. It was fortunate that the picnic provisions, now depleted, would relieve him from having to interrupt the dash to the Coast. For Darcy the journey to Plymouth was not an easy one. The frustration of not finding the pair among the departing at London Dock had drained him of the energy needed for a high speed gallop across the terrain. With luck Colonel Fitzwilliam had a day�s lead and would arrive in time for interference. Although he considered himself to be an excellent horseman, the London road was crowded at first and the rain had left many muddy hazards. He dared not stop. An hour�s rest was unthinkable, only a supper secured at midday Friday was all the respite he would endure. From time to time, however, his horse was in need of pause with drink provided by the natural oases of the countryside. The largest delay occurred near the town of Shelborne on Saturday morning yet sixty miles from Plymouth. An old woman had been taunted and her cart had been spilt by a group of ruffians. The situation appeared dire and could not be ignored. Darcy had not trouble fending them off, but having dispersed the villains he was obliged to retrieve her belongings and restore the cart. Satisfied with her condition he sped off; his body was aching from fatigue. At last the shore near Plymouth came into view. It was nearly evening. As he approached the docks his heart sank as a large sailing ship could be seen leaving the harbour. It was the Oceana. Upon reaching the now nearly deserted passenger loading area it was evident that he was too late. �This cannot be!� he raged. Fruitlessly he shouted �Georgiana!�, as he dropped from is horse and slumped to an adjacent bench. Tears began to well up as the receding sails testified that he would never see his beloved sister again. After some time, having been lost in the memories of his family, a voice was heard over his shoulder, �Have ye missed the boat then?� Darcy turned to face an elderly man dressed poorly, in fact not much improved over a beggar. His clothes were soiled, he was unwashed and several teeth were missing. �I have lost my sister. She was abducted by a scoundrel of the militia, � he replied with resignation. � Why I do believe I saw �em boarding a while ago,� the man brightened. �The gentleman was in a great hurry, but I could tell he was military. I too was once in the army before the Colonial War.� Darcy was now impatient to find his cousin and began to leave. �I�m surprised such a sickly young lass would make that long voyage,� the man added. Darcy stopped. His attention was at once focused. He turned and commanded, �Describe her!� �.....and the tall sandy haired gentleman was embracing her as the ship moved out,� the man concluded. Darcy could not believe what he was hearing. The tattered gentleman had just given an able sketch of Anne de Bourgh and Colonel Fitzwilliam!

Oh, poor Ann. I hope you don't spend a fortune in there. How do cybercafes work, anyway? I have never been to one.

Dear Ann, we miss you and wont be able to meet in chat for some days then. Are there no libraries that provide internet access for free?

Ann, I am sorry to hear about your computer and modem having a spat. I had hoped that you got the job and were just too busy getting settled in.

Ann Haker- my sympathies are with you! I think I would feel like I was missing a limb! Ann2- Dearest, I have been trying to e-mail you, but I think your Spring address is wrong.Can you contact me? Tom, I am on the edge of my seat! Where the heck is Georgiana?

Yes, Tom, you're getting pretty good at those cliffhangers!

Ann, deepest sympathy! I know how lost I'd be without my computer - it's a horrible feeling. Hope the shop is quick about it and gets it back to you in record time. Tom, please finish your stories - the suspense is killing us slowly!!;-)

Oh, poor Ann!

Ayelet, Cassandra, Susan, Tom - thanks for these wonderful stories. Ann - I hope you get your computer back soon.

Tom, here's a hint -- before you post to this board, you might want to the your "Smart Quotes" off in your W.P. app. I think they're being translated as numbers!

that's "turn off." Something about using 28.8 -- it keeps mysteriously 'losing' parts of my text. Anyone else experience this poltergeist from beyond?

Thanks everybody. I am still computerless, but the techincian is working onit right now, so I hope to get it back soon. Amy, at this cafe there are four computers and you just tell the guy at the counter that you want to log on, then you sit down and surf. This is costing $7.50/hour, which is a little steep, but it is better than the withrawl symptoms. I'll post things to the guild as soon as I get my computer back.

CRISIS AT PEMBERLY CHAPTER FIVE It was four days before they all convened at Rosings Park. Darcy had returned there seeking answers and to bring the unfortunate news of her daughter�s flight to Lady Catherine. He had omitted Miss de Bourgh�s absence from Pemberly in his letter to the Colonel so as not to disturb his aunt without resolution. But now the truth could no longer be hidden. After checking the passenger manifest of the Oceana to confirm that Captain Denny and Georgiana were not among the voyagers, he sent the news to Elizabeth and requested that she join him at Rosings. Jane had insisted on accompanying her and sent word to their parents of the developments. Upon hearing of her daughter�s elopement, Lady Catherine had taken ill. The shock had kept her abed since and in her state she could be often heard emitting unintelligible outbursts. Following the arrival of the two women, the five: Elizabeth, Jane, William, Caroline and Kitty began a discussion in the sitting room. �Could this have been the Colonel�s plan all along?� began Elizabeth, �He and Anne, secretly in love, planning to have her remain at Pemberly after the ball so she could leave by the advantage of not having Lady Catherine�s immediate discovery. But how could the Colonel have known that is aunt would play into his hand by her invitation to Kitty? Perhaps he intended to as another to Rosings besides Caroline and thereby over subscribe the carriage himself.� Jane added her concerns, �Do you think Miss de Bourgh confided in Georgiana or was it coincidence that they both vanished at first opportunity? By what means did she make the trip to Plymouth? Could Colonel Fitzwilliam have sent a carriage for her?� �I wonder if the picnic was a ruse,� said Caroline, �how convenient that we were detained to wait for his last minute business detail andthat food was already prepared. But how could he have predicted Darcy�s express? Maybe he was waiting for word from Anne and felt Darcy�s actions warned that they were running out of time. Such strategy, and the servants claim to have known nothing of a romance here. And where are Georgiana and Captain Denny now?� Kitty volunteered, �Perhaps the tattered man was mistaken or worse, paid by Captain Denny to provide a false description.� �No Kitty,� Elizabeth responded, �that is insupportable. How could Denny know that Colonel Fitzwilliam was coming to Plymouth and if true, where would the Colonel be now?� �But why then should Mrs. de Bourgh object to such a union once Lizzy and William were married?� Jane interjected. �The Colonel is such a fine gentleman and would not this marriage preserve Rosings Park for Miss de Bourgh?� �Perhaps I can help there,� William began, �it is not widely known, but the business of Sir Lewis is on the verge of bankruptcy and there is not enough money left in the trust to save Rosings. My cousin does not have the income or resources to continue here. They could, I suppose, have a better chance together somewhere else.� �I think Lady Catherine will never leave this place,� added Lizzy. Darcy appeared to be resolute �No and she will not have to by my account. � Following several hours of questions, most without answers, it was decided to return Kitty to Longbourn given Lady Catherine�s condition. Caroline generously agreed to remain at Rosings until Mrs. de Bourgh�s health was improved. A general alert had be published by Colonel Forster for the whereabouts of Captain Denny. The four departed the next day for Derbyshire by way of Heretford. The Party was received at Longbourn with concern and sympathy. Mrs. Bennet met them as they descended from the carriage. �Oh Lizzy, William, you must be so distraught at the absence of your sister. We are all very disposed to provide you with any support we can. Poor Mrs. de Bourgh! Such a vexing circumstance! What irony that we have now both endured the elopement of a daughter. But I hope matters will work out as well for her as they have for my Lydia. Speaking of Lydia, Kitty, a letter arrived yesterd y from Newcastle.� Kitty quickly retreated upstairs to read the latest news from her sister and brother-in-law, for the Wickham�s were far from frequent contact, still at Newcastle, 250 miles to the North. As they settled into the main room, Mr. Bennet consoled, �Terrible business! Terrible business! My, my, and not a clue as to their destination.� Darcy responded, �We shall eventually track them down, I can assure you.� Turning to a more pleasant subject, Mr. Bennet inquired, �And have you heard from Charles? Has he been introduced in the Commons?� �I have not word from him,� William replied, �but with his amiable nature I foresee no great difficulty in his election. He is very pleased and anxious to do well in Parliament. I believe the House of Commons will hold new member election tomorrow.� Suddenly the conversations were interrupted by the loud descent of someone hurrying downstairs. Kitty reappeared holding the letter from Lydia, �Lizzy, Mr. Darcy can this be a clue?� She pointed to a portion of the closing paragraph which read: �.....and Wickham has been out these past two days with a special friend which we all knew at Meryton, but who�s name I shall not share under solemn promise. Too bad, for if I could tell you the delicious news you would envy my position to watch the events. But , unhappily, they will be gone tomorrow, I believe for Scotland.....� �It must be them!� Jane reacted.

Amy, Thanks for the hint, I will look for Smart Quotes in Word 6.0 Ingrid, I appologize if the story is too long. It wasn't clear to me that there is a standing limit on story length and I hoped that you were enjoying the suspense. You're probably right that it is taking up too much space on the bulletin board.

Tom, I like the suspense. Why do you call her Mrs. dB rather than Lady dB?

Tom - I was only teasing!! I actually like the suspense! And don't worry about long - have you seen "Young Fitz"? That's already up to Part 17 with three more parts due to go soon, and he's only 11 so far!!!;-)

Tom - there is no lower or upper limit - we would all rebel if there were. We are loving it all.

Sorrry it took me long, but there's Anne. Beware, I'm planning at least 4 more chapters... Anne, The Real Story Chapter 5 Even then, Anne didn't understand the horrible meaning of that, and happily said: "Ma- Your Ladyship, I mean. Look, I learned to play this song, isn't it a nice song?" and began to play, unable to understand why Miss Williams became so pale and said "Not now, dear" She DID hear her mother sharply calling Miss Williams "I need to talk with you, Miss Williams" and then, she began to understand, and with a scream of horror, she held Miss Williams and said "No! Your Ladyship, you can't send Miss Williams away, you can't! Please don't please!" and tears burst out of her eyes. Miss Williams became even paler and said quietly: "Anne, her ladyship will do what she chooses, I love to teach you, and would like very much to stay, but I'll obey to your mother, and I'm sure you would, too, like a good girl, be brave, dearest! Dry up your tears and smile, don't cry! There, here's my handkerchief! We shall meet again someday, I give you my word! Remember, be brave! You're a big girl, you can do without me, I'm sure, you know so much already, Au revoir!" And Miss Williams came out of the room, leaving Anne weeping into the handkerchief. After Anne calmed down a little, and with great curiosity, she went out of the room and stood on the top of the staircase, so she was able to hear all her mother's speech: "Why did you think I brought you here? Did I not make it clear enough? I told you to teach the child in a boring way, so she shall be vexed, and have none of those silly learning ideas! And what did you do, "Madam"? You thought her well! You even thought her to play! And I'm sure that if I wouldn't have stopped it, you would, in your rude manner, even teach her to dance!" Here Miss Williams managed to say: "But she has to find a husband, how would she, if she wouldn't know all this?" That made the Lady only angrier, and she almost screamed: "Have you forgot that she is already engaged to her cousin? She will need none of these! And what will French help her? Why does she have to know, as I already do, although no rude servant thought me, that "Au revoir" means piano?" "But Your Ladyship, Au revoir does not mean-" "How dare you answer, go out of this house at once!" Miss Williams left, with only one smile to Anne, and a whisper: "Be brave, dearest, god bless you!" To be continued...

Ayelet, you're doing a super job. Au revoir=piano-----I was laughing out loud because I could just hear Lady C. say it!

Tom, Ayelet -- who needs to read books with you two around!

Ayelet, keep up the good work. I look forward to learning more about Anne.

Rumor Revealed or Lady Catherine's Visit to Darcy Part 1. Darcy was in his study with Mr. Prescott, his man of affairs, going over several business propositions. It was around eight o'clock in the evening and the two men had just about finished their business. Suddenly, there was a disturbance outside the door. "I will see my nephew. Now, Graves." Lady Catherine burst into the room as the butler opened the door. The two men rose. Lady Catherine looked over Mr. Prescott with disdain. She stared pointedly at Darcy. "I will speak with you, Darcy. Alone," she added with emphasis. "I was just leaving, madam," Mr. Prescott bowed to Lady Catherine and Darcy, before heading towards the door that Graves was still holding open. "Would you care for some refreshment, Aunt?" Darcy asked. "No, I do not. I wish to speak to you on a very important matter. Procuring refreshments will only delay the matter." Darcy dismissed the butler. Graves bowed himself out, shutting the door quietly behind him. Darcy and Lady Catherine were alone in the room. "Lady Catherine, please be seated," Darcy indicated a chair beside the fireplace and took the seat opposite. "I have come to see you about a most unsavory rumor that has reached my ears," Lady Catherine began, looking at him expectantly. "I am afraid that I know not of what you are referring," Darcy was mystified and somewhat unnerved. He sincerely hoped his role in the Wickham Affair had not become known to his aunt. Lady Catherine smiled triumphantly. "I was sure that you would not countenance any pretensions put about by Miss Bennet. However much she might entertain the thought of being the next mistress of Pemberley, I knew that you would not......" "Am I to understand that you have heard a rumor to the effect that Miss Bennet and I are to marry?" Darcy interrupted, very surprised by her statement. "A rumor most likely started by Miss Bennet herself."

Part 2 Darcy got up from his chair and went over to a crystal decanter that was sitting upon a small table against the wall. With his backed turned to his aunt, a derisive smile appeared upon his face. He could still remember Elizabeth's words of rejection at his first proposal. He poured himself a glass of wine. He turned to face his aunt. "I believe it is highly unlikely that Miss Bennet would start such a rumor, madam." "It is highly likely," stated Lady Catherine emphatically. "Why, when I specifically asked Miss Bennet if she was engaged to you...." "You have been to see Miss Bennet?" Darcy interrupted for the second time. Lady Catherine was not pleased. "Darcy, stop interrupting. It is most rude. Yes, I have just come from Longbourn, I believe it is called. It is an estate of little consequence. I also had the misfortune to meet her mother and one of the sisters. They are not important, however." Darcy was trying to hide any signs of impatience from his expression. He badly wanted to interrupt his aunt yet again. He wanted, no needed, to know exactly what had passed between Miss Bennet and Lady Catherine. "Miss Bennet is an impudent girl, she was certainly vexing. I am most seriously displeased to have made her acquaintance. If I had known she was so uncivil I would never have invited her to Rosings Park. To have my solicitude so little returned, to have my hospitality so poorly felt....She is a most ungrateful girl. Lady Catherine looked at her nephew. She could not tell by his expression what his thought were so she assumed that he was as indignate as herself. Satisfied that her words were having the desired affect, she leaned back in her chair and continued. "Would you believe that she refused to acknowledge that she is unworthy to be your wife? As if such a match could ever be thought of. I was exceedingly angry with her when she denied any intention of declining your favor..." A smile came involuntarily to Darcy's face at her last words. The smile was quickly hidden before his aunt could see it, though her continued diatribe against Miss Bennet was beginning to ware. "...Though I do not believe even for a moment that you would consider making an offer to one such as her. And, as I am sure that you will make it clear that no importunities from one with such a family will be tolerated." Darcy had again composed his features so that none of his thoughts were readable upon his face. Lady Catherine rose from her chair. "You must attend to this matter with all possible haste. You must obliterate this insupportable rumor." Lady Catherine's walking stick tapped the floor for added emphasis.

Part 2 Darcy got up from his chair and went over to a crystal decanter that was sitting upon a small table against the wall. With his backed turned to his aunt, a derisive smile appeared upon his face. He could still remember Elizabeth's words of rejection at his first proposal. He poured himself a glass of wine. He turned to face his aunt. "I believe it is highly unlikely that Miss Bennet would start such a rumor, madam." "It is highly likely," stated Lady Catherine emphatically. "Why, when I specifically asked Miss Bennet if she was engaged to you...." "You have been to see Miss Bennet?" Darcy interrupted for the second time. Lady Catherine was not pleased. "Darcy, stop interrupting. It is most rude. Yes, I have just come from Longbourn, I believe it is called. It is an estate of little consequence. I also had the misfortune to meet her mother and one of the sisters. They are not important, however." Darcy was trying to hide any signs of impatience from his expression. He badly wanted to interrupt his aunt yet again. He wanted, no needed, to know exactly what had passed between Miss Bennet and Lady Catherine. "Miss Bennet is an impudent girl, she was certainly vexing. I am most seriously displeased to have made her acquaintance. If I had known she was so uncivil I would never have invited her to Rosings Park. To have my solicitude so little returned, to have my hospitality so poorly felt....She is a most ungrateful girl. Lady Catherine looked at her nephew. She could not tell by his expression what his thought were so she assumed that he was as indignate as herself. Satisfied that her words were having the desired affect, she leaned back in her chair and continued. "Would you believe that she refused to acknowledge that she is unworthy to be your wife? As if such a match could ever be thought of. I was exceedingly angry with her when she denied any intention of declining your favor..." A smile came involuntarily to Darcy's face at her last words. The smile was quickly hidden before his aunt could see it, though her continued diatribe against Miss Bennet was beginning to ware. "...Though I do not believe even for a moment that you would consider making an offer to one such as her. And, as I am sure that you will make it clear that no importunities from one with such a family will be tolerated." Darcy had again composed his features so that none of his thoughts were readable upon his face. Lady Catherine rose from her chair. "You must attend to this matter with all possible haste. You must obliterate this insupportable rumor." Lady Catherine's walking stick tapped the floor for added emphasis.

Carolyn, this is just how I pictured it, only better! Please continue, and soon!

Carolyn, you're a champion

Sorry for the delay. The real world intruded (don't you hate when that happens). Part 3. "I will attend to the matter with all possible haste," Darcy promised. Lady Catherine open her reticule and removed a piece of paper which she handed to Darcy. "I feel that the best possible way to deflate all of that girl's pretensions would be for you to announce your engagement to Anne." Darcy was startled by this statement. "That is the announcement for the newspapers. Please see that is placed immediately." She had no conception of the horror Darcy felt at this command nor would she have believed that Darcy had no intention of obeying such a command. Now that Lady Catherine had said her piece, she was ready to leave. Darcy escorted his aunt to her carriage. After her ladyship settled into the carriage, she spoke to her nephew one last time, "I know you will dispel these rumors." She tapped the paper she had given Darcy. "This is the best way to go about it, as I am sure you will agree." Darcy stared down at the piece of paper. "Lady Catherine, please believe me, I mean to dispel these rumors." Lady Catherine took this as affirmation of her plans and ordered her coachman to Grillon's Hotel. The sound of wheels from Lady Catherine's coach on the cobblestones bespoke of her departure. Darcy watched until the coach turned the corner--Lady Catherine was gone and now he had to prepare to make his own departure. He strode back into his study. Darcy tossed the announcement Lady Catherine had given him into the fire. He watched it burn and gave a sigh of relief when it disinegrated into ashes. Darcy had told his aunt the truth--he did mean to dispel the rumors of an engagement between himself and Miss Bennet--only he meant to dispel the rumors by making them the truth. "Graves," he summoned his butler, "tell the stables to have the coach brought around at seven tomorrow morning, with the grays in the traces." The butler was leaving the study when he asked "Is Miss Georgiana in the music room?" "Yes, sir, Mrs. Annesley is there also I believe." Darcy hurried towards the music room. He could hear Georgiana playing as he approached. It was piece by Bach. He entered the room and listened until she had finished the piece. Georgiana looked up from her music and smiled at her brother. She looked to see if Lady Catherine was with him for one of the servants had relayed the message that she had arrived. "Is Lady Catherine still here?" she asked.

OOOOOOOH!Don't stop, Carolyn!

Part 4. "No, she has already left. Georgiana, I must be leaving at daybreak--I shall be gone for a week or, perhaps, longer." "Is Cousin Anne unwell?" Georgiana inquired, thinking this was the reason for Lady Catherine's visit and Darcy's departure. "Not that I am aware of" he replied, "My departure has nothing to with our Aunt or Cousin. I am off to visit Hertfordshire, for a short stay with Mr. Bingley." "Will you see Miss Bennet?" Georgiana tried to sound casual, as if her question was of consequence. "I hope to do so, yes." Darcy debated for a moment whether he should tell her more. However, he did not want to give rise to expectations that might not be fulfilled. "Please let her know that I enjoyed her visit at Pemberley and that I should like to get to know her better." Hopefully, you shall, he thought. "I will make it point to relay your message to her." He left her to resume her practice. Georgiana stared at the closed door after he left the room. Darcy's departure was rather sudden, but if she correctly understood the reason for it (and she hoped she did) then it made perfect sense. Remembering an old childhood practice, she crossed the fingers of both her hands, closed her eyes and wished her brother good luck. "Georgiana, my dear, whatever are you doing?" Mrs. Annesley asked, looking up from her stitchery. Georgiana blushed, and resumed playing the piano. After a moment or so she stopped playing and folded her lap. She sincerely hoped it was not an invitation to stay at Rosings Park. If Mrs. Annesley could see her hands, she would have noticed that the fingers were crossed again. Upstairs Darcy had his valet pack for a week's sojourn into the country. Darcy would send for him if the need arose for a longer stay. He chose his green jacket for the journey on the morrow. These preparations seen to, Darcy returned to his study. The clock on the mantel chimed 10 o'clock. Nine hours hampered his departure.

I Just noticed part 2 posted twice, I have absolutely no idea how that happened.

Ooh Carolyn, I like it, I like it! Can we have the carriage ride as well? Darcy formulating his plan of attack? ;-)

YES!!!!! I knew he smirked!

always knew there is a career awaiting Carolyn

and let it be a lucrative one too, why not afterall...

If these other sequels are so awful, y'all really need to publish, I'm enjoying this!! Maybe that is why it is all so delightful, are you enjoying writing? I must go to the Guild and see if Cassandra finished!

THE GUILD HAS BEEN UPDATED!!! Please check to see if I missed anyone's story. It feels so good to be back!

It is good to have you back!

Ann -- I am glad to see you back. I hope your computer is feeling better, and that it will stay healthy!

Yeah Ann!!

Ann, glad you and your computer are back -- Long life and health to you both!! Carolyn, I like it very well indeed. Isn't it a good thing that Darcy practiced his inscrutable face from an early age!! Otherwise he might have laughed in Lady C's face!;-)

Ann, aren't computer withdrawals the very worst kind? Carolyn, I am transported -- do continue!

ELIZABETH AND DARCY PART 7 Later on that night, Elizabeth concluded that, try as she might, she would never fall asleep. During dinner, she had struggled to be pleasant and attentive to Georgiana, but it was indeed a hopeless case. Thankfully, Georgiana suspected and questioned nothing, insisting that she retire early for the evening. It was readily and unanimously accepted that Elizabeth was merely exhausted, both from the journey and her recent illness. This sympathy was, of course, a small comfort to Lizzy's tortured mind. As sh rested her throbbing head against the pillow, Elizabeth attempted to smooth out the rumpled bed sheets, a bitter testament to her endless tossing and turning. All at once, she reflected that she no longer knew what to expect upon seeing Darcy. The one letter that she had received from him, advising her of his planned trip to Hertfordshire, had been addressed as much to Bingley and Jane, as to herself. Indeed, the whole, maddening journey home, she had re-played over and over in her mind exactly what she ould say to him, carefully choosing the words she would use to express her sincere gratitude for his kindness to her family. Not once, however, had Elizabeth expected that her sudden arrival would coincide with Darcy's absence. Angrily, Lizzy noted that fate had robbed her of her planned course of action, and subsequently her courage. Once again, Lizzy's mind was riddled with the most heart-wrenching anxiety. Glancing at the mantel clock, Lizzy's spirits plunged even further. It was not even midnight. "Will this insufferable night ever end?" she thought disdainfully. Springing to her feet, Elizabeth reached for her rose-silk robe. Possessed by a stronger impulse, however, she found herself grasping for Mr Darcy's ever-present, grey coat. Tenderly, she lifted the sleeve to her lips. Closing her eyes, she wrapped the coat about her shoulders, revelling in the caressing warmth of its smooth texture against her sk n. "How handsome he always looks in this coat," she dreamily mused. "I can tolerate almost anything, but that he is thinking ill of me. What must he think of me? I behaved so selfishly and abominably." Endlessly pacing and re-pacing the floor, Lizzy's thoughts became even more alarming and terrifying: "Oh God! What if he is somewhere hurt. I cannot bear this torture any longer!" Almost immediately, she grabbed the candlestick from her oak nightstand and tentatively entered the darkened hall. The house was damp and terribly cold. The only movement beside her own was the incessant scratching of tree branches against the widowpanes. With a shudder, she pulled Darcy's coat even more tightly around her body. About to descend the stairs, Lizzy's colour changed as she eyed two men at the bottom of the landing. Much to her astonishment, it was indeed Mr Darcy and his steward, James, seemingly engossed in polite conversation. As if he sensed her nearness, Mr Darcy suddenly looked up and met Elizabeth's tearful gaze. For the briefest, most joyous of seconds they stayed inexorably locked in each other's presence, silently communicating all of the words that needed to be said. Her heart pounding, Elizabeth sprang to life and flew down the stairs; at the middle of the stairway, Darcy caught her up in his arms, cradling his wife's body as if he would never let her go. Ever so gently, he tasted the tears from her eyelashes, bestowin the smallest and sweetest of kisses on her eyes, forehead and mouth. In fact, Elizabeth and Darcy were so oblivious to everyone and anything but their own intense pleasure and hunger for each other that they failed to hear a red-faced James convey his polite excuses. "Dearest, loveliest Elizabeth. Tell me this is not a dream," Mr Darcy managed to utter as he playfully nibbled her earlobe. "Indeed-it is not a dream! My Darling, I could not bear to be away another hour, another minute from you. Fitzwilliam, you must allow me to thank-you for your kindness to my poor father. My behaviour to you that last night was intolerable, selfish.." "Dearest Elizabeth-you selfish? Your tireless attentions to your father at the expense of your own health prove you otherwise. You do not know how it tortured me seeing you in so much pain. And my own sense of powerlessness- not being able to relieve your family's sufferings. It was soon after our arrival at Longbourn that I learned from Col Fitzwilliam of Doctor Davis's distinguished reputation and accomplishments. And so we agreed to seek him out in London. But, I didn't want to betray any confidence un il I was certain that I could engage his services. I did not want to engender any false hope. My darling, there is no gratitude to express. You mean everything to me. It haunts me to think how close I came to losing you. Don't you know by now that your family, your happiness your concerns, your sufferings are forever intertwined with mine?" Playfully pressing her finger against his lips, Elizabeth met Mr Darcy's question with the most tender of kisses. Insistently, Darcy enfolded her in his arms; soon clothing, bodies, and lips became one in the most passionate and lingering of embraces. "Just hold me," Lizzy murmured passionately. "Don't ever let me go. I need you so much, so desperately." "At your service-Madam! But, perhaps we should continue this upstairs. As I told you once before, we neither of us perform to strangers!" Sweeping Lizzy off her feet, Mr Darcy raced upstairs.

Thank you Cass -- that is, indeed, a lovely romantic finale!! Big sigh of relief all around - Mr. Bennet lives, Darcy and Lizzie are together, and everything is right with the JA world!;-)

i like the big finish! (i think the staircase makes it more dramatic.) lizzy wearing darcy's coat was a nice touch, cassandra. and him sweeping lizzy off her feet....i wouldn't have had it end any other way

Bravo Cass! I, too, loved her going to his coat.(Reminds me of the early 80s) Thanks to you (and everyone) for sharing your talent. Has anyone tackled their honeymoon in Venice, all that water and all? Inko have finally read "Young Fitzwilliam" - very entertaining, but please don't make his mothers death any sadder than it has to be!

Very nicely done, Cassandra---very nicely done indeed!:-)

Chapter 6 Anne did not go back to her room, on the contary, she went trembling downstairs, she liked Miss Williams, and she knew her mother did a cruel thing, and for the first time, she lectured her mother: "Why did you send her away?" she asked firmly "Anne, I did it for your own good, your health does not allow so many learning" "My health! What do you know about me? What do you know about anything? You're always sitting in this drawing room not letting anybody but yourself to speak! There's more than Rosings Park, there is more than gossip, there is more than my cousin Fitzwilliam, why can't you understand it! And there's a bit of gossip for you: I'm not sick! Not a little bit! You only wanted me to think I am, so I won't bother you, I wanted to talk, so you shut my mouth, how like you! Everybody hates you, I hate you! You are t e most horrible person I've ever met!" Lady Cathrine was astonished, for the first time in her life somebody resisted her, her power as the mistress of Rosings Park, she had to stop it, somehow. "Anne, you are a child, you don't know what you're talking about, calm down a little and rest, my dearest" But Anne would not give up so soon, and she declared: "I'm not your dearest! I don't want to be dear to a woman like you! I despise you!" Lady Cathrine tried to be strict: "Miss Anne, I am your mother, and I tell you to go to bed, you are sick! Come here, you two, carry her to her room" Two servants came and lifted Anne, who struggled and yelled to her mother: "I hate you! I shall never forgive that! Never ever!" Lady Cathrine was horrified, and thought aloud "What am I to do? Oh, I know! I shall call Lady Anne, and together, we shall find an idea. What a clever idea of mine, indeed!" To be continued...

Just one word, sorry if it's getting too Jane Eyrelike.

Not at all, Ayelet! Keep going, dear!

Cass, Bellissimo! Ayelet, the making of Anne is becoming all too clear!

The famous scene in GWTW when Rhett takes Scarlett upstairs, my younger brother yells "why are they going upstairs?" (we were in a crowded movie theater) I naturally was mortified, only vaguely understanding myself, and my mother laughed for days. I imagine that story was retold often. Ayelet thanks for taking the underdog's side. I like Jims idea of having Anne run off!

Cassandra, I liked it excessively. Ayelet, keep going, please. I am quite like Anne, now.

Part 5. Two hours later Darcy was still awake. Anticipation and excitement would not let him sleep. He had tried to read, but after reading the same paragraph for the fourth time he gave up. He tried cards for a while. Mostly he paced about his room like a caged tiger. Every so often he would look at the clock against the wall. It moved with agonizing slowness. "Tempus fugit, indeed. More like tempus lentitudo*," he thought. Darcy tried to plan how he would now approach Elizabeth. His last proposal had been an unmitigated disaster (he shuddered as he recalled his own words) and he did not wish to make the same mistake again. Would a simple "Miss Bennet, I love you. Will you marry me?" be sufficient? Or perhaps "Miss Bennet, as you are aware, I have long held an admiration for you. I find that my regard has grown stronger over time. I have endeavored to correct those faults......I have endeavored to improve myse f...should he even mention the previous proposal? Maybe he should keep quiet on that subject unless she made mention of it. Had Elizabeth seen the change in his behavior at Pemberley? Darcy thought he had seen some change in her regard of him. Surely that smile she had given him held promise. Was she aware of his efforts to reunite her sister and Bingley? Had she been aware of his regard at her mother's dinner party? He had found it impossible to speak to her then, surrounded by strangers (to himself), but his eyes had never really left her face for more than a few moments. On one point he was clear in his thinking though. He would not tell Elizabeth about his involvement in the Wickham Affair (as he now thought of that event). That would only lead her to feel grateful and gratitude was the last emotion Darcy wanted from Elizabeth--it was such pale substitute to the emotion he craved. At one o'clock in the morning Darcy could hear a light, steady rain began to fall. Darcy become most anxious, a fierce storm would delay his departure. By three o'clock it had subsided, for which Darcy was most thankful. At four o'clock Darcy finally fell into a restless sleep that lasted little over an hour. Morning had come slowly. Darcy was ready and waiting for the coach a full hour before he had asked for it to be ready. He tried to be patient and was able to withstand his own impatience for a quarter of an hour. Then he ordered his carriage to be brought around immediately.

Tempus fugit, indeed. More like tempus lentitudo. tempus lentitudo--this is most likely wrong. If anyone know what the Latin equivalent to Time passes slowly would be please let it be known. Ann, if you want to substite :Time flies, ideed. A snail probably moves faster than that clock" or something similar is OK by me.

Ayelet: poor Anne but I'm so glad she found the courage to really tell Lady C what she and everybody else thought of her. Lady C had it coming!! Carolyn - I like your Darcy very well, indeed. Poor guy watching the clock, whether it has ordinary or Roman numerals!! At least we know it wasn't digital!

CRISIS AT PEMBERLY CHAPTER 6 For Charles Bingley life in politics was a dream about to come true. From the moment of his arrival at Parliament Square he felt comfortable and at ease with his fellow representatives. Kalon had called upon him early in the day following his taking up lodging at Hampton House. They proceeded to make the rounds of introductions prior to the afternoon debates in the Commons which was now in session. Warm greetings, hearty approbation and well wishes always accompanied this intercourse, perhaps as a conseq ence of Bingley's disarming smile and enthusiastic attention. Not surprising, then, was his unanimous election as one of six new members of the Lower House of Parliament. In celebration, Kalon hosted a gathering of several acquaintances at the Black Dog Pub that evening. "Welcome Parliamentarian," hailed Kalon with a broad grin as Bingley approached a large corner table in the noisy, dimly lit tavern. "May I present Mr. John Dobsen of Glocester, Mr. James Waldon of Warwick and Sir Michael Gravish of Oxford." Bingley bowed to each noticing that these gentlemen were not attired as men of wealth rather as local businessmen or shopkeepers. "Congratulations," Mr. Waldon was the first to speak, "I hope that you will profit by this experience and speak well for the denizens of Staffordshire. These are formidable times. A new age is upon us and all of Europe shall reap the benefits of Wellington's defeat of Bonapart." Mr. Dobsen added, "Aye a shining victory for his majesty. But the past two wars, I fear, may threaten the stability of Briton's economy for generations to come. There is a great deal of unrest in the population. So much of our resources have been expended on the military. This insufficiency may create a climate for civil disorder." "Yes, it is the truth," echoed Sir Michael, "but we may stave off a crisis if Parliament supports our cause." "Cause?" inquired Charles, "of what do you speak sir?" He was in a good disposition to participate and this situation had the sound of a threat to all levels of society. "There is a public bill before the House, as we speak, which would do much to provide relief for our economy, " continued Sir Michael. "It would provide land and revenue to raise additional crops as well as secure housing for our returning heroes of war. We cannot ignore their plight! This land is available through abandonment or slothful misuse. We propose that the government claim its title for shares to be divided amongst our veterans. If you would join our cause all that is requested is for you to pr sent a subsidiary motion to the Writ of Confiscation residing on the Speaker's agenda for Wednesday next. It would be your first opportunity for debate." Mr. Bingley was impressed. Here was a chance to improve the lot of the common man and it was a wonderful gesture to repay society's debt to its soldiers. He would do it. "Yes, I would be pleased to support this undertaking." "Excellent," responded Sir Michael, "here is a list of the particulars." He handed Bingley a folded piece of paper which Charles carefully placed in his breast pocket. "And now," announced Kalon, "let us further celebrate with another pint of fine ale!" The remainder of the evening was uneventful. Bingley's only recollection was of stumbling up the stairs to his room and a desire to write of the good news to Jane at first light. During the next few days, Charles studied the styles and mannerisms of his fellow representatives as they spoke before the House. Late at night he could be found formulating ideas and practicing his intended speech. It was obvious that the often boisterous rabble by his fellow members would be a challenge to overcome. He, therefore, often repeated stirring phrases designed to capture their attention. At last the fateful day arrived. The convention of the afternoon slowly passed. Bingley was aware that his motion was the last of the day's repertoire. The members had grown tired by nightfall and the mood of the floor was surly as the closing minutes approached. His was the third motion to be addressed as the Speaker shouted his name over the many side discussions currently taking place. Someone yelled, "Silence, let us hear from the young initiate." Bingley rose from his seat and spoke hesitantly, "My fellow representatives, we have just come through two devastating wars..." "Aye, you can say that again," was heard from his left. "Tell us something we do not know of," came from across the floor. The Speaker gaveled twice. Afraid of losing control, he raised his voice and continued, "We must take care that economic recovery is pursued without delay..." A few affirmations were heard. "Our men have paid a great price to preserve freedom and protect o r homeland.." A chorus of "Hear! Hear!" erupted. "We must repay that debt. We must ensure that adequate food supply is available for the citizenry. And we must house our uniformed population..." Support of the assembly was building and he was thus encouraged to proceed more forcibly, "The bill before you will provide humane treatment for our poor brothers who have felt the tragedy of battle. Wounded and homeless they return to our soil with only inhuman prospects awaiting their future. Shall we turn our acks to their plight? What small token of gratitude my we bestow?" The background sounds of approval were increasing with every phrase, "Tell us!" "Let us comply!" He could feel the emotion rising as a giant wave, surging in this glorious moment! " There is land and resource for the taking, with injury to no one, which this Writ would appropriate for the infantry..." Cries of "Where is it?" "Show us" were added to the dissonance. Bingley was now shouting, " I therefore beseech, no, I demand on behalf of all righteousness that this property be donated to our cause!" Remembering the list which he had not paid attention to since its delivery at the Inn, he withdrew it and read to cheers at each entry: "Greenstock Manor of Hayshire" "Lowings Park of Surrey" "Blackwell Estate of Essex" "Foxworth Landing of Suffolk" "Camdon Manor of Oxford" He paused, glancing at the final entry, but the momentum of the speech required a conclusion. "...and...a.....a.... Rosings Park of Kent!" Bingley slumped to his chair as the tumult continued and the session was ended. he was barely conscious of the back patting and laudatory remarks proffered as the audience exited. What injury had he just proposed be inflicted upon his best friend! While Darcy may not have been on the best of terms with his aunt, surely the entire community would rise up against this folly. How could Rosings, of such wealth and prestige, have been a part of the list? He knew what must be done. First he would inform his f iend of this action before it might be read in the Times, and second he must tender his resignation as a demonstration of good faith to his dear family.

Dina (Response 138): It was an attempt to portray LC as more human. Mrs. Bennet considered her at that moment as a kindred spirit: both mothers equally wronged by their offspring.

Dina (Response 138): It was an attempt to portray LC as more human. Mrs. Bennet considered her at that moment as a kindred spirit: both mothers equally wronged by their offspring.

Carolyn, the suspense is as hard on me as it is on Darcy! Tom, another great sequel!

Ayelet - You have really made Ann quite a character; can't wait to see what she does next. Carolyn - Wonderful. You've filled in these details so well. Cassandra - Thank you, thank you, thank you. The reunion I always wanted.:-) Tom - These are great sequels. How is dear Charles going to face Darcy?

Carolyn, I can so vividly imagine Darcy from your text.Great ,thanks. And as for Anne De Bourgh, I am terrified to think of her situation, she is practically imprisoned and severly punished, Aylet. And by her own mother! I was relieved to see her courageous and telling the truth to Lady Cath. Hope the servants heared it. As for Mr Bingley...the ale got the better of him...poor Charles, he must learn that pleasant manners are not sufficient.And how will Jane cope with this?Tom, are the elopements attended to? I will have to go back and see if I've missed something. I save the romance for special occasions Cass!

Anne, The Real Story Chapter 7 Lady Anne came in half an hour, she was a goodhearted woman, but was prejudiced and snobbish, therefore, she and Lady Cathrine got along extremly well, for when they talked, about the planned marrige their 8 and 6 years old children, Lady Anne gave up very often in their rare arguments, which suited Lady Cathrine perfectly, their conversation went along like that: "Oh, Cathrine, I am so glad to see you, but pray, what is the matter? You do look pale." Lady Cathrine wondered what to say, she did not want to be exposed by telling how she lost an argument with her six years old daughter, nor by telling what her daughter thought about her, a parent, she felt, cannot allow such things, so after a thought she said: "My daughter Anne behaved extremly ill and rude, I do not know what to do with her" Lady Anne tried to balance prejudice and kindness: "Indeed, a parent cannot allow such things, but Anne is such a sweet girl, and Fitz would like her so much, if he knew her, I cannot imagine what made her act so" "I can, she is a rude, stupid, ungreatful girl, I would bear it no longer, something has to be done, that's why I called you" "But Cathrine, I do not know either, but-" Said Lady Anne, with a sudden thought "How about sending her to school?" "School! Indeed, what a nice idea of mine! Thank you, Anne, for your pleasant visit, and I kindly pardon you for not helping me at all" said Lady Cathrine proudly. "I'm more grateful than words can express" said Lady Anne, somewhat sarcastic, luckyly, Lady Cathrine did not relize the tone of her voice and said: "And so you ought to be, Anne, would you not stay for a cup of tea?"

My, I forgot to say: To be continued...

Tom: Thanks, I understand now. Black Dog, someones been to Martha's Vineyard. What is it you do at NASA that you know so much about England and it's government? BTW, I enjoy your stories (actually, I enjoy everyones).

CRISIS AT PEMBERLY CHAPTER SEVEN Mr. Collins and his wife, Charlotte, returned to the parsonage at Kent without ceremony. The trip to Meryton had not gone well. Although Sir William was improved, their presence at Lucas Lodge had grown tedious after nearly three weeks. They had missed the ball at Pemberly and little contact was had with the community, especially while the residents of Longbourn were in Derbyshire. So it was that after reopening the house at Hunsford, the couple sought an early invitation to convene with Lady Catherine. fter several hours a note was forthcoming which advised only a short visit be attempted at 4 PM. Their curiosity peaked at such a restrained response to their homecoming, on arrival at Rosings, Mr. Collins inquired if they had been responsible for some offense to Lady de Bourgh. "Madam has been ill since the elopement of her daughter" removed any cheerful countenance intended by Mr. Collins. Charlotte responded, "When did this occur? Who is the gentleman and where is their destination?" The servant answe ed, " I am sorry ma'am, perhaps Miss Bingley can provide you with a history of recent events." Caroline Bingley entered the room looking wan and tired, "Please sit down. I will tell you what is known." After some minute's account of both elopements followed by questions and speculation, she concluded, "... and I understand Darcy to be enroute to Glasgow to intercept his sister." Mr. Collins was greatly disturbed. There followed a long diatribe concerning the injustices put upon the de Bourgh house. Som regret was also expressed by Charlotte for the Pemberly household, especially the burden placed upon Elizabeth for the actions which had occurred while Darcy was absent. Mr. Collins concluded, "At least you have derived from these circumstances the privilege of residence at the magnificent de Bourgh Manor. May we attend to Lady Catherine?" "The Lady does not possess the strength, I fear, for a visit of much length," Caroline cautioned, "however, her spirits may improve by your presence." They were shown to a large bedroom. Lady Catherine was propped upright in bed, but was evidently still distraught. "Dearest Lady, may we enjoin your grief and replace it with our profound sentiments of goodwill and forbearance," began Mr. Collins. "If we had but a preview of these events or news of their execution, we should have flown here with unabated haste." " Yes, yes, but what is being done to recover them?" she replied. "Am I to be abandoned in my last years without relations or civility? Is this my reward for years of provision? It is not to be borne!" "My Lady I can assure you that all energies are disposed to their discovery. And if they not be successful, Mrs. Collins and I would be most enraptured to provide for your care and entertainment." Lady Catherine put it to them directly, "And to what length will your attentions be sustained if the Manor is lost? This new law will deprive me of my settlement of 50 years!" Mr. Collins was taken aback " Such a disaster is surely unthinkable. Your patronage of this community has endeared you to all who reside in Hunsford. They will support you as long as I am a clergyman in this parish." "Which may not be long," sighed Lady Catherine as she sagged back into her pillows convinced that the diffidence of idiots was to be her destiny. "I must rest now. Thank you for the pleasure of your company." With that the conversation ended and the Collins were forced to retreat downstairs. "It is a sad course of events, " Charlotte observed to Caroline, "If this threat to Rosings be not imagined it will affect many families in the vicinity. Perhaps a change of venue would lift her spirits" "Yes, I have suggested London. She seemed receptive to the prospect of appealing the Writ of Confiscation now before the House of Lords. But I doubt she has the strength to endure a long campaign or bear further disappointment," lamented Miss Bingley. Caroline herself, was out of sorts as well. She was depressed and impatient to leave Rosings. Her depression could be explained by the abatement of her growing affection towards the Colonel. Her impatience came from being caught between the imposition of eld rly pride and the selfish actions of young lovers. She must soon depart this place or become even more intolerant of those seeking happiness. The Collins bid farewell and suggested that they return on the morrow with news from the community. Lady Catherine was always interested in the local developments. Charlotte was exhausted as they reclaimed the carriage put at their disposal for the return trip to their residence. Not a word was spoken. When they had left for Rosings Mr. Collins was anxious to repair the neglect of his garden and spoke of it at length. But now, he had been so decimated by the turn of events that he said almost nothing. C early the stability of his existence had been threatened with little opportunity to influence the outcome. And what of herself? Would not the fall of Rosings portend an end to her complacency with Mr. Collins? Despite her vows could she suffer the consequences without resentment for her discomfort? And could she provide family to a man whose parenting ability was suspect at the very least? Perhaps a change could open pathways between them yet to be discovered. As they reentered the Hunsford dwelling, passing through the hall, Mrs. Collin was met by the housekeeper, "Ma'am you have a visitor. A young lady. She is in the parlour. Although it had been many months since Elizabeth's wedding, Charlotte recognized her at once. It was Georgiana! She was somewhat disheveled in appearance and apparently distressed, "Oh, Mrs. Collins may I impose upon you to take me to see Lady Catherine?"

ELIZABETH AND DARCY PART 8 Bathed in the moonlight from the rear balcony, Elizabeth contently sighed and stretched her arm out to the nearby pillow. Fluttering her eyelashes, she soon realized that a bemused Mr Darcy was standing over her, intently eyeing her slumber. "Do you mean to intimidate me, Sir?" she archly said. "Indeed-I do not dare!" "A capital crime-invading the privacy of a lady's bedchamber. It shall not be endured! It must not be borne!" Lizzy continued, mimicking Lady Catherine's voice and affectations. Such an action deserves the most immediate and strictest censure. Your punishment shall be a kiss!" "I am certain I can do better than that," Mr Darcy seductively uttered. Pressing Lizzy against the pillow, he passionately kissed her. "You look like an angel," he whispered, gently stroking her face. "Take me to the balcony-Fitzwilliam. I want to see the moonlight reflected on the lake." Gathering Lizzy up in his arms, Mr Darcy, then, carried her to the terrace. Lovingly, he set her down again, resting his head against her own. "I can't imagine a more happily situated place than Pemberley. It is the most delightful, enchanting.." "The second most enchanting sight," Darcy interjected. Dearest, loveliest Elizabeth-you have brought life back to Pemberley. Tenderly, Darcy brought Lizzy's hand to his lips. His gesture and words touched Elizabeth deeply, bringing a river of tears to her eyes. "Tell me, Fitzwilliam. Why did you come back so early?" "Well, my business finished early and I had some matters to discuss with James. And after tonight's events with so bewitching a lady, I am certainly glad I did!" Elizabeth blushed exceedingly. "Seriously, my darling, I have been concerned about Georgiana. I know it has been a very lonely time for her since we left. I have even promised her a ball at Pemberley." "Yes-she seemed very pleased by the prospect. Fitzwilliam, that reminds me-there was something I should speak to you about. The very best and happiest of news. Sir David has finally asked for Georgiana's hand." "When did this occur? Why hasn't he spoken to me?" Mr Darcy remarked, somewhat angrily. "Darling-you know the awe and esteem in which Sir David holds you. From what I understand, this is a very recent occurence and I am certain the young man means to speak with you soon. I do entreat you to give your consent without delay. Certainly, you cannot doubt their mutual affection for each other?" "Indeed, I have no real objections to the match, both are well-suited in temperment. However, Georgiana is very young and ill-acquainted with the world. Still, if my sister can find as much happiness in marriage as I have, I could not possibly refuse her." After the longest of seconds, Mr Darcy continued: "It appears we shall soon be all alone at Pemberley." "Well, maybe not completely alone. Or so your excellent Doctor Davis informed me." "Dearest, loveliest Elizabeth..," Mr Darcy breathlessly uttered. The brilliant, luminous expression of Lizzy's dark eyes was the only proof Mr Darcy needed. Spinning her about in his arms, he attempted to express himself as sensibly and warmly as a man, violently in love with his wife and expecting the birth of his first child, can be supposed to do.

Oh Cassandra, how wonderful. Sigh

lovely, lovely, Cassandra! Tom,Great story! Ayelet, I cannot wait for your "continued"!

Cass, lovely story - both here and in drool fanfic!! Ayelet - can't wait to see how your story turns out! Tom - interesting that Charles Bingley is an MP. But, they are "members" not "representatives"! Sorry to be picky - but representatives remind me of congress --a very different club from Parliament.

So many lovely stories. How I love them. Ayelet - keep telling us about dear Anne. She is such a strong minded little creature, I dread knowing how Lady c will break her. Cass and Carolyn and Tom - your stories are great.

Cass what a great way to begin the weekend:-)

All of the stories are wonderful! Cass, both Mrs. Darcy and Mrs. Knightley with child -- you have been busy!

I wish, Susan. I WISH!!! And thanks to everyone(Susan, Cindy, Karen, Inko, Ann2, Anne, Cheryl, Carolyn, Caroline, Katy, Winter, Meggin, anyone I stupidly missed) for all the kind words and encouragement.

Carolyn -- sorry I missed you when you asked in chat a few days ago... "Tempus Lentitudo" means literally "Time is Slowness", so it has more or less the right meaning you want, but HOWEVER it's not really the opposite of "Tempus Fugit", because in Latin "Tempus Fugit" doesn't really mean "time rapidly flies by", but rather means "time flies away" (or "time flees away") -- i.e. the hours pass and they're gone, so (the implication is) one should stop wasting time already! But anyway, you could try "Tempus Repit" ("Time Crawls")...

Anne, The Real Story. Chapter 8 Anne was called downstairs, on her way, she heard two servants talking: "Have you heard what Miss Anne told her ladyship?" "Yes, of course, who couldn't? She yelled like mad" "But didn't the Lady deserve it? Nobody ever had the courage to tell her what they think, most of them are anyway too afraid to utter a word, I am so proud of our Miss Anne, I always knew she could do more than other people, who talk and talk and do nothin', Miss Anne never spoke when she didn't have a good reason, and now, my, did she speak!" "My, you are so right, I hope it will improve our 'dear' Lady Catherine" Anne smiled, but she was tired, she never did such a thing before, she poured her whole soul, and now she was left powerless. She had to collect energy again, and she knew better than anybody else it would take long, she needed a lot of courage to reject Lady Catherine, and although she did not have it at present, she knew she would have it someday, and decided to wait, bear her mother, and gather strength for another attack on her mother, she would not give the battle up till she wins, she was sure, she ould only wait and gather strength, it may take time, but she will have enough someday, she thought hopefully. After this consideration she went downstairs to meet her mother, Lady Catherine was sitting in her favorite chair, very stiff, Anne went to her, somewhat scared, and asked: "Well?" she knew she was to be punished, she just wondered how, and the only way to find out without getting a mile-long lecture was to ask. "Anne, you had behaved in a most unladylike manner" thus began the lecture "And you shall be punished, I cannot allow, indeed, as a mother, it is my duty to take care of you in the best way, especially when my chidl is so sick. Therefore-" she stopped to take a breath "You are to be sent to school" Anne felt a mixture of astonishment, happiness, and sadness. She was astonished because the first part of the lecture made her think of quite different a punishment, as no dinner or ideas like it, she certainly hadn't expected this "punishment", school meant going from Lady Catherine, meeting new people, learning again, trying to get over the lose of the only person who really liked her. Yet, she was somewhat sad, for despite everything, she liked Rosings park, she liked to walk along and imagine she's in fairyland, for one of the only people in England who never got orders from Lady Catherine was the gardener, and he happened to be clever enough to use it, and the gardens were beautiful sights, yes, she would miss all these, but people don't stay at school forever, and she decided not to be too bitter. Anne stopped her tears and screams of delight and said timidly: "When?" "In a fortnight" "How long will I stay?" "As long as I please, and no tears, I'm quite put-out anyway!" To be continued...

I'm quite put-out That sounds just like our Lady D, Ayelet! You are doing such a wonderful job with this story line!

BEWITCHED, BOTHERED AND BEWILDERED or OTHERWISE ENGAGED? Part 2 When the ball commenced, he could not refrain from watching and noticed that the clergical relation of the Bennet�s was Elizabeth�s partner for the first dance. This must be of some significance. Rumours had it that this man was visiting his relatives with the intention of choosing a wife amongst his cousins. Was it to be Miss Elizabeth Bennet then? What an appalling thought. He did not appear to be worthy of her. She ought to be able to marry someone of slightly better consideration in the world ... Mr Collins brought distress to his cousin during their dances; he was not attending and often moved in the wrong direction without even being aware of it. Darcy, perhaps due to some unconsious jealousy, felt an undignified stroke of malice at this akward display. It was visible on his face in the form of a contemptuous grin and he recieved immediate punishment as Miss Bennet noticed it and glanced reproachfully at him.Once again he was secretly pleased to have her aware of him. Any proof of his being on er mind , even in a form calling for blame was curiously agreeable. The next moment brought some clear-sightedness and made him realize, that it would not do for him to continually centre his attention on her every move, so he took to stalking about the room observing the other guests. His critical eye caught sight of Mrs Bennet eagerly chatting to Lady Lucas, no doubt conveying some idle gossip ; He noticed that Bingley, dancing with the handsome Miss Jane Bennet, had the expression of a man totally in love. Before he had time to consider this, a loud giggle made him frown at the unbridled and flirtatious behaviour of the youngest Bennet girl. He had finished his turn and resumed his former position in time to get another more pleasing scene before him. Miss Elizabeth Bennet was drawing the attention of more than one gentleman, moving her body gracefully through the last turn of the dance. As Darcy�s eyes were glued to this irresistible performance, an unexpected sensation of heat rushed through his entire body and a sudden dryness in his throat forced him to swallow. He was utterly overcome by the unseemly nature of his own reflections and wishes, and tried desperately to hold back, so that his eyes would not betray him. His thoughts were roving hither and thither:� I wish...to speak to her... why...I must. ..get near her ..it is....how... I shall .. ask her to dance with me... yes! Definitely! There can be nothing improper in that. It is merely what can be expected. I shall dance with Bingley�s sisters of course and perhaps with Miss Jane Bennet as well. But apart fr m Miss Elizabeth Bennet, there is not another woman in the room , whom it would not be a punishment to me to stand up with. I detest dancing with women unknown to me.What would I speak about?...empty compliments are abhorrent. Why should I devote my time to inferior women. They do not usually interest me ...but despite her unfortunate family, I find Miss Bennet to be witty and hrmm... entertaining indeed. Yes that will be half an hour pleasantly spent.� He thus reasoned himself from a state of complete onfusion into the opinion that dancing with Elizabeth would mean nothing at all but the common civility due to a friend of Bingley�s sisters. However he did not feel up to it just yet, and the time he took to recollect his composure, offered an opportunity for one of the officers to dance with Miss Bennet. They seemed to get on very well and the gentleman�s admiring glances were somehow a disturbance to Darcy�s peace of mind. He was on the alert as she returned to her friend Charlotte Lucas and abruptly broke into their lively conversation, making a courteous bow; �Miss Bennet - if you are not otherwise engaged - would you do me the honour of dancing the next with me?� Her reaction was, as always, not what he had expected it to be. She seemed to be confused and was having some trouble finding the words to answer his request. When she did, it was in a somewhat hesitant manner: �Why I...I had not...I thank you, yes! � He was not sure what to make of that and he was amazed at his own deed. As every word failed him, he immediately walked away, quite content that he had actually got her to dance with him at last . She had declined to do so twice during their acquaintance. The first occasion being at Lucas Lodge, where Sir William had tried to give her hand to him and,though extremely surprised, he would have been happy to recieve it, had not the lady drawn back and declared that she was not inclined to dance and that his own consent was only good manners. This rather elegant repost had been accompanied with the first sparkles aimed at him from her dark eyes. His initial interest in the contents of her conversation, the liveliness of which had drawn his attention, was heightened by his surprise at this most unusual reaction from a woman offered the honour of his company. And the twinkle in her eyes and smile on her lips saying : �Mr Darcy is all politeness.� had been agreeable indeed. The pleasure of looking into her eyes was of a kind hitherto unknown to him. Then one evening at Netherfield he had been observing her for hours and not knowing what to say to her, had fancied to dance a reel with her. At first she had not said a word, thus making him repeat his suggestion; whereupon her answer had been sort of defensive, as if he was attacking her. She had declined to stand up with him, but in the manner of her refusal there had been such a mixture of sweetness and archness that he was not in the least affronted. He had indeed, never been so bewitched by any wom n and from that moment had found it necessary to consider from time to time, the inferiority of her connections in order to keep his head clear and be realistic about it. Those recollections passed his mind before it was time to form up for the next dance. He felt almost solemn and glanced at Miss Bennet but her eyes were turned away. He knew not, that she was amazed at the dignity of being allowed to stand opposite to Mr Darcy, that she knew this amazement to be shared by many other guests, and that she did not wish for him to become aware of it. His conceit, in her opinion , certainly needed no support from her. to be continued

You are such a romantic, Cassandra, and that makes two of us! I am very fond of that scene when Lizzy and Darcy meet on the stairs.(Can't imagine why!) Very well done. I do so hope Anne will like it in school. It is your story Aylet, Lady Catherine will never know...! Glad Anne had that gardener for a friend. Was he the one who cut all the hedges and bushes in funny shapes? Young Fitz found them odd, remember?

Wonderful Ann! I love the use of the hmmm! You've recreated that scene from the ball perfectly.

Ann2, I love the way you get into his mind!

CRISIS AT PEMBERLY CHAPTER EIGHT "Miss Fitzwilliam are you aware that most all of your relations are seeking your whereabouts? We supposed that you had left the country," admonished Mr. Collins. "Richard and I are just now returned from Plymouth. Miss de Bourgh, Anne, requested a means of travel to meet her fiance, Colonel Fitzwilliam, to thus enable their departure. Consequently, we postponed our sailing from London. We subsequently discovered that a general military alert had been issued for Captain Denny which necessitated hiding by day and travel only at night." she responded. " I have a letter from Anne which I promised to deliver personally to Lady Catherine. After that we must make our wa to the coast and ten days hence are planning to leave England forever." "But your dear family..." Charlotte objected. "Yes they are dear to me, but Richard and I will be a family as well, " Georgiana was resolute. Seeing that argument was futile and cautious of causing further adversity, they acquiesced to escorting her to Rosings the next day. In the mean time Charlotte secretly wrote a letter to Elizabeth informing her of the developments and delivered it to the housekeeper for immediate posting once they were out of sight. Caroline Bingley was excited to see Georgiana but was outraged at her decision to continue with the elopement. Georgiana was patient, insisting on her course in life, that she had a right to create her own happiness. Eventually she was shown to Lady Catherine's room. The elder woman reacted immediately to her entrance and demanded to know what role she had played in the disappearance of her daughter. At that point the door closed. Caroline and Charlotte could only imagine the letter's content as the soun s of censure soon changed to sobbing. Then a hush fell over the room. After 45 minutes Georgiana emerged, shaken from the experience, and requested a brandy. "Is Lady Catherine well?" Charlotte asked. "Does she understand Miss de Bourgh's reasons for leaving?" Mr. Collins was quite agitated, "I should attend to her and provide the comfort of a church blessing." Things were not going well for Captain Denny. It had been agreed that he would proceed to London to secure passage on the "Merryweather" bound for Lisbon on the 17th. This was the first leg of their intended voyage to escape possible pursuit. He would then return to Rosings for Georgiana once she had delivered Anne's letter. What he had not counted upon, however, was the surprise encounter with the militia at a nearby pub. Traveling by night he had reached London, located secure lodging until morning and hen paused for food and drink at a local tavern. Even then he would not have been noticed except for his decision to join a man slouched over the table, thinking it would provide disguise from attention. Despite several pint glasses about testifying to an inebriated condition, the man straightened when Denny sat down. It was Charles Bingley! The two stared at each other for sometime before speaking, "Captain Denny, I believe. Did Jane send you to take me home?" Denny was puzzled. "Don't look so surpris d. I know that all of you are aware of the mess which I have created in the Commons. I have condemned Lady Catherine to a state of homelessness." Captain Denny was not about to expose his mission to those yet informed, hence he decided to play along. " You should not cast blame on yourself, I am sure you were of good intentions." Bingley was determined not to accept any excuse, " I have heard it said that 'The road to hell is paved with good intentions'... If only Jane would forgive me I could then face Darcy." "But why should she not?" countered Denny. "Would you not do the same for her? And if you were in her place would you not wish to console her and understand her motives? Is your friend Darcy also not a just man? Why should your mistake bring an end to the friendship. Has he never caused grief to someone as formidable as Lady Catherine?" The arguments sounded encouraging to Bingley, "Perhaps you are right. If you could help me to my room at the Hampton House, I will prepare myself for the trip home tomorrow." They left the Inn with Denny supporting Charles, at times staggering under his weight which was often propelled in random directions. It was this behaviour which called attention to three militia also exiting from the establishment. Their offer of assistance to Denny resulted in recognition by an infantryman of former acquaintance. After a brief scuffle, Denny was forced to flee, leaving Bingley to find his own way home. Elizabeth had not slept well in many nights. She longed for the situation of Georgiana to be resolved. William was absent again and she wished him to be with her. Word of the new threat to Rosings and Bingley's role in it had reached her the previous day. At first she was outraged that he could have been so insensitive for the sake of his own advancement. But it was so unlike his usual behavior that she was certain of extenuating circumstance. Besides the thought of Lady Catherine inconvenienced, despit her kindness to Kitty, was not wholly without justice. However, she dreaded any idea that this could lead to a residence at Pemberly. Jane, on the other hand, was so concerned over Lady de Bourgh's plight that she never mentioned the part her husband had taken in it. It was unfortunate that two expresses arrived at Pemberly at nearly identical moments. Lizzy, hoping for word from William, opened first the letter posted at Newcastle. It read: "Madam, an accident has occurred on the road near Dunbar in Lothian. Mr. Fitzwilliam was thrown from his horse and has been taken by cart to the Edinburgh infirmary. At this time the extent of his injuries is not yet known, but prior to his discovery he apparently lay in a basin below the trail for many hours." "Oh God no!" gasped Elizabeth. "I must attend to him at once!" She hastily pocketed both letters, called for a carriage and ran upstairs to pack some essentials. Upon the rapid departure she directed Thomas to send word to Jane. Within fifteen minutes the carriage was on the road headed North. The second letter from Kent had not been opened.

Inko (topic 192): Thanks for your help I was trying for a generic term and confess my ignorance. It really is an education.

Tom, is this Mr. Fitzwilliam or Mr. Darcy?? "Madam, an accident has occurred on the road near Dunbar in Lothian. Mr. Fitzwilliam was thrown from his horse and has been taken by cart to the Edinburgh infirmary." You also referred to Georgiana as Miss Fitzwilliam instead of Miss Darcy, I have changed that for the Guild.

"Miss Fitzwilliam are you aware that most all of your relations are seeking your whereabouts? Also the first line...

Ann: Thanks. Mr. Darcy is correct (trying to be too familiar leads to confusion); the latter, Georgiana, I should have caught it. Thanks again.

Tom, I made the corrections for the guild.

Ann: Thanks again to both you and Dina for such a quick response. It is nice to receive the attention.

Ann2, you have really caught just what Darcy was thinking throughout the Netherfield ball. I hope you'll continue, tell us what he was thinking while he was actually dancing with Lizzie, what he thought when Mr. Collins approached him at supper (was he trying to suppress a smile at this peculiar little man?) and did he overhear Mrs. Bennet saying "Mr. Collins has been particularly attentive to Lizzie and I don't think he will find a better wife"!! Tom, oh what a tangled web you weave!! I hope you will be able to sort it all out sometime!! Warning - more Little Fitz coming, probably tomorrow!

It is coming Inko, and probably more than you wished for ;-) Continued... BEWITCHED, BOTHERED AND BEWILDERED or OTHERWISE ENGAGED? Part 2 The musicians introduced Mr Beveridge�s Maggot and the music filled the rooms. Darcy bowed with elegance and when at last Elizabeth moved towards him, her eyes looked straight into his as their hands met for the initial figure. Her touch was electrifying and it took a lot of his concentration to proceed with the steps and move in the predetermined turnabouts. He could sense the perfumed warmth of her body, as she passed him during their dance, and it added to the severe attack on his composure . She made an observation and he managed to answer her and was then silent again. She reproached him on this, telling him that he ought to make some kind of remark on the size of the room or the number of couples. He smiled and assured her that whatever she wished him to say should be said. Later they got into some verbal combat, as he gathered that she considered them both to be unsocial, taciturn and unwilling to speak if they could not amaze the whole room. He argued that this was not a good description of her and that he could not say whether it was near his own character, but that she undoubtedly found it accurate. She answered :� I must not decide on my own performance�. His answer after some reflection was inward : �No, you can leave that to me, Miss Bennet, I would tell you, I enjoy your performance ; as a matter of fact I find it to be utterly enchanting. You are fresh air to me.� He experienced another breathtaking moment as a richness of dark ringlets swept dancing past his eyes and an impulse to pull her close to him and bury his face in her hair, had to be firmly subdued as he struggled to become his own man again. His inner lecture went:� What is this.. I feel..so ... a lack of ...sense. I�ll admit she is attractive, but that is no reason for me to feel so akward...I�m no schoolboy... Hope to God she did not notice... anything.� He endeavoured to look all ease and formed a q estion on the frequency of her walks to Meryton. He felt relieved as she answered him, thinking that he now had a conversation going. That hope was dashed when Elizabeth could not resist to mention a new acquaintance, hinting on the meeting with Mr Wickham. Darcy was annoyed, it was intolerable to have this man reappearing in one�s life again and again! It was not to be endured. He made a constrained remark, questioning Wickham�s ability to retain his friends once he had so easily got them. Elizabeth replied that he would probably suffer from the loss f Mr Darcy�s friendship all his life. Darcy did not answer and wanted very much to change the subject. Shortly afterwards Sir William Lucas complimented them on their dancing and he went on with an allusion to �a certain desirable event�. Saying this he looked at Jane and Bingley. Darcy followed the direction of his gaze and watched the couple with a grave expression. �So it has come to this already! It is a matter of gossip then. Bingley does not understand his own interest. I�ll have to give him some advice on this business. And I am sure she is only accepting his attention to please her mother. That calculating vulgar woman. Bingley is pleasant of course and it is clear that Miss Bennet is enjoying his company. But she does not appear to be at all seriously involved. It�ll be just another love affair of his after a few weeks . He does look rather committed, so there is no time to lose. I�ll deal with this tomorrow. � When Sir William left him to� his fair partner�, he recovered himself and proposed a discussion on books. But though he was smiling and even gallant, Elizabeth was thinking of George Wickham and declined the subject. She could not refrain from asking Darcy if he had ever allowed himself to be blinded by prejudice.�I hope not�said Darcy rather surprised at this and other questions �May I ask to what these questions tend?She had an earnest look and admitted that she was trying to understand his character.In flattered amazement he asked if she was making any progress, but her expression was worried and slightly embarrased, when she confessed having such different accounts on his person as to puzzle her exceedingly. Darcy , soberingdown, could imagine from where some less favourable reports might originate and adviced her not to sketch his character at the present moment. Elizabeth objected that she might not get another opportunity to do so. Suddenly realizing that they were not likely to meet much in the future, he felt lost, and his confused feelings made him answer quite coldly: �I would by no means suspend any pleasure of yours�. The dance was coming to an end and they parted. She did not appear to be in high spirits and he was displeased at first, but watching her now and then across the room, he was soon more favourably inclined and directed all his anger towards another.

and the last part... And even more so when Miss Bingley informed him that she had recently had a report on Mr Wickham and Miss Eliza Bennet. They had been noticed to enjoy each others company. Darcy had no wish to let Miss Bingley know to what extent her tidings affected him and just muttered something about confined country manners and uninteresting small town gossip. He was, however, displeased to know that Wickham was performing his tricks in the neighbourhood. But how was it to be prevented? Painful exposure would be invo ved and probably without reason.The man was bound to be more careful now. It was highly unlikely that he was persisting in his immoral conduct. Darcy wished to forget him completely. As the evening progressed, Darcy felt that is was almost as if he was provided with the necessary tools to break some spell he had been under. It was undeniable that the younger members of the Bennet family were sorely lacking in sense and that their manners suggested no carefully exercised education. Their behaviour was such as to be looked upon with contempt and disapproval. It was easy to percieve from where the bad example was emanating, since Mrs Bennet was frequently betraying a total want of modesty as well as propriety. Her relatives were of little consequence in the world; a brother in Cheapside doing God knew what, and a sister married to the lawyer in Meryton ! But these circumstances alone could have been overlooked. Had it only been this lack of connections, the insignificance of their relations...Well, that could not be so great an evil to Bingley as it...might be to others. Had she only been a sensible woman with decent manners and some judgement...The Bennet family must however be regarded as a most unhappy conne tion. Darcy admitted to a certain degree of compassion for the two eldest daughters. Their manners were pleasing and they were perfectly well behaved, apparently sensible and tolerably well informed, thus being remarkably different from the other daughters. But this could not improve their possibilities much, as every decent man of some intelligence would be discouraged at the prospect of such relatives. Then their silly cousin , without a proper introduction, imposed himself upon Darcy, to inform him that his noble patroness , Lady Catherine De Bourgh was in good health. Mr Collins� manners had exactly the ingratiating tune to fill Darcy with disgust though he kept an air of distant civility, while listening to the production of a long rigmarole about the countless virtues of his aunt . At the first opportunity he made a slight bow and moved another way. When they sat down to supper Mrs Bennet rambled on about �the sensible Mr Collins who had taken quite a fancy for Lizzy.�Darcy, who was sitting near enough to hear it, was disgusted :(Horrible.No wonder the poor girl was blushing.) She went on to reveal that �he had favoured Jane at first...but Bingley was there before him�( I do not believe my ears...why it is almost indecent). She then rejoiced on this happy match and how it would �throw her younger daughters into the path of other rich men� ( I�ve know such undignified speculations to exist...but never in my life did I expect to hear them spoken out aloud. Total want of propriety!) His earlier resolve to save Bingley from such low connections was strengthened by the minute. He noticed that Elizabeth Bennet, cheeks blushing , was endeavouring in vane to persuade her mother to describe her felicity in a less audiable whisper.( Most akward predicament for a young woman.) Miss Mary Bennet had in a somewhat forward manner placed herself at the pianoforte in order to entertain the company by playing and - unfortunately - by singing. For though her playing did not reveal any true feeling, it was to be vastly preferred to her vocal efforts , which were not at all fit for anything but family diversion. And alas she did not possess the necessary self-criticism, and made an attempt to let her first song be followed by another. She was then , in a much to obvious way, tactlessly cut short by Mr Bennet, who told her to let the other young girls exhibit!( No real sense of propriety to be found in this man either). Darcy saw Lydia Bennet fooling around with an officers sword. The younger girls behaviour was rather improper. Their unguarded manner was now more understandable. They seemed to have been left without guidance and a correcting hand, hence those deficiencies in their conduct. Darcy glanced at Elisabeth Bennet and saw that her face had an expression of humiliation. She... and her sister were indeed to be pitied. But it could not be helped. Bingley must be brought to reason, and as he was going to London in the morning, it would be for the best if they were all to leave Netherfield. Bingley intended to be back in a few days, but Darcy was confident that he could convince his friend to change his plans. If the certain evils of his choice were pointed out...And when I assure him of Miss Bennet�s indifference...He usually depends on my judgement. I honestly believe that our stay in Hertfordshire must come to an end. ******

Marvelous, Ann2 -- it was well worth waiting for. Capital, capital!

Thank you Ann2, you have, indeed, made my day. I'm so glad our ideas of what Darcy was thinking coincide!! I still don't see him as an insufferable snob - it's just that Lizzie's relations are such boors that anybody would hesitate to be closely connected to them!;-)

Ann H - Thanks for "maintaining" the Guild. and thanks for asking about Mr Fitzwilliam, I didn't catch it but did get Georgiana. I usually save files, but don't always have time to reread these stories carefully for several days. Thorpe - are you going to be able to untangle this web?:-) Mr Darcy had better not be hurt badly!!:-) Ann2 - (and Inko) thanks for a different side of Darcy I always thought of him as a rich, spoiled snob! But in a Regency sort of way.:-)

AnnR, you wove quite a spell in your bewitching story! Inko, I admire your persistence of vision! Cass, Ann, in fact EVERYONE on this and the other fan fiction thread, all have been most prolific in imagination and deserve some sort of Austen Award for creative writing!

AnnR, you wove quite a spell in your bewitching story! Inko, I admire your persistence of vision! Cass, Ann, in fact EVERYONE on this and the other fan fiction thread, all have been most prolific in imagination and deserve some sort of Austen Award for creative writing!

And I am sure she is only accepting his attention to please her mother. Now, that's an interesting thought.

Anne, The Real Story Chapter 9 Anne packed her things, besides the clothes, she took her doll, Helen, Anne was extremly fond of this little china doll, it was a present from Lady Anne for her sixth birthday, and when Anne felt sad, angry or even happy, she spoke about it with Helen, and pretended she's answering, therefore, Helen had very firm opinions of Lady Cathrine and Mrs. Jenkinson. In a fortnight her mother sent her in the Barouch to school, the school was in Derbyshire, and it was a day-long trip, Anne enjoyed the trip, she saw wonderful views of amazing places: Hills, lakes, mountains, fields, estates, all beautiful and new to Anne's eager eyes, Anne liked them so exceedingly she decided to try and draw them, the result was poor indeed, but at least occupaid her mind and hand, for otherwise she would have began to dance, just to use her extra-energy. At last she came to school, it was already dark, and she only had time to read her prayers and go to bed, without even being intoduced to the other studants, she had only enough time to glance curiosly at the other girls, All of them were tall, slim, pretty and about eleven years old, all except one. That certain girl was younger than the rest, about Anne's age, and she looked quite plain, but there was something in her mysteryous expression, that made Anne quite sure that despite the fact she did not hav the fair share of beauty, she got, instead, a kind and gentle humor, she wished to know her better. At last Anne drew her glance to the teachers direction, they seemed nice, but somewhat strict, she didn't wish to displease them, so she returned her eye immidiatly to her prayer book. To be continued...

ANN2-you've got me pegged alright! I loved your story and thank-you for the "unexpected sensation of heat" and hmmmms! Tom and Ayelet-Great! Looking forward to more.

Tom, did she really ask for a brandy?! Georgiana sure is coming of age. I enjoy Bingley and Denny stumbling about the streets of London, and am much concerned for Darcy, injured, in a ditch for hours... Nice touch with that china doll, Aylet! Thanks to all above for comments. And Inko, pleased to have a fellow 'from the beginning and all over' Darcy-lover , he has his faults, but then who doesn't and deep down inside him there is a treasure awaiting for 'someone' to find and appreciate.Did you find his reaction to Mr Collins too haughty? Eagerly awaiting news of Young Fitz, the dear boy ;-)

Dearest Ann! Thank you for your newest additions, it's so good to "hear" your voice again! ;-)

CRISES AT PEMBERLY CHAPTER NINE Following two days of hard travel, Elizabeth arrived in Edinburgh. She had hoped to stay with Lydia in Newcastle for a brief respite during the traverse but received word that the entire party was now in Scotland. Upon her arrival at the infirmary a nurse escorted her to Darcy. He was conscious with one leg wrapped in a splint, several bandages around his midsection and a bruise still evident on his forehead. He was conversing with a doctor as she burst in, "William, thank God you are alive!" She rushe to embrace him as he grimaced with the pressure on obviously tender ribs. Tears welled up as the relief of finding him could not be held in abeyance. "Dear Lizzy, I am of good health, except for a leg broken in two places. My horse stumbled and I remember briefly flying to earth. My next account is of waking in this room. The gentleman who is responsible for transporting me here sent you the express, and he has tended to the horse. It was an unfortunate accident and I apologize for the distress and inconvenience to you. But what news have you of Georgiana? The Wickhams' had left Newcastle when I first arrived there. Their party was on the way to Edi burgh according to the housekeeper." "I have little to relate on that score." She responded and then described the incidents in Parliament. After some thought William answered, "I cannot believe Bingley was responsible for this importunity without coercion. I must make some inquiries to ascertain why Rosings is considered a candidate for confiscation. Has Lady Catherine made her views known?" Elizabeth was reminded of the second letter from Kent. She quickly retrieved it and upon opening exclaimed, "Good God, Georgiana is at Rosings!" She handed Darcy the letter from Charlotte. After a quick perusal he sat upright, "the 17th is less than a week, we must be off at once." The doctor still within the room now stepped forward, "Mr. Darcy I would not advise the rough ride of a hasty journey in your condition." Darcy grimaced as he tried to lift himself off the bed. Elizabeth interjected, "Perhaps I can secure a boat of some kind in Leith. We could sail to London within a few days." The doctor shrugged and William smiled, "You are right! We j st might make it then." After a few minutes Lizzy was on her way to the Port of Leith to search for any available vessel. "Aye, she does not look like much, but for o'er 20 years I have fished these waters in her. We 'ave been to London now two years past," was the grizzled old man's offer. " I imagine she's the only boat in port, what with the fishing season at hand. We can be ready by first light on the morrow." Although she was not favorably impressed with the apparent condition of the boat, Elizabeth was grateful to have secured passage for them. It remained for her to return with the news and prepare William for trans ort to the docks. As she walked through the cluttered streets little attention was paid to the ominous clouds forming above. It was difficult to negotiate a pathway through the construction equipment and building blocks for the new Waterloo Place in the fading light of late afternoon. However, she looked forward to a night with her husband. The morning gloom was accentuated by a heavy mist. The fisherman had greeted then with long heavy coats, boots and slippery hats. The thirty foot scow now had several containers of provisions and boxes were stacked in front of the tiny cabin to give Darcy a seat with his leg propped up. The boat stank of fish and the well worn planks creaked constantly as they pulled out into the harbour. The silence of the early morning was broken only by an occasional coo of a passing gull. As they drifted out from sho e the cold dampness made Lizzy thankful for the heavy coat and she huddled next to William. He was in some discomfort but kept a reassuring smile whenever Elizabeth looked at his face to check his condition. They drifted quietly with the current as the shoreline cliffs of the Firth of Forth occasionally could be made out looming in the mist. Elizabeth's thoughts drifted as well in the dreamlike setting. She wished they could have had time to find her sister Lydia and George, and uncovered the identity of their mysterious "mutual friend." The carriage and horse had been sent back to Pemberly. She wished they could have traveled by road for she was not fond of the sea. As a young girl she remembered several trips to Brighton, but aside from the shoreline beauty, never indulged in water sports. The boat was gaining speed now as she turned to th old man, "How long until we make the sea?" The fisherman was sipping ale when he glanced at Lizzy. He too was wearing heavy clothing, his face nearly covered with eyes set on a distant yet unseen milestone. "Won't be long ma'am. The current 'ardly demands a sail. We may do well without one once the sea current is felt, I expect a bit o' weather to be bothersome." Indeed, the morning mist had turned to light rain and the boat began to pitch somewhat signaling open waters ahead. "Darling are we assured of the right course? " she inquired of William. "We must trust a man who knows the sea" was his reply. "No, I mean to say, are we convinced that Georgiana has no chance at happiness with this elopement? Perhaps we are selfish in wanting her to remain in Derbyshire." "Georgiana does not have the slightest idea of the hardships facing her in a life with Denny," William countered. " Why throw away a position of influence and culture for one of the meanest survival? It is a life without purpose." "But surely each person should have opportunity to make of life a world of their own choosing. And if this be a mean existence then happiness indeed may be found in daily improvement," She continued. "Industry at any level may benefit mankind and who is to say our lot in life will provide the greatest worth?" "My dear, the estate of Pemberly provides for hundreds of our people," he answered. "The economy of England is measured by the well being of her men of influence. Surely the policies we decide upon provides the greater worthiness. Industry, indeed may be found at all levels of society, but so can sloth. We are not at liberty to pursue idleness while maintaining the cost of Pemberly." "Yet the masses are in want. Have we lost compassion for those who are hungry because they are not men of station or influence?" She wished for a solution, "And is Captain Denny of such low demeanor that he may not have potential for some success? Surely his military experience may serve him well in foreign land. And if this match be destined for ruin cannot Georgiana be yet rescued?" "It is a risk I am unwilling to endeavor upon," William responded with less conviction than he portrayed to her. The boat began to pitch more violently. Sea spray could be felt with every rise and fall of the bow. Rolling waves were now several feet in height as the boat worked its way further from land. The wind swirled with rain hitting them horizontally, square in the face. Between the splashing and howling little else could be heard even the creaking of the boat was drowned out by the noise. Clingi g to each other, Elizabeth fervently wished the voyage to be at an end. She tried to see the old man, seeking some reassurance for the menacing situation, but she could not stand with water streaming everywhere about the boat. The mast groaned with every sway as the waves intruded more and more onto their deck. Suddenly, a crash was heard over the din, a six foot section of the port side railing was gone! Elizabeth screamed.

YOUNG FITZWILLIAM DARCY--Part 18 Sir Lewis de Bourgh, seventeen years older than his wife and very frail during the past year, died a few weeks before Fitz' tenth birthday. Mr. and Mrs. Darcy travelled to Rosings for the funeral but decided to leave Fitz at home; they agreed that he need not be exposed to such a cheerless time. Fitz did not regret missing this visit nor did he grieve very much over the loss of Sir Lewis; he had known him very little and only felt sympathy for Anne who would no longer have her father's leavening wisdom to combat the unrelenting care of her mother. When his parents returned from Kent and London they presented him with a very welcome birthday present, his own light weight gun made especially by the best London gunsmith. "Thank you, thank you both. Will you teach me how to use it, father?" Fitz asked; he was delighted with this present. "Yes, Fitz, I will teach you to shoot, but first you must learn the safety rules; how to carry it, load it, clean it, and lock it away with the other guns. You have got to be responsible about its use," his father told him. The summer months sped by as Fitz learnt and practised his shooting skills. He was very proud when he first brought home a rabbit he had shot instead of the usual trout caught in the stream, receiving Mrs. Reynolds' and the cooks' congratulations with a big smile before running off to find his parents to tell them of his latest feat. The usual shooting parties arrived at Pemberley in August and Fitz was often allowed to go out with them, in particular when Pierre arrived to spend six weeks at Pemberley. His English had become quite fluent in the past year, but Fitz insisted on learning more French, and even George picked up a few words when he joined them to ride or fish. Fitz was glad of Pierre's company, especially when George left the area in September to go to Berkshire School near Reading. George was excited about the new adv ntures ahead of him; and Fitz, while he had Pierre's company, did not miss him. During the horse chestnut season, Fitz again rode into Lambton nearly every day. He had just dismounted from his horse, one afternoon, when he saw three large boys surrounding a much smaller boy, beating and taunting him. Fitz ran to help the little boy and save him from his persecutors. In the ensuing melee Fitz landed a few successful punches on the bigger boys who fled the scene, shouting curses at him and the name of Darcy. The younger boy stood close to Fitz, stammering his thanks to his rescuer "There is no need to thank me; I only did what I thought was just; please do not mention this to anybody. But tell me, why were those boys beating you?" asked Fitz. "They said I was not allowed to collect the horse chestnuts; that they were their property alone" replied the boy, "but I need them; I want to try some experiments with them." "That is nonsense! The chestnuts are free for everybody. What is your name? How old are you? And what is your experiment?" Fitz asked a whole string of questions without stopping. "I am Joe Miller; I am eight years old; and I was going to try and grow a tree from one of the chestnuts. If I take all the coverings off the nut and plant it, it might grow into a tree." "Do you like to experiment with plants then?" asked Fitz. "Oh, yes. I like growing things; plants, flowers, vegetables, anything that will grow in the garden." "And you have a garden here, in Lambton?" Fitz asked. "We have a very small one where I grow some flowers and vegetables. I was going to plant the chestnut at the other corner of the green over there so that there would be another fine tree like this one," Joe told Fitz. "Well, Joe, when you are older, if you still like cultivating plants, come out to Pemberley; perhaps my father will hire you as a gardener. We have a vast amount of space where you can experiment and grow flowers and vegetables as much as you like," said Fitz. He collected some chestnuts, handed them to Joe, mounted his horse again and rode back home, rather pleased with his afternoon's adventure. He had never before had the chance to test his courage against such ruffians, larger and older than himse f, and was glad that he had not faltered. Two days later Fitz again rode to Lambton and, approaching the chestnut tree, saw Joe waiting near by. Joe ran over exclaiming, "Darcy, you must allow me to tell the villagers what you did for me on Tuesday; the other boys have spread it about that you are very disagreeable and ill-natured, and I know there is no truth in it." "Never mind, Joe. You may tell your parents, if you wish, but as to the others, just let it be. You and I know better, and I care little what the other villagers think," replied Fitz. "All right, Darcy, but I think it most unfair that those boys can spread such lies about you. I hope that one day the truth will be known to all," Joe said as he ran off down the street.

YOUNG FITZWILLIAM DARCY--Part 19 Mr. Stone knocked on the door of Mr. Darcy's study whilst trying to compose his face. It was the day after Christmas and, unlike his frown and somber expression of the previous year, he was smiling broadly and his eyes were shining. The only barrier between his present and future happiness lay in the ensuing interview with his employer, although he felt reasonably secure of a favorable outcome "Mr. Darcy," Mr. Stone began, "if you could spare me a few minutes of your time, I have a serious matter to discuss with you." "Of course, Mr. Stone," Thomas replied while noticing the slight smile and happy light in Mr. Stone's eyes; "but I do not know what can be so serious while you look so very cheerful." "I am happy, Mr. Darcy. Miss Field has done me the great honour of consenting to become my wife." "Congratulations, Mr. Stone. Lady Anne and I were hoping that the two of you would find happiness together and, I must admit, lately we have only been wondering when the announcement would be made; we have long held suspicions that this was only a matter of time," Thomas said with a smile to equal that of Mr. Stone. "When is the happy day to be?" "That is what I want to discuss with you, sir. As you know, when I marry I must give up my fellowship at Cambridge; I would then like to take orders and enter the church. We are willing, however, to wait until Fitzwilliam goes to Eton." "I would not want you to wait too long, Mr. Stone; that would not be fair to either of you." Thomas Darcy considered for a moment and continued, "the living at Kympton is filled at the moment, but the one in Lambton will be vacant in June when Mr. Cooper is raised to bishop. I feel sure he would welcome you as his curate at any time and you would then be in a position to take over the rectory when he leaves. Would you like the living at Lambton?" "Mr. Darcy, that would be the perfect position for us. Miss Field's family lives in Matlock, as you know sir, and she hoped we could remain in the area," Mr. Stone replied, happy at the thought of remaining in Derbyshire, a country he had grown to love. "Let me speak to Mr. Cooper on your behalf then, Mr. Stone," Thomas Darcy continued; "also I think we could send Fitz to Eton this spring, for the start of the Easter-Trinity term. It would only be one term earlier than we had intended. Do you consider him to be ready?" "Yes, academically Fitzwilliam is more than ready; but socially he may have some difficulties. He is as yet quite shy and does not mix easily with strangers. Perhaps he will overcome this when he is living and learning with other boys of his age and rank." "Will you announce your intentions to my wife and Fitz or do you wish me to tell them?" Thomas asked before continuing, "as soon as our Christmas visitors leave in January, you and Miss Field must join us for dinner and a real family celebration." "Thank you, sir. I would be happy if you could apprise Mrs. Darcy and Fitz of our plans because, as you know, we are going to Matlock for the next week and we do not want to interrupt your family or guests with our personal concerns. We will look forward to a family celebration on our return to Pemberley," Mr. Stone said as he prepared to leave the study. Two weeks later Fitz, unusually distracted during his Latin lesson, suddenly asked his tutor "what made you and Miss Field decide to get married?" Mr. Stone, startled by the question thought a minute and decided to be perfectly open with his pupil. "Because we love each other. That is usually the reason people decide to get married, Fitzwilliam." "Oh, I thought it was to carry on a great estate, and you do not have one, do you? How do you know when you love someone? What is it like?" Fitz asked, very curious about loving someone other than his parents. "It is difficult to describe. Love is a very personal feeling, different from one person to another. For me, it is the knowledge that my life would not be complete without Miss Field beside me every day in the future. It is like coming home to the other half of my being." "I've never felt anything like that. Do you think I will find that kind of love when it is time for me to marry?" Fitz was still rather puzzled and very curious. "I certainly hope you will not marry unless you do love your intended bride," Mr. Stone told Fitz. "But you are too young, as yet, to worry about such things." "My aunt Catherine once told my mother that I should marry my cousin Anne, but I do not like her at all. She is so insipid, she never speaks, and she is always ill. My aunt can not make me marry her, can she?" "Whatever she may wish for you and her daughter, she can not force you to do what you do not wish to do," Mr. Stone reassured Fitz; "come on now, back to these Latin verses."

YOUNG FITZWILLIAM DARCY--Part 20 The season of courtship passed uneventfully for Mr. Stone and Miss Field; they remained in the school room by day, and only when Fitz was otherwise occupied and in the evenings did they spend private time together. At the end of March Mr. Stone returned to Cambridge, where he resigned his fellowship and received his ordination. On his return, Fitz and his parents witnessed the marriage in Matlock church; the bride and groom left immediately for their new accommodations in Lambton, whilst the Darcys ret rned to Pemberley for a day before they travelled south. Fitz was quieter than usual on the road to London. He was thinking of a recent conversation with Mr. Stone, trying to understand its meaning. Two days before his marriage Mr. Stone had found Fitz sitting by the trout stream and sat down beside him asking, "are you excited about going to Eton and your new life at school, Fitz?" "Yes and no," Fitz replied; "I am excited but also a little apprehensive. What if the other boys do not like me? Will I be able to make friends?" "I think you will have no trouble making friends, Fitz," Mr. Stone reassured him. "You will have your lessons together, live in the same house, eat the same meals, and play the same games; you will have much to talk about; and remember your classmates will come from similar homes to yours and their young experiences will be like yours. Only members of the best families go to Eton. It is one of the oldest schools in England." Mr. Stone paused, thought for a moment, and continued "the best way to make riends, Fitz, is to be a friend. They will accept you if you are open with them." "I will try to be open and talk more," Fitz determined; "I want to have many friends." "That is good, but most of all, and heed this well Fitz, do not be afraid of making mistakes, provided that those mistakes do not hurt any other person. This is the time in your life when it is acceptable to make mistakes, or else how will you ever learn. Remember that you do not have to be perfect at everything you do; try the different sports and whether you excel or not is of little matter; attempt some different course work whether you are first or last in your class. If you do not sample different ways, you will never learn to appreciate what you really can accomplish well and what gives you the most enjoyment." "Do you mean that mistakes do not matter?" Fitz asked, very puzzled. "I mean that you should not be so afraid of making a mistake or not excelling that it would stop you from attempting something new," Mr. Stone explained. "I advise you to be open to new ideas, new people, and new adventures; in that way you should have no problems at school." Fitz was considering these words when his father asked him why he was so quiet. When he told him about Mr. Stone's advice, his father replied "that is excellent advice, Fitz, and something I should have told you long ago. Mr. Stone has been a good friend to you." "We certainly want you to enjoy yourself at school, William, but remember that you must never disgrace the Darcy or Fitzwilliam names," his mother cautioned; "politeness and propriety are expected at all times in society, no matter how many new adventures you might attempt." Fitz continued to puzzle this contradictory advice--try new things, make new friends, do not be afraid to make mistakes, be polite, be proper, enjoy himself and have fun--how could he manage to do all that? "I will have to ask Edward for some guidance on our way to Eton," Fitz determined to himself, and settled back to enjoy the remainder of the journey to London.

Inko - Mrs. Field Stone. Cool!

Katy, you're sharp! I hadn't thought of that, since using your maiden and married name is a very modern, American thing! But, Mrs. Field Stone might have been the origin for the north England drystone walls once the enclosure laws were passed!;-)

Inko -- nicely done. I am enjoying watching (y)our young man grow up.

If I had time (and motivation), I would love to hear of how Bingley and Darcy first met. Anyone wanna try this one?

Becks, it's going to be part of Little Fitz! Just have to wait a while!!

Inko, your Fitz makes it difficult to me to write how Anne and Darcy disliked each other ;-) Anne, The Real Story Chapter 10 In the bedroom, after the other girls were asleep, Anne had a talk with Helen: "Helen, do you like this place?" "Yes, Anne. I'm quite fond of it, I think these girls are extremely nice" Anne said, holding the doll. "But Helen, don't you feel lonely? I do miss Miss Williams so" "It's hard to get used to new places, but I love this place, and it would not be long till you would, too. And as for Miss Williams, I miss her as well as you do, but every time you feel lonely, remember her whisper: "Be brave", if you want to give her a reason to be proud of you, you ought to be brave, this was the only thing she asked, don't fail her." With this sentence, Anne knocked herself down in the argument, so she kept silent and soon fell asleep. After breakfast, Anne was introduced, and put in the second grade, with five other girls: Miss Wilson, Miss Lane, Miss St. John and Miss Hills, to describe them, it is best to use her description to Helen: "Mary Wilson is rather pretty, but she's SUCH a snob, she didn't even look at me, only because I'm younger than her! Diana Hills is nice, but she is so contentrated in her lessons, I couldn't change a word with her, as much as I tried, but I'm sure I'll succeed, you can't get rid of me easily. Caroline St. John is very tall and long-necked, Diana calls her fondly "swan", but she doesn't mind, I think she rather likes it, I would like it, if I were her, she and Diana are best friends. As for Anna Lane, she is very plain, but I like her despite of it, everybody likes her, she is such a dear! She is silent, but when she sees somebody needs any kind of help, she is the first to offer it, it was her who introduced me to the other girls, and asked if I may sit next to her, and made me feel welcome, I like her so!" To this Helen replied sharply: "I'm glad you are, and if you'll kindly shut your mouth, I'll be more grateful than words can express" But Anne was not in the mood for listening to the advice she gave herself, and went on: "And my teachers are almost as nice as Miss Williams, they are so kind and nice and teach so perfectly, but one teacher causes me a great deal of trouble: Mrs. Johns, my drawing teacher, she doesn't see that I try my best, and declares I'm a horrible artist, that my way is totally wrong, I do wish that instead of telling me what not to do, she'll tell me what to do, it would be much better, don't you think?" "I think it would be a great deal better if you'll manage to keep quiet" To be continued...

Cass, re: E&D, Part 8 one word - hurrah!

Great Inko! What great work you have done!

Ann2, Ayelet, Cassandra, Inko and Tom - You all have wonderfully entertained me yet again. Keep up the great work!!

Wow, I come home, and three stories await me! fantastic!thank you, all! Inko, do you have plans for Joe Miller and Phil?

Caroline, Joe Miller is Hanna's brother (I think that's her name, the servant at the Lambton Inn?) and Joe is the gardener she mentions at Pemberley!! But Phil??? Don't remember one! Do you mean Pierre? No major plans for him at the moment - he may come back in later. He was useful for the moment for teaching Wickham how to say "Au Revoir", as the French would have it!!

Inko -- marvelous, a good story as well as foreshadowing P&P2! I love it more and more. :-)

Chapter 11 As Anne told Helen, Anna Lane was an angel, she was quiet and thoughtful, but woke from her dreams the minute she sensed somebody needed help, she was friendly and talented, therefore, it was only natural that she and Anne would become best of friends. They sat and talked at the evening, changing information about books and dolls, but mostly about their estates. They talked about them so much that each had a picture of the other's estate in her mind, with every tree and leaf placed carefully, each knew th names of all the people, each knew the names of the dolls and dogs, each knew every detail about the other. And when they learend enough painting to paint a tolreable picture of what she had in mind, they amused themselves in painting hundreds of pictures of people, trees, bushes and lakes they learend about from their long talk, and fixing each other's tiny mistakes, for an instance, Anna would draw the cherry tree near the door, and Anne would observe: "No, Anna, this would not do, you drew ten branche coming out from this branch, don't you remember there are only nine?" And Anna would lift her eyes from her work and say: "You are quite right, I forgot. Anne, look at the picture you're drawing of my doll Elizabeth, you needn't draw lace on her dress, she hasn't got any. Here's Elizabeth, you can use her for a model if you wish" and with those endless talks, a few weeks passed. One morning, Mrs. Wood told Anne that she has to be sent home, nobody told her why. Anne parted from Anna and all the other girls with tears, they all grew fond of each other, and even Mary Wilson had gone as far as telling Anne she was sorry. to be continued...

CRISIS AT PEMBERLY CHAPTER TEN Elizabeth was certain that the boat was disintegrating, but William yelled to hang on. He tied the two of them to a large beam at the base surrounding the ship's hold as they were thrown sideways with each rocking motion. The little boat was lost among swells now reaching over ten feet in height. As they were thrashed about with each crash of the bow it felt as if the timbers weakened. The cabin was the next to go. A huge wave tipped the boat nearly on its side, when it uprighted the tiny structure was mi sing along with it the old man who had apparently retreated inside. Shortly thereafter the mast broke with the upper piece narrowly missing Darcy before taking more of the boat's siding into the water. The icy wind galed and the sound was deafening. All they could do was hang on and hope that enough of the boat would be left to stay afloat. By evening the storm seemed to subside but the pitching and rolling lasted through most of the night. As morning came they lay exhausted, dripping, chilled through but the boat was still upright and both were grateful to be alive. Jane heard the approaching horse. It was Charles at last! She ran to the door and embraced him as he entered. "Can you forgive me, Jane?" he began. "I hope sincerely that Lady de Bourgh will not lose her home. All I can offer her is the fact that I have quit Parliament and will do everything in my power to repair the damage to our relationship with the Darcys." He then provided a description of the events leading to his speech before the Commons. Jane reacted, "Those scoundrels!" But after a moment's pause, "Perhaps they meant well, but were given misinformation regarding the estates." "I have spoken with Lizzy. We both had felt that there must have been extenuating circumstances," Jane reassured. "I am afraid Mr. Darcy is too much distracted with Georgiana's elopement to attend to Lady Catherine's predicament. In fact Elizabeth and William have now left Edinburgh by boat to intercept them in London. Their carriage returned yesterday with a note arried to me by the driver." "Edinburgh?" Binkley stared blankly. "Yes we received word from Kitty of a former friend from Meryton visiting Newcastle with an intention to travel to Scotland. We concluded it must be Captain Denny with Georgiana. William was enroute to Edinburgh when an accident occurred. He was thrown from his horse and suffered a broken leg. Elizabeth then joined him with news from Kent that Georgiana was at Rosings intending to depart from London with Denny on the 17th," she finished. "Good God, what a mess!" he replied. "I hope Darcy has recovered. Tomorrow is the 17th. I hope they make it in time. It is clear to me that I should remain in Staffordshire in the future. But perhaps we should travel to Kent to apologize and explain the consequences of the Writ to Lady Catherine. I believe my sister is still at Rosings; it would be good to see her again." "I have some other news to keep you near home," Jane offered, "in seven months we shall be a family of three!" They embraced with Charles feeling that he was now where he belonged. It had been several days since the storm had struck. As the remains of the boat drifted without means of control or propulsion, Elizabeth was becoming forlorn, "Are we to die at sea then?" Despite the tin of biscuits that William had salvaged, they both were thirsty and hungry. "Stay calm Lizzy, I am certain the southward currents will take us to shipping routes near the Thames, or even to the Netherlands," he smiled weakly. "It may be a little longer, but I feel we should see land presently and then be able to determine our whereabouts." The waves constantly lapped against the sides of the slanted hulk. There was little to be seen as far as the horizon in any direction. Aside from the sea there was quiet all around. Nor was conversation much attempted given the difficulty of parched throats. Time past slowly. Lizzy reflected again upon the elopements. How different the perspective of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Anne de Bourgh, now on their way to America, when compared with Georgiana and Captain Denny's irresponsible actions. Both fled what they perceived to be impossible circumstances brought on by a stifling society. Yet the Colonel had taken a course of action, without regard to the sentiments of Lady Catherine, which Darcy felt was a measure of logical thinking and which would probably achieve a successful con lusion. Captain Denny, with little resource, had acted impulsively, without question, but by a similar plan was doomed to pursuit and inevitable disaster. Was Denny of so little merit as not to be considered worthy of Georgiana? Was there not a course available similar to the one which had raised the status of both Jane and herself to bring him to a gentleman's position of affairs? Could not William help them to achieve a life of happiness under the auspices of Pemberly? Perhaps the experience with Wickh m had permanently affected his judgment when it came to Georgiana. Elizabeth was determined to make the situation right if only they recover the errant couple. All at once Elizabeth noticed a glint on the horizon. It was difficult to make out with the sunlight dancing off the waves. She squinted. There it was, the sail of a ship! "William look!" she shouted. In a few moments the mast of a merchantman under full sail could be seen coming in their direction. They were on their feet, yelling, waving, trying to draw attention to themselves. The ship was moving to the south of their location but was now near enough to make out the three masts with billowing sails It was a beautiful sight! At last an end to their ordeal! As the barquentine hove to and fro, cutting through the water, Darcy could make out below the foresail her name, "M..R..H..ER", ... "MERRYWEATHER" he informed Elizabeth, relieved to identify any ship. It was now passing near a half mile south of them. Figures could be seen moving about as the ship was making at least 20 knots. As the mizzensails came into view it was apparent that they had yet to be discovered. Jumping and yelling they conti ued to motion towards the remains of their boat. But the unyielding motion of the ship continued. The ship was now receding from them without acknowledgment. Their hearts sank. The means of rescue was disappearing. The Merryweather had not stopped.

Tom, Tom, You cannot just LEAVE them like this! Have pity, please!The North Sea is not forgiving, ever!

Chapter 12 After Anne got home, she asked her mother: "Why?" silently. "Because Lady Anne died and she wished you'll be in her fernual" "Lady Anne! Dead! Why? How? When?" Anne was shocked, if there was somebody in her family she liked, it was Lady Anne. Lady Anne was fond of her, and if she knew how Anne suffered from the engagements with a child she did not see in her life, she would not have orginized them in the first place, she did everything in belife she was doing only good. Anne knew she shall miss Lady Anne. "She was very sick" "Don't you miss her? I shall always miss her! I liked her!" Lady Catherine made a confession she never thought she would make to her child, she said: "I do miss her most exceedingly, she was a dear friend of mine" This had made Anne understand, in a sudden flash, that her mother was a person as well as her, she cared for people, she truely liked her sister. In this moment, Anne forgave Lady Catherine everything, and made a new plan: She shall not stay at home forever, nor marry that "Darcy", but she would not lecture her mother, someday, when she will be a big girl, a woman, she would just announce that she is going, and go, she made up her mind to act so, when she'll grow up, and silently hugged her mother. At the fernual, she saw a child, two years older than her, crying near the grave, she went to him, and asked: "Was it your mother?" "Ye-e-s" weeped the child "So, are you Darcy?" "Ye-s" said the child, surprised "How do you know?" "I heard much about you, you probably heard as much of me from your dear mother, oh, Aunt Anne!" Anne began weeping as well "Are you Anne?" asked Darcy "Yes" "Why, you are so young! How old are you, pray?" "Six" "Is that all? Aunt Catherine can be somewhat silly! I'm years older than you, I'm eight, almost nine!" "Listen, Darcy" Anne said "don't you think I want to marry you! I've got the rights to choose my own husband, if I'll marry!" "I know, and feel excactly like you" he smiled "So let's agree never to be nothing more than cousins, all right?" "Fine" Now Anne smiled too "Let's shake hands" After the handshake, they decided that Lady Anne would be pleased to see them playing together, so, just to please her, they played catch for a while, and then parted, each pleased to see the other shared his view of things. To be continued...

Ayelet, I really like what you're doing with Anne---she will never be "poor Anne" to me again! Keep up the good writing!:-)