Lisa, what a lovely idea! Please, please think some more!This could be a real "Anne and Fredrick" thing ! And Kate,may I (belatedly) say that I enjoyed your story too?

I love coming here every morning - I always leave with a huge grin on my face. Thank you :)

All right, people. It's time for a minor spelling lesson from the editor. its Bennet, not Bennett!

Ann, you obviously havn't been watching the french version. In that, she is defifitely Miz Bennette!;-D

i have to agree with saman... i always end up with a huge smile on my face after reading new fanfic. or even rereading fanfic from the past days! lisa, this is great! you can finish it. i'm dying to know what happens next.

Lisa, I have written something along the same lines, only mine is based on the premise that the rumor never reaches Lady C and Darcy never figures out that Lizzy loves him. They end up parting after Jane and Bingley's wedding and not seeing eachother for a dozen years. I do have them getting together in the end. I feel like a major tease, having mentioned this so often, and never getting around to finishing the darn thing. "Darcy Confesses" at the Derbyshire Guild site is actually Part I of the story.

AAARRRGGGHHH

LisaC, how creative you are, what a nice twist you put on it. I feel so sad for D&L 10 years apart :-(

Kali's, Kate's, and Lisa's stories are posted to the guild. I also accidentally missed Sharon's story. It has now been posted (it turns out I had it over on the spring but forgot to link it to the guild page). If I make any mistakes, or forget any stories, please let me know, and I will fix it. I can't make corrections, if I don't know what needs correcting! Sorry Sharon, Ann

Test. No more italics?

Kate and Lisa, Bravo, and welcome to this band of writers. I love the idea of a trip to London, Kate; now get busy and tell us about their time in London!;-) Lisa, please think some more and get them together in the end. I'd hate to think of them apart for eternity!;-) And Kali, thank you for poor Jane's sad situation. You have me nearly in tears just feeling for her!;-) Just an update: Little Fitz is coming along and some more will probably be posted during the coming week.

Thanks Amy

Inko: ...for poor Jane's sad situation. You have me nearly in tears just feeling for her! I agree. But Kali, are you going to be able to get a little more sympathy generated for Frank? I still want to give him a swift kick for being so thick about Jane's difficulties. And even if she did seem cold, she does not deserve having to watch him flirt so outrageously with Emma. :-(

Patience, Kathleen...after this chunk is up, there' a whole volume left to write. I can't completely transform Frank in twelve pages! ;)

That night Darcy could not sleep. He couldn't believe that after all these years she would resurface in his life. He lied awake happy with the knowledge that at last, she was sleeping under the same roof as him. Lizzie too tossed and turned all night. "It has to be fate" she thought. How else would she be working for his sister and teaching his niece. Lizzie was overcome with many emotions. She was happy, anxious, nervous,and fearful all at the same time. "Does he still love me?" she thought, "did he ever stop?" For the first time in her life she finally admitted to herself that she had found him attractive ten years ago. How else could she explain the electric feeling she got when their hands first touched at th Netherfield ball or the excitement she felt when teasing and flirting with him in front of his cousin? Those same feelings were now returning. She found him to be more handsome than ever. Darcy resolved to be alone with Lizzie tomorrow. He had to talk to her. He had to find out whether or not his letter had affected her in any way. A bright ray of sunshine awoke Darcy from the few hours of sleep he managed to get. He walked towards the window and looked out at the garden below. There, he saw Elizabeth walking alone. She had been up as well and decided that an early morning walk might clear her head. He remembered how fond she was of walking and how beneficial it was for her. The exercise gave her cheeks a rosy glow that he found irresistable. He knew that this might be the only chance of being alone with her. So, in a hurried manner he removed his night clothes and changed into more suitable garments, pulling on his black boots and fastening the buttons of his jacket while rushing down the stairs to meet her in the garden. "It's very early for a walk " he said. This startled her, she hadn't heard him approach. "Yes it is" she replied "but the garden is so beautiful and peaceful in the morning, it offers me a place for reflection". "And what are you reflecting on?" he asked. "On many things, especially on how my life has changed since we last met." "Yes, it has been many years since Hunsford." "Mr. Darcy, please allow me to appologise for my behaviour towards you then. It was wrong of me to accuse you of ill-treatment towards Mr. Whickham. I, who always prided myself on judging people's character, made an abominable error concerning you. I am indeed very sorry." "It is I who should appologise to you Miss Bennet. You showed me, when no one else did, the error of my ways. If it weren't for your reproof, I might stil be that conceited, pompous, arrogant man who proposed to you. Looking back, I cannot blame you for refusing me. My behaviour to you at the time was unpardonable. I cannot think of it without abhorrence." Lizzie was moved by his words. She had no idea that he had taken her opinion of him so much to heart. She was happy to know that he had changed his ways and that it was because of her. "You've aged rather well Mr. Darcy!" she said, "I fear that the passage of time has not been quite so kind to me." Before he could think of a proper reply he listened to his heart and said:"You are mistaken Miss Bennet, you look more beautiful and lovelier than ever. You are like a fine wine that improves with age. He uttered these words while gazing longingly into her eyes. Lizzie felt as though he was looking directly into her soul. She had never felt this way before and returned his gaze with one of he own. She soon caught hold of her senses and asked:"Did you ever marry Mr. Darcy?" He was startled by this question. "How could she asked that?" he thought, "Doesn't she know she's the only woman I ever loved?" "No" he replied, "even though my aunt wished me to marry my cousin Anne I refused her request. I resolved after your refusal never to marry. I felt that if I couldn't build a life with the woman I desired, that I wouldn't settle for a substitute that I did not love. "Oh Mr. Darcy" cried Lizzie. More to come...

ooh, ooh, ooh...what happens next Lisa? ;-)

"I felt that if I couldn't build a life with the woman I desired, that I wouldn't settle for a substitute that I did not love." (sniffle, sniffle) Lisa, PLEASE go on! This is lovely!

What Were They Thinking? Part Eight

Oops! I forgot to center my charming little JPEG of Polly and Ewan...

alright folks, after some months of hesitation, i thought i should finally try my hand at fanfic writing. gentle readers, i hope you won't flame me too badly, but please post criticisms, comments, suggestions without hesitation. your faithful servant, winter HOPEFUL REVELATIONS or, A PLEASANT EVENING AT PEMBERLY by winter Fitzwilliam Darcy stood silently and peacefully, as he watched the carriage drive away. His thoughts at the moment were not of the business he had to immediately attend to, nor did he think of the large party that was expected at Pemberley quite soon. Rather, his mind and his heart were fixed upon the beautiful woman, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, who sat in the carriage; who glanced back at him before she disappeared into the woods. "What was the meaning behind that glance?" thought Darcy, as the carriage disappeared. This was certainly not the usual manner in which she regarded him. It was only a few months ago when Miss Bennet declared to him, in such fervent disdain, that he "was the last man [she] could ever marry." Darcy was so shocked and hurt by the power of her refusal, that he was convinced that Miss Bennet would never look upon him with any sort of pleasant regard (if they ever met again). And there she was: after he had ssisted her into the carriage, she thanked him in such a pleasing tone of voice. The carriage soon drove away, and this beautiful woman turned back to look at Darcy, unknowingly offering her admirer one last look at her lovely face, as well as giving some relief for his long-suffering soul. Darcy was in a dream-like state throughout the rest of the evening. He spoke briefly, and dazedly, to his steward, giving him instructions that were to be carried out by the end of the week. Darcy trusted his steward to take care of the rest of the business, as other plans suddenly took priority. He soon found urgency in making the most of Elizabeth Bennet�s presence in Derbyshire. "Miss Bennet MUST visit Pemberley again before she leaves," thought Darcy, "or I�ll never be able to demonstrate how my manners, my countenance, my disposition has changed." He cautioned himself, however, in making any drastic plans of renewing his proposal. He had learned back in the Spring, that his pride and arrogance only made him assume a return of affections, which unfortunately, were never felt by Miss Bennet. "No", he thought to himself, "I have only the hope of making her believe that I am not the black-hearted, conceited and selfish man she perceives me to be. Making my good character known to her will be my only task, as I�ve learned painfully before, that she could never love me." With that thought, Darcy sat down to an evening supper alone. He could not help but feel, however, that Elizabeth Bennet�s stay in Lambton could offer yet another chance for him to win her love. Seeing her emerge from the garden this afternoon was too much of a wonderful dream. He was often engaged in activities of physical exercise or family business so as to drive the thought of this lovely angel away from his mind. And when she appeared so suddenly, so unexpectedly on his estate, he felt as though the ngel had fallen from the sky; as though some secret wish, which he dared not whisper in his own dreams, had come true. "You barely touched your supper, sir" declared Mrs. Reynolds, interrupting Darcy�s silent revelry, "you must gain some strength for yourself as you have much to do once your party arrives." "I am not so hungry this evening, Mrs. Reynolds," said Darcy quickly and politely, recovering from his private thoughts, "but I thank you for your concern. My thoughts have been elsewhere and I�ve neglected my supper. Come, sit with me as I finish my meal." Darcy regarded Mrs. Reynolds with an affection that was beyond that of a mere servant. He had known her for so long, that he felt her to be more of an aunt than the Pemberley housekeeper. And how could he not think of her as one of the family? It was she whom he had occasionally run to as a boy, when he fell and scraped a knee. She too, regarded him as a family member than a master. Mrs. Reynolds felt quite at ease in looking after his well-being; though he was no longer a boy anymore. It was by this una ticulated understanding that both Mr. Darcy and Mrs. Reynolds often talked freely and openly to one another, as this evening soon revealed in the Pemberley dining room. "I must say, sir," began Mrs. Reynolds as she sat opposite him, "that the young lady and her two companions were so very unexpected in coming to Pemberley this afternoon. I hope you�re not displeased with their coming to look at the estate." "No, no, not at all" said Darcy. "I am rather glad you welcomed them in. I know the young woman who came to visit today. I was very glad to see her again for it has been many months since I had seen her last. And-" "Yes!" Mrs. Reynolds interjected. "The young lady mentioned it as she toured the house! I was surprised to discover that fact sir. And isn�t she a handsome young lady sir?" "Indeed, very handsome. And very accomplished." Darcy smiled as he thought of the music Elizabeth Bennet had played on the pianoforte at Rosings Park. She certainly bewitched him in more ways than one. "And how did she like Pemberley, Mrs. Reynolds?" Darcy inquired. "She liked it very well indeed, sir. I believe she especially liked the portrait gallery upstairs. She spent nearly half an hour looking at the portraits! And there was one particular portrait she always went back to. The one next to your father�s-" said Mrs. Reynolds, as she suddenly stopped herself in midst of realizing whose portrait she was speaking of. "I see", whispered Darcy, quite in surprise. He set down his fork and took a sip of wine, as he glanced at Mrs. Reynolds, whose blunder had already revealed enough. He thankfully smiled at her, and she back at him, knowing what bit of interesting information had just been exchanged between them. He soon turned his attention to the meal before him, more eagerly attending to his meal. Mrs. Reynolds, noticing Darcy�s sudden lightness of heart over the conversation, boldly added, "And I do believe she even admired the cameos displayed next to the music room. She even admitted that you yourself were a handsome man indeed!" "I see," said Darcy, thinking about a visit to the Lambton Inn the next morning, "I see!"

ooh, Winter...I like the little portrait slip of Mrs. Reynolds! What fun1 Thanks for coming out of the closet! ;-)

If you do not visit every day ,this is almost out of control now. So many lovely stories so many intriguing loose ends, what will happen next? Aylet, I'm so touched by your Mary portrait, I have wondered why none of her sisters could help her with clothes and hair.And she is fond of books, but it is as if nobody helps her to understand what she is reading; I think you are right, her father would only tease, it is very wrong of him. If I'm not mistaken, Jane Austen mentioned somewhere that Mary later on married a clark from her uncle Philips office, so someone did like her at last! But maybe you are already preparing to give us more Mary f ction? Kali, I'm never able to catch up on Jane and Frank, you are always posting a new part...Love it!And Lizzy's going to London, shoping with Darcy? And she has been a governess, and meets him again...And Mr Knigthley has been a favourite for some time now, no matter what form he appears in, love to see him suffer, Cass;=)(really sick!)and Ann! Darcy Confesses, I'm fond of that one how he has learnt to humble himself and...do let us have the rest of it, please. Sorry this was to long...

Ann2 - thank you for saying exactly what I wanted to :) Capital, ladies, capital!

Lisa's, Kali's, and Winter's stories have been posted to the Guild.

Ann2 is correct--the amount of postings on this thread is extraordinary. And they're all such fun! Please continue Winter, Kali, Lisa, Ayelet, Kate and anyone else I have forgotten. I am waiting in anxious anticipation. . . . .=-)

YOUNG FITZWILLIAM DARCY--Part 13 The four weeks in Kent passed faster than usual for Fitzwilliam. His Uncle John was not content to spend all his days in the confines of Rosings and organized several schemes to see the surrounding countryside, making Pierre his excuse. As he told his sister, "Pierre should really get acquainted with more than one house and park in this corner of England, Catherine, and while we are here we can take him further afield than he could go on his own." Lady Catherine did not favor the idea. She preferred to keep all her guests around her, to be available and only agree to those plans that she had designed. She especially wanted to keep Fitzwilliam at Rosings to be near Anne and Thomas to keep Lewis company. "If you really wish to see the countryside why do not you go with Pierre; Darcy can stay here to keep Lewis company and Fitzwilliam is much too young for such a day's outing," Lady Catherine declared. "Nonsense!" John said, "it was Darcy's idea to go on these excursions and Fitzwilliam is eager to see more of Kent; he and Pierre have become such good friends that it would be good for both of them to be together." Lady Catherine realized that she could not argue John out of his plans. She decided to take the discussion to her sister, who would surely listen to her advice. "Anne you must help me," she demanded, interrupting Lady Anne's letter-writing, "John wants to take all the men off for the day tomorrow, if the weather holds fine, even Fitzwilliam. I do not think he should go; he should stay here and be with Anne." "Well, Catherine, what do you want me to do about it," asked Lady Anne. "You know that if Thomas, John and Pierre are to go then Fitzwilliam will want to go with them; I do not think anything I say on the matter would carry much weight." "Have you not explained to Fitzwilliam that he should pay particular attention to Anne?" asked Lady Catherine, amazed at her sister's negligence. "Have you not told him what we expect of him when he and Anne are of an age to marry?" "Pay particular attention? Catherine, you make me laugh! What kind of attention could a nine-year old boy pay a five year old girl? Is it not enough that he takes his meals with her and plays with her when she is allowed outside? You can not expect more of him at this age." Lady Anne was not certain whether to be amused or annoyed at her sister's constant renewal of this same old argument. "As for what we expect of him when he is grown, I have only suggested that he find a suitable young lady; one h can love beyond anyone else, who is accustomed to running a large house, to being a hostess in the first circles in the country and in town, and one who can help him care for the tenants and staff of Pemberley." What Lady Anne thought and really wanted to ask was, "Are you so afraid that Anne will not find another man interested in her when she is of an age to marry?" While she smiled a little at the truth of this thought, she discreetly refrained from voicing it aloud.

YOUNG FITZWILLIAM DARCY--Part 14 The following morning dawned fine; after a very early breakfast John, Thomas, Pierre, Fitz, and Mr. Stone were on their way to visit Leeds Castle, some 20 miles east of Rosings. The kitchen staff had packed a hearty picnic for they would only return in time for a late supper. Fitz was thrilled to be allowed on this expedition; in fact, as soon as the gates of Rosings were fairly left behind, the entire party was in high spirits. After several hours rolling through the spring countryside the carriage approached their destination from the top of a small rise. Before them lay Leeds Castle situated on two islands in a lake, formed by the River Len as Mr. Stone informed them. A little while later they reached the gatehouse with its barbican and drawbridge, the last remnants of the old Norman fortress built long before the castle had become a royal palace. As soon as Fitz saw the drawbridge and what appeared to be a moat around the castle he asked "Will there be dungeons, do you think? I would like to explore them!" He was disappointed, however, on seeing a few of the public rooms in the castle; they were just ordinary rooms with no dungeons, no secret rooms behind the panelling, and no towers to imprison any princesses. The park proved much more interesting; there was plenty of woodland, a grotto, and a maze. Fitz and Pierre explored the maze for a lo g time, continually coming to a dead end and having to retrace their steps; when they finally reached the center they heard John's voice calling them for their picnic. The party arrived back at Rosings very pleased with their outing and full of plans for another one the following week. Lady Anne was glad to see their happiness and listened while William told her all about the drawbridge and the maze. Lady Catherine was not as pleased; she had hoped that they would have been disappointed, making this their only excursion. During the remaining weeks at Rosings the same party drove to the Thames Estuary where they walked along the waterfront; to Tunbridge Wells, a fashionable spa; and to picnic on the nearby Surrey Downs. The ladies decided to accompany them on the picnic and Fitzwilliam was not at all happy when his aunt insisted that he accompany her, Anne, and Mrs. Jenkinson in the de Bourgh's Barouche Box. He tried to interest Anne in the passing scenes but she remained silent; he tried to tell Lady Catherine about Le ds Castle but she was uninterested in any property save Rosings and Pemberley; he tried to tell Mrs. Jenkinson of his walk by the sea and on the beach but she was too busy fussing over Anne to pay him attention. He remained silent for the rest of the drive while his aunt droned on about the rank and consequence of the family, of the necessity of the best families in the land to band together against the pretensions of those with lesser breeding who would raise themselves above their station, of choosing n appropriate marriage partner and the degredation of an unsuitable match. Fitzwilliam listened not at all, nodded his head once in a while, and managed to keep an absolutely straight and blank expression which could reveal nothing to his aunt. On reaching their destination, John, Pierre, Fitzwilliam, and Mr. Stone set off to explore a hill with some very fine woods at the top. The view at the summit was well worth the climb; the Downs lay undulating into the far distance like a rolling green sea. They walked through the woods and before they knew it two hours had passed since they had left the others below. They hurried back to find an indignant Lady Catherine ready to drive back to Rosings. "Anne can not be out in the sun for more than one hour," she declared, "come Fitzwilliam; you are very late back from your walk. I am highly displeased." Fitzwilliam was delighted when his father intervened on his behalf, reminding his aunt that he had not yet partaken of the picnic and that they should go on ahead. He asked his wife to accompany her sister while Fitzwilliam would accompany the men on their return to Rosings. Arriving back at Rosings, Fitzwilliam ran off directly to find his mother; he felt he had to apologise to her for having to return with Lady Catherine and Anne in his place. "Mother, I am so sorry that we were so long on our walk and that you had to go back with aunt Catherine and Anne. I did not want to spoil your day that way." "Why, William, you do not need to apologise. I know that your aunt can talk too much and can be very tiresome but you did your duty this morning and I did not mind taking my turn this afternoon," his mother smiled and gave him a hug. They compared notes on Lady Catherine's conversation and William, attempting his mask-like face, showed his mother how well he had hidden everything he was thinking and feeling; when Thomas entered the room they were both laughing so hard they could barely stop to tell hi what it was all about.

So many stories, so little time. :-(

Mr. Collins' American Cousin "Charlotte, my dear," Mr. Collins cried as he rushed into her private parlor. "Yes, what is it?" Charlotte replied. Now what has upset him so? she thought, glancing up from the desk were she was writing a letter. "I have just received a letter from my cousin," he said excitedly, waving the letter about in his hands as he paced about the room. "From Mr. Bennet?" Charlotte asked, wondering why this should agitate him, for he maintained regular correspondence with that gentleman. "No, no, not Mr. Bennet. It is my cousin from America. He writes to say that he is coming to visit. He wishes to meet with family and see some of his father's old haunts." A chill ran up Charlotte's spine when he spoke the last. It is ust a draft, she thought as she glanced at the window to see if they had been left open--both were firmly shut. "You have never mentioned an American cousin, my dear," Charlotte commented, drawing her shawl more tightly around her shoulders. "Of course not, my dear, you know that Lady Catherine does not approve of Americans. She considers them to be ungrateful upstarts. I thought it best to say nothing. But, how so ever that may be, my cousin is on his way here. It would not do to cut the connection, for he is very wealthy, by American standards. Besides it is my duty as a clergyman to welcome my family into my home. I am sure that when I explain all this to Lady Catherine, she will understand. For you know how graciously condescending ...." Charlotte interrupted, "Is he to stay here with us?" She hoped she had time to prepare a proper welcome. 'No, he has asked me to procure a house for him in the neighborhood," Mr. Collins was quite satisfied with the amount of the commission he was to receive for performing this task. "He is to arrive in a fortnight." "My dear, you have not yet told me the name of your cousin," Charlotte reminded him. "Why it is Barnabas, my dear, Barnabas Collins." He left her alone in the room. "Barnabas Collins," she repeated to herself. She leaned back in her seat, and tilted her head to one side, exposing her long neck. "I wonder what he is like. I sincerely hope that he is much different than his cousin." The thought of there being two Mr. Collinses alive in the world made her shudder.

Barnabas, my dear, Barnabas Collins Carolyn, I HOOTED aloud when I read the above words! You are too wonderful! I tape and watch the original Dark Shadows off the SciFi channel every day. To have two of my loves combined is too sweet -- thank you, thank you, thank you!!

I have been teasing you all for too long! I have mentioned many times a story that has been in various forms on my hard drive for a long time now. While I am still not prepared to post the whole thing, I am prepared to post most of Part II. At this point in the story, I have not yet committed heresy. But in it's final form this section will end shortly after Bingley and Jane's wedding with Darcy leaving for Pemberley without Elizabeth. As it stands, this story picks up just after "Darcy Confesses" and fills in for some of what happens before Darcy returns from London. Here is Part II: Between Love And Loss. It is already posted to the guild.

All of the new stories have been posted to the Derbyshire Writers Guild.

Ladies, ladies, this is too much! I can't get any work done for reading!(Or for daydreaming after the reading!)And I think Ann might just deserve a holiday from all this!;-7

Ladies, ladies, this is too much! I can't get any work done for reading!(Or for daydreaming after the reading!)And I think Ann might just deserve a holiday from all this!;-7

"My dear, you have not yet told me the name of your cousin," Charlotte reminded him. "Why it is Barnabas, my dear, Barnabas Collins." ROTFLOL&WMP!

This is getting kind of insane. The functional equivalent in realspace would be a roomful of reporters throwing hard copy at eachother.

Or a lab full of chem students all running around with a tube of nitro in their hands on a just waxed floor...(the resultant reactions explode from goggled readers watching the experiments) :-)

Except it would probably be sloppy copy.

What a great image, Lola...I think we should all wear goggles with our muslin gowns...

Just as Lizzie was about to continue with her reply, they were interrupted by Anne:"Uncle Darcy, Miss Bennet, Mama told me to come call on you. You must make haste otherwise we will be late for church!" "Church. Yes of course, it totally slipped my mind. We musn't be late for the sermon" replied Lizzie. "Indeed, everyone must make it a habit to never miss mass" Darcy told his niece. Anne took hold of Lizzie's hand pulling her until they were running towards the house. Darcy watched as his Lizzie ran off with Anne. He loved her playfulness and her liveliness. He recalled the time he saw her from the bathroom window at Netherfield Park. Oh how he wanted her then. There she was, all alone, totally unaware of his long ardent gaze. Never in his life had he seen a woman exhibit such a playful side to her being Everywhere he went, he always met with the same type of woman: reserved, submissive and conceeding. That was why she attracted him so much. She was so unlike everyone. She was outspoken, opinionated, bright and of course beautiful. So very, very beautiful. "If only Anne hadn't interrupted us!" he exclaimed. "What was she going to say?" Lizzie's mind wasn't on the vicar's sermon at all. Instead, it kept repeating Darcy's final words:"I felt that if I couldn't build a life with the woman I desired, that I wouldn't settle for a substitute that I did not love." Those words affected her physically. She felt a tingling inside her body, a light-headedness causing an almost out of body experience from delight. "After so many years apart, after my horrible behaviour towards him, does he still feel anything for me now?" she wondered."He never mar ied because of me. My refusal tortured his heart the way his opinion of my family, of my low connections and of my lack of fortune hurt mine." Darcy was in such agony. He was sitting not five feet from her but felt powerless. He wanted to take hold of her hand and lead her to the alter and marry her there and then. He wanted to declare, in front of the whole congregation: "I, Fitzwilliam Darcy, take you, dearest, loveliest Elizabeth, to be my wife. To have and to hold (indeed, I will never let you go), from this day forward, in sickness and in health, as long as we both shall live." He wanted her to love him the way he was totally consumed by her. He wanted to free her from her present situation and bring her to Pemberley as mistress of the house where she belonged. Darcy was brought back to the present by the sounds of the church choir. "Finally", he thought, "the sermon will soon be over and we can resume our talk." However, he was not so fortunate, for at the end of the mass Elizabeth was greeted by a very handsome, distinguished looking man. "Who could this be" he thought. "Who is she talking to?". Before he had a chance to ask, his sister, seeing the curiosity in his eyes said:"You remember Mr. Hutchins, Darcy?" Hutchins..., Hutchins..., the name sounded familiar to him. "He is a dear friend of my husband's. Indeed, he was groomsman at my wedding." "Oh yes!" replied Darcy "I remember him vaguely." "Ever since he moved back to London several months ago, he has often visited us. I dare say he seems to find the company of Miss Bennet quite pleasing!" What was Georgiana telling him? Was this man, this Hutchins (hateful name!) Elizabeth's suitor? Was he in love with her or worse yet, she in love with him? Darcy watched as the two conversed. His whole insides ached, he felt his heart tearing once again. "First I lost you to the the pleasing manners and unconscionable tales of Mr. Whickham, as well as to my own arrogant and conceited attitude. Now that I've found you again, am I to lose you because I'm too late? Have you already given your heart to another?" he wondered. He couldn't bear it any longer and without saying a word, he abruptly left the church.

Lisa - for a beginner, you sure know how to end a chapter. I am agony to read the next one!

What Were They Thinking? Part Nine

Can you tell I've watched soap operas all my life? I seem to know how to end with small cliffhangers!

For What It's Firth: A Moment's Acting Moved to Drool Conference

Once Darcy returned back at -- Park, he told Mrs. Martin, the housekeeper to get his carriage ready. "Where are you going Sir? she asked. "Back to Pemberley" he replied. "But you just arrived Sir. What am I to tell Mrs. Hindley?" "Tell her that I received word from my steward indicating urgent business, and that I must return at once!" Darcy didn't like lying to her or anyone for that matter but he needed an excuse to leave. He didn't want to be there when the rest of the household returned. "She will be so disappointed Sir. She was hoping you would stay for the ball." "What ball?" he asked. "Mr. & Mrs. Hindley are planning a ball to celebrate their wedding anniversary. They certainly wanted you to be here! They were hoping that everyone who celebrated in their joy ten years ago would once again join in the festivities." "Everyone?" asked Darcy. "Yes Sir" she replied. That meant Mr. Hutchins most certainly would be invited. "Who would he be escorting? Would he have Elizabeth on his arm all night?" he wondered. "Is Miss Bennet invited as well?" he asked. "Oh yes Sir. She has become such a dear friend to Mrs. Hindley and to Anne. Indeeed, they regard her as a member of the family." What was he to do? Stay and be tortured all evening, watching her become close to someone else? Watch their hands touch and bodies move in unison on the dance floor? Watch him have the opportunity to feel her body, to take in her scent? No, I cannot bear the thought! I must leave now! It had been a week since he last saw Miss Bennet. He never thought he would experience the same horrible, empty feeling that overcame him after her refusal at Hunsford. He felt as if all was lost. "She will never be mine" he thought. "I will never have the pleasure of walking arm in arm on the Pemberley grounds with her. I will never have the opportunity to introduce her with pride to all my relations especially to Lady Catherine. I will never experience the joy of becoming the father of her child". Life eemed hopeless. "She does not love me, she probably still hates me and considers me to be arrogant and proud. And why shouldn't she? Just look at how I behaved once again! I didn't have the courage to find out whether she had a particular regard for him. I let myself be scared off by pleasing manners once again! Will you ever learn Darcy! "Mr. Darcy", interrupted Mrs. Reynolds, "a visitor has come who I hope will brighten your spirits!" "A visitor! Elizabeth, is it you? Have you come at last?" he wondered. His eyes turned towards the drawing room doors. He heard footsteps and was holding his breath with great anticipation when a figure appeared. "Hello Darcy!" "Oh, it's you Fitzwilliam". "Don't be so pleased to see me!" he said with a touch of sarcasm. "I see that I am not your first choice and were waiting for someone else!" "Yes, I mean no. I'm sorry cousin. I just thought, I mean I hoped it would be..." His voice trailed off. "Who, Darcy? Who were you expecting?" "I wasn't expecting anyone. I was just wishing for her". Darcy didn't need to continue. Fitzwilliam knew right away who the "her" was. "Why would you be expecting Miss Bennet, Darcy, now, after so long?" "Because I saw her again" he replied. "Where" asked his cousin. "At Georgiana's". "What was she doing there?" "She has become governess to my niece Anne." "My, what a small world we live in Darcy. What a terrific opportunity for you to show her that side of yourself that is so endearing and that your family has known you to have!" "No, I cannot!" "What do you mean? Is it because you can't or you won't?" "I've come to realize Fitzwilliam, that she will never have the same feelings that I have for her." "How can you say that Darcy? Did she tell you that?" "She didn't have to" he replied. "Then on what are you basing your assertions? Did something happen? Did you talk to her?" "Yes. We spoke a little but were interrupted. She appologised for her indifferent behaviour towards me and for believing Whickham's account of our dealings." "There Darcy, isn't that a good sign?" "I don't know, Fitzwilliam. "What did you say to her reply?" "I told her that I didn't blame her for refusing me and that the scruples that prevented my forming any serious designs were wrong." He paused reflecting at their meeting in the garden. He went on:" She then asked me if I ever married. I replied that if I couldn't have her as my wife that I would never marry." "And what did she say to this?" "We were interrupted before she could finish her reply. Oh how I wanted to know what she was going to say!" "You mean you never found out?" "No. I wanted to continue our discussion after church but she was engaged with another man." "Who, Darcy? "His name is Hutchins. According to Georgiana he is very fond of Miss Bennet". "And is she fond of him?" "I don't know! For all I know she most likely is. Who wouldn't be? I'm sure he is very open and charming. Certainly much more than myself". "Darcy, you must find out how she feels. You can't continue your life this way. For the last ten years you have just gone through the motions of living. I have not seen you happy since that fateful day in Hunsford." "That's because I haven't been. She is my life, Fitzwilliam, and when she refused me, part of my soul died. I only felt a glimmer of happiness last week when we were alone in the garden. "Then cousin, there is only one thing to do to get you out of your misery. You're coming with me!" "Where are we going?" "Whe are going to -- Park. Your sister's ball is tonight and from what I understand Miss Bennet will be there. Come hell or high water you're going to find out how she feels once and for all!" Darcy was speechless. His cousin was right. Why am I hiding? What am I afraid of? Tonight will decide the rest of my life. I musn't avoid her! God has brought her back in my life and it is up to me to convince her I am worthy of her. For the first time in a week, he felt better. He was on a mission. A mission to make miss Bennet love him. "Mrs. Reynold's!" he cried. "Yes sir!" "Get the carriage ready, we are off to London!"

it's off to london they go!!! and what happens next? pray, continue....

Lisa, I'm on the edge of my seat. Yes pls continue...

Thank you for your kind words. It's very encouraging to know you are enjoying my story. I only wish I knew what happens next.

Lisa, may I recommend a LARGE glass of Ratafia-and-water(Sherry does just as well) to help you sleep on it? Ann, maybe you could do with one too!:-7

#144 Lola: other females in the vicinity felt their...insides writhe. Lola, how did you know exactly what I was feeling during that scene?

Susan: Thank you for your empathetic comment and graphic...I think I'll add other Colin vignettes here periodically, like #144, to balance all the Darcy and Regency ones...after all, this is now called Fan Fiction, and all that drooling for CF himself must be recycled creatively %-}

I finally got the chance to catch up on my reading last night. So, Ann, Ayelet, Cassandra, Inko, Kali, Kate, Lisa, and Winter--thank you so much for an enjoyable evening. And thanks to Lola and Lisa, more stories tonight. Happy thoughts indeed!

Lola's story, For What It's Firth: A Moment's Acting, has been used to start a Fan Fiction Topic in the Drool Conference.

Teasing Lisa : only wish I knew what happens next !!! Kali that forgotten letter, oh now Frank is coming to life for me! Thank you! And Inko: I absolutely love the way Fitz contacts Pierre and tries to make him less sad. (What a fine thing for our Lizzy!) And when he demonstrates to his mother the kind of face he put up to Lady Catherine LOL. (He tried to keep it going later in life but sometimes his feelings were not that easily concealed !) Winter; That artful conversation of Mrs Reynolds is very pleasing...What next? The rest is still unread...

Lizzie had been in an edgy mood all week. She couldn't eat, sleep or even hold her end of the conversation with Mrs. Hindley. "What's the matter with me? Why am I acting so aloof?" she wondered. "Ever since I saw him again, ever since we spoke that miraculous Sunday morning, me heart hasn't stoped racing! When I think of him, and of what he said, my heart breaks. It breaks because of my own stupidity, foolishness and arrogance! Had I not been so judgemental concerning him, had I taken the time to converse with him and break through his shell of reservation, of fear and of shyness I could have discovered a wonderful soul. A soul that matched mine." "Why did he leave so abruptly? Did I say something to offend him? No. No, I couldn't have. I barely said a word. I didn't have the chance, I didn't have the opportunity to tell him..." "Miss Bennet!" cried Anne. "Yes dear. Is there something you wanted?" "I wanted to show you my knew dress. Is it not beautiful? I think the colour becomes me very well!" Lizzie was reminded of the time she was preparing for the Netherfield Ball and Lydia walked in uttering those same words. "Oh Lydia! Why did you turn out so badly? Why did you ruin all our chances of happiness?" she thought. "It's beautiful Anne. You are right. The colour highlights your dazzling blue eyes! I dare say you will be the prettiest girl there!" "Thank you Miss Bennet. Do hurry, you cannot be late. Mr. Hutchins is waiting for you". "Tell him I will be down shortly" she replied. Anne left her to prepare. Lizzie dressed with extra carefulness. She wanted to look special just for him. She wanted to see ardent desire in his eyes when he noticed her. "Darcy... Oh, Darcy.., I've dreamt of dancing with you, of having your muscular arms around mine, of being so close to you that I can hear your heart beating. I've dreamt of long midnight strolls in the moonlight and of romantic picnics just for two. Will my dreams ever come true? Will you ever want me again? Will I have the good fortune of finally being in your arms?" she wondered. She loved him, she truly and deeply loved him. The more she reflected on his proposal, the more she realized how difficult it must have been for him. He, a man of sense, education, fortune and noble family lineage willing to meet with the disapproval of his family to marry her. "He never married because he couldn't have me. What a sensational person, what a wonderful man!" she thought. "If only I hadn't talked to Mr. Hutchins after the sermon! I didn't want to! I wanted it to be you! I wanted to hear your voice not his. I wanted to feel your manliness overpower me!" Lizzie came down the staircase very slowly. She didn't want anything to happen to her new gown. She wanted him to find her ravishing in it. The musicians were playing when she entered the grand ballroom. Her eyes looked for his. "Are you here Darcy?" A man's voice called out "Miss Bennet!". She turned towards him. It wasn't her beloved. "You look extremely well this evening Miss Bennet! In fact, quite spectacular!" "Thank you" she replied. The orchestra began playing a new piece. Mr. Hutchins held out his hand, took hold of hers and lead her to the dance floor. She was hoping the first dance would be with Darcy. She wanted the rest of her dances to be only with him. She hadn't noticed Darcy arrive. He too, was in an agitated state. He came to the ball for one purpose, not to congratulate his sister but to declare his love for Elizabeth. His eyes roamed around the room until they settled on what he searched. She was here, but in the arms of another. He was so overcome with feelings of jealousy that he hadn't realized that he'd been twirling his pinky-ring so forcefully. He couldn't get over how beautiful she looked. Her dark brown hair was stylishly curled and adorned with small flower buds. The rest of her body was even more breathtaking. The gown she wore perfectly complemented the figure that he found so enticing. As she turned, she saw him. "Darcy, you've come! You're here at last!" She didn't let go of his gaze and merely continued the motions of the dance with Mr. Hutchins. She wanted it to end soon to be with Darcy. Her wish was granted, the music stoped. "Finally she murmured. "Did you say something Miss Bennet?" "No Sir I didn't" she replied. "Ladies and gentlemen, let me welcome you this evening to -- Park. What a joy it is for Mrs. Hindley and myself to have you all here for the celebration of our anniversary. We are deeply touched that so many of you who were there ten years ago have returned, and we are equally pleased to have new friends amongst our acquaintances. We hope that you will all enjoy yourselves tonight". Mr. Hindley raised his glass of champagne and toasted:"To true love! May it forever unite two souls who are meant to be one! "Two true love" everyone cried. Darcy directed his whole being to Elizabeth when he uttered those words. She, returned his avowal in kind. To be continued...

Lisa - you did it to me again... do I have to wait until tomorrow?

I'm sorry, but yes. I haven't begun the next part yet. I don't know how to continue the scene. I hope I'll have something that meets your expectations and mine by tomorrow night.

The guild has been updated.

Lisa, as another great Austen hero once said I am half agony, half hope.

[as another great Austen hero once said I am half agony, half hope.] As every Austen hero should be, Mich! Lisa, that was lovely!

He wasted no time. He set his glass of champagne on the table and walked towards her. "Good evening Miss Bennet." "Good evening Mr. Darcy." "I hope that your dance card is not full?" "No it is not Sir." "Then, would you do me the honour of dancing the next with me?" He held his breath waiting for a response. "The honour is all mine, Sir." Darcy lead the way for Elizabeth to follow. They were standing inches away from each other, both hearts beating a mile a minute. The music began and he took hold of her gloved hand. The spark he felt at this touch was almost too much to bear. He pulled her body towards his, placing his left hand on the curve of her back. As if in a dream they danced as one. No other couple was in as perfect a unison. She felt almost faint from the pleasurous sensations. She placed her hand on his shoulder, feeling the muscular outline of his figure. Never had she been so attracted to him. Never had she loved or wanted him so much. "Take me away now Darcy, I'm yours!" she thought. He took in her scent very slowly, never wanting this moment to end. "You're so beautiful tonight! I want to take you away now and bring you to Pemberley. To our home." They hadn't realized that the music stopped. They were still clinging to each other, not wanting to let go. From the corner of his eye, Darcy saw Mr. Hutchins approaching. He ceased the opportunity and whispered in her ear:"There's a lovely gazebo in the garden, Miss Bennet. I want to talk to you alone. I want to finish our conversation. Will you meet me there?" he asked. "I would be delighted to Sir" she replied. "What a performance! Never have I seen such superior dancing! I don't think that Miss Bennet and I have that same kind of connection! But maybe we can try to match it, eh Miss Bennet?" Mr. Hutchins said this with a taint trace of jealousy in his voice. "I'm sorry Sir, but Mr. Darcy and I were just..." Before she could continue he escorted her to the floor. She couldn't escape his grip and had no choice but to dance with him once again. Darcy's jealousy was increasing. "What right does this man have to do this? Who does he think he is?" His anger, however soon subsided when he read her lips:"I will meet you there shortly!" He felt confident. "Enjoy this dance with her now Mr. Hutchins, because it will be the last one you ever have!"

Lovely, Lisa. And yes - you certainly know how to give us the soap-opera cliff hangers, but I hope it won't have to continue for weeks like they do!!;-)

I promise that by tomorrow night it will be over!

Agin your little defender of those who didn't have a chance to defend themselves, with thanks to everybody who ever posted in the topic "Sickly And Cross": Anne, The Real Story Everything began, when Anne De Bourg was very young, six years old, she was a very intelgent girl, and used to chatter all the time, but then, her trouble began, with a simple question she asked her mother: "Mamma-" "Your Ladyship, if you please", replied her mother strictly "Your Ladyship, can I learn to play the pianoforte?" Her mother was astonished, "Why Anne, you can't!" "Why?" Asked the little girl Lady Catherine began seeking for a proper excuse "Because you're... Sick, yes you're very sickly, no more talking today" That didn't seem to make any sense "But Ma- Your Ladyship, I'm perfectly well! I'm not sick! I never was!" But Lady Catherine made up her mind that presuding her daughter that she was sick would end all the problems with the child, that seemed to want to be like other girls, to sew, to draw and now to play, too! She wanted to do all the things her mother couldn't, and although Lady Catherine would never admit it, she was jealous of her daughter. Therefore her reply was decided "Anne, you are sickly, I know, because I am extremely attentive to all these things! Now go to bed immediately, Mrs. King would come so n, and I don't want my guest to be disturbed by the sight of a little sick child" Anne knew that arguing further was useless, yet she tried again, with a childish hope "Can't I stay in the dawing room with the adults? Please, Ma- Your Ladyship, I won't say a word, I promise" "No dearest, this is out of the question, make haste, before you will... Die" Anne went upstairs and began thinking to pass the time quicker, first, she pictured her father, who died only a year ago, this was hard, because she almost never saw him, he wasn't interested in his child, he went often to Bath or to town, and in fact, she didn't even have his picture in her memory, Anne sighed deeply, how envious she was of the children that their parents gave them a little freedom, ever her future husband she couldn't choose, she was to marry her cousin "Fitzwilliam Darcy" whom she didn t even got to know. But those thoughts were ended with a voice of steps from the staircase, "Who could it be?" she wondered. To be countinued...

Ann - Lovely. Ayelet - thanks for giving us Anne's story. Carolyn - Barnabas Collins!! ROTFLOL!! Inko - I love these pre-quels. Kali - Bravo. Kate - Capital. Lisa - Wonderful but I hope your next installment is the last. These cliffhangers are not good for someone of my constitution ;-) Actually I wants you to get them together quick; this is killing me as it did in Persuasion. Lola - I've got to get over to the drool conference. Winter - Quite fine indeed. Everyone keep up the exquisite work. I have so many excellent excuses to keep from writing my thesis.;-)

I have so many excellent excuses to keep from writing my thesis.;-) No kidding. Remind me to get back to work.

Kate: I have so many excellent excuses to keep from writing my thesis.;-) Kali: No kidding. Remind me to get back to work. Kali dearest, listen to your auntie...GET BACK TO WORK!

Ayelet--can't wait to see how Anne's story turns out Lisa--next installment please

CHERYL: ;-P

[As every Austen hero should be, Mich!] Yes indeed Caroline! Speaking of cliff hangers Cassandra how is poor Mr. Bennet?

]Speaking of cliff hangers Cassandra how is poor Mr. Bennet? Yes, Cassandra do tell and Katy, what has happened with Aunt Bertie?

Mich & Carolyn: It's paper-hell season for me.BUt, I do expect to have the next installment of Elizabeth and Darcy, by next week. MOre Emma: deja-vu too.

Looking forward to it Cassandra thanks

Cassandra, E&D and Emma, too. Wonderful!

Where's your story, Carolyn? ;)

The guild is updated.

#166 Ayelet, poor Anne! I can see it happening this way, however. I have so many excellent excuses to keep from writing my thesis.;-) No kidding. Remind me to get back to work. I know this is not the right place, but I've been curious for a while now about how many of us are working toward degrees. I'm doing mine by correspondence course for a BA in Social Science. Karen and Kali, what are you doing? And how many others are there? Also, how many with careers in academia? BTW, I also struggle with motivation (this is so much more fun!).

I'm doing a masters in Law at NYU. Lots to read, lots to write, no time for net surfing, procrastination plus plus plus

I'm a senior poli sci major at UC Berkeley. I'm writing an honors thesis on Sinclairism, the 1934 California Gubernatorial Election, and the Political Intransigence of White Agricultural Labor During the Great Depression. I'm going to law school in the fall.

Speaking of stories in the works - Wendy, are you still working on yours?

Sharon et al., "A funny thing happened on the way to the forum"; no, actually an odd thing (or two) happened on the way to the end of my story- 1) the sudden outpouring of stories here and 2) the exuberant interest in Aylmer's story led me to believe that a conclusion to my own is not needed until all the excitement for 1) & 2) has died down and our group hits "the doldrums" so to speak, in terms of something to read. So the long romance was "put on the back burner" while I catch up on mounds of paperwork (yes, I am a instructor!) and I flash out just a tiny Firth piece or two on the (Colin) Fan Fiction thread at the Drool conference next door. I'll email everyone who's on my email list for the romance the minute the booklet is published. (Newcomers, please check the Derbyshire Writers Guild page where Ann so kindly put a section of my Romance Under the Elms)

And I think this picture of our man deserves to be here too (not just at the Drool conference) as a potent reminder of, as Hemingway put it, "grace under pressure"...

Darcy was looking up at the sky. It was beautifully adorned with millions of tiny stars and toped to perfection with a full moon offering him enough light to catch a glimpse of her when she came. He hadn't been waiting long before he heard footsteps. "Mr. Darcy are you here?" "Yes, I am" he replied. "I'm sorry i couldn't come sooner but Mr. Hutchins was so adament about my dancing with him that I couldn't get away!" "It's perfectly understandable. I knew you would come when you had the chance." "Yes. I wouldn't miss this opportunity for the world." He stared intently at her. He wanted to remember this moment for the rest of his life. "You look lovely, Miss Bennet, indeed you are breathtaking. I've never in my life seen a more ravishing woman." She began to blush. "Thank you Mr. Darcy, that's very kind of you to say. No one has ever thought of me as ravishing." "I have" he replied. "Indeed from our earliest moments together, I considered you as one of the handsomest, wittiest, and elegant women of my acquaintance." He came close to her, took her hand in his and led her to sit on the park bench. "Miss Bennet, Elizabeth, I cannot let this opportunity pass me by, I have long wanted to tell you how I feel. If you do not have the same regard or sentiments for me, that's fine. I will learn to accept it but I fear that for my own peace of mind and well being that I must let you know how much you affect me. Not one day has gone by that I have not thought of you and of our last meeting. I shamefully regret the words I used. Looking back, I cannot believe that after what I said to you that I actually expe ted a favourably response to my proposal. As a young child I was told that because of my position in the world and my noble family descendants that I could have anything or anyone of my choosing and that any woman would be grateful to be my wife. I was arrogant and presumptuous. It was only through your eyes that I was able to see what kind of person I was. No woman, indeed no person, ever spoke to me the way you did. No one had ever refused my request or wishes until then. You were the only one who showe me the error of my ways. It was through you that I was properly humbled. Ane even then, when my anger was at its highest peak, I found another reason to love you. From that day on, I vowed to change, to change into the person who would be deserving of you and of your love. After your refusal, it was as if a light had burnt out inside me and only when I saw you again did it brighten". "Oh Mr. Darcy, I never realized how deep your affection for me was. Had I not been so prejudiced aginst you because you slighted me at the assembly room and because I believed Mr. Whickham's accounts of your history together, I might have realized what a perfectly amiable man you are. I too, have been haunted by by what I said to you that day. It was wrong of me to accuse you of maliciousness towards Mr. Whickham without knowing all of the facts. I have to thank you though for having the confidence and tr st in me to tell me the truth about him and your sister. I know it must have been very difficult for you after I behaved so abominably". "It was very difficult, but I knew I could have complete confidence in your secrecy. The letter, I hope, helped improve your opinion of me. I know that it contained some very harsh words concerning your family and for that I am deeply sorry. My sentiments have changed since then. I realized that if people are kind, warm and good-hearted then that is all that is important". "I must confess that your letter had a great impact on me. At first, I didn't want to believe anything you said, but the more I read it, the more I realized the truth in it. My feelings towards you changed from then on. Indeed, over the years, I heard such wonderful accounts of your behaviour from my friend Mrs. Collins that my opinion of you changed drastically. I no longer regarded you as the proudest, most disagreeable man in Derbyshire but an amiable, loving one whom I longed to be with. Had we both n t been so proud and prejudiced we might not have wasted so many years apart." "Miss Bennet, what are you saying?" "I'm saying that I love you". He was so overcome. He never expected her to ever utter those three words. "You love me?" he said. "Yes!" she replied. "Truly? Honestly?" "Yes!, Yes!" "Elizabeth, you have made mw the happiest of men!" He bent down on one knee, took her hand in his and never let go of her gaze. "Dearest, loveliest Elizabeth, will you marry me?" "Yes Fitzwilliam, I will". He reached out to touch her cheek, gently caressing her soft skin. His desire for her was too great. He couldn't wait any longer. He gently brushed his lips against hers, kissing her slowly, softly. He tightened his arms her, pulling her body towards his. His scent and feel overpowered her. She responded to his touch fervently, kissing him with a passion that she never knew exsited. They were locked in a dizzying embrace that neither were ready to end. Slowly, their lips parted. She rested her head against his broad shoulder when in his contentment he said:"Elizabeth, marry me now!" "Now?" "Yes, right this minute. I don't want to waste any more time. I want my life with you to begin. I want this joy that I feel to last forever." "But where would we find a clergyman at this hour of the night?" "Come with me" he said. He took her hand and began running down the lane to the parsonage. Once there, he knocked on the door and Mr. Emmerson, the vicar answered. "I know that it is late Sir, but Miss Bennet has just agreed to marry me and I don't want to wait any longer before I can call her my wife. Would you be so kind and marry us now?" "I have never had such a requets Mr. Darcy but since you seem so eager I would be delighted to". "Thank you Sir" they both replied. Mr. Emmerson began the ceremony. The quaint church was lit with few candles offering the bride and groom a romantic glow. Darcy reached in his jacket pocket and pulled out the most spectacular ring Lizzie had ever seen. "When did you get that?" she asked. "I've had it since Hunsford" he replied. "Since Hunsford?" "Yes. I've carried it with me every day since then. It reminded me of what I lost and of how I needed to change in order to ever be blessed by placing it on your finger". Tears began running down her face. "I love you Fitzwilliam" she said. "I love you Elizabeth". Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam Darcy left the parsonage holding hands, ready to begin the next chapter of their lives together.

Oh, Lisa! I knew you could do it!Pure romance! Thank you so much!

Thank you Lisa! I love the romance, the delay, the final ending, everything. Big sigh of relief!;-)

Great effort, Lisa! :-)

I have to confess I'm quite relieved. This was the first time I voluntarily wrote a story and wasn't afraid to have others read it. I'm glad you enjoyed it and maybe when the creative juices start flowing again, I'll attempt another story. Please excuse all the spelling mistakes and typos but I didn't have time to check them. My sister was hard upon my heals to make haste and go shopping!

Thank you Lisa - for an ending that surprised me even as it gave me what I expected (which makes no sense but I hope you will be kind enough to make some sense out of it). Lovely from beginning to end!

Are you going to give us a sequel with plenty of SEX, Lisa? :)

Kali, are you telling me that you want a honeymoon scene?

Lisa - wonderful. I'm so happy they are finally together. Susan - I'm a masters student in Communication at Cornell University. I understand your concern about academia. I'm going on for my PhD but am not especially excited about being a professor; some of the students I've seen here are so unruly and disrespectful.

Yes, honeymoon, please Lisa! Susan--in two months I will received my Bachelor of Applied Arts in magazine journalism at Ryerson Polytechnic University in Toronto.

yes, Lisa! ;)

Chapter 2 She didn't have much time to wonder, beaches the mystery was solved, by the voice of her maid, introducing a Miss Williams, who came into the room, saying: "Hello, Anne, I'm Miss Williams, your governess, I hope you will find your lessons delightful, we will learn history, reading and French, we will start today" Anne looked at the woman with the doubtful eye. She was used to use it when she met new people, mostly because her parents behavior didn't encourage trust in adults. The woman, however, satisfied her, she was a tall, cheerful and rather pretty young lady, Anne smiled, and asked, excited "Am I really to have a governess? Oh, I am so glad! Can we start now? Please." Miss Williams laughed and said, "Of course we can, we must. Her Ladyship wants us to begin as soon as possible" Anne couldn't believe, "My mother wants me to learn? She always seemed so upset when I asked her for a governess" Well," Miss Williams smiled, "It does seem that you had to do a great deal of nagging before she allowed to bring me, she wasn't the most happy person in England when I came in. But we're forgetting ourselves, let's begin our reading lesson." Anne agreed immediately, and the lesson begun. The next half hour seemed like a wonderful dream to Anne, she learned so much, about the ABC, writing her name or spelling, but the most important of all, she got a nickname, she became Annie, she was treated as a person, it was wonderful! But when dinner time came, Anne had to wave her new governess, her new friend, farewell, and to rush downstairs to tell her mother about her lesson. To be continued...

I can't believe I'm actually going to write this. Hopefully it will be completed by tonight.

#196 Ayelet, it's like watching a car heading for a crash! Do keep on, though -- poor Anne!

(BTW, is this considered rude/annoying? I haven't seen anybody else do it.) Lisa, WHEWWW! Is the thermostat stuck or is it just me? I love the JA-like ending, similar to "She said just what she ought. A lady always does." Keep 'em coming!