Chapter Twenty-nine.

Elizabeth met Lydia and Kitty just as they were returning to the ballroom, accompanied by Nathan and his uncle. Lydia was laughing a little too loudly at one of the Captain's jokes, although Catherine at least had the grace to look uncomfortable about her younger sister's reaction, and suggested that she lower her voice.

"Oh, Kitty! How can you stop yourself from laughing? Captain Ardern is by far the wittiest gentlemen I have ever known!" she simpered, resting her hand lightly on his arm.

"More amusing than those Militia officers you told me of, who were quartered in Meryton?" Nathan asked.

"Well, Denny and Saunderson were so sweet; and Wickham, of course ... although I suppose I should not mention him."

"Do I sense a hint of discord between the Bennet sisters over one particular officer?"

Elizabeth pulled a face. "Certainly not, Captain. I was not interested in him in the slightest."

"Yes you were, Lizzy! You were most aggrieved when he turned his attention to Mary King, just because she had inherited ten thousand pounds."

"Maybe I thought more highly of him to begin with, but that was before I knew him better; before we all became better acquainted with his behaviour," Elizabeth explained, with a warning glance towards her youngest sister.

"The officers of the Militia regiments are nothing but callow youths." Henry Ardern waved his hand. "I cannot believe, Miss Lydia, that you would be satisfied with a mere boy, when you could have a man to do your every bidding." He raised his eyebrows suggestively.

Lydia laughed aloud once more; snorting in such a way that Elizabeth was reminded of one of Longbourn farm's piglets. Her plea to her sister to remember where she was fell on deaf ears, as Lydia was far too interested in continuing her conversation with the dashing Officer to pay her any attention. "Ah yes, but where should I find such a man, Captain? Can you suggest a good place to look?" she asked playfully, clinging to his arm.

"Why, in His Majesty's Cavalry, of course!" he said, as though it was the most obvious answer in the world.

Elizabeth cleared her throat to attract their attention. "Captain Ardern, I am sorry to interrupt your conversation, but I have been charged by my mother with returning my sisters to her side. She very much wishes to speak with them."

The Captain looked curiously at her before bowing to the two youngest Bennet daughters. "Far be it from me to deny Mrs Bennet any thing. Miss Lydia, Miss Kitty, I am sure I will see you again this evening. However, Miss Bennet is correct. If your company is desired by your mother, then you should go."

Elizabeth watched her sisters traverse the room before returning her attention to the Captain. "I apologise for Lydia's behaviour. It must be far removed from that of the young ladies you would normally associate with."

"Well, that all depends. If you refer to those ladies I meet when I am in my mother's presence, then yes. Your sisters are actually quite refreshing." He turned sharply as he heard Nathan's snort at his side. "Do you not think so?"

"Well, I do not know whether refreshing is quite the word I would use. I find their attention at times to be somewhat ... overpowering," her cousin admitted.

Henry Ardern nodded his head sympathetically. "But compared to my cousins—the 'Jasper Jewels'—I find Miss Lydia and Miss Kitty rather charming."

Recalling her introduction to those young ladies earlier in the evening, Elizabeth said, "Well, they are certainly superior, although whether pleasant I really could not say. Why do you call them jewels?"

He shrugged. "They are pretty to look at and much admired; some may even call them flawless. However, they are also hard, lifeless and inert."

"You only say that because they are immune to your teasing."

"Nathan, they are immune to life itself. Compared with your own sisters, Miss Bennet, I do not consider Frances or Elizabeth to be particularly worthy. They have no spirit, no liveliness."

"Of that, my sisters have perhaps more than their fair share."

"Yes, and it makes them far more interesting company than many of the more suitable ladies who are present here tonight. I know that Miss Kitty is the youngest, but how old is Miss Lydia?"

"You are mistaken; Lydia is the younger of the two. What made you think she was the elder?"

"Forgive me, but Miss Lydia is a little taller, and perhaps more ... um, womanly. How old is Miss Lydia?"

"She turned sixteen just last month."

"Really? I would never have guessed she was so young. Of the two she gave the impression of being more worldly-wise. But she is out, is she not?"

"Yes, she is."

He remained silent for a short time, digesting the information he had been given. Eventually, he said, "It must be hard for your Mother to keep them under her protection sometimes."

"We do well enough ... as long as they are not encouraged in their inappropriate behaviour," Elizabeth suggested pointedly.

Captain Ardern appeared to take her words to heart. Nodding his head slowly, he said, "I understand you completely, Miss Bennet. Thank you for your information. It has been enlightening." He then turned to Nathan, who had been listening to their exchange in silence. "Come Nathan! We must find you another dance partner."

"Must I?"

"Of course! Everyone in the room knows who you are now. My Mother has made sure of that. I do not think there is a parent in the room who would not be happy to see their darling daughter dance with you, if only so they are able to tell their friends about it tomorrow. You should grasp the advantage while you have it, my boy."

Elizabeth smiled as she heard Nathan sigh, before he followed his uncle back into the crowded ballroom.

~~*~~

"Miss Bennet, I have been looking for you most earnestly," Lady Augusta said, in a suspiciously friendly tone, as they met in the dining room. Elizabeth had barely taken a sip of her punch before Nathan's grandmother had encountered her there. "The gentleman I spoke of earlier has now arrived. You absolutely must meet him." Indicating that Elizabeth should accompany her, the Dowager lowered her voice a little as she continued in a business-like fashion. "I am sure he would be the perfect man for you. Mr. Briscoe has a very large house in Lancashire."

Although the Dowager seemed to think that the size of the estate would be of most interest to her, Elizabeth was more concerned by the location of his residence. "Such a distance?" Elizabeth exclaimed as they entered the ballroom once more.

"Yes, it is some way from town, and the society up there is almost savage," she agreed, the old woman's voice dropping to an unpleasant hiss. "But he has six thousand a year! Your mother would find him most worthy and I am sure you will find him very pleasant as well. Ah! There he is."

Elizabeth followed Lady Augusta as she wound her way between the guests filling the room. She stopped in front of a tall, heavyset man, with a mass of ginger curls atop his head.

The Dowager welcomed him warmly. "Mr. Briscoe! It is wonderful to see you again. Is your mother well?"

"Yes, Lady Augusta," his deep voice rumbled. "She is quite well, thank you."

"That is good to hear. I am delighted to be able to introduce you to this excellent young lady. Miss Bennet? May I present Mr. Edmund Briscoe."

Although wary of the Dowagers pleasant behaviour towards her, Elizabeth made an effort to smile as she curtseyed. "Mr. Briscoe. I am pleased to make your acquaintance."

"Likewise, Miss Bennet." He executed a low bow. "If all the ladies in Town are as lovely as you, perhaps I may make the effort to come down to London more often."

"Miss Bennet is from Hertfordshire, but I am sure you will find many things in common." Lady Augusta chose that moment to excuse herself, and she melted into the surrounding crowd.

As Elizabeth watched her go, she wondered how many more couples Nathan's grandmother intended to introduce before the evening was over. Returning her attention to the gentleman in front of her, she made an effort to engage him in conversation. "Lady Augusta tells me that you have a house in Lancashire?"

"Yes, our property is near Tunstal. We are only eleven miles from Lancaster, and that town has everything I need in the way of entertainment and good society."

"If it is so perfect, I wonder why you would go to the effort of travelling all the way down to London?"

"It is not such a great distance. Although Lancaster is a superior town for its size, I am sorry to say that it does not offer such exquisite company. My mother suggested I come here for the season, but, it has been a little disappointing ... oh, until now, of course," he added hastily.

She looked more carefully at the man in front of her. The gold fitted waistcoat, which, with his brown coat was cut in the height of the current fashion, did not flatter his more robust figure at all. His stomach bulged wherever it was not contained and the buttons strained as if under tremendous pressure.

"May I ask whether you are free for the next dance, Miss Bennet?"

Elizabeth's mind went blank. "I ... ah, yes, I am," she reluctantly admitted, cursing her fate that she could not think of a good excuse to avoid it.

The gentleman smiled broadly, showing a large number of yellowing teeth. "That is excellent news, for I dearly love to dance."

The time spent dancing with Mr. Briscoe was without doubt the worst experience of her entire evening; possibly even of her life. By comparison, Mr. Collins' dancing skills were exemplary, as Mr. Briscoe trod on her slippers not once, not even twice but a total of four times! She lost count of the instances when his movements ran contrary to the set, and he continued his clumsy figures down the line until Elizabeth prayed for a miracle, or at the very least for the dance to come to an end. Her mood was not relieved when she saw Lydia watching her mirthfully from the side of the room. In fact, her younger sister found her predicament to be sufficiently hilarious that she had to blot her tears with a handkerchief, and Elizabeth had the uncomfortable thought that her sister was not the only person in the room to think so, as she noticed pitying glances from some of the ladies in her vicinity.

Elizabeth's situation did not improve even after the music had stopped, for the gentleman insisted on following her around the room; all the while discussing the merits of his beloved home and comparing its attractions favourably with any amusement in town she would care to name. Although she explained most politely that she was rarely in London, she sensed that he spent more time waiting for her to finish speaking, and planning his next words, rather than actually listening to the replies she gave him.

"Will you be visiting Rempstone House again soon, Miss Bennet?"

"There are no plans that I am aware of, sir."

"Then perhaps you would grant me permission to call on you at home?"

"I, ah ... I am sorry to tell you that I feel we may be leaving town shortly to return to the country." Elizabeth sighed, hoping that he would apprehend her gentle hint.

"I quite understand," he replied solicitously, patting her hand. "Do not concern yourself, Miss Bennet. I will find a way for us to meet again."

Perhaps my hint should have been a little less gentle. As she shuddered at the thought of spending more time with such a man, Elizabeth was rescued from his company by not one, but two guardian angels. Within seconds of each other, Colonel Fitzwilliam materialised out of the crowd on her left, to beg her hand for another set, while Nathan emerged at her right shoulder. Elizabeth bade a relieved farewell to Mr. Briscoe as she accepted her cousin's arm.

"I came to rescue you, Lizzy. It appears I was not the only person who thought it necessary."

"And I likewise," the Colonel confirmed. "I thought you had suffered that gentleman's company more than enough for one evening," he laughed.

"I am grateful to both of you. I am not sure whether I would have been able to maintain my civility for a moment longer." Elizabeth turned to Colonel Fitzwilliam and introduced her cousin.

"It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Mr. Bennet. I have heard much about you already."

"From my Grandmother, no doubt," Nathan said, with a rueful grimace.

"No, actually, from my cousin, Mr. Darcy."

Elizabeth could not hide her surprise. "Mr. Darcy? What does he know of Nathan? To my knowledge they have never met." She thought back to her last conversation with that gentleman and his sister on Jane's wedding day. To think that only a few short months ago Nathan was unknown to us.

The Colonel smiled as he turned to Elizabeth. "No, but he has received intelligence from Bingley. I believe that was his source of the news of your cousin's arrival in England."

The two men spoke cordially for a few minutes longer before Nathan excused himself and Colonel Fitzwilliam escorted Elizabeth onto the dance floor. When the dances were over, they returned to Nathan, who had asked to partner Elizabeth in the next.

"My Aunt Bennet has told me that I must dance with all my cousins. I have already danced with Lydia and Kitty—indeed, I was left with little choice in the matter—so I only have you and Mary left to fulfil my obligation. I have not seen Mary since earlier this evening, so it seems that you must be next, Lizzy."

"Well, that is a pretty way to ask!" Elizabeth pouted, although both men grinned at the twinkle in her eye. "A true gentleman would at least have the decency to dissemble, and pretend the offer was of his own choice. It appears that your wicked Uncle Henry still has much to teach you. Very well, let us get on. The quicker we dance, the quicker you will be able to return him and continue your much needed lessons."

Colonel Fitzwilliam smiled knowingly. "If Mr. Bennet learns any lessons from Henry Ardern, it will not be gentlemanly conduct. Not unless the captain has learnt some new skills of his own recently."

"Are you suggesting that you would make a better teacher, Colonel?"

"It is always important for a man to know his own limitations, Miss Bennet, and I know mine. You may not credit it, but my cousin Darcy is the most skilled in that area."

"Really? Then he should learn not to hide his light under a bushel, for it was many months into our acquaintance before I was able to recognise any gentlemanly qualities in him."

The Colonel's face fell. "But you have seen them now, I hope?"

"Oh yes. He was the perfect gentleman when he attended my sister's wedding, and tolerated my family far better than I expected. Oh! Please excuse us, Colonel. I believe the next dance is just about to begin."

With a smile and a curtsey, she bade farewell to Colonel Fitzwilliam and allowed her cousin to escort her back to the dance floor. Once their dance was over, Nathan led her back to where his grandmother was holding court. Lady Augusta seemed none too pleased to see her grandson spending time with one of his Bennet cousins.

"Miss Bennet. It seems you have found yourself a different partner. Was Mr. Briscoe not to your liking?"

Nathan interrupted his grandmother to explain how he had requested a dance with his cousin.

"But you may dance with Miss Bennet any time," she scolded her nephew. "I do not think you have yet partnered Frances or Elizabeth. They are standing over there. You should go to them now."

Elizabeth saw him grimace as he reluctantly walked away towards the Misses Jasper. Not wanting to be left alone with Lady Augusta, lest she should return her against her will to Mr. Briscoe's side, Elizabeth chose instead to search out her mother once more. She found Mrs Bennet, sitting in the salon, talking excitedly with Lydia and Kitty. Elizabeth was surprised to see that Captain Ardern was also part of the group. As she drew nearer Mrs Bennet spotted her and waved excitedly.

"Lizzy. Lizzy! Come here my child. You will never believe what the dear Captain has just told us."

Elizabeth looked up as Henry Ardern caught her notice. She felt that he was trying to communicate something with his eyes, before he dropped his attention to contemplate the shine on his black cavalry boots. His behaviour was vaguely apologetic. Oh no! What has he done?

"My dear girl, Captain Ardern has just given us the most wonderful news! Did you know that your Uncle secretly left each of my girls some money in his will?" Mrs Bennet, a big grin on her face, clasped her hands together with a happy sigh. "Your father must have wanted it to be a wonderful surprise for us. How much was it again, Captain?"

Captain Ardern took a deep breath before replying in a subdued voice. "Although I do not know all the details, if I recall the letter from the attorney correctly, I believe it was thirty five thousand pounds, Mrs Bennet," he mumbled reluctantly.

"You see, Lizzy? This makes all the difference in the world! What husbands I could get for you, and Kitty and Lydia now, eh? I knew my brother would not forsake us. If he left this for my daughters, I wonder what he left to his own son? Captain Ardern? You must know what Nathan has inherited from his father."

The Captain glanced again at Elizabeth, and she shook her head tightly to warn him not to speak further on this subject. She was angry that he had so unthinkingly divulged the information about their improved dowries in the first place; especially to her mother. However, she felt a measure of relief when she heard him apologise that he had not been party to that particular information. With a final repentant glance in her direction, he then offered to take Lydia and Kitty for some refreshments, leaving a frustrated Elizabeth alone with her mother.

"Well, Lizzy dear, you are your father's favourite. What should I do? Must I wait until Mr. Bennet tells me this wonderful news and act suitably surprised, or would it be best for me to confront him tonight? Surely he knows how important this information is to a mother when looking for suitable candidates for their daughters? What is he thinking to keep this to himself?"

"Please, Mama. I do not think that this is the time or the place to discuss the matter. We would be better off speaking of this at home. Do not forget that Papa should not be angered this evening, or he might send us all back to Longbourn," Elizabeth suggested, hoping to buy her mother's good behaviour for a few hours longer.

"My poor nerves! How will I get through this evening? Your father's pronouncement is too cruel, Lizzy. What should I do?"

Elizabeth moved closer to Mrs Bennet and lowered her voice. "I would suggest that you keep a close watch on Lydia, for I fear that Captain Ardern will only encourage her bad behaviour, and she hardly needs any further incitement."

"You think so?" Mrs Bennet asked in a loud whisper. "He seems such a nice young man."

"Yes, I suppose he does, but I believe similar sentiments were once spoken of Lieutenant Wickham, and I do not have to remind you of how deceived we were about his character."

"Oh no! My dear, you are right, of course. I must go and find my darling girl at once. It is a mother's duty to ensure her daughter's good behaviour, and I will not have it said by Lady Augusta that I have shirked my duty!"

Angered by her mother's attitude and finding the crowded room hot and stuffy, Elizabeth was desperate to escape somewhere quieter. She noticed that the doors leading outside had been left ajar, so she pushed them open and stepped out onto the empty terrace; grateful to be away from the crush of people, if only for a few brief moments.

Taking a deep breath of the cool night air, she placed her hands on the stone balustrade and looked out over the darkened garden; the silhouettes of trees in the distance stood full black against the dark sky, where the stars shone like scattered diamonds on the deepest blue velvet.

After a few brief minutes of solitude, she sensed rather than heard someone in the shadows behind her and turned towards the far end of the terrace. She could vaguely make out a dark shape sitting against the wall; whoever was there, she was determined to leave them in peace. Elizabeth had only taken two steps towards the door before the stranger unfurled slowly from the bench like a stretching cat, causing her to pause. He sauntered towards her; his straw blonde hair shining in the light from the ballroom windows. The man paused a respectful distance away and executed a perfect bow.

"My Lady," he addressed her with a confident smile.

Elizabeth immediately felt self-conscious. Although she acknowledged his bow with a brief nod, she felt sure that she had never been introduced this man before; he was not someone she could have easily forgotten.

Moving to stand next to the balustrade, he leant his arms against it as he looked out over the garden. "May I ask if you are enjoying the dance, Miss Bennet? Lady Augusta always gives such delightful entertainments." His tone was flippant, but he turned to look intently at her for a moment before returning his gaze to the night sky.

Elizabeth felt a jolt at the use of her name; uncomfortable that he should know her while his identity remained a mystery. "You have me at a disadvantage, sir." She spoke coldly to discourage any further familiarity.

His expression was one of disbelief. "I do? You truly do not know who I am?"

"No, sir, but I am rarely in town, and I doubt that we move in the same circles."

He gave her an impertinent grin. "Well, in that case, perhaps I do hold an advantage, but you are incorrect on one point. If we did not move in the same circles, then you would not be here."

Elizabeth was infuriated by his answer. "May I ask how you know my name? I feel sure we have not met before."

"I can assure you that I would not have forgotten such a meeting had it taken place. Rest easy, Miss Bennet. Lady Rempstone drew my attention to you and your sisters when I arrived earlier this evening. You can imagine how surprised I was to see you come out onto the terrace alone, when I would have expected you to spend the entire evening surrounded by admirers. Perhaps you are not as enthusiastic about the entertainments as I was informed."

Elizabeth was disarmed by the soft tone of his speech and his pleasing countenance. "No, sir. I would usually be happy to dance, but I was unfortunate enough to have a partner earlier this evening who had little skill in that area. My poor feet are still bemoaning their treatment."

Further conversation was interrupted when Lady Augusta burst through the doors and onto the terrace. "Where have you been? I have been looking absolutely everywhere for you!"

Elizabeth was ready to accept the Dowager's reprimand, but the old woman's unexpected smile was directed to her companion. "I am so pleased you were able to attend my little party."

The stranger appeared abashed at her untimely presence, and his response was muted. "Good evening, Lady Augusta. I hope I find you well?"

She held him away from her with an admiring glance before answering. "You, sir, are more like your father every day! When did you return to town? How is your mother?"

Elizabeth thought she saw him blush at this, and as he mumbled a reply, she tried to ease her way towards the doors, attempting to leave them to their conversation. She was not quick enough though, as her hostess finally noticed Elizabeth's presence and took her hand, drawing her back towards them.

"Miss Bennet? I must say I am rather surprised to find you here. I was not aware that you two had been introduced. How you like my godson? He is almost like one of my own."

Is that another warning? Elizabeth wondered. "I am sure he is a perfect gentleman, your Ladyship," Elizabeth replied, turning to grace the stranger with an arch smile at his own discomfort. His behaviour had been far from gentlemanly, and he was well aware of the fact.

"And why are you not with Mr. Briscoe? Really, Miss Bennet, I would have thought you, of all your sisters, would be sensible and accept the opportunities which are so graciously presented to you. I doubt the society in your sleepy corner of Hertfordshire would have been such that you could easily obtain the interest of such a man."

"No, Lady Augusta. The gentlemen I was acquainted with at home were somewhat more modest," she replied, recalling Mr. Briscoe's egotistic attitude.

The Dowager nodded her understanding. "It is only to be expected that men of modest means are far more common in Hertfordshire society."

She saw the unknown gentleman attempt to stifle the grin which threatened to overcome him, before stepping around to position himself between Elizabeth and his godmother. "You must excuse Miss Bennet. She was feeling a little light-headed, so I volunteered to escort her out onto the terrace for a some fresh air. I do not think that she should return to the party immediately. The crush of people in the ballroom is not conducive to it. She might take a turn for the worse, which could have a detrimental effect on your other guests."

"Is that so?" The Dowager looked suspiciously at Elizabeth. "In that case, I will send Mr. Briscoe down to you. I am sure he will be happy to take care of Miss Bennet so you can return to the party." Turning her attention back to her godson, she wagged a bony finger at him. "Remember, you promised to spend some time with Frances and Elizabeth. I will be very upset if you leave without at least speaking with them." With that threat hanging over him, Lady Augusta reluctantly returned through the door.

With a deep sigh of relief, Elizabeth turned to her saviour. "Thank you for your help."

"No, thank you. Had I not had a good reason to remain, then I would have had to keep Lady Augusta's nieces company, when I came out here specifically to avoid them."

"I can certainly appreciate that. I was also here because I was trying to avoid renewing my acquaintance with Mr. Briscoe. It seems that I will have to find somewhere else to hide."

"There is no need for you to leave. I will deal with Briscoe when he comes."

"You know the gentleman?"

He shrugged, which only went to highlight the excellent cut of his blue coat over his broad shoulders. "It would be more accurate to say I know of him. Lady Augusta always has one or two gentlemen like him hanging around."

Elizabeth was intrigued. "What exactly do you mean, like him?"

"My godmother takes it upon herself to assist the offspring of her former friends in finding wives, or sometimes husbands. Some have money but no personality; others are pleasant enough, but without two shillings to rub together. On rare occasions they are both, having neither money nor personality. However, even the most challenging individual is usually found a spouse by Lady Augusta within a season or two."

"Ah." She studied him curiously. "So you are not one of these men, I take it?"

He laughed at her suggestion, and shook his head. "Oh, no. Lady Augusta knows me far too well for that."

"So, if you are not one of those men, then it is possible that you are, in fact, completely the opposite?"

"Well, as to that, I could not possibly comment," he replied innocently. Looking past her, she saw his blue eyes flash as he caught a movement in the room beyond and his expression quickly turned serious. "Quick!" he hissed, putting a finger to her lips, and sending Elizabeth's senses into turmoil. "He is here. Go to the end of the terrace where it is dark and stay quiet."

Elizabeth surprised herself by following his instructions without further question. There was something in his manner that seemed sincere. She held her breath as she heard muffled voices from the other end of the terrace and she could not resist leaning forward slightly to get a better view. The light shining from the ballroom illuminated the conversation between Mr. Briscoe and her unknown rescuer. She watched as the tall, fair-haired stranger pointed back into the house and indicated an ignorance of her whereabouts. Mr. Briscoe, unmistakable from his portly silhouette, nodded his head, and returned dejectedly to the room beyond. The other man watched him leave, and continued watching until he appeared satisfied. He then wandered slowly towards her, as she stood in the darkness.

"Miss Bennet? I believe your problem has been solved; at least for a time. I cannot guarantee that he will not find you again later, but you are safe for now."

"I cannot quite understand why Lady Augusta should be so insistent on my spending so much time in that gentleman's company?"

"Her favourite method of matchmaking is to force two people of her choosing together, as often as humanly possible, as though they were tied together with string. While it may seem strange to you or I, you would be surprised how often it has ended in a marriage."

He stood closer to her than propriety would normally allow, and the awkwardness of the situation, and their current location, returned to Elizabeth with full force. She skirted his now silent form and began walking towards the better illuminated part of the terrace. Before she reached the doors, she stopped. "I must thank you for your help, sir. It appears that assistance can sometimes be found in the most unlikeliest of places. I would never have dreamed to find a Knight in shining armour on Lady Rempstone's terrace."

"It is one of my favourite spots, but never more so than when a party is in progress."

"So you shun dancing and gaiety?"

His expression was grave. "No, but I take pains to avoid the worst excesses of society's deceitfulness and gossip. I find no pleasure in the disingenuous mothers who thrust their daughters upon any single man as though they are no more than a joint of meat in the butcher's shop, to be bartered or traded at a price."

Elizabeth grinned at his heartfelt words. "You have met my mother then?"

He smiled then; laughing at his own ill humour as much as anything else. "No, Miss Bennet, I have yet to have the honour of meeting your mother, although I cannot, in all honesty, deny knowledge of her. However, the tales I have heard about your family did not do you any justice at all."

"No, I would imagine not." Elizabeth sighed, before wishing him a good evening.

"You are leaving, already?"

"I cannot stay here. My mother will be wondering where I am."

"But what of Mr. Briscoe?"

"I will just have to forfeit any further time on the dance floor tonight. Perhaps I can claim excessive fatigue?"

"I would not have you sit out all the remaining dances on his account. Perhaps you would accept me as a dance partner instead? Although I will admit to avoiding the exercise whenever possible, I have been told that I have a pleasing style and a nimble step. Your feet would be quite safe in my care."

"Oh no! You will not get away that lightly," Elizabeth challenged him with a smile. "I cannot dance with you. We still have not been formally introduced!"

"Are names so important to you?" His exasperation at her words was clear. He turned abruptly to look out over the garden; his face cast in shadow. After a few moments, he spoke again in a calmer voice. "Was I wrong to hope that a beautiful and intelligent young lady might want to dance with me because of my witty conversation and enjoyable company, rather than the names of my parents, or the sum total of my income? A man can grow tired of those epithets at times, and I had hoped that someone like you, might be capable of seeing see past all that; not to mention that my presence would save you from spending further time with our northern friend with the clumsy feet."

His words were spoken with a trace of bitterness, and Elizabeth felt sorry she had incited the conversation in this direction. Trying to lighten the mood, she said, "Then what should I call you while we are dancing? ... Sir?"

"Ah, you are one of those ladies who believe that a dance should include some conversation." He spoke more lightly now and, in the semi-darkness, she could see that a smile was tugging at the corner of his mouth.

"I do believe a little conversation is helpful during a set, especially if your partner is not well known to you," she replied, matching his smile with one of her own. Elizabeth felt almost scandalous even thinking about dancing with someone when she did not even know his name, but to ask for an introduction now would put them both in an awkward situation. Looking back to his smile, then into his almond-shaped blue eyes, she was struck by his sincere and open expression, which was vaguely familiar to her. He held out his arm—the invitation unspoken—and with only a small amount of concern remaining, she allowed him to escort her back into the ballroom.

~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~

Chapter thirty.

She was walking briskly across a field, which seemed to stretch away from her into the distance, a blue sky scattered with wispy white cloud overhead ... in the next moment she found herself surrounded by trees and bushes with no obvious way through the tangled mass of branches. The sky suddenly grew dark, as though a grey blanket had been thrown over the heavens, and large raindrops began to fall, dampening her spencer and gloves, and weighing down the trailing ribbons on her bonnet.

Breathing heavily now, Elizabeth fought an urge to run. Fear threatened to engulf her senses as she felt the overwhelming need to escape from someone, or something, she could not see clearly. She circled around and around, trying to decide which way she should turn to get home. A gap in the seemingly impenetrable wall of branches appeared in front of her and she ran blindly towards it, not caring where it lead. Then, from out of nowhere, she felt a hand grasp her shoulder and she was shaken roughly...

"Lizzy, Lizzy! Wake up!"

Elizabeth's eyes fluttered open as she heard her sister's voice. "What?"

Sitting up in the bed, Mary rubbed at her tired eyes, before looking back to her sister. "You were dreaming; you woke me up!" She swung her legs out of the bed and reached out for her shawl. "You were very agitated, Lizzy. It must have been a nightmare. Can you remember what you were running from?"

She frowned, trying to remember what her dream had been before she woke, but the details melted away from her; as insubstantial as mist. "I was running?"

"I think you must have been. Your legs were flailing about like anything after you kicked me. The pain woke me up."

Elizabeth sat up and looked at the covers of the bed she and and her sister were sharing while at their Aunt and Uncle's house. Mary was right, they were in a terrible state.

"Oh, Mary! I am sorry that I disturbed you. At least when we were at Longbourn I had my own room, and did not wake anyone else."

"You had these dreams at home?"

"On occasion. The dreams themselves do not bother me—I usually forget them as soon as I wake anyway—but I will admit that the disturbed nights are starting to affect me. I have been feeling tired during the day. I even shouted at Frances yesterday when she made mistakes during her piano practice."

"That is not like you at all. Perhaps you should tell Mama about your dreams? She could call a doctor to give you something to help you sleep."

"I could not tell Mama! Surely she would implore me to keep them a secret, lest my bizarre behaviour becomes known to the gentlemen in town. Who would want me for a wife then?" Elizabeth imitated one of her mother's most common complaints. "I believe she is quite capable of seeing it as a fault in my character; something which must remain hidden at all costs, like an embarrassing birth mark."

Mary smiled, but shook her head. Whether in disapproval of their mother's behaviour, or her words, Elizabeth could not tell. "If you will not tell Mama, then at least you might consider speaking to Aunt Gardiner. Perhaps she can help?"

Elizabeth was grateful for her sister's suggestion, and promised that after breakfast she would find a way to speak to her aunt alone.

Picking up the ribbons from the dressing table, which had adorned her hair the previous evening, Mary smiled. "At least last night was not so terrible, Lizzy. After father's ultimatum before the party, I felt sure we would be packing to return home this morning."

"The only reason we are not is because I spent most of the evening watching Kitty and Lydia, and making sure they behaved in an appropriate manner. Lydia sorely tried my patience at times, as did Mama. You, I saw nothing of until supper, when you were sitting with that gentleman we were introduced to at the beginning of the evening. What was his name?"

"Mr. Newman." Mary confirmed quietly, her cheeks glowing with pleasure.

"Ah yes, I remember now. Did you enjoy your dance with him?"

"Yes, very much."

"And then?"

"He asked to reserve the supper dance, but when the time came we did not dance. We were too busy talking to notice."

"You spent all evening just talking with him?"

"Well, it was not as though I was going to receive very many other requests, Lizzy. You know that I rarely get asked to dance."

Elizabeth understood. Her sister had always claimed to be indifferent to dancing—preferring to show her talents on the piano instead—but Elizabeth had always wondered whether it was more the lack of partners than lack of interest in the activity. "Mr. Newman seemed very nice. Did you learn anything of his family?"

"Yes, his father is a historian and an author. His mother is an old friend of Lady Augusta and they have a small estate somewhere in Essex. His father's most widely known work is 'A History of the British Peoples in the First Millennium'. I borrowed it from the library at Meryton once and made a number of extracts," she admitted, picking at the fringe on her shawl.

"But is he the rich man that Mama was hoping we would all catch?"

"Certainly not at the moment, but he is due to come into a small inheritance from his grandfather in two years time." Mary looked seriously towards her sister. "I never expected a rich man to be interested in me," she whispered. "In fact, I never thought any man would give me a second glance. I know that I am plain and uninteresting compared to my sisters." Elizabeth tried to object, but Mary would not be swayed. "Jane exceeded even Mama's expectations, and I am sure you will not have to wait long to join her in the married state. I never expected such good fortune. If you wish for something that can never be, you will only be disappointed. I only ever wanted to read my books and to be happy with my life. I think that is the most any of us can hope for."

Elizabeth's thoughts strayed back to Charlotte, and the reasons she gave for accepting Mr. Collins's proposal. "It may seem like a sound philosophy, Mary, for we know not what will happen in the future, but I would not wish you to settle for any man, just because he shows an interest in you. You must like him, if only a little."

"You do not need to worry. I found Mr. Newman to be very ... interesting."

"In that case, you were certainly more fortunate than I. Lady Augusta seems to have made a good choice for one of us." They both paused as Mrs Bennet's raised voice could be heard in the hallway outside their door. "Oh, I do wish she had not introduced Mama to Mr. Briscoe last night," Elizabeth sighed, putting her head in her hands.

As though the mere mention of her name was sufficient to summon her presence, Mrs Bennet entered the room without even knocking. "Ah, Lizzy, Mary. You are awake. That is good. You must both get dressed quickly. After breakfast, we are going to the dressmakers."

"To collect the new gowns you ordered?" Elizabeth asked.

"No, you must each have a new day dress, and an evening gown, and I think you should have new bonnets as well. I saw one yesterday which was absolutely exquisite."

"But, Mama? Surely one new dress is more than enough!"

"One? What is one new gown when my daughters have a dowry of seven thousand pounds? If I can only persuade Mr. Bennet to remain in town for another few weeks, I might have all my daughters married before we return to Longbourn! Imagine what Mrs Long would say then."

Elizabeth saw Mary's confused stare, but she did not want to explain the situation in front of Mrs Bennet. "Mama, the season is nearly over now. There will be no parties to attend, or balls to dance at."

"Nonsense, Lizzy! Does town look empty to you?" Her mother gestured towards their window, as though she would be able to see the whole of London through one humble frame. "Do you think everyone has left for the country or the coast? Lady Rempstone has to stay in town for her confinement, remember, and she told me when we left last night that she is planning to host a small card party next week. There will only be a few families there, to be sure, but you will still have an opportunity to shine." Mrs Bennet picked up Elizabeth's discarded shawl from the end of the bed and passed it to her.

"Get dressed! We must go out this morning, for I am expecting a visitor tomorrow!" she cried as she left the room.

"Lizzy? What dowry was Mama speaking of?" Mary eventually asked, when their mother's voice could be heard in the next room, cajoling Lydia to get out of bed.

Elizabeth briefly explained the details to Mary. Now Mrs Bennet knew everything, there was no point in keeping the secret any longer. Her mother's final words replayed in her mind. "I wonder who Mama is expecting?"

Mary was quiet for a moment before shuffling uncomfortably on the end of the bed. "Last night I heard Mr. Briscoe asking Mama for permission to call on you."

"Oh no!" Elizabeth moaned, recalling that gentleman's less than impressive conversational skills.

Mary began undoing her plait as she sat on the end of the bed. Once her hair was free, she started to brush it in long strokes before replying to her sister. "Mr. Briscoe was not such a terrible man, Lizzy. I heard him talking with Mama and he spoke of nothing except how lovely you were, and how much his Mother would enjoy meeting you. Mama told me that he has six thousand a year, and his house sounded much grander even than Netherfield."

"But it is so far away! The distance would mean nothing if he was a man I loved, or at least could one day come to appreciate, but his manners and conversation were most disagreeable. He barely allows anyone to hold an opinion which does not coincide with his own."

Mary shrugged as she continued brushing, but remained silent.

"Even Mama would not wish me to be settled in Lancashire, would she?"

"Surely his fortune makes the distance less of an issue. He appears to have had no difficulty in travelling to Town."

Elizabeth sighed and hung her head. Of all the gentlemen she had danced with the previous evening, why was Mr. Briscoe the one who had declared his intention to see her again? Why could it not be her mysterious Knight who had requested permission to visit? But, of course, he was no longer a mystery. Knowing now exactly who he was, Elizabeth wondered whether she would ever see him again.

~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~

The barrel vaulted coffee room at White's was sparsely populated with gentlemen that morning, which was the main reason Darcy had chosen it. He knew some of the occupants by sight, and others quite well, but he chose a chair near the window, away from the general hum of background conversation, where he could spend a quiet hour reading. He sat with his back to one of the decorative alcoves flanking the fire; a position from which he could—if he was so inclined—observe the whole room.

As his drink was laid on the table in front of him, he acknowledged the server absently. Shaking open his newspaper, he pored the columns of print, noting items of interest. Darcy's perusal was temporarily interrupted by an eruption of laughter from a table at the other end of the room, which was surrounded by four or five gentlemen. He heard one of them call for the betting book to be brought forth which was followed by the murmur of friendly banter that flowed around the group.

Returning his attention to a report of Lord Sidmouth's most recent speech in the house, he failed to notice Colonel Fitzwilliam's entrance until his cousin tapped on the newspaper to gain his attention.

"Richard!"

"Good morning, Darcy. So this is where you've been hiding yourself."

He frowned. "Not hiding, particularly. It is as good a place as any to spend one's time."

Colonel Fitzwilliam sat in the chair to his right, and leaned slightly towards him. "I called at your house earlier. Jessop told me you were here. I paid my respects to Georgiana and the estimable Mrs Annesley, but my main reason for visiting was to speak to you. I thought you might like to hear who I met at the Rempstone's party yesterday evening."

"You know I have no interest in the latest scandals and rumours," Darcy replied in a tired voice. "If I did, then I would have happily attended the party myself."

"Yes, I do know, but you may well come to regret that decision. I was introduced to a gentleman yesterday evening who you would probably have been very interested to meet; goes by the name of Bennet."

Darcy stiffened. He was not convinced that he wanted to know anything further about the Bennets cousin; he had already heard more than he wanted to from his friend. However, curiosity won out over his stubbornness. "What was he doing at Rempstone House? I understood that he was staying at Longbourn."

The Colonel's smile was intolerably smug as he held up his hand to signal one of the waiting staff and ordered a drink. "You will not believe me when I tell you," he smiled. "Suffice it to say, he was with family."

Darcy could not help but sit up straighter in his chair. "Family? You mean the Bennets were at Rempstone House?"

"Yes ..." Richard slowly drew out the single syllable carefully. "They were, but I was actually referring to his other family—on his mother's side."

"Richard! Please stop talking in riddles and tell me. Was Miss Bennet there last night or not?"

Accepting the glass of wine that was served to him, Richard studied the ruby liquid through the facets of cut crystal before taking a sip. "Yes, she was. I had the honour of dancing with her myself."

Darcy's heart fell in his chest when he heard those words. Elizabeth had been across the square only the previous evening. Had he known she would be there, nothing could have kept him away. Resting his head back on the chair, he took a deep breath, to force down the painful disappointment that rose like bile within him.

"Why did you not inform me of this last night? You could have easily sent a note."

"Why should I? You were the one who insisted that you would not attend at any price. Besides, had you shown your face, you would still have had to dance with Lady Augusta's nieces, and possibly even worse ... I saw the filly my mother had lined up for you." The grimace on his cousin's face was enough for Darcy to know exactly what he had missed there. "I saved you from an appalling evening; and you are not a bit grateful!"

Looking back to his cousin, Darcy noticed a self-satisfied smirk on his face. "I assume from your expression that there is more to tell. Was Miss Bennet with her cousin?"

"I did see Miss Bennet dance with her cousin, but only once. It was rather crowded."

"Richard!" The single word rumbled from Darcy's throat, with the implication of an underlying threat. He was quickly losing his patience.

Seeming to realise that he had pushed his cousin too far, the Colonel finally admitted, "If you are asking me whether Miss Bennet showed a preference for her cousin, I would say probably not."

Darcy's irritation flared. He pursed his lips as he tried to curb his annoyance. Again, Fitzwilliam's expression distracted him; he was now barely concealing his mirth. "Well? Out with it! I can see there is yet more that you are dying to tell."

He belatedly realised that he had raised his voice a few degrees more than was strictly acceptable, when he saw heads turn to see what the fuss was about. He bowed his head to the room, the barest of apologies for his outburst, before returning his attention to Richard.

"I only have a little more," his cousin replied, calmly. "Miss Bennet was kind enough to arrange an introduction to her cousin. I have to say you will find him a great improvement on Mr. Collins." This time he paused for only a moment before continuing in a more serious tone. "I think I can say that her cousin Bennet is no rival for her affections."

"Are you sure?" Darcy asked, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders and a hope in his heart.

Richard shrugged. "How can he be? From what I understand he is barely nineteen years old, although he looks older."

"Nineteen?" Darcy considered this information. At that age, he would be a little young to get married. Perhaps that dreaded event was not quite as inevitable as he had first feared. He looked up at his cousin, who now wore a relaxed smile.

"Yes, I can see that your thoughts concur with my own, Darcy. He is not so likely to marry this year, or even in the next five years. In truth, when I spoke with Miss Bennet, I had the impression that she considered him more of a brother than anything else."

Then that is something young Mr. Bennet and I have in common. "Do you know whether the Bennets are staying in town?"

Richard's shoulders sagged slightly and he shook his head. "I do not. I only know that Mr. Nathaniel Bennet is to stay with his Grandmother and her family for a few weeks before returning to the country."

"Yes, you mentioned his family before. Do we know them?"

"Ah! That was the biggest surprise of all. Lady Augusta introduced him to us herself. Did you know she had a daughter?"

"A daughter?" Darcy cast his mind back to earlier years. "Yes, I do remember Henry saying something about an older sister. I believe that she died abroad while we were at Eton. I do not remember the exact details."

"Well, Nathan Bennet is her son, returned from Jamaica, and now heir to the Bennets estate. Naturally, everyone had nothing but good things to say about Lady Augusta's grandson ... even mother."

Elizabeth connected by marriage to the Rempstones? Not so many months ago he would have been pleased by the improvement in her status, but he had long since discarded any concerns that the Bennet family were beneath him. He wondered how Elizabeth's presence had been received that evening. Had she received many offers to dance? Had anyone else found her enchanting? "No doubt Lady Augusta relishes the opportunity of four more young ladies to find husbands for," Darcy asked of his cousin, more as a way of bringing the conversation back to Elizabeth than for any sincere interest in his neighbour's opinions.

"You would have thought so, would you not? However, she has two nieces of her own who take precedence in her mind." Richard looked down thoughtfully into the dregs that had collected in the bottom of his glass.

"What is wrong?"

His cousin moved uncomfortably in his seat. "Do you remember your initial opinion of the Bennet family?"

Darcy shuddered; he remembered what he had said to her all too well ... congratulate myself on the hope of relations, whose condition in life is so decidedly beneath my own? She had resented him for it, and quite rightly.

Accepting his silence as affirmation, Richard nodded his head. "Lady Augusta is no friend to the Bennets, and does not hide the fact. You will need to be on your guard, Darcy. If the Old Tabby suspects your interest in Miss Bennet, her claws will definitely be out. I was there when she was talking to mother about the Bennet family, and I have no doubt that she will tell the same malicious tale all over town ... all in the strictest confidence, of course! If you wish to protect Miss Bennet, you must be very careful when and where you make your regard known."

Darcy's attention was only partly on his cousin. Another thought had just struck him. "If Mr. Bennet is staying with his Grandmother, then perhaps his cousins are staying there also?"

"No, they are most certainly not. I somehow doubt Lady Augusta would have allowed it. I saw Miss Bennet and her sisters preparing to leave, quite late. They must be staying somewhere close. I doubt they would have been travelling back to Hertfordshire at that time of night."

Darcy thought for a moment before an idea came to him. "They will be staying with Mr. and Mrs Gardiner, I am sure of it. I wonder if they are still there?"

Richard shrugged. "The only way you will know for certain is to call on them. Did you not say that Georgiana enjoyed the company of Miss Bennet's aunt and uncle?"

"Yes! You are right, of course. Perhaps a visit with my sister would be in order. Thank you, Richard," he smiled at his cousin as he folded the newspaper before dropping it on the table as he stood. "If you will excuse me, I have a call to make."

Addressing his retreating cousin, the Colonel said, "But ... must you go now, Darcy?"

"Most definitely," Darcy replied calmly as he called for his coat and hat. "I have wasted more than enough time already."

~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~

Chapter thirty-one.

Staring at her reflection in the dressing table mirror as the maid worked on her hair, Elizabeth allowed her mind to wander to the previous evening at Rempstone House, and the time she had spent with the handsome gentleman from the terrace.

Their dance had been more enjoyable than she had been expecting. Having commented that he did not often dance, Elizabeth was half expecting him to be a little awkward, but his figures and movements were confident; never putting a foot wrong as they moved down the line in such a graceful manner that she almost felt as though she was floating on air.

Her partner's attentions towards her had been very flattering, and the way he smiled as they danced showed how genuinely pleased he was to be in her company. Elizabeth could hardly avoid noticing the odd looks she had received from some of the other young ladies when they recognised the gentleman she was dancing with, but she resolved to ignore them. They had exchanged few pleasantries during the dances—mainly polite questions about her family—and then the subject had moved towards her cousin.

The stranger had explained how he had heard many things about Lady Augusta's grandson, but had not yet had the opportunity to meet him. Elizabeth smiled as she recalled her words to him at that time. "I would offer you an introduction to my cousin, sir, but it would surely seem odd if I cannot provide him with your name." He had smirked at her comment, but still would not be drawn on his identity.

"It is too much of a novelty," he said in a low voice as he stepped behind her during one of the final movements of the dance. "You must allow me to enjoy myself for a little longer."

The dance had ended soon afterwards and he had escorted her from the floor to the side of the room, where they were joined by Captain Ardern and Nathan. The Captain obviously knew her partner well, and exclaimed his surprise at seeing him on the dance floor.

"So you have not forgotten how to dance after all. Have you seen my mother? She was looking for you earlier." His tone warned of impending danger.

"Yes, I spoke to Lady Augusta. My penance is to converse with those tiresome nieces of hers at some point during the evening."

Elizabeth overheard the Captain as he offered to introduce her partner to Nathan, and she had been anticipating finally learning his identity, so naturally she was disappointed when Lydia and Kitty joined her; insisting on hooking their arms through hers and propelling her a short distance away. As her sisters chattered excitedly, Elizabeth looked curiously at the group she had just left, but she was soon distracted when Kitty addressed her.

"Oh! It has been so wonderful this evening! Some of the ladies gowns are gorgeous, and the gentlemen are so very smart, especially Captain Ardern. Do you not think he looks smart in his uniform? Cavalry officers are so distinguished!" Her sister sighed happily. "Lydia and I have danced almost every dance this evening! Did you enjoy your dance, Lizzy?"

"Yes," she replied with a blush. "It was certainly a great improvement on the gentleman I was forced to suffer earlier."

"Oh, Lord! I could hardly keep a straight face when I watched you dance with that fat man. He reminded me of Mr. Collins. However, you did much better with your last partner. He was very handsome. Who is he? Is he very rich? Do you think he would dance with me?"

Elizabeth had been reluctant to admit that she did not know his name. What sort of example would that set to her sisters? "I have no idea whether he is rich or not, Lydia, but I do not think he will dance with you."

"Why not? I dance just as well as you do, if not more so," she objected, rudely.

Elizabeth had looked coldly at her youngest sister. It had been the end of a long night; she had been tired and irritable and in no mood for Lydia's inane comments. "If you do not watch your tongue I will tell Father that you have misbehaved, and he will send you home."

Lydia's jaw dropped as she heard her sister's uncharacteristic threats, but her eyes quickly narrowed. "You would not dare!" she hissed resentfully.

Elizabeth's biting response had been interrupted by Mrs. Bennet's untimely arrival. "Oh, Lizzy, there you are! You and your partner looked very well together on the dance floor, my dear. I was standing with Lady Rempstone when she saw you dancing. What a handsome gentleman he is, and a fair dancer too, would you not say?"

"Yes, Mama." Elizabeth had been unsure which direction the conversation would take next, but was prepared for the worst her mother could come up with.

"Lady Rempstone had only just spoken of her brother, and was wondering where he had got to, and wouldn't you know it? There he was, in the middle of the dance floor, with my own little Lizzy! I have never been more proud of you."

Elizabeth was confused. "Lady Rempstone's brother?"

"Yes, dear. Did you not know? Not only brother to our host, but a Viscount too! Now that would be a match, would it not? Lady Cresswell. Does that not sound well? Mrs Long and Lady Lucas would be fit to be tied if I produced a Viscount for a son-in-law!" Mrs Bennet had fanned herself furiously, and called for Kitty to fetch her some refreshment, as the thought of introducing him to her neighbours caused her temperature to soar.

Elizabeth looked around for her former dance partner, and saw that he was still talking to Nathan, seemingly unconcerned by the conversations around him. She doubted that he was far enough away not to hear her mother's words. "Mama! Please lower your voice. You should not read more into it than is there. I only danced two sets with him. Under the circumstances he is hardly likely to ask again."

"Oh, my dear girl, you do not understand. Lady Rempstone was most clear on the matter; Lord Cresswell chooses to dance so rarely. Sometimes he can go through the whole evening without being seen in the ballroom. His sister was quite shocked to see him partnering you." Mrs Bennet beamed as she looked around the room.

Elizabeth had also taken the opportunity to survey the room. Her former dance partner—Lord Cresswell as she should get used to calling him—had left Nathan's side and had disappeared from view. Seeing Lady Rempstone in anxious conversation with Lady Augusta, whose icy blue eyes were staring intensely across the room at her, Elizabeth had wished that she could do the same.

"I knew that coming to town was a good idea." Mrs Bennet seemed oblivious to the angry glances of the Dowager. "We cannot leave while there are such good prospects for my daughters. If he does ask you to dance again, Lizzy, you must accept."

Elizabeth's reflection smiled as she recalled her mother's words. They had not danced again, but he had sought her out while she was sat down during the supper dance.

"Miss Bennet! You have no partner? It appears you have done an excellent job of eluding our northern friend."

She had watched him carefully as she replied, and noticed a definite disappointment when she said, "Yes, Lord Cresswell, I have been far more fortunate than I ever expected in that regard."

He smiled sadly for a moment, evidently disappointed that she had been told of his identity. "Although you have been forced to sit out this particular dance, I had hoped I would be allowed to share your company during supper. Would you have any objection to that arrangement?"

"Not at all, my Lord," she replied, putting emphasis on his title with such an ingenuous expression that he chuckled before offering his arm.

The doubts she had felt when she found out with whom she had been dancing had melted away during their conversation over supper. He had escorted her to a chair, and left her only briefly while he obtained a plate for her. Their conversation, between the delicately spiced morsels, had remained on relatively light topics of general conversation, and Elizabeth could not really say at the end of it that she knew him any better than before. In fact, he had been in the habit of asking more questions than he had provided answers for. However, she had learned a little about his parents, the Earl and Countess of Rutland, and that he enjoyed visiting his sister's house occasionally and playing with his young nephew and niece. He also explained that he was looking forward to becoming an uncle again.

"Now that Nathaniel has arrived, Lady Augusta has insisted on her husband's name being chosen if it is a male child." He shrugged, seemingly indifferent to which name was given. "It will probably be a girl anyway, in which case the name 'Augusta' would be rather appropriate, not only in deference to the poor thing's Grandmother, but also being expected during that auspicious month. As you have such a great interest in names, Miss Bennet, what would you suggest for my new nephew or niece?"

"I would say it was for your sister and brother to decide."

"Yes, no doubt you are correct. Allow me, then, to amend my question; what name would you give a daughter? Would you wish her to be named after yourself, or do you have an alternative preference?"

"Seeing as I am not married, I think that naming any children I might have in the future would be a frivolous exercise."

"Not entirely, Miss Bennet. It would allow me to know your favourite name, possibly even your own christian name."

"My own name is no secret, sir."

"But I have not yet been favoured with that information."

"Ah, but as you have already taught me, there is a great power in knowing a person's name. Perhaps I will hold mine in the way you once did."

"You would force me to take desperate steps?"

Elizabeth laughed at his surprised expression. "I doubt there is anything you could do which I would consider desperate, my Lord."

"I do enjoy a challenge," he replied with a sly smile. "Please excuse me a moment. I need to have a word with your mother."

He made as if to walk away and Elizabeth impulsively grabbed his arm. "You would not!"

"Really, Miss Bennet?" He looked down at her hand, and she withdrew it quickly. "You would be surprised what a gentleman might do to obtain something he wants badly enough."

Trying to ignore the blush she knew was spreading over her face, she glared at him. "I have heard all about men like that, but they would hardly deserve to be called gentlemen!"

"You are quite correct," he admitted, without appearing at all repentant. "I would not wish to give you the wrong impression of me."

He had then changed the subject entirely; speaking of the regular journeys he made between town and country to visit his mother, and Elizabeth had soon found herself talking of Jane and her marriage, and how much she missed her eldest sister.

Yes, the more Elizabeth thought back on the previous evening, the more she found herself reflecting on the company of Viscount Cresswell. She had never imagined that the man she had started the evening thinking of as her Knight was, in truth, even more distinguished than that. Were he not from such an elevated family, whose connections were so superior to those of the Bennets, she imagined that her heart could easily be lost to him. As it was, he could never seriously show an interest in someone like Elizabeth Bennet of Longbourn ... could he?

~~*~~

Once they were dressed, and their hair had been styled, Elizabeth and Mary walked into the dining room, where a selection of rolls, cake and other delicacies had been laid out on the table for breakfast. Mr. Bennet was eating his toast absently as he read the previous evening's newspaper.

Mrs Gardiner put down her tea-cup and smiled at them. "Good morning, girls. Did you sleep well?"

Out of the corner of her eye Elizabeth saw Mary glance in her direction, but neither was able to mention Elizabeth's dream as Mrs Bennet and her two youngest followed them into the room.

"Oh, sister! What a night we had last night! Rempstone House was truly wonderful to behold. If only you could have joined us. I have never seen so many candles ... and the guests! The jewels! If only I had brought my pearl and silver necklace with me."

Mary rolled her eyes as Mrs Bennet proceeded to describe some of the people who had inhabited Rempstone House the previous evening. Her excitement knew no bounds, and it was not long before she had moved her one-sided conversation around to her daughters dancing partners.

"Of course, Nathan made a special point of dancing with all his cousins ... even though he was much in demand from the other guests." Turning to address her husband, Mrs Bennet said, "had you removed yourself from the card table at some point during the evening, Mr. Bennet, you would no doubt have observed how your nephew was the talk of the party!"

"Of course he was, Mrs Bennet. I would have expected nothing else under the circumstances. His grandmother is very proud of him, and rightly shows him off to her acquaintance at every opportunity, whether he wishes it or not."

"And what of you, Lizzy?" Mrs Gardiner asked. "Did you enjoy your evening?"

Elizabeth smiled, but it was Mrs Bennet who answered the question.

"She did very well for herself. How many times did you dance with Captain Ardern?"

"Only once."

"And what about the Colonel ... oh, what was his name?"

"Do you mean Colonel Fitzwilliam?"

"Yes, of course! Lady Rempstone pointed him out to me and was kind enough to offer an introduction. A pleasant gentleman; you never mentioned that you had been introduced to this Colonel Fitzwilliam while you were in Kent."

"I am sure I must have mentioned him, Mama. He is Lady Catherine's nephew. He was visiting Rosings with Mr. Darcy when I was staying with Charlotte."

Mr. Bennet looked over his newspaper. "Ah, yes. I remember the Colonel from my visit to Rosings. Was Mr. Darcy at Rempstone House last night? I am sorry I missed him."

"No. Mr. Darcy was unable to attend."

"Pity, that. A very decent young man," he mumbled to himself, before returning to his perusal of the pages in front of him.

"You would have been very proud of your daughter, Mr. Bennet. She had two dances with the very handsome Viscount Cresswell, and he hardly ever dances with anyone!"

Still hiding behind his paper, Mr. Bennet addressed his favourite daughter. "Then he shows excellent taste. I would have danced with Lizzy as well, had I not been otherwise engaged."

Mrs Bennet's inelegant snort suggested that she did not believe her husband for one moment. "Did you not see Lord Cresswell sitting with her at supper? Lady Augusta seemed most aggrieved, for I believe that she understood that his Lordship would spend some time with the Misses Jasper. Of course, we mustn't forget Mr. Briscoe. Lizzy danced with him as well."

"Mrs Bennet! Is it necessary to dissect every entertainment we attend in such minute detail?" Her husband cried in exasperation. "Do each daughter's dance partners always have to be held up to scrutiny the following morning over breakfast? Because if so, I may choose to take my tea and toast in the garden on future occasions for the sake of my health. This cannot be good for my digestion!"

"Nonsense! There's nothing wrong with you." Mrs Bennet disregarded the complaint as she returned swiftly to the subject of Mr. Briscoe. "He was also very taken by Lizzy! His mother sounds like a wonderful woman. Sadly, she cannot travel far, but she appears to be devoted to her son. Six thousand a year! And with the seven thousand from your uncle, and whatever your father was willing to give, you would both be able to live very comfortably. You—"

"I beg your pardon?" Mr. Bennet asked, rustling the newspaper as he lowered it to the table.

"Oh! Mr. Bennet ..." Mrs Bennet covered her mouth with her hand, but looked not a bit repentant at bringing up the subject. "I know that you wished to keep it as a surprise, but really! As their mother I should have been informed immediately!"

Elizabeth watched as her father removed his spectacles and rubbed tiredly at his temples. He sighed and shook his head; seemingly resigned to the complications that the new knowledge might bring. She was surprised that he had taken the news so well, but realistically understood that there was little he could do about it. It would have been impossible to keep the information a secret for ever.

"Ah, well. It was only a matter of time I suppose," he mumbled under his breath, so that only those nearest could hear him.

"Captain Ardern told me of your brother's bequest last night. You can imagine how ignorant I felt knowing nothing of it," his wife complained.

Mr. Bennet raised his eyebrows. "Is that correct? Well, it is educational to experience new feelings occasionally." He turned to Elizabeth. "I find that my opinion of that young man has definitely diminished, and it was never particularly high to begin with." Replacing his spectacles, he raised his voice. "Well, what is done, is done. We will be returning to Longbourn soon enough, and you will be able to dazzle all your neighbours with the news of the girls improved circumstances. That will certainly give Mrs Phillips and her friends in Meryton something to talk about over their fancy cakes."

"Mr. Bennet! You cannot be thinking of going home now? Surely we can remain in town a little longer? I could have all my daughters married if you would only give us leave to stay a few more weeks."

Mr. Bennet shook his head decidedly. "I have no intention of staying here any longer than necessary. You can catch just as many husbands with seven thousand pounds in Hertfordshire as you can in London. In fact, I would imagine that the money would go even further out of town."

"But the parties...?"

"The season is over. Families have already begun to return to the country, or to the more fashionable watering holes. We have done what we came here for; we met Nathan's grandmother and her family. Longbourn needs my attention and I see no further reason to remain."

"But Lady Rempstone invited us to a card party next week! They have no choice but to stay in town. Surely you would not refuse their invitation?"

Mr. Bennet sighed as he folded his newspaper and laid it on the table. "No, Lord Rempstone discussed the same event with me," he admitted reluctantly. "But once it is over, this family will be going home ... and that is the last word I shall say on the subject."

Rising from his seat, Mr. Bennet made to leave the room. As he passed Elizabeth, he laid a hand on her shoulder, which she covered briefly with her own before he passed by. Once he had left, Mrs Bennet continued to grumble about her husband's pronouncement until she had finished her breakfast. Even though returning to Longbourn meant that there was no reason for visiting the dressmaker today, Elizabeth's mother would not be at peace until someone had chosen both material and a pattern. Kitty and Lydia both begged to go shopping for sprigged cotton and lace, while Mary and Elizabeth asked to remain behind.

Once Mrs. Bennet had left, it was as though a spell of silence had been cast over the whole house. Mrs Gardiner sat in the parlour; the scratch of the quill the only sound as she wrote her letters at her desk in the corner of the room. Elizabeth had picked up her embroidery and was stitching initials onto a handkerchief for her father. Mary was helping Michael as he formed simple letters on a slate while Henry was playing quietly in the corner with his brightly painted wooden soldiers. When Elizabeth yawned for the second time in half an hour, her aunt looked up at her with a concerned frown.

"Lizzy, are you feeling well?"

"I do apologise, Aunt. I am not ill, although I have not been sleeping well of late."

"Is it the noise? I know that at Longbourn you are not so affected by the noise of passing carriages and wagons as we are here."

She shook her head. "No, Aunt, I do not think it is that."

Mary looked up at them. "Lizzy has been dreaming. Tell her about the dreams, Lizzy."

Elizabeth sighed as she tried to explain about the dreams she suffered from, but there was little to tell. She could not remember their subject, or what woke her. She confessed that there was nothing worrying her in particular, and she knew of no reason why she should be so disturbed.

"How long has this been going on for, my dear?"

She thought back over the last few months. "No more than six weeks, but increasing in their frequency."

"Perhaps some fresh air would do you good. You are in the habit of taking long walks across the fields every morning, and that exercise has been curtailed since your arrival in town. It is understandable that your mind craves the activity with which it has become so familiar. You and Mary could take the boys through the herb market to stretch their legs. Perhaps you may find some dried chamomile to help you sleep, for its season has now passed. I will send Joseph to escort you.

Michael and Henry Gardiner were excited to be leaving the house and going on an adventure, even if it was only across Gracechurch Street and into Leadenhall Market. Mary showed them the displays of mint and sweet woodruff, turning their outing into a learning exercise as she warned of the dangers of the delicate hemlock or the robust nightshade.

Even in the bustle of the busy market place, Elizabeth felt much happier being among the bunches of aromatic lavender and sage, or the comfrey and thyme, and she breathed deeply, taking in the heady scents all around her. However, it could not replace the lanes and fields where she enjoyed her walks. Elizabeth still missed Longbourn terribly. Unlike her mother, she looked forward to the day when they could return.

Once their shopping expedition was over, Elizabeth and Mary returned along a busy Gracechurch Street, while the boys were exclaiming over the sights that passed them on the street.

"Michael! Come and hold my hand. You must not run ahead like that!"

"But, Mary, look! Horses." Their young cousin pointed to the large black coach and four, which was turning into the Gardiner's yard ahead of them.

Elizabeth looked up, but she only caught a glimpse as the carriage passed out of sight. Holding tightly onto Henry's hand, she shrugged her shoulders. "It seems that Uncle has a visitor. Now, boys, you must be quiet when we return to the house ... at least until we reach the nursery. I do not want you to disturb your father when he has a guest." Both boys nodded their acquiescence, and remained silent as they rounded the corner into the cul-de-sac.

~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~*~~~~~~

Chapter thirty-two.

The occupants of the coach were standing at the foot of the steps leading to the Gardiners house. To her surprise, Elizabeth recognised them immediately. "Georgiana!" she cried, as her friend walked towards her.

After a curtsey to both of them, Georgiana's face broke into a wide smile. "Elizabeth! I had no idea you were in town, or I would have come to call sooner."

"Had I been given more notice of our journey, I would have written to let you know; although when we left Hertfordshire we had no expectation of an extended visit." Henry, tugging sharply on her hand, distracted Elizabeth. "What is the matter, Henry?"

The boy shook his head violently, but remained mute.

"Lizzy, have you forgotten?" Mary whispered. "You told the boys to remain quiet until they returned to their rooms."

Elizabeth apologised to her young cousin, and was about to send the two boys up to the nursery when she was interrupted.

"Miss Bennet, would you do us the honour of introducing us to your friends?"

Mr. Darcy's question took Elizabeth by surprise, and for a moment, she was at a loss to understand exactly what he meant. It took a few seconds before she realised that he was actually referring to her young cousins. "Oh, certainly! Mr. Darcy, Miss Darcy. May I introduce Michael Gardiner and his brother Henry? It was Michael who first noticed your carriage pulling into the yard."

Michael pointed to the horses. "They are just like the greys that were here before, Lizzy," he told her. "The ones that took you home when you were sick."

Georgiana appeared puzzled by the young boy's statement, and Elizabeth could only blush as she recalled the occasion. "You will have to excuse the enthusiasm of my young cousins. They both have a great interest in animals of every sort."

"Really?" Mr. Darcy bent slightly to address the young boys. "Would you like to have a closer look at the team?" Seeing their affirmative and enthusiastic nods, he held out his hands and escorted young Henry and Michael across the yard to where the horses were being tended by the Darcys own coachman.

Georgiana laughed at Elizabeth's expression as she watched them walk away. "Do you find it so strange that my brother would be comfortable in the company of such young children?"

"I must admit, I do. Mr. Darcy has never struck me as a gentleman who would tolerate children comfortably, any more than he does adults. On the occasions when we have met, he always seemed so serious. The only time I ever saw him smile was at my sisters wedding, and I think that was because you were with him."

"I know that my brother does have a rather serious nature," Georgiana confirmed in her quiet voice. "But he loves children dearly, and they tend to like him too. I have so many fond memories of Fitzwilliam caring for me, and keeping me amused when I was younger. He really is the best elder brother that anyone could wish for. I believe that the reason he feels more comfortable around children is because of their honesty. Children do not care for his position in society, or his wealth. A child will always tell him what they think, rather than what they believe he wishes to hear. My brother prizes honesty above everything."

Elizabeth watched in fascination as Mr. Darcy bent down and grabbed Henry under the arms, lifting him up so he could stroke the forelock of one of the dappled greys. Michael was content to stand patiently next to him, holding on to the gentleman's coat tail and waiting for his own turn. Both boys were enjoying the attention bestowed upon them by the visitor, and she could not help but be gratified that he would pay such attention to her own cousins. At that moment, Mr. Darcy turned to look back at them, and Elizabeth quickly returned her attention to Miss Darcy, feeling slightly embarrassed that she had been caught staring at his unfamiliar behaviour.

"Have you been in town long?" Georgiana asked, seemingly ignorant of her inattention.

"Since Monday."

"And will you be staying for very much longer?"

"I do not know. My father has expressed a wish to go home, but we have made no fixed plans for returning to Hertfordshire."

"What of your trip to the Lakes? Have you thought any more of stopping at Pemberley on your way home?"

Elizabeth smiled sadly as she remembered their conversation on the same topic in June. "Unfortunately our journey north has had to be cancelled. My Uncle's business required him to be in town, and allowed less time for our travels, so we had altered our plans to take a shorter trip into Derbyshire. But for my cousin's unexpected arrival in England and Lord Rempstone's invitation to visit them in town, we might have been travelling this very week."

"Oh! But we are leaving for Pemberley in just two weeks. Perhaps you could join us instead? It would be a shame for you to miss seeing Derbyshire in the summer. The grounds surrounding Pemberley are delightful in August. Do say you will come, Elizabeth."

Elizabeth shook her head as she led Georgiana up the steps. "While it all sounds lovely, I am sure that your brother would wish to be consulted before you make any formal invitations."

"Perhaps you are right," the young girl whispered.

Elizabeth looked up in time to see Henry and Michael running back across the yard to join them. Mr. Darcy was following them at a slower pace, a thoughtful smile on his face.

"Lizzy. Mr. Darcy has another horse. A big, brown one. He says he will bring it and show us."

"And I can ride on it!" Henry cried excitedly.

"Michael, Henry. I am sure Mr. Darcy is a busy man. He may not have the time."

"Miss Bennet!" The gentleman in question sounded affronted as he climbed the steps to join them. He turned to smile at the two boys and whispered, clearly enough for them all to hear. "Your cousin will teach you not to believe a word I say." As the boys giggled, he looked questioningly at her. "Miss Bennet, I would never make a promise I did not intend to honour."

Elizabeth smiled; pleased to see the faint signs of a sense of humour in the normally serious gentleman. She bowed her head, acknowledging that she recognised his almost perfect recall of the words she spoke to Colonel Fitzwilliam at Rosings. "Mr. Darcy, at times like this a good memory is unpardonable," she chided playfully. "Will all my conversations with you come back to haunt me?"

She watched as his satisfied expression faltered, and his countenance once again became grave. However, she could think no more on it, as Michael and Henry began to argue over who would get to ride on Mr. Darcy's horse first. She asked her sister to take the boys upstairs to their room, and Mary was happy to comply with her request; curtseying to Miss Darcy and her brother before following Michael and Henry up the main staircase.

Elizabeth, meanwhile, felt the need to change the topic of conversation. "Mr. Darcy. Thank you so much for bringing your sister to see me. But how did you know we were here? Oh, of course!" she cried, before he had the chance to reply. "It must have been from Colonel Fitzwilliam. I met him last night."

Elizabeth watched Mr. Darcy open his mouth to say something, but his sister interrupted him.

"Yes, my brother met with our cousin this morning. After learning that you might be in town he came straight home to tell me, knowing how much it would please me. Of course, we had no knowledge whether you had returned to the country after last night, or not. Did I not tell you he was the kindest of brothers? What other brother would do such a thing for his sister?"

The three turned towards Mrs Gardiner as she appeared to greet them. "Mr. Darcy, Miss Darcy. I did not know what to think when I was told we had guests. This is such a pleasant surprise. Please, come in."

"I apologise that our visit is unexpected," Georgiana whispered.

"Oh, there is no need, my dear," she reassured her guest. "I am happy to welcome you both to our home, although you will probably find us a little more informal than you are used to." Mrs Gardiner smiled at the young girl as she ushered her guests into the drawing room.

Elizabeth guided Georgiana to the settee while her brother chose to remain standing. Georgiana was bursting with news of her walks in Hyde Park with Anne, and her lessons with Mrs Annesley. While they spoke together, Mrs Gardiner was explaining to Mr. Darcy that her husband and his brother were in Mr. Gardiner's office, dealing with some matters of business. Elizabeth overheard her aunt offering to show him the way, but he politely declined.

After some minutes of standing alone, Mr. Darcy moved to join them, taking the chair next to his sister, where he seemed content to listen to their conversation. Elizabeth did not often turn her eyes directly to him, but when she did catch a glimpse, she saw an expression of general complacence, which pronounced him comfortable in their company. She was pleased to see that the changes she had witnessed in Mr. Darcy during Jane's wedding had outlived the celebratory atmosphere of Longbourn.

When he realised he was being observed, Mr. Darcy cleared his throat. "When do you leave for the lakes, Miss Bennet?"

Elizabeth found herself explaining once more the circumstances of their cancelled trip and her hopes that she may one day view Windermere or Coniston for herself, rather than merely reading about them in her father's library.

"You would certainly find it worth the time it takes to reach that area. As a boy, my father took me with him on a journey to Scotland, and on the way back we stopped very close to Coniston," Mr. Darcy explained. "Early the next morning he came into my room and woke me so that we could spend a few hours fishing together. We only had one day there before we had to continue home, but I have never forgotten that morning spent by the lake with my father. The water was so calm, and the early mist still lingered over the fields. It is one of my fondest memories. I have often wanted to return there."

Elizabeth's imagination was captured by the image Mr. Darcy had painted in her mind and she was pleased to hear about his close relationship with his father. "That does sound wonderful. If anything, it makes me more determined than ever to visit the area one day."

"If you are determined then I have no doubt that you will succeed. I have always been impressed by your resolve and persistence."

"I believe you mean my stubbornness, do you not, Mr. Darcy?" Elizabeth asked smilingly.

"I would not describe you as stubborn, Miss Bennet. That word suggests an unyielding resistance. I am sure that your character is more amenable than that."

Elizabeth was contemplating the meaning behind Mr. Darcy's words, and the genial smile that accompanied them, as Mrs Gardiner joined their group. The conversation moved on as they reminisced about their previous meeting in Hertfordshire before Elizabeth briefly explained about Nathan's arrival in the country. As their discussion once more touched upon the circumstances that had caused Mr. and Mrs Gardiner to cancel their trip, she heard the young girl sigh deeply.

"I remember how much you were looking forward to your journey. It is such a shame that things have conspired against you in such a way." Turning to her brother, she said, "I had quite pinned my hopes on receiving Elizabeth at Pemberley. It can be so lonely there sometimes, when you are busy. Surely you would not object to my inviting her as a guest?"

Elizabeth could tell that Georgiana's brother was surprised by his sister's request. What had she been thinking? She should have told Georgiana what a silly idea it was when she suggested it, rather than putting Mr. Darcy in the awkward position of giving a polite refusal.

Clearing his throat, the response from Georgiana's brother was unexpected. "While I have no objection to the invitation, I would be interested to know Miss Bennet's feelings on the subject." His relaxed posture as he asked the question could not hide the searching look in his eyes.

"I ... I know not what to think. Obviously, I would love to see the property which I have heard so much about from Miss Bingley, but—"

Mr. Darcy held up his hand as he interrupted her. "Please, Miss Bennet, do not base your impressions of Pemberley on Miss Bingley's opinions," he begged. "She knows little of our home. She has only been there once, and even then it was but a short stay."

"Hardly short enough," Georgiana complained in a low voice.

"Oh dear, was it really that terrible?"

Georgiana nodded and her brother agreed. They explained that during her short visit to Pemberley with her brother, Miss Bingley had upset two female servants, criticised their housekeeper Mrs Reynolds, who by their account was without peer, and complained bitterly about the weather.

"Well," Elizabeth laughed, "I do not think I would be quite that bad."

"Oh no, you will be perfect," her young friend insisted. "It will be so much more fun with you there. My brother has so many responsibilities, and I often feel that he is deferring his duties in order to keep me occupied."

Elizabeth could hardly believe that she was being invited to such a grand house as Pemberley. Surely she would be a fool to refuse such an opportunity? "In that case, I will ask my father's permission. If he is agreeable, I would be happy to join you in Derbyshire."

~~~~~~~*~~~~~~~

It took all Darcy's self-control to stop himself from reaching out and hugging his sister at that moment. He could never have imagined that one of the things he most wanted could come to pass so simply, and with such little effort on his part. Not only would he be able to spend time in Elizabeth's company, but he could already sense the return of the steady friendship between her and his sister, which could only grow with time and intimacy.

If anything, Elizabeth had grown more beautiful since he had last seen her. Every time she favoured him with a smile, he felt a warm glow of happiness inside him, and now she was coming to Pemberley; the place he had always pictured her. The place she truly belonged.

Just as he was thinking that their visit could not be improved upon, Mr. Bennet entered the room and welcomed him warmly.

"Mr. Darcy! This is a pleasant surprise."

"Good morning, sir," Darcy replied cheerfully. "It is good to see you again, and quite unexpected. I did not realise that you were planning a stay in London."

Elizabeth's father sighed as he shook his head. "The last time we spoke, I no more thought I would come to town again this year than I would fly to the moon. While I would not ordinarily choose to be here, circumstances demanded our attendance."

"I understand that your stay is related to the arrival of your nephew." At Mr. Bennet's nod and questioning glance, Darcy explained, "I received a letter from Bingley, which mentioned his arrival at Longbourn." Among other things, he thought ruefully. "Your daughter has also told us a little of the manner of his discovery, after so many years of being unknown to you."

"Nathan is a very sensible young man. My brother did a fine job with him. I will be sure to introduce him to you when he arrives here. I expect him at any time."

Darcy was now able to accept the offer of an introduction with equanimity. After spending many days worrying that she would soon be married to her cousin, his sense of relief made him feel almost light-headed. He felt Elizabeth's attention was turned in his direction, as though his thoughts alone had drawn her towards him, but Darcy resisted returning her stare, content, for the moment, at being the object of her observation.

Raising his voice slightly as he spoke to Mr. Bennet, he said, "I regret that I was unable to accept Lady Rempstone's invitation for yesterday evening. I am sure Lady Augusta would have been only too happy to make me known to her grandson."

"You know the family?"

"Yes, very well. There are few people who do not know them to some degree. Lady Augusta was a friend of my mother for many years and I have been acquainted with the Rempstone family for all my life. In fact, my own house in town is just across the square."

Mr. Bennet could not hide his surprise at that piece of news. "Had I been aware of that fact last night, Mr. Darcy, you may have found yourself with an unexpected visitor."

Elizabeth laughed at her father as she moved towards them to join the conversation. "Surely you would not have left us alone at Rempstone House, Papa?"

"You know very well that those sort of events do not interest me. I was sorely tempted to take an evening walk around that bit of a park in the middle of the square, just for some peace and quiet."

Mr. Darcy smiled at his comment. "You are more than welcome at my home any time you wish, Mr. Bennet."

The occupants of the room all turned as the door now opened to admit three gentlemen. The young man who entered first was unknown to Darcy, although he quickly guessed from Mr. Bennet's reaction that it was the nephew that he had heard so much about.

"Ah, Nathan. I am so pleased you could join us. Mr. Darcy, please allow me to introduce my nephew, Nathaniel Bennet."

"It is a pleasure to meet you, sir," Darcy replied, satisfied by the truth of his statement.

"Thank you, Mr. Darcy. My uncle has spoken of you often since my arrival at Longbourn."

Although the young man in front of him was tall — almost as tall as Darcy himself — and had a open and cheerful countenance which many young ladies would probably find appealing, his youth could not be overlooked. Nathan Bennet had a naïveté and general sincerity, which marked him ill-used to dealing with London society. Other than that, Darcy could find little to fault except, perhaps, his choice of friends.

Darcy waited patiently as Mr. Bennet was introduced to his nephew's companions. He needed no introduction of his own, for he knew both men; one of them very well.

"Fitz! What the devil are you doing here?"

"Good morning, Henry. I did not expect to see you today either," he replied dispassionately, refusing to rise to the bait. Henry knew how much he detested the nickname he had first given Darcy at Eton, and took every opportunity to taunt him with it. "How is your mother?"

"Not happy that you were able to elude her last night. She had my cousins Frances and Elizabeth all lined up and ready for you; well, you and every other eligible bachelor present. I was even forced to dance with them myself!" Henry Ardern laughed and turned to Mr. Bennet as he clapped Darcy on the shoulder. "Now this is the man you need to speak to about managing Nathan's inheritance. Unlike me—a poor second son, reliant on the goodwill of my family—Darcy is as rich as Croesus. He would be a good man to see for advice."

Pointedly ignoring the Captain's comments, Darcy addressed the third man. "Cresswell. I am surprised to see you here. I was not aware you were back in town."

"You are no more surprised than I, Darcy," the Viscount drawled. "I did not realise that you were even familiar with this part of town."

Darcy bristled at his comment. Cresswell was no more familiar with Cheapside than he was, but at least he had a reason for his presence. "I had the good fortune to meet Mr. and Mrs Gardiner at Mr. Bennet's home last month. My friend Bingley married the eldest Miss Bennet in June."

"Really?" Cresswell looked openly across the room, and Darcy belatedly realised that Elizabeth had returned to the settee when the visitors had arrived. "If that lady is anything like her sister, then he is a fortunate man indeed. If you will excuse me, I must greet the ladies." Darcy watched helplessly as Viscount Cresswell walked across the room to speak to Miss Bennet and Mrs Gardiner. Captain Ardern wasted no time in joining him.

Darcy was considering whether to reposition himself, but Mr. Bennet chose that moment to draw him into further conversation and he was unable to get away.

"My brother has left me with the responsibility of managing my nephew's inheritance, Mr. Darcy. As you are well aware, my own experience in that field is limited. If you do have any advice at this juncture, I would not be too proud to take it."

"Certainly, Mr. Bennet. While you are in town, perhaps we can arrange a convenient time to discuss the matter in more detail."

Mr. Bennet appeared concerned as he asked his next question. "It appears that you know Lord Cresswell. What can you tell me of him?"

Darcy sighed. "I know him a little. He is the eldest son of the Earl of Rutland. The family is well thought of and they have a house in town and an estate in Bedfordshire. The Earl spends most of his time in town, and is most often to be found at the gaming tables. His mother has remained almost constantly in the country for many years. Cresswell divides his time between town and the country. You will have no doubt been introduced to one of his sisters already; Lady Rempstone."

"Yes, they are very much alike." Mr. Bennet looked across the room at his daughter. When he next spoke, his voice was light-hearted. "At breakfast this morning I heard nothing but tales of who my daughters danced with last night. I take little pleasure in scrutinising the events of the previous evening, but my wife did make a special mention of the Viscount dancing with Elizabeth, although Mrs Bennet had been told that he does not dance as a rule."

"No," Darcy was forced to admit. "Cresswell and I are very similar in some respects. Our opinion of dancing is one of them."

"I was also led to believe that Elizabeth sat with him at supper, much to Lady Augusta's chagrin." He chuckled to himself a moment. "I did wonder at his attentions towards my daughter, but knowing his position in Society I can have no concerns on that score. I doubt that a future Earl would have any serious interest in my little Lizzy."

A tinkling laugh pulled Darcy's attention to the group now clustered around Elizabeth. She was looking up at the Viscount, her attention rapt as she listened to his conversation. Her cheerful, teasing manner towards the always-amiable Cresswell made his heart ache. He could not deny that, of all the eligible bachelors in town, Darcy would rather she be talking to any other man he could think of. Suddenly she smiled and looked down at the floor, her face blushing prettily.

Reluctantly returning his attention to Mr. Bennet, he was realised that the older man had been staring at him, rather than at his daughter. Darcy wondered just how clearly his thoughts might have been written on his face. He was grateful that Elizabeth's father held him in sufficiently high esteem to be comfortable in asking his opinion about a potential suitor for his daughter. However, knowing the threat was there did not make it any easier to deal with. Just at the point where he no longer needed to worry about her affection for her cousin, he was now faced with a far more serious problem.

Scanning the room for Georgiana, Darcy saw that she was speaking with Mrs Gardiner in the far corner; at a safe distance from the recent arrivals.

"Mr. Bennet, I fear I must collect my sister and take my leave of you. I hope to have the opportunity of seeing you all again before you leave town." The two men walked across the room, where Darcy bid farewell to Mrs Gardiner.

"You are leaving so soon?"

"Yes, Mrs Gardiner. I believe we must."

"Mr. Darcy, I wondered whether you and your sister would care to join us for dinner tomorrow evening?"

Darcy could not help but glance at Elizabeth as she continued speaking animatedly with the Viscount. "I would not wish to intrude."

"It would be no intrusion, sir, just a simple family dinner; nothing to your usual standards I am sure." Mrs Gardiner looked across the room as the booming laughter of Captain Ardern reached them. "There will be no other guests," she added after a short pause.

Darcy glanced down at Georgiana, and saw her eyes willing him to accept the invitation. "In that case, Mrs Gardiner, we would be honoured to join you."

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