“No, nothing at present. William, you have been a dear to stay with me throughout the night.”
“You are remarkable, Elizabeth Darcy. My part is small compared to what you are enduring for the sake of our children.”
“I am glad it will not be long now.” She smiled lovingly, pressing her hand to her stomach. “I have cradled them here for so many months, and now my greatest desire is to hold our precious babes in my arms, alive and well.”
“I know,” he said, kissing her hand.
“William, do you think you could look in on the girls? I worry for Anna. You must reassure her when she hears my cries. And please tell Georgie that I would dearly love to hear her music once she is able. Please, my love, go to them. They need you, too.”
“Yes, I shall see to our girls; you need not worry.”
“Although the doctor will not like it, I shall ask the midwife to send a servant for you when my time is closer. It is my greatest wish that you be here for the birth of our children.”
“I shall be waiting, sweetheart.”
On leaving Elizabeth’s room, William first went to his own room to change his clothes and take care of some of his personal necessities before seeking out Anna and Georgiana. His valetmust have anticipated his needs, since there was warm water in the basin and a fresh set of clothes on his bed. After changing and having a quick shave, he went directly to Anna’s room to see if she was awake.
“Papa, I have been waiting and waiting for you,” Anna sobbed, running into his embrace as soon as he opened the door. “I do not like it when Mama cries. Please, Papa, may I go in and sing to her? She needs me.”
“I am so sorry, Anna; it is not possible for you to join her. Mama is working very hard now to birth the babes and she does not want you to worry for her. She sent me to be with you and Aunt Georgie for a time and asked to hear some of your beautiful music. She says it will be a great comfort to her and the babes. Since you have finished breaking your fast, let us go to the music room and see if Aunt Georgie is there yet.”
“Yes, Papa. I would like to singAll Through the Nightfor Mama and our babes.”
“Your song will be perfect. Come, my sweet child, let us go now.”
By the time William and Anna arrived at the music room, Georgiana was there arranging her music and preparing to play. “Brother, how is Elizabeth?” she asked with trepidation. “I overheard the maids saying her labours started late last night.”
“She is tired, but doing well. Elizabeth sent me to find the two of you She would like to hear some of your lovely music.”
“Of course. Come, Anna.”
“Aunt Georgie, may we start with my song? I would like the angels to watch over Mama and our babes while we are waiting.”
“‘Tis an excellent choice. Let us begin.”
Although William had wanted to remain at Elizabeth’s side, he was grateful she had sent him to be with the girls. Their music was comforting to him as well, and the time passed quickly as they played and sang through song after song. While listening,he silently petitioned God to protect his wife and unborn children, praying all would be well.
It was late morning by the time a maid came to the music room informing William that Elizabeth was nearing the final stages of the birth and would like for him to join her. Before leaving, both girls rushed to his side and into his outstretched arms.
“Brother, our Elizabeth and the babes will be fine; I know it,” Georgiana quietly said.
“Papa, tell Mama I love her and that Aunt Georgie and I will be praying for her and our babes.”
“Yes, my dears,” he said, kissing them both. “I shall tell her.”
On leaving, he watched as Georgiana picked up Anna and took her back to the pianoforte. “We should continue our music, Anna. This will be the most difficult time for Mama, and our music will help her.”
When William opened the door to Elizabeth’s bedchamber, he saw his wife sitting in the birthing chair, struggling to push with each new pain. Rushing to her side he pulled back her matted hair and tied it with the ribbon which had come loose. Looking around, he questioned, “Why is this room so dark and stuffy? It is oppressive. My wife is accustomed to daylight and fresh air. One of you, pull back the curtains and open a window this instant.”
The attending doctor, not happy with William’s directives, asked the maids to wait a moment. As it was, he had strong objections to the master being in the birthing room to begin with and only agreed to his presence when an additional stipend had been promised.
“Mr. Darcy,” the doctor said, clearing his throat, “it has been my experience that a darkened room with plenty of warmth will provide a more relaxing atmosphere for the mother and unbornchild, and it is something which most women prefer when giving birth.”
“That may be your experience; however, my wife is not like most women. Believe me; I know what she would prefer. As you can see, she is suffering under these stifling conditions, and I insist that the curtains be pushed aside and a window be opened at once.”
“As you wish.”
“Thank you, William,” Elizabeth panted between contractions.
