“I admit, I would like to have been consulted about what is to take place, but under the circumstances I know it was hardly possible.”
“What is it then, my dear? What is troubling you?’
“It is just that I did not expect him to state his regard for me in his letter, especially after what Eliza overheard. While we have not known each other for very long, I … I have come to care for Mr. Darcy, and I could not bear it if he were to resent me for being forced to marry against his will.”
“In my opinion this letter indicates that Mr. Darcy is honourable, and I do not believe he is the type of man who wouldsay he esteemed you if he did not mean it. You mark my words, Lizzy, all will be well.”
“Do you truly think so?”
“I do. Now, unless you have more to discuss, you had best inform your mama and sisters of what is to take place. There is much to be done between now and Tuesday.”
“Yes, Papa.”
“And, Lizzy, once your mama has calmed a bit, please ask her to come here. While I am not one to indulge in the pageantry of a wedding, I should like to discuss a few things with her before Mr. Darcy arrives on Friday. Considering my current health, I fear it will be too much for me to attend you at the church. Since Mr. Darcy has purchased a special license, I should like to propose that we hold the wedding here at the manor house. What say you, my dear?”
“Oh, Papa,” Elizabeth knelt at her father’s side, placing her arms around his neck. “I could not bear it if you were not able to give me away. Thank you. Holding the wedding here will be perfect, and I can assure you my sisters and I will do everything possible to help Mama with the arrangements.”
“Very good, my dear. You run along and do shut the door when you leave. I fear my solitude will be shortly interrupted and I should like to rest a bit before speaking with your mother.”
“I understand, Papa.”
After she left, Mr. Bennet eased himself from his chair and into the small bed that had been moved to his study for naps. Following his initial collapse, this convenience as well as a bedroom had been set up for him on the first floor. This suited Bennet quite well as it meant he could more easily join his family for meals and on occasion go out of doors without having to go up and down the stairs. Having the wedding at the house would no doubt present some difficulty for his wife, but his desire toattend the wedding of his favourite and give her away on this special day took precedence.
CHAPTER TEN
COMMITMENT
London
The Same Day
When William arrived in Town on Wednesday, many of the streets were already filled with activity. This was the evening of the Prince Regent’s GrandFête, a lavish event he was hosting at Carlton House to acknowledge his rise in power. With that event being celebrated in nearly every quarter, it was no wonder William’s arrival at Darcy House took longer than anticipated. Needing to accomplish much in a short time, he had previously arranged several appointments for the afternoon beginning with his uncle, the Archbishop, followed by his jeweller, and finally his solicitor.
Initially, William had asked his solicitor to draw up similar documents to those he had presented to Lady Catherine on Anne’s behalf. While at Rosings Park, however, he had time to rethink certain aspects of those arrangements and decided on several changes. He also wanted to set aside monies with the intention of purchasing a house in Meryton or perhaps leasing a small estate with a bit of income for Mrs. Bennet to residein following her husband’s death. Given their past interactions, William was not keen on having Mrs. Bennet living with him. Nevertheless, not wanting to hurt Elizabeth’s feelings, he vowed to do his best where her mother and youngest sisters were concerned.
Returning to Darcy House, William could not believe the volume of letters requiring his attention. As expected, very little of that correspondence was estate related, for most of it was in response to what had taken place at the charity ball. Many offered condolences to his predicament, while others no longer wished to be associated with him and not so politely informed him of such.
On the brighter side, he had received a reassuring message from Lady Gwendolyn offering her support. She very much liked Elizabeth and would take every measure to see that his new wife was accepted amongst her friends and peers. To openly show her support, she insisted on attending his wedding and wished to be kept informed of the particulars.
In addition, William had received a note from Bingley, who also wished to attend. As suspected, Miss Bingley had not taken the news well. In an effort to console her, the Hursts had decided they would all travel to Bath and stay there until well after his nuptials.
Thursday
On Thursday morning William went to his bank to set up accounts for Elizabeth and then later met with his jeweller to pick up one of his mother’s rings which had been resized for Elizabeth’s smaller hand. He wanted to present the engagement ring to Elizabeth on the following day and was pleased that the work could be completed on such short notice. He would returnfor the wedding ring on Saturday afternoon after finalising the settlement papers with his solicitor. William was grateful that Anne had wanted new rings and was not interested in those worn by his mother. Surprisingly, his father did not have the wedding ring engraved and therefore he was able to request a short inscription be added for Elizabeth:My only love.In truth, Elizabeth was the only woman he had ever cared for in that way and he fervently prayed their wedded lives would be filled with the deepest love and devotion.
Darcy House
The Study
Before going to his appointments, William had sent round a note to Matlock House indicating he would be dropping by to speak with the family at four o’clock. He was preparing to leave for that purpose when Richard entered unannounced.
“Ah, Darcy! I see you are getting ready to go and meet the wolves.”
William groaned, “So it would seem.”
“Cheer up! Mother has defied our aunt by saying she happens to like Miss Elizabeth. And while she could never condone what took place at the ball, for the sake of avoiding further scandal will support you where the young lady is concerned. Father, on the other hand, is still irritated that our family will be tied to the Bennets. Apparently he had backed Lady Catherine’s subterfuge when she first proposed buying off your intended.”
William scowled, setting his jaw as he spoke. “You mean to tell me the two of them were in it together?!”
