FD
17 January, 1817
Pemberley, Derbyshire
Dearest Elizabeth,
It is late, and you are sleeping on the bed behind me, our son nestled in your arms. But I could not go to sleep without telling you—my dear, you are a wonder! Your strength amazes me. If I could have taken your pain today, I would have. Seeing you hurting made me feel like something was breaking inside me.
But just when I wanted to demand the midwife do something to assist you, your eyes cleared and you displayed a strength and tenacity I have never seen before.
You were a lioness. Our son is blessed to have such a champion.
Your Proud Husband,
Fitzwilliam
8
Surprise!
17January,1819
Pemberley, Derbyshire
My Dearest Husband,
Today our son is two years of age. Young Bennet has been a delight to us both, but one of the greatest delights of his young life has been sharing it with you. Having felt your child growing within me as I have, I cannot imagine marrying for anything other than the truest of affection. I cannot imagine carrying and birthing the babe of a man I do not hold in the highest esteem, yet we are surrounded by couples who have done just that. It astounds me.
Now, for my news! My love, you are to once again be a father, likely in midsummer. I have a feeling this babe is a girl, but of course I cannot be certain. What think you of Elinor or Arabella if I am correct? If it is a boy, we must of course call him Richard for your cousin or we shall never hear the end of it! I am also fond of Amelia and Clara for a girl.
Before you ask, I shall tell you that I am feeling quite well. I am full of energy and my stomach has not been upset at all, a small mercy I am more than a little grateful for. I feel strong and energetic, and I am certain all will be well.
All my love,
Your Elizabeth
18 January, 1819
Pemberley, Derbyshire
Elizabeth!
That was sneaky of you, hiding your letter away in my desk drawer. You must have wondered why I said nothing last night, but I did not know then that you are carrying our daughter.
You may think this odd, but I agree that the babe is a girl, for I had the strangest dream last week. You know I generally do not remember my dreams, but this one was so vivid it was impossible to forget. It was a little in the future—Bennet looked only slightly bigger than he is now—and I was playing with a little girl. She had your curls and your smile, and she had a mischievousness about her that assured me she was yours. I tossed her up into the air as Bennet likes me to do, and she squealed with glee. You watched on with a smile as you played a game with Bennet, a happy family enjoying a sunny afternoon in the garden.
I cannot wait to meet her. You have made me very happy, my heart. I believe I have been remiss in telling you that lately. I am enamored of our little family and I am so very grateful to you for the gift of fatherhood.
All my love,
Your Devoted Husband
19 January, 1819
Fitzwilliam, if that is how you will react every time I give you good news, I will be certain to tell you of it more often. Just thinking of last night flushes my cheeks and takes my breath away. Promise me you will never stop loving me with such passion and vigor. I could not bear it were I to lose your affection and desire.
Elizabeth
