A Fortuitous Meeting

Chapter 1

As Mr. Bingley walked towards his brother's house in Grosvenor Street, he was thinking of Miss Jane Bennet. He had been able to think of little else since his return to town nearly two months ago. Each day he doubted whether his decision not to return to Netherfield had been the right one. His sisters and his friend had assured him that Jane did not return his love; and although he had believed she did, he credited their opinions more than his own -- particularly Mr. Darcy's who, he believed, was able to be more objective in the matter than himself. He had long ago begun to wonder whether he would not prefer to return to Hertfordshire and try to win her love, but the other objections Darcy had pointed to weighed heavily on his mind. They had meant little when he believed his affections to be returned, but everything was changed by Darcy's conviction that the lady did not love him. Bingley had never believed the disadvantages to the match as unfavorable as Darcy and his sisters had made them out to be, but they all seemed so certain that it would be unwise for him to pursue her. They even believed she would agree to marry him without love, but for more material concerns. He did not wish to believe such a thing about Jane, but he thought of her mother's persistence and Jane's wish to please those dear to her, and he felt she might be persuaded to accept him even if she did not return his feelings. She could hardly be blamed if she did, considering her situation in life. Much as he loved her, and would like to take care of her, though, he would not subject either of them to a marriage based on one-sided affections. Such a circumstance would be just as difficult for her as for him. No, he could not marry her if she did not love him.

He looked up from his troublesome ruminations in time to see a young lady exit the door of his brother's house and descend the steps. If he had not recognized her profile immediately, he would have been able to tell from the decided lack of feathers in her headdress that she was not one of his sisters. He gasped when he saw her; and as she turned away from him to walk down the street, he quickened his stride and was soon by her side. "Miss Bennet."

She stopped in her tracks and looked at the gentleman whose voice she knew so well, "Mr. Bingley," she exclaimed as she blushed becomingly.

Bingley smiled, and despite his firm reliance on his friend's opinions, he could not help but notice the rosy hue that his address had brought to her face. That blush was certainly not due to indifference, and he was certainly not imagining her embarrassment. "What a pleasure it is to see you here, I had no idea you were in town. How long have you been here?"

"About two weeks. I am not surprised that you were unaware of my being in town. I just learned from Miss Bingley, that my letter containing that information never reached her."

"You have been to see my sisters?"

"Yes, I just left them a moment ago, it seems they are going out."

"Yes, they were planning to go out with me." Then he realized Jane had probably been trying to avoid him, by leaving before he arrived, until she spoke again.

"They were expecting you?"

He was surprised that she had not known he was expected. "Yes, did they not mention that I should arrive at any moment?"

"No, they did not, in fact they were quite certain they would not see you at all today. Perhaps there was some mistake."

"I see," he replied, pleased that his earlier conjecture had been wrong, but wondering about the apparent deceitfulness of his sisters - for he was certain there could be no mistake. "May I escort you to your destination, Miss Bennet?"

"Are not your sisters awaiting your arrival?"

"Yes, but I am sure a few more moments will do no harm. Now, where are you walking to?"

"I am to meet my aunt just three blocks from here. She is visiting a friend nearby, so I took the opportunity to call on your sisters."

"I believe my sisters told me you had an aunt and uncle who live in town. Are you staying with them?"

"Yes, in Gracechurch Street."

"How long will you be staying in town?"

"Until May."

"And how are your family? I hope they are well."

"Yes, they are quite well, I thank you. I understand that you have been staying with Mr. Darcy and that you are spending quite a bit of time with him and his sister. I hope they are well. Please give Mr. Darcy my regards."

"Thank you, they are quite well. Perhaps you will have the opportunity to meet Miss Darcy while you are in town. I believe you would like her."

Jane immediately comprehended that by seeing Miss Darcy with Mr. Bingley she could discern whether there was any real attachment between them. Though such a circumstance might bring her pain, she was anxious to make the acquaintance of the young lady. "Perhaps," she said.

They walked on for a few moments, talking amiably, Jane answering Bingley's questions regarding their acquaintance in Hertfordshire. Finally, Jane stopped in front of a house and said, "this is where my aunt is visiting. Thank you for walking with me."

"It was my pleasure Miss Bennet. I would like to call on you, perhaps tomorrow, at your uncle's house -- if that would be acceptable to you."

Jane was caught by surprise, and a pink hue again graced her features. "Of course," she replied, and gave him the direction of her uncle's home.

"Thank you."

She only waited a few moments at the home of her aunt's acquaintance and soon they were in a carriage on the way back to Gracechurch Street, on the other side of town. Jane immediately told her aunt of her meeting with Mr. Bingley and of his professed intention of calling the following morning.

Mrs. Gardiner was pleased, but she was wary. She quickly recognized that Mr. Bingley's sisters had been deceitful in failing to mention that their brother was to arrive, and she began to suspect the veracity of Miss Bingley's claim that she had never received Jane's letter. When they arrived home, Jane immediately wrote to Elizabeth, telling her all about her meeting with Bingley. Mrs. Gardiner felt that any courtship between Mr. Bingley and Jane might be met with adversity by his sisters. Thus, she wrote a letter as well:

My Dear Lizzy,

I am sure you know from your sister's letter that Jane encountered Mr. Bingley in town today as she was coming out of his brother's house after visiting his sisters. I believe their meeting went well; indeed, he walked with her to her destination. Her spirits have been visibly improved since then. She has told me that he promised to call on her here, tomorrow morning.

I know that your mother tends to exaggeration, but I cannot help but think of her reports of how this young man used Jane so very ill. I have myself been witness to Jane's low spirits this past month, and I recall very well that you yourself had attributed it to a broken heart. And, I think there may be something more, that even Mrs. Bennet does not comprehend. I suspect that Mr. Bingley's sisters may not be pleased to learn of the reunion between their brother and my niece. I recall you telling me of your suspicions that they did not approve the match. From what Jane has said, it seems that they did not tell her that Mr. Bingley was to arrive at the house at any moment, but instead informed her they would not see him at all today and rushed her out. I cannot help but believe this was done on purpose to avoid a meeting between them. I hope Jane tells you more in her letter about her visit with Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst as she has hardly spoken a word of it to me.

I am now more than ever inclined to share your suspicion that Mr. Bingley's sisters had something to do with his staying away from Hertfordshire this winter. If Mr. Bingley is in earnest about renewing his acquaintance with Jane, I am wary that his sisters may again attempt to thwart his efforts. From what you have told me, their mutual attachment is genuine, and though I am concerned that Bingley may again prove inconstant, I desire Jane's happiness.

I believe your presence here would be a great comfort to her during this time of uncertainty. I know that she takes you into her confidence, at least more than she does me, and that she relies on your judgment. I believe you may have a more accurate understanding of Mr. Bingley's sisters than she does. For these reasons, I hope you will join us sooner than you had planned. If you come up to town next week, Sir William Lucas will still be able to collect you here on his way to Kent in March, according to the original plan. I think it might also be good for you to get away from Longbourn sooner.

I hope to see you here soon after your next letter.

Affectionately,
M. Gardiner

That evening when Bingley returned to Darcy's house for dinner, his friend noted that he was in a good humor for the first time since their departure from Hertfordshire. Darcy viewed it as a hopeful sign that his own spirits might soon recover from a similar depression. He had been confident that his fancy for Miss Elizabeth would pass as soon as he was away from her, but he found that he thought of her quite constantly, and he regretted her lack of connections and her family's ill behavior more each day. But, being the reserved and fastidious gentleman that he was, he continued to persist in his endeavors to forget her, certain of his eventual success.

When the gentlemen were alone after dinner, Darcy observed curiously, "you are in a very good mood, Bingley."

Bingley was a bit hesitant to mention his encounter with Miss Bennet to Darcy, knowing his friend's objections to a match with her, but he said, "I am happy for a reason, Darcy. I ran into Miss Bennet today. She is in town."

Darcy was astonished. The first thought that occurred to him was whether Elizabeth was with her. "I see," was all he could say. The source of Bingley's happiness did not bode well for Darcy's hopes that he might experience a similar recovery of spirits - at least so long as he harboured any desire to repress the urges of his heart.

"She visited my sisters this morning, and they were expecting me at any moment, but did not tell her so. It seems, instead, that they rushed her out of the house." He paused, then continued, "I saw her on her way out just as I was about to go in. I plan to call on her tomorrow."

"Do you think that is wise, Bingley?"

"The wisdom of it is beginning to affect me less. I have not been able to stop thinking about her for two months, without even having seen her during that time. You say I have been in love many times, but my feelings have never lasted this long, nor endured in the prolonged absence of their object. I have never felt so strongly about a woman before, and I am beginning to believe that if she does not return my affections then I would rather try to win hers than give up altogether. You cannot imagine what I felt at seeing her today." Darcy was certain he could well imagine it. "I was delighted. Nothing else mattered, but that she was there, in front of me." Darcy was able to understand his friend's feelings. "I realized that I might be giving up my chance at happiness for considerations that seem inconsequential in comparison. I believe there may be a chance she does return my feelings, in spite of your strong conviction to the contrary; and I must find out. I was hoping that you might come with me to call on her, so that you might have another chance to judge for yourself."

Darcy's urge to consent to accompany his friend was strong. Just the chance of possibly seeing Elizabeth was so compelling that he could scarcely stop himself from agreeing to go at that moment. However, he considered his friend's circumstances and his own. It would do no good for either of them to nurture their inappropriate attachments. "Bingley, I do not think that it is wise for you to see her again. Such an event can only make matters worse."

Bingley put his hand up to forestall his friend's speech. "Darcy, I am quite determined to see her tomorrow. I already told her I would call, and I cannot go back on my word. I hope that you will come with me, and that your observation of her tomorrow might lead you to judge differently about her feelings. When I saw her today, I was sure I saw something of regard for me in her look."

Darcy sighed heavily. He knew he should avoid the possibility of any contact with Elizabeth, but he felt he should be with Bingley for his meeting with Miss Bennet. He tried to believe that the latter was not merely an excuse to ignore the former. "If you are so determined, I cannot allow you to go alone. I have no engagements tomorrow morning. I will accompany you." Darcy was surprised to hear himself agree to make a call in such a part of town, but he told himself that he must be there for Bingley, to confirm his previous opinion that Miss Bennet did not love him and dissuade him, once again, from making an unsuitable marriage. He could not deny, however, that at the forefront of his mind was the possibility that Elizabeth might be there. The prospect of possibly seeing her again on the morrow was overwhelming, and kept him awake most of the night.

The next morning, Darcy approached the steps to the Gardiner home in Gracechurch Street with no small amount of anxiety. The idea that Elizabeth might be within affected him more than he had expected, and he felt he had to steel himself against her charms. In the back of his mind also resided objections to the neighborhood and the unfashionable merchant whose society they now sought. A merchant, moreover, who was Mrs. Bennet's brother. Darcy fully expected an enthusiastic welcome as well as hints and urges for his friend to pursue Miss Bennet, much akin to those he had unwillingly borne witness to in Hertfordshire. His pride revolted against such associations and he hoped whatever Mr. Bingley's meeting with Miss Bennet brought, it would not be an ongoing association, on Darcy's own part, with his inferiors. When the door was opened, Mr. Bingley asked for Mr. Gardiner as they were not yet acquainted with the gentleman of the house. They were shown into a small office, and announced to Mr. Edward Gardiner. The gentlemen introduced themselves, and Bingley explained the purpose of their visit.

"Mr. Gardiner," he began, "we were acquainted with your niece, Miss Bennet when we were recently in Hertfordshire. She had developed a friendship with my sisters and I saw her yesterday leaving my brother's house, as she had been visiting with them. I promised to call on her today, and hope to visit with her after making your acquaintance."

Mr. Gardiner eyed Bingley carefully then said, "my sister, Mrs. Bennet, and my nieces have spoken of you, Mr. Bingley, and of your friend," he added nodding to Darcy. "I understand that you quit the country for town rather suddenly last autumn."

Darcy's interest was awakened. He recognized that Mr. Gardiner must have learned of Bingley's unforeseen removal from the neighborhood just at a time when everyone expected him to become engaged, in fact he had little doubt that Mrs. Bennet would have made this perfectly clear. That knowledge now compelled Mr. Gardiner to subtly extract an explanation from Bingley. Mr. Gardiner was obviously very astute; and though Mr. Darcy did not realize it at present, the merchant had just won his respect. This may have had much to do with the fact that Darcy himself had a beloved young lady under his protection. Darcy was pleased, though surprised, to see that in spite of the great advantage Miss Bennet would receive from the match, her uncle was apparently attempting to protect her from insincere attentions rather than encouraging those attentions, in the hope of gaining a rich relation, without a thought of the cost to his niece.

Bingley did not read quite so much into Mr. Gardiner's comment. He merely replied, "I had some business in town that I expected to take a few days, but the rest of my party followed me almost immediately. It seems that my sisters wished to settle in for the season a bit early. I deeply regretted losing the society I had so enjoyed in Hertfordshire, but I was very pleased to renew my acquaintance with Miss Bennet yesterday."

This seemed good enough for Mr. Gardiner, at least for the present. "Then, shall we join the ladies?"

As they rose to enter the drawing room, Darcy again began to feel anxious about the possibility of meeting Elizabeth. He was profoundly disappointed when he entered the room to find only two ladies there, but he did not lose hope that she might yet be in the house. Mr. Gardiner introduced the gentlemen to his wife, and they greeted Miss Bennet with the usual civilities. Miss Bennet's blush and glowing smile did not escape Darcy's notice, nor did the exchanged look between the Gardiners upon witnessing the meeting of their niece and his friend. The latter, of course, could be easily explained away by the fact that the Gardiners' view on the matter must be influenced by news from Mrs. Bennet.

As he and Bingley sat down, Darcy resolved to concentrate on the task at hand -- determining the feelings of the young lady before him. Soon after, every lingering hope of seeing Elizabeth was dashed when, upon Bingley's inquiry, Miss Bennet revealed that Elizabeth was in good health at Longbourn along with her parents and other sisters. He was surprised by his own reaction to the news. He felt something beyond disappointment -- he was saddened. Only then did he realize that he had given little thought to the possibility that she might not be there. He told himself his expectation had been rational given the strong attachment between the two sisters, but he knew it had been due more to his desire to see her than anything else. Nevertheless, he scolded himself for not realizing that if Elizabeth had been in town, surely she would have visited Bingley's sisters with Miss Bennet.

At first Darcy behaved in his usual reserved manner, speaking little and concentrating on observing Miss Bennet. But as Bingley and Jane continued to speak about Netherfield's neighbors, the latter soon mentioned that her friend, Miss Lucas, had recently married Mr. Collins, and Mr. Darcy was moved to divulge his prior knowledge of the information from his aunt and Mr. Collins' patroness, Lady Catherine DeBourgh.

As the visit progressed, Darcy watched Miss Bennet carefully and noted that the Gardiners seemed to be watching Bingley in the same way. They were doing the same as himself - they seemed as intent on determining the gentleman's feelings as he himself was upon observing Miss Bennet's. Darcy realized that this could only mean that at least they believed Miss Bennet cared for Bingley. All the while, Darcy hoped that Elizabeth might be mentioned again, that he might hear more news of her, but nothing further was said of her as the conversation turned to the many diversions to be found in London. The earlier news that she was well and at Longbourn was hardly enough to satisfy Darcy, but what more could he expect? These meditations naturally led to reproaching himself for his weakness.

Returning his attention to Miss Bennet, Darcy noted that she seemed very pleased in Bingley's presence. He watched her carefully, cataloguing her looks, her smiles, and her blushes. She was certainly affected by Bingley's presence. She did not have the same look in her eyes when she addressed himself as when she spoke to Bingley. Yet, her countenance was so serene. She did not demonstrate any of those signs he was so accustomed to seeing from ladies who were in the habit of making their admiration known. She spoke to everyone in the room, and did not focus her attention solely on Bingley. She did not flatter him and she did not attempt to gain his notice. She was everything that was pleasant and civil, but there seemed to be an edge to her that he hadn't noticed in the past, something akin to anxiety, but barely perceptible. He decided he would reserve his judgment. One visit of half an hour was hardly enough time to gauge a woman's heart sufficiently to overcome his prior conviction which was formed over an acquaintance of several weeks. Upon deciding that he would reserve judgment, and thus coming to a conclusion regarding his purpose for today's visit, he congratulated himself on having been able to focus his attention on Miss Bennet and having gone a full ten minutes without Elizabeth being at the forefront of his mind. During the remainder of the visit, as he conversed amiably with the Gardiners, he also continued to watch Miss Bennet, not only as a service to his friend, but to discern in her looks and mannerisms any resemblance to her sister.

While Jane and Bingley conversed primarily with one another, Darcy was eventually drawn out of his reticence by the lady of the house. Mrs. Gardiner had initiated a conversation with him by asking about his home in Derbyshire and explaining her own connection to the very neighborhood in which his home was situated. Darcy found her sincerity and warmth endearing and was soon conversing easily with her, quite forgetting that she was beneath his notice. He learned that she had spent some years in Lambton, and she spoke affectionately of his home county, a circumstance that could only win his favor. Her husband soon joined their conversation, and Darcy was pleased to note that his address was marked by sense and intelligence, and he was a well-informed man with good conversation. Darcy realized that these people, though not fashionable, were pleasant and respectable, and he was surprised to acknowledge to himself that he enjoyed their company. Though Mr. Gardiner was in trade, his manners were not coarse, and his conversation was interesting. Mrs. Gardiner proved to be well bred and in possession of a natural elegance that perhaps surpassed the affected refinement of ladies to whose company he was more accustomed. The house, though modest, was tastefully furnished and well kept. The servants were respectful and accommodating, and their appearance was tidy. He could find fault in nothing.

As the subject of commonality between Mrs. Gardiner and Mr. Darcy was canvassed, and once they had discussed a few mutual acquaintances in Lambton, Mrs. Gardiner observed, "I also had the pleasure of meeting another gentleman from the area while I was in Hertfordshire, one who claimed a particular acquaintance with you, sir, a Mr. Wickham." Darcy's countenance immediately changed, and although Mrs. Gardiner was aware of what Wickham had said about Darcy's dealings with him, she was curious to see what the man before her had to say on the subject. Thus, she continued, "I found him very agreeable, he is well liked by everyone." She was startled by her companion's sharp reaction when she added, "Lizzy is particularly fond of him." His interested but troubled expression intrigued her.

Darcy wondered what Mrs. Gardiner could mean by 'particularly fond?' He longed to ask questions, to learn more about this apparent attachment between his beloved and his worst enemy. But, as he could not respond in the manner that he wished, he instead said, "I no longer associate with Mr. Wickham, Madame."

Mrs. Gardiner, however, was not willing to let the subject drop. "I understand that his father was steward to your father, and that the two of you were raised together rather closely."

Darcy was quickly beginning to lose his patience with Mrs. Gardiner. He was in no humor at present to provide her with information to gossip about with her friends. But then it occurred to him that perhaps the purpose of her inquiries was to protect Elizabeth. She had said Elizabeth was fond of Wickham; perhaps the attachment was a serious one. Perhaps she was merely seeking further information on the man who had attracted her niece. He felt he must do what he could to get information to Elizabeth about Wickham's true character, and if Mrs. Gardiner was to be the conduit, then so be it. "Yes, his father was an excellent man. However, George Wickham has turned out to be quite a disappointment. He is not of good character, Madame, and I would urge you to counsel your niece to take care in her dealings with him."

Mrs. Gardiner appeared surprised, but could see that she was not going to get any further details of Wickham's character from her companion. She wondered at Mr. Darcy's expectation that she believe him over Wickham who had said the exact same thing about Darcy. "I see," she replied, "I had no idea." After noting Darcy's earlier response to the mention of Elizabeth, Mrs. Gardiner sought to change the subject from Mr. Wickham to Lizzy, to gauge Darcy's reaction. "I will be sure to mention what you have said to Elizabeth, though I am not sure she will be surprised"

Darcy again could not hide his interest from the scrutiny of his companion. Perhaps Elizabeth had heeded his words during their dance at Netherfield. "She is already acquainted with the faults in his character, then?" he asked hopefully.

Mrs. Gardiner replied, "I meant only that she would not be surprised to hear that you do not think well of him."

This left Darcy with much to ponder. He was relieved to note that a half-hour had passed and after a few more moments he found an appropriate time to remind his friend that they should be going. The two gentlemen thus departed, with a promise to call again in a few days.

Bingley was in high spirits as they left the house and spoke with great enthusiasm of his hopes for the next visit. "You will come with me again next time, will you not, Darcy?"

Though he knew Elizabeth would not be present, Darcy determined to accompany his friend again, to further observe Miss Bennet.

Upon receiving this favorable reply Bingley implored his friend to give his opinions on this visit. Darcy explained that he could not make a judgment without further observation of the lady in question.

That evening, the Darcys were engaged to dine in Grosvenor Square. After dinner, while Georgiana was playing the pianoforte and Bingley was conversing with his brother in law, Miss Bingley took the opportunity to approach Darcy, "I must tell you who visited me yesterday."

"Miss Bennet," replied Darcy, thwarting her attempt to further the conspiratorial intimacy she fancied existed between them as a result of their previous similarity of opinion as to Miss Bennet's suitability for Bingley.

She was surprised, "how did you know?"

"Bingley met her on her way out of this house. He walked with her to meet her aunt and he called on her this morning."

Miss Bingley was obviously astonished. "Oh my," she said with alarm, bringing her hand to her chest, "this is an unhappy development."

"I went with him," added Darcy.

"Oh, thank goodness," she said, visibly relieved. "I take it, then, that you spoke to him about her again."

"Yes, we spoke."

"So he will not be seeing her anymore?"

"To the contrary, we will be calling on her again in a few days."

"At the home of her aunt and uncle, near Cheapside?" asked Miss Bingley, obviously indignant that Darcy would allow her brother to continue to forward such acquaintances.

"Yes."

"And pray, how did you find them? Dare I hope they were more refined than her relations in Meryton?"

"They were very pleasant."

"Indeed? I am all astonishment. And pray did Miss Bennet have news of your Miss Eliza?"

"Miss Bennet assured us that all her family are well," he said evenly, "but I am sure you already knew as much from your visit with her yesterday." He then picked up a book in an effort to foreclose further conversation.

Over the next few days, Mr. Darcy had the opportunity to review his visit to the Gardiner home in light of his own feelings. He recollected his disappointment that Elizabeth had not been present and, though he acknowledged that he would have enjoyed her company, he concluded that it was for the best, for both of them, that she had been absent. Darcy was relieved that he had not been placed in further danger by being in company with her; and for Elizabeth's part, it would not do for her to discern any further sign of his admiration; otherwise, she might suffer from disappointment. He schooled himself to be pleased that she was not in London, in spite of the yearning within him to see her again that was increased by his short-lived expectation that he would encounter her on his visit to Gracechurch Street, as well as by having been in company with her sister.

Darcy also could not help dwelling on Mrs. Gardiner's hints regarding Elizabeth's intimacy with Mr. Wickham. Why had she not heeded his warning at the Netherfield ball? Perhaps he should have said more to reveal Wickham's true nature, but that was an issue that he preferred to remain untouched. In the end, Darcy determined that, since it was Wickham's avarice which motivated him and since Elizabeth had no fortune, she could not be in any real danger from him -- other than what might result from the extent of her own feelings when she would finally realize that they were not returned. The thought of Elizabeth's heart being broken was not comforting, and the thought that Mr. Wickham might have the power to break it was even less so, not only because he was wholly unworthy of her but because of Darcy's own personal unsavory associations with him. But Darcy was able to find some consolation in his conviction that Elizabeth was safe from any real harm from Wickham.

Elizabeth arrived at Gracechurch Street on the third day after the gentlemen had visited. Mrs. Gardiner had not informed Jane that she was expected, and Jane was pleasantly surprised. The sisters were delighted to be reunited, and Jane recounted everything about Mr. Bingley's visit to Elizabeth, whose greatest shock in the whole business resulted from learning that Mr. Darcy had called with his friend at Gracechurch Street.

After she had discussed as much as Jane would allow regarding Mr. Bingley, Elizabeth expressed her astonishment that Mr. Darcy had accompanied him, though she secretly wondered whether his purpose in coming had been to preserve his friend from the dangers of an attachment he deemed imprudent. Whether Mr. Darcy desired a match between Mr. Bingley and his sister as much as Bingley's sisters desired it, she could not speculate on with any degree of certainty. "I can scarcely believe that Mr. Darcy came here," said she.

"Indeed he did," replied Jane. "He spoke to our aunt of Derbyshire, for a good part of the visit. The town where she used to live is located but five miles from his estate."

Elizabeth turned to her aunt and said, "I cannot imagine that he talked very much about anything. I believe you must have spoken for the greater part of the conversation while he replied only as little as civility would require."

"Actually," said Mrs. Gardiner, "he was very agreeable, even amiable. He seemed genuinely interested in my associations in Derbyshire. I must say, Lizzy, that while there was some degree of pride in his demeanor, I did not find it offensive in the least. I saw nothing in him of the extreme haughtiness and arrogance that you described. At first, I admit that he was very reserved, but as we spoke of places and people known to him he became easier in our company."

Elizabeth was further astonished by these revelations. She then recalled Mr. Wickham's words regarding his childhood companion, "Mr. Darcy can please where he chooses. He does not want abilities. He can be a conversable companion if he thinks it worth his while." Yet, she could think of no reason that Darcy would consider it worth his while to be agreeable to Mrs. Gardiner.

Elizabeth was surprised when Mrs. Gardiner continued by saying, "That is, until I mentioned Mr. Wickham."

"I do not imagine that is a subject about which he was particularly inclined to talk," replied Lizzy.

"At first he became completely silent when I mentioned Mr. Wickham. Then he spoke only to inform me that he no longer associated with him. I pressed him further, and after some hesitation he explained that Mr. Wickham's character was deficient."

"And do you not think it was rather presumptuous of him to expect you to believe his account of the situation and to discard Mr. Wickham's?"

"Yes, I did at the time."

"And having met both gentlemen, are you not more inclined to believe Mr. Wickham's word than Mr. Darcy's?"

"I do not see why I should believe either one of them over the other. Mr. Wickham was very friendly and engaging to be sure, but I found nothing objectionable in Mr. Darcy's manner."

"I think the details that Mr. Wickham gave in support of his account of their prior dealings leave little room for doubt. I do not suppose Mr. Darcy said anything more about the matter?"

"Not in the way of details regarding the history of their association. However, I mentioned your friendship with Mr. Wickham, and Mr. Darcy suggested that I advise you to take care in your dealings with him. He also expressed a hope that you might be already acquainted with Mr. Wickham's faults."

"If Mr. Wickham is of such a bad character, I wonder that Mr. Darcy might hope I would have occasion to learn of his faults through my associations with him."

"I do not believe he hoped you had been injured by Mr. Wickham, Lizzy, only that you might have cause to understand that his character was of questionable value."

"He did say to me once that though Mr. Wickham was able to make friends easily, his ability to keep them was doubtful. But Mr. Darcy could hardly be expected to speak kindly of Mr. Wickham after the abominable way in which he treated him."

"He did seem genuinely concerned for your welfare, Lizzy."

Elizabeth laughed at this observation. "Well, neither he nor you have anything to fear on my account as far as Mr. Wickham is concerned. His attentions to me have subsided. He is the admirer of another. He has been making himself agreeable to Miss King for the past fortnight, which is a rather prudent change of heart for him as she has recently inherited ten thousand pounds. I expect that they will soon be engaged and probably married before my return home."

At this point Jane rejoined the conversation, saying with concern, "I hope you have not been too much affected by the transfer of his attentions."

"Not at all. I am perfectly convinced that I have never been much in love, for had I really experienced that pure and elevating passion, I should at present detest his very name, and wish him all manner of evil. But my feelings are not only cordial towards him; they are even impartial towards Miss King. I cannot find out that I hate her at all, or that I am in the least unwilling to think her a very good sort of girl. There can be no love in all this."

Jane smiled at her sister's teasing manner. She considered that in her own situation, when she had thought Mr. Bingley had shifted his attentions to Miss Darcy, she too had not been able to think ill of the girl, though she knew that she was very much in love with Mr. Bingley. But her sister did not seem at all unhappy about Wickham's transfer of affection and the fact that Elizabeth could speak so lightly of it was enough to satisfy Jane that she was unaffected. "I am happy to hear that you do not suffer the loss of his attention; and to see that your attachment was not so great as to cause you pain when it occurred."

"Indeed, Jane, how could I have formed any sort of strong attachment to him when I was so wisely counseled regarding the imprudence of such a match?" Then turning to her aunt, Elizabeth said, "So you see, Aunt, my watchfulness has been effectual; and though I should certainly be a more interesting object to you both, and indeed to all my acquaintances, were I distractedly in love with him, I cannot say that I regret my comparative insignificance. Importance may sometimes be purchased too dearly."

"Some forms of importance are less desirable than others, Lizzy," admonished Mrs. Gardiner.

"Yet, not all young ladies are wise enough to distinguish among them. I fear that Kitty and Lydia take Mr. Wickham's defection much more to heart than I do. They are young in the ways of the world and not yet open to the mortifying conviction that handsome young men must have something to live on as well as the plain." After thinking for a moment, Elizabeth added, "though I cannot so easily account for my mother's failure to see the prudence of his choice. She is nearly as disappointed as they are."

As Mrs. Gardiner had no inclination to comment on Mrs. Bennet's view of Mr. Wickham's preferences, she instead attempted to rally her niece on Wickham's desertion , and complimented her on bearing it so well. Mrs. Gardiner, though, was a bit unsettled by Darcy's comments about Wickham, and added, "But my dear Elizabeth, what sort of girl is Miss King? I should be sorry to think our friend mercenary."

"Pray, my dear aunt, what is the difference in matrimonial affairs, between the mercenary and the prudent motive? Where does discretion end and avarice begin? Last Christmas you were afraid of his marrying me, because it would be imprudent; and now, because he is trying to get a girl with only ten thousand pounds, you want to find out that he is mercenary."

"If you will only tell me what sort of girl Miss King is, I shall know what to think."

"She is a very good kind of girl, I believe. I know no harm of her."

"But he paid her not the smallest attention till her grandfather's death made her mistress of this fortune."

"No - why should he? If it were not allowable for him to gain my affections because I had no money, what occasion could there be for making love to a girl whom he did not care about, and who was equally poor?"

"But there seems indelicacy in directing his attentions towards her so soon after this event."

"A man in distressed circumstances has not time for all those elegant decorums which other people may observe. If she does not object to it, why should we?"

"Her not objecting does not justify him. It only shows her being deficient in something herself - sense or feeling. And as for his circumstances, I do not know that they are so distressed. What is it that makes them so, that he had an expectation of something better? Had he never known the Darcys or had he not been raised to expect the continued friendship of Mr. Darcy, he would likely be in the same circumstances, but would his behavior to Miss King then be less acceptable?"

"Well," cried Elizabeth, "have it as you choose. He shall be mercenary and she shall be foolish."

"No, Lizzy, that is what I do not choose. I should be sorry, you know, to think ill of a young man who has lived so long in Derbyshire."

"Oh! If that is all, I have a very poor opinion of young men who live in Derbyshire!"

At this point, Jane interceded again, "Lizzy, I do not think Mr. Darcy is as bad as you believe him to be."

Elizabeth had no desire to quarrel with Jane and, thus, she turned the conversation to a more agreeable topic, namely speculation of when Mr. Bingley might call again. Elizabeth privately hoped that his sisters and possibly his friend would not convince him to stay away from Jane, as they had previously done.

All speculation was put to rest the following morning when the gentlemen paid the much anticipated visit. Mr. Bingley had prevailed upon his sisters to join him, as he was eager for them to resume their friendship with his beloved. Mr. Darcy now felt that his duties were increased. Not only was he to watch Miss Bennet in the hope of discerning her feelings, but he felt he should protect his friend from further interference from his sisters.

He wondered to himself at the change in his position with respect to the whole business. Not two months ago he had given Bingley's sisters every assistance in separating their brother from Miss Bennet. He had been the principal spokesman in convincing his friend not to return to her and it was his argument that had prevailed in the end. Now, though, he had promised his friend that he would renew his observations and he felt bound by that promise to prevent any further interference from the sisters until he had made his judgment and advised Bingley of his opinion regarding the young lady's feelings.

Darcy approached the house with greater ease on this second visit, confident in the certainty that Elizabeth would not be there, but not without the hope of learning more of her. For all his thoughts on Bingley's situation he had not been successful in remembering to forget about Elizabeth. There was something about being here, in this house, with relatives he knew her to be fond of and who clearly loved her so dearly, that brought comfort to the emptiness his heart had felt since losing her company.

Upon arriving at the house, the four visitors were promptly shown into the drawing room and admitted to the company of Mrs. Gardiner and Miss Bennet. Greetings were exchanged all around and Mrs. Gardiner was particularly pleased to see Bingley's sisters. Their presence, though perhaps not indicative of the sincerity of their own affection for her niece, at least showed that Mr. Bingley felt it was important for them to join in the visit. For it was quite evident from their affected cordiality that their attendance must be due to his influence. Mr. Darcy's presence, too, was of some interest. She could not help but wonder why he had returned, unless it was to continue his observations of Miss Bennet. As for her own observations in that quarter, she had seen enough in Mr. Bingley's manner already to be assured of the violence of his affections towards Jane and could direct her attention towards another without concern. Indeed, her last conversation with Mr. Darcy had made him an object of interest with respect to a different niece altogether. She acknowledged to herself that his reaction to her mention of Elizabeth the other day might signify nothing, but she would watch him carefully, nonetheless.

One thing could be said for Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst: in spite of their apparent disdain for their current company, they were fashionable women, well-educated in drawing room decorum and, accordingly, there was no want for conversation. Mr. Darcy was silent as the ladies discussed their various acquaintances and the latest fashions. He noticed Miss Bingley's attempts to inject his sister into the conversation as much as possible. Eventually the talk turned to the subject of Jane's friends and family in Hertfordshire.

"I hope your sisters are all finding sufficient entertainment at home, dear Jane," began Miss Bingley, "I am certain that, between them, they must have captured the admiration of all the officers." Mrs. Gardiner noticed her sideways glance to Mr. Darcy as she added, "particularly your sister, Miss Elizabeth. What with her fine eyes and pretty face, her beaux must be too numerous to count. And what a comfort it would be for your mother to have her well settled."

Mrs. Gardiner perceived that Mr. Darcy seemed a bit uncomfortable. But before Jane could answer, the door to the drawing room opened, and the very object of their discourse entered the room. Mrs. Gardiner continued to watch Mr. Darcy carefully as a variety of emotions, not the least of which were surprise and delight, crossed his features.

Darcy was indeed caught by surprise. And, being wholly unprepared to see Elizabeth again, he had no opportunity to school his features to indifference. He could only pray that she would not notice his reaction. He had turned towards the opening door, as did all the others in the room (except for Mrs. Gardiner) and when she entered his eyes were immediately arrested by her. He could scarcely move from surprise. He had not the time at present to examine or even acknowledge the tumult of feelings that swelled in his breast. He caught his breath and composed himself as best he could while she greeted the other visitors. Her subsequent acknowledgment of his presence was civil, but was lacking in the warmth with which she had addressed Bingley. The brief moment that Darcy had Elizabeth's attention on himself produced the only real smile Mrs. Gardiner had ever seen on his face.

At last everyone resumed their positions, Elizabeth taking a seat next to her sister. Darcy longed to know where she had been, when she had arrived in London, how her journey had been, and a great many other things, but he dared not ask. Jane provided him some relief by saying, "I hope you had a pleasant walk in the park."

"I did, thank you. It is a beautiful day."

Darcy thought to himself that she too looked beautiful. Her face was bright and rosy, and her countenance as lively and playful as ever. He could scarcely believe that he was here in the same room with her, that he was in her presence again after all he had done to separate himself from her and to forget about her, after he had been certain he would never see her again. He immediately perceived that her greatest interest was in her sister and Mr. Bingley. She was genuinely happy to see them together. He noted her expression, while she looked on at her sister and Bingley, with satisfied contentment. Darcy was touched to see how affected Elizabeth was to see her sister happy. She seemed to be glowing with joy on her sister's behalf, which in and of itself was a testament to Miss Bennet's true feelings. Elizabeth was happy, and Darcy found himself happy because of it. Nevertheless, it had not escaped his scrutiny when she swept her eyes suspiciously across Bingley's sisters, and he was more amused than surprised when she included him in her glance as well. Meanwhile, Mrs. Gardiner watched the entire scene unfold with great interest.

After the first few minutes following Elizabeth's entrance into the room, Darcy had obtained sufficient composure to behave with civility towards his hostess, who had again sought to draw him out of his reticence. Even as he carried on a conversation with Mrs. Gardiner, though, his attention was ever on Elizabeth and he was keenly aware of every nuance of her presence. He particularly noticed when she looked, with an expression of undisguised wonder, upon himself and her aunt as they conversed. He did not dare return her glance; but a few minutes later, while Mrs. Gardiner was speaking to Mrs. Hurst, he was at leisure to turn his eyes upon her again. He had not realized how intently he had been watching her until she caught his gaze. She appeared surprised, and returned a look of curiosity. He looked away immediately, but could not help smiling slightly. The ever-vigilant Mrs. Gardiner noticed the exchange.

Miraculously, in spite of his preoccupation with her sister, Darcy even remembered his object of observing Miss Bennet during the course of the visit. Her behavior on this visit matched what it had been during the last visit, but she seemed more at ease today. Darcy was again cognizant of the warmth in her eyes whenever they were turned upon his friend and it was quite obvious that Elizabeth was pleased to see the two together. Whether this was the result of some private understanding of her sister's feelings or simply a hope of seeing her sister well-settled, he could not readily determine, and he resisted drawing any conclusions about the lady's feelings. Knowing that it was his conviction in Miss Bennet's indifference that had ultimately won Bingley to the course of action Darcy preferred, perhaps, made it more difficult for him to relinquish that conviction now, in spite of the evidence before him. He could not fail to recognize, however, that Bingley would keep seeing Miss Bennet and as he did, his attachment would increase. Darcy could think of no way to remedy that situation.

For her part, Elizabeth was amazed by Mr. Darcy's civility. That he had ever called in this part of town was astonishing enough, but that he had done so for a second time, and that he was conversing amicably with her aunt, went against everything she knew about the gentleman before her. At one point she caught him watching her as he had done in Hertfordshire. She understood that he still disapproved of her and he apparently found something about her humorous as he smiled to himself when he looked away. Every ill feeling she had harbored towards him was rekindled, but the strength of the favorable impression left by his kindness towards her aunt would not be easily forgotten and she was left merely puzzled by his behavior.

Soon after this exchange, Bingley provided further relief to Darcy's curiosity by asking Elizabeth about her presence in town. She explained that she had been planning to stop in London on her way to Kent in March, and had decided to come to town early to be with Jane. When pressed further, she revealed that she planned to visit her friend, Mrs. Collins at Hunsford Parsonage. Darcy started at the revelation, but before he could say anything Bingley said, "is that not near your aunt's home, Darcy? I believe you said you planned to be visiting there at Easter. You will be there at the same time as Miss Elizabeth if that is the case."

"Indeed, you are correct, Bingley. My cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, and I will be spending three weeks at Rosings this Spring, as we do every year." He looked towards Elizabeth and added, "it appears that we will see one another there, Miss Bennet."

"I believe we will, Mr. Darcy, for my cousin has said that his home is divided from Rosings Park by only a lane," she replied archly.

Darcy smiled, "his information is very exact, I am sure." She could not help but return his smile.

"How has Mrs. Collins been since her marriage?" asked Mrs. Gardiner. Elizabeth then began a recitation of the information contained in her letters from Charlotte. Darcy was glad for the change of subject and for the respite from having to formulate words and sentences. He was grateful to have a moment just to absorb the information that Elizabeth would be at Hunsford while he was at Rosings. He mused at the coincidence that they should both be there at the same time as the realization that he would have seen her soon anyhow, even if Bingley had not encountered Miss Bennet, swept over him. Soon after this extraordinary revelation took place, it was time to leave, and Darcy was simultaneously disappointed and relieved to be going.

Chapter 4

As soon as the door was closed on the carriage leaving Gracechurch Street, Miss Bingley began to make known to her companions her disdain for the company she was leaving behind. "Oh, Louisa, it was worse than I ever imagined! The house was so shabby and the furnishings so outdated, and the servants so neglectful."

"Indeed sister, but, nevertheless, I do believe that we were waited upon by the entire household staff!"

The sisters laughed lightly and Miss Bingley continued, "and what do you think of their mistress? Mrs. Gardiner seems to fancy herself a fashionable woman."

"To be sure. She even tried to compare the style of her own gown to mine. And what do you think of all those children? To allow them free run of the house while she is entertaining company is positively uncivilized!"

"I could scarcely hide my astonishment when those children entered the room. And of course, her tea service was mismatched, and there was not even any fresh fruit. She might as well not have offered us anything at all."

As the ladies continued in this manner, the gentlemen were silent. Bingley glanced at Darcy, who knew his friend's unspoken question. For once, Darcy was glad for the presence of Bingley's sisters for he wished for some time to think of what he would tell his friend about his observations of Miss Bennet. Bingley, however, could not remain silent for long, once the ladies began to speak of Jane.

Miss Bingley said, "even Jane looked rather plain today. I could not recall, upon seeing her again, why I had thought her to be so pretty once. Do not you agree, sister?"

"Oh yes, Caroline, I am quite of your mind. I do not believe her looks are in any way extraordinary."

It was here that Bingley interjected, "I thought she looked very well. In fact, she looked prettier today than I have ever seen her."

"How can you say so, Charles?" asked Miss Bingley, incredulously. "She appeared quite drawn and pale to me and it was obvious that she took no special care in her appearance today. What do you think, Mr. Darcy?"

Mr. Darcy had been hoping that he would not be drawn into the discussion. He replied, "I thought she appeared the same as ever." Bingley's dejected reaction - obviously believing this pronouncement was Darcy's answer to his unspoken question - did not escape his notice.

Mrs. Hurst then added, "I also thought her reception of us all was rather cold and distant."

"I must agree," said Miss Bingley. "I am sure she only called on us a few days ago out of a sense of obligation. But I cannot say I discerned any desire on her part, either then or today, to resume our prior intimacy."

"I thought she was very friendly to all of us," countered Bingley, "particularly to the two of you."

"Oh Charles," said Miss Bingley in an exasperated tone, "you only ever see what you wish to see, which is why your judgment cannot be relied upon."

Darcy noticed Bingley glance at him, yet again, when this reprimand was delivered. The comment seemed sufficient to compel Bingley into contemplative silence.

Finding nothing more to criticize about Miss Bennet, Miss Bingley found another object. "The worst part of the whole visit, though, was having to suffer the company of Miss Eliza Bennet."

Darcy did not react. He had known the attack was imminent, and he showed no outward sign of his disdain for Miss Bingley's comments.

"Really," continued Miss Bingley, "her sudden appearance today was quite a shock. What can she mean by coming to town in such an abrupt way?"

"Do not you wonder what could have motivated the change in her plans?" asked Mrs. Hurst.

"She did seem to arrive rather soon after Miss Bennet's call on us and our brother's subsequent visit to the home of her relations with his friend."

Darcy had not yet thought to wonder why Elizabeth had come to town. He now wondered whether it could be that she decided to come only after he had called on her relatives with Bingley. He quickly calculated whether enough days had passed to allow her to receive a letter written after their visit and for her to plan the trip and then travel to London. Had Elizabeth come to town in the hope of casting herself in his way again? He recalled the last time they had been together. It had been at the Netherfield Ball, when he had danced with her. He had singled her out, and he had felt that doing so might give her a suspicion of his admiration for her. Was it possible that she was aware of his attraction to her? Did she believe that he was so much within her power that she need only put herself in his way again to elicit a proposal? Why was the thought so abhorrent to him? His answer was immediate, because he had thought she was different, that she would not reduce herself to such tactics. He did not want to believe that she might be so mercenary and so calculating, yet there were reasons enough for her to pursue a hope in that regard. The advantages of such a match would all be on her side. Was she just like all the other women he knew, after all? In spite of his wish that it were not so, however, he had to concede that a part of him received some satisfaction from the prospect that she might have come to London for him.

Meanwhile, the ladies went on talking without regard to Darcy's thoughts. "I could scarcely keep my countenance when she burst in on us so flushed from being outdoors. Surely there was no excuse - such as a sick sister - for her to appear so breathless and disheveled," said Mrs. Hurst.

"To be sure, Louisa, a girl who begins with so little in the way of natural beauty or elegance should have been taught to behave with more . . ."

'Artifice?' thought Darcy, sarcastically, as Miss Bingley searched for the right word.

" . . . delicacy," she finished.

"How can you wonder that she was never taught how to comport herself, with such parents?" asked Mrs. Hurst. The two sisters laughed as they recalled the vulgarity of Elizabeth's nearest relations.

"But perhaps," said Miss Bingley, "she exercises to add brightness to her eyes."

"She must get whatever help she can in improving her looks," agreed Mrs. Hurst.

"For my own part," rejoined Miss Bingley, "I must confess that I never could see any beauty in her. Her face is too thin; her complexion has no brilliancy; and her features are not at all handsome. Her nose wants character - there is nothing marked in its lines. Her teeth are tolerable, but not out of the common way; and as for her eyes, which have sometimes been called so fine, I never could perceive anything extraordinary in them. They have a sharp, shrewish look, which I do not like at all; and in her air altogether, there's a self-sufficiency without fashion, which is intolerable. I remember, when we first knew her in Hertfordshire, how amazed we all were to find that she was a reputed beauty; and I particularly recollect Mr. Darcy saying one night, after they had been dining at Netherfield, 'She a beauty! I should as soon call her mother a wit.'" Both ladies giggled and Miss Bingley shifted her eyes towards Darcy to add, "But afterwards she seemed to improve on you, and I believe you thought her rather pretty at one time."

Darcy was resolutely silent during the course of this speech and would not give Miss Bingley the satisfaction of any reply. But in his mind he disagreed with everything she said as she was saying it. Each point that she made about Elizabeth's deficiencies was met with contradiction in the privacy of his own thoughts.

By this time, both gentlemen were pleased that the carriage was pulling up in front of the Hurst home. They remained with the ladies only briefly, before taking their leave to return to Darcy's house.

After a few moments of silence, while they were in the carriage together, Mr. Bingley spoke of what was foremost in his mind. "You must know what I wish to ask you," he said to Darcy, "will you tell me, now, what you think of Miss Bennet's demeanor today? Surely you do not agree with my sisters' assessment of her manner."

"Bingley, you know that I believe you have chosen a very imprudent course of action in this. It is not too late to deviate from it. You have not yet done anything to engage your honor towards the young lady." Bingley said nothing. "You must consider what such an alliance will cost you. You will gain nothing by it. In fact, the consequences will be quite the opposite. Your situation would suffer a degradation by such a match -- one that would oppose all of your father's efforts in establishing your family's footing in society. Think of her connections. It is not only that she has none that would benefit you, but those she does have are of such inferiority that your position would be damaged by an association with them. You must also consider the behavior of her family. All of her nearest relations, save Miss Elizabeth, are disgraceful."

"I have considered those things. I have thought of little else since we last spoke of this matter."

"And you would still contemplate making such a choice?"

"Darcy, I love her."

Darcy said nothing for a moment, as images of Elizabeth passed unbidden before his mind's eye. He gathered his wits and said, "you have been in love before and you will be again. You must know that you will find a young lady, among your acquaintances, who is both suitable and worthy of your love."

"At this moment, I cannot imagine caring for anyone else as I do for Miss Bennet."

"I understand how you feel," Darcy replied unwittingly. "But this moment will pass and with time she will be forgotten. You will come to love another, and your present attachment will seem trifling in comparison to what you will then feel for her."

Bingley's thoughtfulness following this speech gave Darcy hope. After a few moments, however, Bingley said, "will you not tell me whether your impression of Miss Bennet's feelings has changed?"

Darcy sighed, "I can hardly say whether or not she is in love with you. It is clear that she is not displeased with your attentions. But whether that is the result of any tender feelings on her part, or simply a desire for an advantageous match, I cannot say."

"You do not think her mercenary?"

"Not for herself, perhaps, but I do believe she would marry in the interest of her family. I am sure that her mother can be relied on to offer vehement persuasion. You must know that she would be influenced by the hope of benefiting them. You have spoken yourself of her generous solicitude for her family. Indeed, she could not be blamed if she allowed herself to be thus influenced. And, though she may not love you there is certainly nothing she could object to in your person - she could find no reason there to refuse you. It would be foolish for her to turn you down just because she does not love you. What might be viewed as mercenary from your perspective might be viewed as prudent from hers. She would have no reason to reject an offer from you and every reason to accept it, whether or not she loves you. But marriage under such circumstances would not make you happy and the degradation of your family name that would likely result from such an alliance, is simply not worth the risk."

Bingley was again quiet as he thought about his friend's speech. Finally, he said, "but you believe there is a possibility that she might love me?"

"I will concede that there may be a possibility of it," said Darcy, grudgingly, "but I hope you will give serious consideration to the many disadvantages that must be attendant upon such an union."

Bingley gave his friend the assurance he asked for as they arrived at Darcy's house.

Meanwhile at Gracechurch Street, after Mr. Bingley and his party had left, Jane and Elizabeth were able to speak privately about the visit. "I told you he still loves you Jane," said Elizabeth, "although I am not fully satisfied as to why he did not return to Netherfield."

"I am not so certain of his feelings as you seem to be, Lizzy."

Elizabeth took her sister's hand. "I know it must be difficult, Jane, to trust that he will not repeat his prior neglect of you, but I have no doubt that he loves you. He seems inclined now to act on his feelings, but I cannot explain his prior failure to do so, except that I am convinced his sisters persuaded him against it."

"If that is true Lizzy, then what is to prevent him from submitting again to their persuasion?"

"Perhaps a little encouragement from you would give him more conviction in his own feelings. Charlotte once told me that she thought you did not show your affections enough."

"I do not know what I should do. I would not wish to appear forward."

"No, of course I did not mean to suggest that you should. But Mr. Bingley seems to be so modest, I think he needs to know that you like him. Surely you can show him that without any improper display."

"Perhaps, if he calls again, I will make more of an attempt to do so."

"If?" laughed Elizabeth. "Oh Jane, you must know that he will return."

When Mrs. Gardiner came back into the room, the three women discussed the visit. Both Mrs. Gardiner and Elizabeth were happy to learn that Jane had not been fooled by the artifice of Mr. Bingley's sisters, though she was a little hurt by the realization of their insincerity. Elizabeth was amused by it, though she felt for Jane; and Mrs. Gardiner was satisfied by her belief that Mr. Bingley had brought his sisters as an offer of proof that his present addresses were genuine. The sisters had spoken compliments to Mrs. Gardiner, but had made their disapproval of their surroundings evident in their manner, belying their words. When they had taken leave, Mrs. Gardiner had given the ladies every assurance that she and her nieces would return their call in a few days time. Their displeasure with that prospect had been evident. After some conversation, the three ladies decided to call on Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley the morning after next.

With that matter resolved, Mrs. Gardiner ventured to ask Elizabeth for her impression of Mr. Darcy during this visit.

"His manners were so very altered, Aunt, I scarcely recognized him."

Mrs. Gardiner's suspicions regarding Mr. Darcy's preference for her niece heightened her desire to think well of the gentleman far beyond what it might otherwise have been. "I wonder if he is as bad as you have been led to believe," she asked Elizabeth.

"My dear Aunt, how great is your desire to not think ill of any young man from Derbyshire! But I think you will have to allow that the character of one or the other of them must be deficient. And since they are both from Derbyshire, I fear you must be disappointed in the end."

"It would seem so, but why should I believe Mr. Darcy to be at fault any more than I should believe it to be Mr. Wickham?"

"Because Mr. Wickham's manners are more open and pleasant, while Mr. Darcy is haughty, arrogant, and almost uniformly silent. Besides, Mr. Wickham gave facts and details in support of his claims and Mr. Darcy has given none. It seems that of the two of them it is Mr. Darcy who has a desire to keep the particulars of their past dealings concealed from the world, and that does not reflect well on him."

"But why should he be open with his business? He owes none of us any explanation of their history together. All I have seen is his wish to retain the privacy of his personal affairs. Indeed, I begin to wonder whether it was entirely proper for Mr. Wickham to divulge so much of his private business to you upon almost your first meeting with him."

"He felt comfortable speaking to me, I suppose, when he learned my opinion of Mr. Darcy. He was accustomed, I am sure, to his former friend being very well thought of."

"But he could have no such motivation for relating the story to me as I had never met Mr. Darcy. Indeed, you did not hold the distinction of being in his confidence for very long, for he soon shared his information with all the neighborhood.

"Yes, and you were ready enough to believe him at the time. Your own recollection that Mr. Darcy had been spoken of as a proud, ill-natured boy even when you lived in Derbyshire is further evidence in his favor. What has happened to cause you to doubt him now?"

"Simply that I have now met Mr. Darcy myself and no longer need to rely on what I have heard from others. If he was, indeed, an ill-natured boy, he has certainly changed for the better."

"I understand perfectly," said Elizabeth archly, "now that you like him, Mr. Wickham is no longer justified in exposing him."

"Perhaps you are correct and I have been influenced, by my approval of Mr. Darcy, to question Mr. Wickham's account; or perhaps I was previously influenced by Mr. Wickham's friendly, agreeable manner to overlook the impropriety of his disclosure. Do you not find it odd that he related the tale to one and all only after Mr. Darcy quitted the vicinity?"

"Is it a wonder he should have felt he could not be open about his past dealings with Mr. Darcy, while they resided in the same neighborhood? Mr. Darcy is a man of wealth and power, as he has already demonstrated to Mr. Wickham in the most painful terms."

"So it is your belief that Mr. Wickham was intimidated into silence? Was that his motivation for not sooner exposing Mr. Darcy's ill treatment of him to all the neighborhood?"

Elizabeth was about to speak in further defense of Wickham when she was struck by a memory. She paused abruptly before the words were off her tongue and after a moment of thought said instead, "actually, Mr. Wickham told me once that he would not expose Mr. Darcy out of respect for the memory of his father."

"That is singular, considering he did precisely what he had vowed not to do and for such noble reasons."

"But what does it signify?" asked Elizabeth resuming her defense of Mr. Wickham, "How often do all of us resolve upon something only to break our resolution at a later time?"

"It signifies something, I think, but I agree that it does not decide the matter. I will keep to my opinion that we have too little information upon which to judge. They each claim that the other is not of good character, yet from what I have seen of both, I have no reason to think ill of either of them. Will you not at least concede as much, Lizzy? Will you not give Mr. Darcy the benefit of the doubt?"

"What does my opinion of the matter signify? I will probably never see Mr. Wickham again, and as for Mr. Darcy, though I may have occasion to see him in the future," here she glanced at a blushing Jane, "I do not anticipate it will be very often. I do regret that he will be visiting at Rosings while I am with Charlotte. But there is nothing to be done for it. All I can hope is that he finds the residents of Hunsford Parsonage beneath his notice and, consequently, I will not be too much in company with him."

"I am sure his presence will not make your visit with Mrs. Collins less enjoyable, Lizzy."

"Oh no, I would not allow that. I am very much looking forward to seeing Charlotte - in all her domestic felicity. I have missed having her nearby. But, I know our friendship has suffered irrevocably by her marriage."

"Why should that be? She has moved far away, to be sure, but you may still enjoy the same intimacy by writing letters. Or, is it the fact that she will become mistress of Longbourn that causes you discomfort?"

"It is neither the distance she has moved nor her future position that troubles me, but her choice of husband."

"But if she is satisfied with her situation, why would you object to it?"

"Oh, you did not have the opportunity to meet Mr. Collins! He is by far the stupidest man I have ever known. That she would willingly marry him shows her to be less sensible than I had before imagined."

"Perhaps she saw something attractive in him that you did not notice."

"The only thing he had to recommend him was his independence, and it is that which attracted her. She married him only to secure herself a situation."

"Then it seems to me that you fault her for acting more sensibly than you would have liked, not less. Consider that she was a young woman of seven and twenty with neither beauty nor fortune nor even youth to recommend her. What would you have her do? At least you could live independently, though not extravagantly, on the meager fortune you will inherit from your mother, if you had to. But, she had not even that much."

"I understand the prudence of her choice, but still I cannot be easy with it."

"But this does not coincide with your approval of Mr. Wickham's pursuit of Miss King."

Elizabeth was thoughtful for a moment, then said, "but, as foolish as you would have her yesterday, Miss King is not nearly so objectionable as Mr. Collins."

"Ah," said Mrs. Gardiner, "is this, then, where you separate the prudent motive from the mercenary one - in the relative tolerability of the object? I believe we were comparing the actions of Miss Lucas and Mr. Wickham, rather than the attractiveness of Mr. Collins and Miss King. In my view, they have both attached themselves to someone with a means of providing them with financial independence, in spite of a lack of tender regard."

"I will concede that the cases are similar when you put them in such simple terms."

"Then why do you condemn one and not the other?"

Elizabeth sighed, "I can hardly say. In truth I had never thought to compare the two."

"It seems to me that the one you excuse has, perhaps, committed a greater offense. You said that Mr. Wickham has been making love to Miss King yet you are certain that he cares nothing for her. It seems, then, that he is attempting to make her love him so that she will accept his offer. But, has Charlotte ever professed to being in love? Did she flirt with Mr. Collins in an effort to make him love her?"

"No, she did not," said Elizabeth, "but that man requires no assistance in imagining himself in love where he is not. And, as neither situation concerns me directly, I shall think no more of the subject. I can promise you that I will make every effort to enjoy my time with Charlotte -- in spite of the presence of those I might wish to avoid - and if I find her happy, I will be happy for her. There, are you satisfied, dear Aunt?"

"For the present," said Mrs. Gardiner, smiling to her niece.

Over the next few days Darcy was at war with himself. Bingley had expressed his intention to call at the Gardiner home again soon and his hope that his friend would join him. The struggle of whether or not to see Elizabeth again was difficult enough, but it was compounded by his continued indecision with regard to the state of Miss Bennet's feelings and his desire to continue observing her on behalf of his friend. He knew that to continue his efforts in that quarter would give him an excuse to spend more time in Elizabeth's company, and he tried to be wary of using Bingley's situation to convince himself to see her again. However much he might wish to spend time with her, he knew it was for the best for him to stay away from her altogether, particularly if she suspected enough to cause her to come to town in the hope that their acquaintance might lead to something more. He knew he could not return to the Gardiner home now that she was there. He had formed no serious design on Elizabeth, and he knew it was impossible to form any, as much as part of him might regret that choice. If he returned to the home of her relations it might be perceived as a sign of particular regard, and he could not, in good conscience, mislead her about his intentions. He determined that there was little more he could do for Bingley in any case, and he resolved to avoid her.

On the appointed morning, Mrs. Gardiner, Jane and Elizabeth called on Mrs. Hurst and Miss. Bingley in Grosvenor Square. When they were shown into the drawing room, they were surprised to notice an unattended young woman, who could not be more than sixteen, sitting with the other two ladies. After greeting her callers herself, Mrs. Hurst introduced them to Miss Darcy, making it evident that she took no pleasure in doing so. Miss Darcy was spending the day with Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley as they were all to dine together, with their brothers, in the evening. Upon hearing the girl's name, Elizabeth immediately felt for Jane, who was a bit uneasy as she finally came face to face with the young lady who had been set up as her rival.

Miss Darcy was tall, on a larger scale than Elizabeth; and, in spite of her youth, her figure was formed, and her appearance womanly and graceful. She was less handsome than her brother, and not nearly so pretty as Jane. But there was a sense of good humour in her face, and her manners were perfectly unassuming and gentle. Elizabeth, who would have thought to find in her as acute and unembarrassed an observer as ever Mr. Darcy had been, was pleased by discerning such different feelings. Indeed, Elizabeth had fully expected Miss Darcy to be as arrogant as her brother, in accordance with Mr. Wickham's description; but the observation of a very few minutes convinced her that she was only exceedingly shy -- so much so that neither Elizabeth nor Mrs. Gardiner could elicit much more than a monosyllable from her for the first half of the visit. Elizabeth observed that though Miss Darcy shared her brother's reserved silence, she did not possess that air of haughtiness that so marked his demeanor.

Miss Darcy knew, upon hearing their name, that the Miss Bennets were acquainted with her brother. She was immediately disposed to like them based on his description of them. She had also heard them spoken of between her brother and Mr. Bingley on occasion, over the past week or so. Nevertheless, Miss Bingley felt she should acquaint Miss Darcy with the ladies' association to herself and her sister. "Georgiana, we met the Miss Bennets and their family when we were lately in Hertfordshire. Their home is but three miles from Netherfield. They have come to town to stay with their aunt, Mrs. Gardiner, in Gracechurch Street."

"Yes," replied Miss Darcy, quietly, "my brother mentioned them to me."

Elizabeth smiled to herself at what she imagined Darcy's description of her to his sister must have been. No doubt, Miss Darcy must believe she and her sister to be two of the most ill bred young ladies in the country.

"Did he?" replied Miss Bingley with interest.

"Yes," was Miss Darcy's only response.

The ensuing conversation was initiated by Mrs. Gardiner, whose endeavor to introduce some kind of discourse proved her to be more truly well-bred than either of the ladies of the house. And so the conversation was carried on between Mrs. Gardiner, Jane, Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley, with occasional help from Elizabeth. Miss Darcy looked as if she wished for courage enough to join in it; and sometimes did venture a short sentence when there was least danger of its being heard. Elizabeth was moved to make the girl feel more comfortable; and so, during a pause in the conversation, she disclosed to Miss Darcy her aunt's association with the part of the kingdom to which she belonged. Miss Darcy was pleased to learn that Mrs. Gardiner had lived in Lambton, and was perfectly content to listen to her talk of the area with great affection. As she had done with the brother, Mrs. Gardiner, gently and subtly induced the sister to be more communicative, through her animated discussion of their common love for the Derbyshire countryside. Miss Darcy was by no means chatty, but Elizabeth did notice her talking more as the conversation progressed, and she even went so far as to offer some comments of her own beyond the required responses to direct questions.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth and Jane continued to converse with Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley. The conversation was often strained and sometimes awkward, as each pair of sisters had so little in common with the other and at least one pair was wholly disinclined to further the association. Miss Bingley or Mrs. Hurst would often call on 'Dear Georgiana' to offer an opinion on some matter or another, interrupting her pleasant discourse with Mrs. Gardiner; and at least one out of every two of these exchanges involved one or the other of their brothers.

Elizabeth observed Miss Darcy carefully whenever Mr. Bingley was mentioned to discern whether she could perceive any partiality for him, and she could tell that Jane was doing the same. Elizabeth was pleased that Miss Darcy seemed to show no preference for him, but she hoped for the chance to see them together, so that she might better judge the feelings of each.

In time, Mrs. Gardiner was given to learn that Miss Darcy enjoyed walking outdoors and very much missed the grounds at Pemberley during her time in London.

Upon hearing this, Mrs. Gardiner responded, "Elizabeth is very fond of walking outdoors as well. Like you, she is not able to do so as much as she would like here in town; but when she is at home at Longbourn I dare say she takes a long walk outdoors at least once every day." Then she turned to her niece who was not occupied by conversation for the moment and added, "do you not Lizzy?"

"Yes, I do take great pleasure in walking outdoors and I attempt to do so each day. But I am sure the grounds at Longbourn are not nearly so lovely as those at Pemberley." Miss Darcy smiled. "I have heard that Pemberley is unequalled in beauty and splendor," finished Elizabeth.

Miss Darcy seemed almost embarrassed by such praise of her home and merely looked down as a slight blush tinged her cheeks.

"Miss Bingley has spoken very fondly of your home," said Elizabeth, with a hint of impertinence.

Miss Darcy looked puzzled - for although Miss Bingley had been a guest at Pemberley once, she had scarcely ventured outdoors - but she said nothing.

Elizabeth went on to tell Miss Darcy of the park near the Gardiner home, where she took her walks while in town. Miss Darcy was encouraged to speak of the park near her own home, venturing to add, "my brother walks out with me every day when he is in town."

Elizabeth could discern deep admiration and respect in Miss Darcy's expression when she mentioned her brother, and she could not help but smile. "You must enjoy having him back in town with you."

"Oh, yes," she replied. It was said quietly, but with an enthusiasm that showed the depth of her affection.

Soon after this exchange, it was time for the party from Gracechurch Street to return there. The residents of the house farewelled their visitors with greater alacrity than civility. When Miss Darcy made her curtsey to Elizabeth she blushed slightly and said in almost a whisper, "I do hope we shall meet again soon, Miss Bennet."

Elizabeth, realizing the exertion required of the girl to make such a declaration and therefore valuing it all the more, could not help but smile as she replied, "as do I, Miss Darcy."

As she entered the carriage, Elizabeth reflected with satisfaction what Mr. Darcy would think of his sister's making her acquaintance and expressing a wish to further their intimacy. She would never have imagined that his reaction to their meeting might be the exact opposite of her suspicions.

On the drive home, the three ladies talked at length about the visit. They were all in agreement that both Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley took no pleasure in their company. They also agreed that Miss Darcy was as dear a girl as ever there was. None of them could find any fault in her. They agreed that her excessive shyness would not serve her well when she entered society, and they pitied her. And, in her mind, Mrs. Gardiner was already considering how much good it would be for the girl to have just such a sister as Elizabeth.

The conversation had by Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst, following this visit, was less favorably inclined towards their visitors. Miss Darcy, however, would not participate in it, and attended her needlework most diligently.

Later that evening, after dinner, Miss Bingley found a moment to converse privately with Darcy, while his sister was at the pianoforte. "The Miss Bennets called on us today, with their aunt."

He said nothing.

"We had no choice but to introduce them to Georgiana."

Still, he did not speak.

"Surely you cannot wish for such companions for your dear sister. Now that Charles' silly fancy has gone so far as to result in Georgiana being on visiting terms with a merchant's wife from Cheapside, perhaps you will find a more effective form of intervention than you previously attempted. You must know you are the only one he will listen to."

Darcy scarcely heard a word that was spoken by his companion as he had been preoccupied with imagining how the first meeting between Elizabeth and Georgiana might have gone. He had always expected he would be there when they met, if they met. No, he could not deny that in his own mind he had always hoped they would meet; though such an expectation was in complete opposition to his resolve to avoid Elizabeth. He excused himself from Miss Bingley, without responding to anything she had said.

At the other side of town, Elizabeth and Jane finally had some time for private conversation when they had retired for the night. Jane wanted to know Elizabeth's impression of Miss Darcy, and Elizabeth repeated what she had said of the girl in the carriage. Jane agreed that Miss Darcy was everything good and sweet and amiable, and seemed genuinely pleased to find her so. "If she and Mr. Bingley do marry, I think she will make him happy."

Elizabeth could not help but smile at her sister, "oh Jane, any other woman would have been disappointed not to find the girl detestable! Does your goodness know no bounds?"

"But why should I wish him to be anything less than happy? If he chooses her, then he does not feel for me what I previously thought, and for that I cannot fault him."

"But he does feel for you, that much I know for certain. If he were to choose her, I would change my opinion as to the perfection of his character rather than as to where his affections truly lie."

"Please do not speak so Lizzy, it pains me to hear it."

"But Jane, he will not choose her. You must see that he has made every effort to preserve his acquaintance with you upon your accidental, but very fortuitous meeting a week ago. He has called on you twice since then, and from what I have seen, he is as in love with you as ever he was."

"I hope you are right, Lizzy."

"You shall see that I am, dear Jane."

The following morning was the first opportunity since the previous day's visit that Miss Darcy had for private discourse with her brother. As they walked in the park before breakfast she said, "I made some new acquaintances yesterday, while at the Hursts' home." He said nothing, so she continued, "A Mrs. Gardiner called with her nieces, two of the Miss Bennets whom you met when you were in Hertfordshire."

"How did you like them?"

"I liked them very well. Mrs. Gardiner spent many years residing in Lambton. She has a great fondness for Derbyshire. I was delighted to hear her speak of familiar places with such affection."

"And what of the Miss Bennets?"

"I found them both just as pleasant and amiable as you described them in your letters from Netherfield. I did not speak very much with Miss Bennet, but I talked to Miss Elizabeth for a few minutes. It seems she shares my love for walking outdoors."

Darcy could not repress his smile. He glanced at his sister, and noted that she wore a troubled expression. "What is it my dear?" he asked her.

"Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst said some very unkind things about all of them when they left us. They seem to feel that the Miss Bennets and Mrs. Gardiner are so inferior to themselves in station as to be unworthy of their notice. But, I knew you would not object to them on such grounds."

Darcy was speechless for a moment. He did not know what to say in response to this display of faith in him. He knew his sister held him in the very highest esteem and never before had he felt any failure in himself to measure up to her perception of him, until now.

"I do hope I have the opportunity to see them again soon," she continued.

"Perhaps you may," he replied.

Later that morning, Bingley called again at Gracechurch Street. This time, he was alone, and Elizabeth was relieved by it. The expression of his preference for Jane being now unencumbered by the presence of those who might influence his behavior, it was more evident than ever that he held her in the highest regard. Jane, too, exerted herself to be more attentive to him, without being indelicate. His pleasure in response to her behavior was obvious. By the end of the visit, even Jane had to abandon her doubts with respect to the gentleman's feelings. And, Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner watched the scene unfold with great satisfaction. Before he left the house, Mrs. Gardiner issued an invitation for him to dine with the family two nights hence. He accepted with undisguised delight and Elizabeth reflected on how much easier and pleasanter things were when Mr. Darcy did not accompany his friend.

Darcy learned from Bingley of his engagement to dine at Gracechurch Street, later that evening. He deferred all thought of it until he was alone, and affected indifference in front of his friend. In the privacy of his own room, after retiring for the night, he gave free reign to his reflections on the subject.

His own failure to protect his friend from attaching himself to Miss Bennet was foremost in his mind. He had wanted to see her again, to make further observation and come to a conclusive decision as to her feelings. He knew that the two times he had observed them together, in London, he had expected and hoped, to find her indifferent. In spite of his wishes and expectations regarding the matter, he had been unable to reach the conclusion he hoped to reach with the same certainty he had felt after the ball at Netherfield. If his observations had continued in the same direction, he might have been obliged to assure Bingley of her regard after a few more visits. Yet, there was always the possibility that further scrutiny might have reconfirmed his prior conviction in her indifference; and he could not help feeling that now, when Bingley needed him to confirm that she did not care for him and to give him the strength to resist falling within her power, he had failed to be of assistance to his friend, by placing his own need to stay away from Elizabeth paramount.

But it could not be helped, he could not place himself in the danger of being further bewitched; and he had keenly felt the gravity of that danger when last he met her. There was also more than his own feelings to be considered. The possibility, which he had earlier acknowledged, that she had come to London because she suspected that he admired her and with the hope of securing a proposal, brought on another reason to avoid her: to prevent her from being disappointed by encouraging expectations he had no intention of meeting. Protecting her feelings in that regard was equally as important as protecting his own.

He had done everything he could for Bingley. He had convinced him not to return to Netherfield. But, his unfortunate meeting with Miss Bennet in London had taken the matter out of Darcy's hands. He could not keep them apart. Although there had been the hope of influencing Bingley before Elizabeth's arrival, Darcy felt his powers of persuasion would not have withstood the competition of Miss Bennet's company, and there was no way to prevent Bingley from seeking it. He had counseled his friend to avoid her, and he had pointed out the certain evils of Miss Bennet as a choice of wife more than once, but to no avail. And now, with Elizabeth at the Gardiner home, Darcy felt his own weakness. He could not go there. Even if any chance of him influencing Bingley's choice could have withstood Miss Bennet's presence in London, it could not withstand Elizabeth's. He had been able to follow his own advice and avoid Elizabeth, even if Bingley refused to heed it with respect to her sister. He could do no more to preserve his friend from the imprudent choice he seemed so inclined to make.

Darcy's thoughts turned back to Bingley's dinner engagement and he envisioned the family sitting around the table together talking comfortably and happily. He could not deny that the prospect was a pleasant one, and he knew if he had gone with Bingley he too would have been invited. Then he shook his head to rid himself of such thoughts, and laughed to himself at his own folly for even thinking of dining at the home of those so far beneath him. To have called there twice was quite enough.

And, though he was successful in driving thoughts of a family dinner in Gracechurch Street from his mind, he could not dispel from it the enchanting image of Elizabeth. Now, his thoughts turned again to his sister's meeting with her. He was pleased that they had met, in spite of himself, and that Georgiana had liked her. This he felt safe admitting in the privacy of his own thoughts. Georgiana's declaration of her conviction that he would not object to the ladies due to their situation in life caused him more perturbation than he liked, particularly in light of his own present admonition against considering the possibility of dining at the Gardiner home. He satisfied himself by observing that Georgiana was still very young and naVve in the ways of the world. Still, he could not stop himself from picturing Elizabeth and Georgiana together, and he indulged in the private pleasure of imagining how well they would enjoy each other's company. His last thought before closing his eyes for the night was that he would like nothing more than to see them together as friends . . . sisters.

"I knew you would not object to them on such grounds."

Darcy awoke with a start to the same thoughts and meditations that had at length closed his eyes. He stood and walked to his window, the sun was just rising.

Why would Georgiana say such a thing? She had said it in complete innocence, of that he was certain. Yet Georgiana was not ignorant of her station in life - he had personally seen to her education in that regard with diligence. And this particular lesson would have been enforced all too well by her experiences last summer. He had sensed since then that she understood what was expected of her.

He thought of the implications of her words. It was true that no objection could be made to either Miss Bennet or to Elizabeth if only their personalities and characters were to be considered. Yet, their situation in life was objectionable. Georgiana was unaware of the ways of the rest of the Bennet family. Yet, she knew of their low connections, and she must understand that such a circumstance would reduce their suitability for any association of an intimate nature. He was somewhat mollified with the realization that he was thinking of Elizabeth as a possible sister for Georgiana while his sister was only thinking of furthering a very slight acquaintance. There was a great difference between his marrying her and allowing Georgiana to befriend her.

He could not help but think of the criticisms made by Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst to Georgiana about their visitors. He was certain Georgiana had been kind in her reference to their remarks and, having heard them himself, it did not require much exertion of his imagination to know what had actually been said. While he could withstand their ill-natured remarks with ease, he would have preferred them to be more temperate in expressing their disapprobation to his impressionable young sister. Yet, he was proud of Georgiana for recognizing ill breeding when she saw it.

He reflected on the irony of her association with the two pairs of sisters. The ladies of a more appropriate situation to be companions to his sister behaved in a manner that he would rather prevent her from being influenced by; while those he might hesitate to allow her to associate with because of their situation would be infinitely better friends to her and would provide better examples of proper behavior. The contrast between the personalities and situations of the four women in question struck him forcibly. He could not help but realize the irony in having hoped to connect his sister to two women whose behavior he consistently disapproved, by marrying her to their brother; while he resisted connecting her to two women who had always conducted themselves with the utmost propriety. He had not yet learnt, however, to condemn his motives for resisting his attraction to Elizabeth or forwarding Georgiana's relationship with Bingley's sisters. They were just the type of women she should be associating with, as far as society was concerned. But, he began to question his priorities when it came to his sister, which naturally led to questioning them when it came to himself as well.

Yet he could not fail to acknowledge that the only circumstance that allowed him to be pleased about Georgiana's meeting with the Miss Bennets, was his admiration for Elizabeth. Had it been any other women in their situation, he was not certain he would have allowed his sister to further the acquaintance. They were daughters of a gentleman, but they were residing in a part of town and with such people as would not reflect favorably. But, he was happy that the acquaintance had been made, and he wholeheartedly wished it to be furthered - though he would have liked to have been present for it if only to take delight in seeing them together, meeting for the first time. He could not account for the satisfaction he received from learning that their meeting had been a pleasant one, but he smiled as he congratulated himself on having always known that they would like each other.

Yet, his smile could not withstand the reality of his situation. He sat down and buried his face in his hands. His heart was heavy with disappointment and frustration. He loved Elizabeth - he could no longer attempt to deny it. She would be everything he could want in a wife, and a perfect sister to Georgiana. He allowed himself, now, the painful indulgence of allowing his mind to dwell on his regret of her situation and her family. He had, previously, always forborne from such thoughts, as nothing good could possibly come from regretting and resenting circumstances that were irrevocably established and unchangeable as the rising and setting sun. But now he damned every circumstance that made the one woman who had ever attracted him, delighted him, captured him, an unsuitable choice, every circumstance that led to his present pain and grief for not being able to have her. Every circumstance was cursed in his mind but one - that he loved her. At this thought he smiled again, he could not regret loving her. But he regretted every other obstacle that stood between himself and the happiness he would never have. He regretted them now with all the strength of bitter resentment he was able to command, not only for his own sake, but for Georgiana's as well.

His thoughts wandered back to his sister's innocent declaration of the day before, and to the events that had precipitated it. Her words would not cease to haunt him. If he was so certain that he had not been in error and that her understanding was limited by her innocence, then why had he felt so inadequate, so ashamed when she had said it? Why did he feel he had failed his sister, when her expectation was so wholly unreasonable?

Social inferiority was, after all, a perfectly just reason to avoid or limit some associations. Nevertheless, he told himself that he did not disapprove of the Miss Bennets merely on the grounds of their social inferiority - their family's deportment was, in and of itself, sufficiently repugnant to give him pause. He simply recognized that Elizabeth would not make him a suitable wife. Then he found himself smiling, almost laughing to himself as he stood and paced across the room. She was suitable in every way - indeed, as a woman, she was his perfect match. It was her situation - her family and connections - that was unacceptable, and the one could not be separated from the other.

He knew his sister had been speaking of a relationship of much lesser intimacy when she had spoken the words than what he now contemplated as they reverberated in his mind. A friendly acquaintance between Elizabeth and Georgiana was possible, while marriage to Elizabeth was not. He shook his head as he thought again of the degradation that would certainly befall him in consequence of making such an imprudent alliance. Then, Georgiana's words returned to him forcefully. But, he struggled against them with equal, if not greater, resistance. Should he be expected to rejoice in the inferiority of Elizabeth's connections? To congratulate himself on the hope of relations, whose condition in life is so decidedly beneath his own? No, his feelings in opposition to such a marriage were natural and just and he would not allow Georgiana's pointed words make him feel guilty about it. She hardly meant them in such a way, after all.

Then the struggle began anew as he told himself that his other feelings were equally natural and equally just. Would it not be natural and just for him to be with the woman he loved? He sighed . . . if only he could have it both ways. But he would waste no more time on useless regrets. Elizabeth was what she was and there was nothing to be done for it.

That same morning, at Gracechurch Street, the visit to Grosvenor Street from two days prior was again canvassed - this time for the benefit of Mr. Gardiner, who had not yet been apprized of the details of the occasion. When Mr. Gardiner had been told by all three ladies that Miss Darcy was a sweet, amiable, but shy girl, he looked at Elizabeth and asked, "so she is nothing like her brother, then?"

"Not at all," said Elizabeth.

Her tone compelled him to ask, "Were you surprised to find her so different?"

"I confess, I had been told that she shared his pride, but I saw nothing of it yesterday."

"Perhaps the person you spoke to did not know her well enough to draw an accurate opinion."

"I do not see how that could account for it. Mr. Wickham is the one who told me about her and he was raised in the same household with her while she was a child."

"But has it not been many years since he has seen her?" asked Mr. Gardiner.

"He did not mention how long it had been since he had last seen her."

"Well, his falling out with Mr. Darcy occurred at least two years ago, according to my recollection of his tale," said Mrs. Gardiner, "and I cannot imagine he has been with her since that occurred. Mr. Darcy made his ill opinion of Wickham very clear and even asked me to warn you against him, surely he would not allow him near his own sister."

"In that, you must be correct. We may, then, suppose that it has been more than two years since Mr. Wickham has seen Miss Darcy."

After a moment of thoughtful reflection, Mrs. Gardiner said, "Yet, she would only have been about fourteen then. It seems untenable that she would have grown from a sweet affectionate young girl, to a proud and arrogant young lady of fourteen and then again to the charming, amiable, timid thing we met yesterday."

"It does seem that Mr. Wickham was mistaken about her character," added Jane. "I wonder what could possibly have given him the impression that such a girl could be as he described."

"His description of her was certainly in error," agreed Elizabeth, "unless there is a hidden side of her personality that we have not yet seen!"

The following day brought Mr. Bingley to their door again, and this time, to their table. He was able to bring with him an invitation from Mrs. Hurst for the whole party to dine in Grosvenor Street on Tuesday. This invitation he had extracted from Mrs. Hurst with much effort. She had, at first rebuffed every suggestion to invite the Gardiners and their nieces to dine at her home by inventing excuses or merely ignoring her brother. Then she agreed to invite only the ladies and only for tea, on an evening when there would be no gentlemen at home. Finally, a cozy family dinner with no one else in attendance was grudgingly agreed upon.

But when Bingley learned that the Hursts were hosting a large dinner, he suggested that the Gardiner party be invited then. Bingley's goal in doing so was twofold. He wanted to make the point with his sisters that the Miss Bennets were to be accepted as part of their social circle, and not hidden away as acquaintances to be ashamed of. But, he had also felt that Darcy had given up his observations of Miss Bennet as a result of a disinclination to call in the Gardiner's neighborhood. When they had last spoken of the subject Darcy was still uncertain as to her feelings. This dinner would give him another opportunity to see that she returned Bingley's regard, and Bingley felt a strong desire to be assured that Darcy agreed that she now loved him before making his addresses to her.

His sisters had been adamantly against inviting the Gardiners and the Miss Bennets to the dinner party. At first they argued that the addition of four more people would simply make the number too large. But they soon gave their true reasons for opposing the scheme: it would not do to parade their Cheapside acquaintances amidst the more superior company they were expecting that evening. It was not until Mr. Hurst, who wanted the matter to be done with, took Bingley's side in it, forcing his wife to capitulate.

And so it was that Bingley brought to Mrs. Gardiner a note written by his sister making the invitation. Mrs. Gardiner wrote back accepting the kind offer with gratitude.

The dinner at Gracechurch Street was as delightful and pleasant as anyone could have anticipated. After dinner, the conversation was light and cheerful, and all the participants in it were perfectly content in each other's company. It was exactly the picture of felicity that Mr. Darcy had imagined it would be.

When Bingley returned to Darcy's house, the master had already retired. The following morning, after breakfast, Bingley raised a new subject with his friend. "Darcy, were you planning to attend the opening performance of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' on Friday?"

"I had planned to attend, yes. I was going to mention it to you as well, and invite you to join me in my box if you would like."

"I had determined to invite the Miss Bennets and the Gardiners to see it with me. I had hoped you would come along, but if you have invited other guests to share your box, I will secure one for the evening."

"I have not invited anyone else. You and your guests are welcome to use my box."

"In that case, they would be your guests would they not?" asked Bingley with a good-natured smile.

Darcy was a little perturbed at being forced into spending an evening in her company. But, he had already said he planned to attend the event and it would be impolite to back out now, only after Bingley made known his intent to invite others. His perturbation was, of course, well eclipsed by his delight with the prospect of Elizabeth's company. He had to admit that keeping his resolve to avoid her, while knowing she was in London, had proven very difficult. He longed to see her and could not force himself to be unhappy that he would. He simply had to be very careful to remain master of his feelings while in her presence. In any case, he liked Shakespeare and it was, after all, his box.

"So they would be," he replied to Bingley. "I will send a note to the Gardiners making the invitation, but I will be sure to mention your inclusion in the party."

Bingley smiled. The note was written and sent. It was received at Gracechurch Street by many expressions of surprise and delight. Elizabeth, in particular, was pleased beyond measure as 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' was her favorite play. She was also surprised. She could scarcely believe that Mr. Darcy had made the invitation, though the mention of Mr. Bingley shed some light on his motive. This led her to believe in the possibility that he may have given his permission for his friend to be happy. Yet, that he would invite such people as her aunt and uncle to join his party in public was quite beyond her understanding of the man. She wondered whether Mr. Bingley's sisters or Miss Darcy would also be present. The invitation indicated that the gentlemen would collect them at Gracechurch Street prior to the performance. Mr. Gardiner wrote back to Mr. Darcy his grateful acceptance of the invitation.

Mr. Darcy examined his reflection in the looking glass, wondering whether she would approve. Then he shook his head, scolding himself for being so silly. Never in all his life had he given any concern to his appearance, at least not when it came to the ladies . . . except perhaps in his preparations for the ball at Netherfield last November.

Darcy had not been looking forward to the Hurst dinner party, at least not before he had learned that she would be present. As much as Miss Bingley prevailed upon her sister to limit the number of eligible ladies invited to these affairs, he knew he would be the object of unwanted attention from one woman, at the very least. He reflected with satisfaction, though, that the presence of numerous guests (one in particular) would make the evening more tolerable than the quiet 'family' dinners he and his sister were so often invited to at the Hursts. It was true that such evenings were conducive to forwarding the intimacy he desired between his sister and Bingley, but suffering Miss Bingley's presumptuous attentions was almost intolerable; and, he knew from experience, would be more intolerable with Elizabeth present.

When Bingley had informed him that the Miss Bennets would be there, his responsive emotions were conflicted - just as they had been when he had learned he would be attending an evening at the theatre with them. He was pleased both with the prospect of seeing Elizabeth himself and of seeing her with Georgiana. Yet, he was also apprehensive. His mind had not relinquished its preoccupation with her, and he had continued in constant battle - his judgment at war against his inclination - since he had last seen her.

As he stood in front of the glass he could see the reflection of the door on the opposite wall behind him that led to her room, or the room that would be hers if it were possible to make her his. He could almost see the door opening; he could almost see her stepping through it, clad in an elegant evening gown; he could almost hear the endearment on her lips as she addressed him, announcing that she was ready to go; he could almost see her smile as he complimented her looks; he could almost feel her soft lips brushing against his cheek as she kissed him lightly. He sighed. How much more he would enjoy evenings such as this one if he did not feel like an object of prey, if he were already married. How much more he would enjoy them with her at his side. To be able to discuss the events of the evening at the end of it with someone of sense and intelligence. To share their opinions on the people they had spent the evening with and the conversations they'd had. To share the intimacy and confidence of such an open relationship. How happy he would be to share all this with her.

He closed his eyes and sighed again. How could he face her this evening with such thoughts occupying his mind? He gathered all his strength of conviction in her unsuitability for such a position as his wife and conjured the image of Mrs. Bennet enumerating the benefits of a match between Jane and Bingley, not the least of which was casting her younger daughters into the paths of other rich men. He wondered now whether it was Mrs. Bennet who, upon learning that he had called at Gracechurch Street with Mr. Bingley, had sent Elizabeth to London. With such preparations completed, Darcy exited the room with every confidence of surviving the evening with his resolve unscathed.

When Elizabeth arrived at the Hurst home, her mind was almost wholly occupied by her sister's situation. Not only was Jane to be subjected this evening to the disapprobation of Bingley's sisters and probably his friend as well, but she was about to see him in company with Miss Darcy. Elizabeth's goal this evening was only to secure Jane's comfort and ease. Now was the moment her object in coming to London would be met, and she intended to keep to her purpose.

There was a large gathering of guests in the drawing room and Elizabeth did not notice that the eyes of at least one gentleman were immediately upon her. Indeed, he had been awaiting her arrival since his own. Mr. Bingley joined their party as soon as they entered the room and began introducing them to some of the other guests. As Elizabeth looked around, she noticed Miss Darcy moving towards her slowly, on her brother's arm, with a look of subdued eagerness in her countenance. After the usual civilities were exchanged, Elizabeth's entire party thanked Darcy for his kind invitation to use his box at the theatre on Friday. He acknowledged their gratitude with a bow and assured them that it would be his pleasure and that he hoped they would all enjoy the performance.

In the few moments that they all stood together talking, Elizabeth was occupied in observing Mr. Bingley and Miss Darcy and could see that Jane's thoughts were similarly bent. On this point, she was soon satisfied. No look appeared on either side that spoke particular regard. Nothing occurred between them that could justify the hopes of his sister.

Georgiana had remained silently by her brother's side, while the others exchanged pleasantries. When there was a pause in the conversation, Elizabeth acknowledged her again, "Miss Darcy, it is a pleasure to see you again." Knowing that his sister's shyness was in conflict with her desire to further her friendship with Elizabeth, the latter's initiative could only serve to endear her to Darcy more. He smiled. Elizabeth was surprised by his apparent pleasure, as she had fully expected that he would disdain any association between herself and his sister.

Jane had, by now, walked on with Bingley and the Gardiners, to be introduced to some of the other guests, but she could not help casting a last glance towards Elizabeth and Miss Darcy. Elizabeth gave her sister a reassuring smile while Miss Darcy replied, "Miss Bennet, you must allow me to tell you how delighted I was to learn that you would be here this evening."

Elizabeth had to smile at the innocent sincerity of her words. How different this young girl was than what she had once imagined her to be. How unaffected and unassuming was her manner. "I hope the weather has not kept you indoors too much, Miss Darcy."

"Yesterday I was prevented from going out at all, but this morning, after breakfast, I prevailed upon my brother to join me for a stroll in the park."

Elizabeth smiled, "I hope it was a pleasant one. I could not resist going out myself when I saw that the weather had improved." Then glancing at Darcy she added with a hint of mischief in her tone, "in spite of the mud left behind by yesterday's storm."

Georgiana smiled shyly, then lowered her voice and said, "I confess that I was so determined to go out today that I gave no thought to the condition of the ground and my skirts were a little muddy by the time I returned indoors."

Elizabeth could not help glancing at Darcy with a smirk, but his face betrayed no recollection of her own similar experience. In truth, it took all his willpower to refrain from smiling back at her when she looked at him in such a way, and he was not sure that he had been wholly successful. He vividly recalled the day she had arrived at Netherfield with mud on her petticoats and his own reaction to seeing her thus.

"I have been in that situation more than once, myself, Miss Darcy. I suppose being exposed to a little dirt once in a while is the price we must pay for the pleasure of walking outdoors."

Georgiana smiled again, encouraged by Elizabeth's lighthearted treatment of the incident. "Luckily, I was able to change my dress before receiving any visitors." Her glance towards Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley revealed to Elizabeth exactly whose censure Georgiana had been so relieved to escape this morning. Elizabeth had to stop herself from laughing at the very idea of those two ladies saying anything critical of the one before her. As much as Miss Bingley wished to please Darcy, Elizabeth was sure his sister would be acquitted with alacrity of the same infraction for which they had shown Elizabeth so much disdain.

"My dear Miss Darcy," said Elizabeth with a hint of impertinence, "I am sure that you could never provoke the censure of anyone."

Miss Darcy blushed suddenly as her countenance assumed an expression of extreme mortification and her eyes shifted to her brother.

He gently brought his unoccupied hand to cover her hand, which rested on his other arm. "Miss Bennet is correct, my dear" he said in a comforting and affectionate tone, unlike anything Elizabeth had ever heard from his lips before, "you consistently conduct yourself with admirable decorum." Then he added in a quiet tone so intimate that Elizabeth felt she was intruding on their privacy by merely hearing his words, "and I am very proud of you." Miss Darcy seemed to have recovered from whatever had troubled her and Darcy added in a more lighthearted tone, "I will not hesitate to add, that a little mud on one's dress is hardly deserving of ridicule." He could not resist a glance at Elizabeth who was looking at him in undisguised wonder. She searched his countenance for any sign of sarcasm, but found none.

The quiet conversation between the three of them had, by now, garnered the notice of more than one pair of eyes in the room, particularly Mrs. Gardiner's. She was intent on studying the gentleman, and noticed his varying expressions with great interest. They were then approached by Miss Bingley, who addressed Miss Darcy with an air of superior intimacy. Elizabeth, though undaunted, refused to allow herself to be made a part of that lady's spectacle, and graciously excused herself to join her sister and Mr. Bingley. Darcy's eyes followed her, while his sister was occupied by Miss Bingley's conversation, and he watched as Bingley introduced her to Hurst's cousin, who had just arrived in town today. A par