Chapter 2

When Colonel Fitzwilliam returned to Rosings, after proposing to Elizabeth, he was in high spirits, and he wished to share his happiness, and thank his cousin for helping him make the right choice about Miss Bennet. Darcy was not in the library, nor was Colonel Fitzwilliam able to locate him in any of the common rooms of the house. Finally, he decided to check Darcy's personal rooms. He found his cousin sitting alone with no book or other employment. He wore a grim look and appeared deep in thought. But Colonel Fitzwilliam was too wrapped up in his own concerns to notice that anything was amiss with Darcy's countenance or his behavior. "Cousin," said Colonel Fitzwilliam jovially, "I owe you a debt of gratitude."

"What?" asked Darcy gruffly, emerging from his dark reverie.

"It is with regards to Miss Bennet, I followed your advice and proposed to her this morning."

Darcy's astonishment was beyond expression. He rose from his chair and walked to the window to hide his discomposure. As Fitzwilliam's words sunk in, their effect on Darcy, when combined with the grin on his cousin's face, could lead him to only one conclusion, and it made him sick. When Elizabeth had rejected him, he had been angry and his pride had been hurt. But he had also felt relieved. He believed the outcome was for the best, and he would not be tormented by her any longer. But now that she was to marry his cousin everything changed. He felt all the remorse of having been so foolish as to lose his chance with her, and now she would marry another and he would never have another chance. He had not even realized until this moment that he had been harboring such a hope. Then it occurred to him that he never really had a chance, she despised him, ever since he knew her in Hertfordshire. But he reasoned this was because of his behavior there. If he had not behaved as she described he would have had a chance, they might be engaged right now. Instead, she would be married, lost to him forever, and to his cousin of all people. He would be subject to witnessing their conjugal felicity more often than he cared to imagine. She would be happy, she deserved to be happy, but he certainly did not wish to have to see her enjoying the attentions of another man, another husband. Despite the certainty that her response had been favorable as betrayed by his cousin's happy demeanor, Darcy had to ask, "what did she say?"

"She said that she did not know me well enough to consent to marry me."

Relief washed over Darcy. He again turned away from his cousin, closed his eyes and breathed deeply just taking in the news that she was still free, and allowing it to repair the damage done to his wounded heart by his previous assumption. When he had regained his composure and was able to consider what he had learned in a rational manner, he could scarcely believe that Elizabeth had rejected two very eligible marriage proposals in two days, indeed, within the space of a few hours. He was pleased, not only because she was still free, but because of what this news spoke about her character. He admired her even more because of her obvious resolve to not give herself in marriage lightly. He considered that she could not have objections to his cousin similar to those she had voiced against himself. She would not give herself even to a man which such qualities as those possessed by her cousin, which must be appealing to her, if she did not feel that she loved him. Darcy was a bit mollified by these thoughts, but when he looked at his cousin again he was reminded of the colonel's grin and realized there must be more. "You seem to have taken it well cousin," he prodded cautiously.

"She has agreed to continue our acquaintance. She has consented to allow me to call on her at her uncle's house while she is in London. I confess that I was surprised that her relations live in Gracechurch street. I had no idea her connections were so low." The colonel's lack of knowledge was, of course, understandable since he was absent during the first few weeks of Elizabeth's visit during which her personal life was aired quite thoroughly by his aunt.

All Darcy could think was that he had known it all too well. When this next piece of information had been fully absorbed he responded, "she returns your affections then?"

"She did own that she enjoys my company, but would not say anything more than that." Darcy experienced another wave of relief, which was quickly dashed by the supposition that she could not love his cousin because her heart was engaged elsewhere ? she was in love with Wickham. But if she gave any credit to the contents of his letter, her sentiments would not last long, and if he could not have her, his cousin would be a much better husband than Wickham, and surely she would not have encouraged his addresses had her heart been engaged elsewhere.

"Do you love her?" Darcy had to ask, as he tried to conceal his emotions.

"I know that I have never enjoyed being with anyone half so much. I know that she is everything lovely and charming. I know that I am happy when I am with her. I dare say, that if I am not in love yet, I am well on my way. I have plenty of time for falling in love, Darcy. Perhaps she is correct, and my addresses were a bit premature, but as we are leaving tomorrow, I had to do something, and now I have succeeded in gaining the privilege of furthering my acquaintance with her. Now that I have secured a continuation of our acquaintance, falling in love with her should by easy enough."

Darcy had no doubt of the colonel's last statement. He then said, "and you are willing to give up your hopes of marrying a woman of fortune for one that you do not even love?"

"Darcy, I have lived to the age of thirty without yet finding a single woman who I have wanted to marry. Then I met Miss Bennet, who is handsome, lively, and everything charming. For the first time, I feel that I have met exactly the kind of woman I can see myself content with. I do not believe I will ever find a woman who has a fortune, whom I can admire so much as I do her, and who is willing to marry me. Thus, I have resigned myself to the improbability of finding such a wife. I used to think that I could not do without a fortune sufficient to sustain my lifestyle, but now I have realized that I would much rather have the happiness that can be provided only by the constant society of such a woman as Miss Bennet. I believe a poor companion whose company I can endure is a much wiser choice than a wealthy one who I can only despise."

"That is a wise perspective cousin," was all Darcy could say. He meditated on his cousin's speech for a few moments, his heart filled with self reproach. He should, presently, be informing his cousin of his own engagement to that very woman. Then, he recalled that Colonel Fitzwilliam had thanked him upon entering the room and said, "did you say you were following my advice when you proposed?"

"Yes, thank you cousin. I am in your debt for my current and future happiness. If you had not voiced your approval of the match I do not believe I would ever have proposed."

Darcy became extremely ill at the realization that he himself had been the creator of the very real possibility that Elizabeth would be married to another man, and lost to him forever, very soon. "You speak as if you are already engaged," he ventured weakly.

"I believe that it is only a matter of time. But you do not seem happy for me. Certainly you cannot be opposed to the match. I was counting on your support when I announce my engagement to my parents and Aunt Catherine."

"My mind is a bit preoccupied with other things at the moment, Fitzwilliam. I assure you, that if and when you are able to secure the young lady's affection and her consent, I will be happy to defend your choice to your relations, if needed."

"Thank you Darcy."

The gentlemen left for London the following morning. Elizabeth and Miss Lucas were to depart the following week. Due to their aunt's extensive interrogation of Miss Bennet and Miss Lucas, Darcy and Fitzwilliam were aware of exactly when Elizabeth would be in London. As she was scheduled to arrive on Saturday, Fitzwilliam made plans during their drive to London to call at Gracechurch Street on Monday morning. He invited Darcy to accompany him. Darcy was very tempted to agree to go with his cousin. He was desperate to see Elizabeth again and determine whether his letter had made her think better of him. He also wished to see her with his cousin to try to gauge her feelings for him. He wanted to do everything in his power to prevent an attachment between them. But he imagined how uncomfortable seeing both of them for the first time since their respective proposals would be for her, especially with respect to himself because of the vehement argument they had had, and to endure seeing them together, would be too much to inflict upon her. He had no right to seek her out now. She had given Fitzwilliam her consent for a visit, but she had made it clear she had no desire to see him again. He remembered her words, her accusations. In addition to her discomfort he considered how such a meeting would affect himself. No, he could not see her, it was too soon, it would be too overwhelming for him. He did not think he could maintain his composure when his feelings of both love and remorse were so strong and so intense. He could not see her on his own, much less while witnessing the attentions of his cousin, knowing what his intentions were. No, it would be better for both of them if he did not go to Gracechurch Street. He declined his cousin's invitation and though it would require the greatest effort, he resolved to stay away from Elizabeth Bennet.

Darcy was however, by no means, resigned to his cousin's suit, but he was unsure how to act. 'He does not even love her for God's sake,' he thought to himself. He was consoled by the corresponding thought, that she did not love him either. He wondered, not for the first time, and not for the last, whether she indeed loved Wickham, but surely, after reading his letter she could not still harbor feelings for that beast. That is, if she gave credit to his assertions. 'No,' he surmised, ' she would not have encouraged Fitzwilliam if her heart was engaged elsewhere.' He told himself, 'She does not love Wickham, and by now, she knows the truth about him.' As he came to this realization the thought of her being married to some unknown stranger troubled him even more. At least with his cousin, Darcy could be sure of her happiness, and be in a position to render any assistance to them that might bring that about. If she married anyone else, save himself, he would be useless. She might be lost forever in a life of misery and he would never know, or worse yet, would be in no position to do anything about it. Yet, could he ever become accustomed to seeing her as his cousin's wife, bearing his cousin's name and his cousin's children. This last thought made his stomach churn. He found himself in a precarious position with respect to his cousin's situation. He wanted Elizabeth for himself, but if he could not have her he could think of no better husband for her than Colonel Fitzwilliam. Thus he could hope for neither the success nor the failure of his cousin's suit.

Lost in the conflict of these ruminations, his mind then drifted to Elizabeth's accusation regarding his interference with her sister's happiness. He was not relieved of culpability so easily in this circumstance, as he was with Wickham, for while he could explain his actions with respect to Bingley and Miss Bennet, his interference had, nevertheless, been inappropriate. His actions had hurt Elizabeth, he had made her unhappy, and if Elizabeth was right, it had hurt Bingley and Miss Bennet as well. This was a matter in which he could take action. It was within his power to make this right, to help Bingley and Miss Bennet find their happiness, to please Elizabeth, and to correct a gross error on his part.

He would speak to Bingley, he knew Bingley's affection for Miss Bennet was unabated, he would tell him of her presence in town, and send him to Gracechurch Street. As much as he wanted to see Elizabeth, he knew he could not go with him. But seeing her sister made happy with Bingley would please her. Then it occurred to him that he could be making an even greater mistake by attempting to reunite them. If Miss Bennet did not still love Mr. Bingley, his friend would suffer anew. Then he checked himself, considering that he must not interpose his own judgment between the two anymore. He would simply tell Bingley the truth and let nature take its course.

Darcy knew that telling Bingley of Jane's presence at Gracechurch Street would not be enough, he would have to reassure his friend that his previous assessment of the young lady's lack of affection had been in error. He could not do that from his own perception, but Elizabeth had said that Miss Bennet loved Mr. Bingley, and surely she would know her sister's heart. He put his own faith and his friend's fate in her words to him. He would simply tell Bingley what Elizabeth had told him and that it had shed doubt on his own previous opinion as to Miss Bennet's indifference. Surely that would be enough for Bingley. All he could do was tell Bingley the truth and hope for the best.

Upon arriving in London, Darcy sent a note to Grosvenor Street informing Bingley of his return and inviting him to remove to Darcy's townhouse. As it was late Saturday when Bingley received the note, he responded that Darcy should expect him on Monday morning. When he arrived, his sisters were with him, under the pretense of visiting with Georgiana. Miss Bingley resumed her usual attentions to Mr. Darcy and privately rejoiced to him in the triumph of their joint efforts to separate her brother from Miss Bennet. Darcy endured her attentions with equanimity. She disgusted him more than ever. Being in her presence caused him to reproach himself all the more for his unworthy behavior towards Elizabeth. Nevertheless, he felt compelled to invite the Hursts and Miss Bingley to remain to dinner and they stayed so late that he did not have an opportunity to speak privately with Bingley.

When Darcy was alone in his room that evening, sleep evaded him, he divided his thoughts between Elizabeth, who was always uppermost in his mind, and his intended interview with Bingley. He deliberated at length on how to approach Bingley, what to say to him, and how much to reveal. The next morning, Darcy took his first opportunity to talk to Bingley and approached his friend at breakfast saying, "Bingley there is a matter of some importance that I wish to discuss with you."

"Yes, Darcy, what is it?"

"When I was in Kent, I saw Miss Elizabeth Bennet."

"You did? How was she? How was her family? Did she have news of her sister?"

"Yes, she was visiting her friend Mrs. Collins who lives at the parsonage house in Hunsford, near Rosings. She was well, and she did state that her family is well, although her sister, Miss Bennet, has been in low spirits lately."

"What? But why?"

"Bingley, Miss Elizabeth gave me to believe that I may have been wrong about Miss Bennet's feelings for you. We spoke of the two of you and she disclosed to me that her sister was not indifferent towards you as I had believed. According to Miss Elizabeth, Miss Bennet has been rather disappointed since your removal from Netherfield."

Bingley's countenance brightened significantly, as he replied, "Darcy, this is wonderful news. Her sister's knowledge in this matter cannot be doubted." He rose from his chair and began to pace the room thoughtfully as he continued, "I must make preparations to return to Netherfield as soon as possible. If she does love me, if there is even the possibility, then I must return, perhaps I still have a chance." He stopped and grasped his friend's hand saying, "thank you Darcy."

"I do not believe you would wish to return to Netherfield at this time, Bingley."

Bingley looked at his friend incredulous, "Darcy, you cannot still mean to dissuade me from my suit. You must know that the other objections you raised mean nothing to me if she returns my affection."

"Miss Jane Bennet is here, in London, now."

Bingley became even more jubilant, if that is possible, and asked, "How long as she been here? Where is she staying?"

"She is staying with her aunt and uncle in Gracechurch Street, and she has been in town since January."

"Since January? I wish I had known sooner, but at least you were able to learn it from Miss Elizabeth in Kent. Though I wonder that she never told my sister of her being in town, I believed that they corresponded for a time."

"She did write to your sister and told her she was coming to town. She also visited Miss Bingley in Grosvenor Street and Miss Bingley returned the call three weeks later. I did not just learn of her presence in town from Miss Elizabeth in Kent, I knew everything at the time. Please forgive me for keeping this information from you, I truly believed her to be indifferent, and I thought that it would be best for you not to see her. I am trying to make amends now that I have Miss Elizabeth's reassurances of her sister's regard."

"You knew she was in London all this time, and you did not tell me?"

"Yes."

"Caroline knew as well?"

"Yes."

"And Louisa?"

"Yes."

Bingley was thoughtful for a few minutes as the treachery of his sisters and friend seared his heart. Soon Darcy broke the silence, "my cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, made the acquaintance of Miss Elizabeth in Kent," he said with as much composure as he could manage. "He is planning to call upon her in Gracechurch Street on Monday morning. Perhaps you could accompany him."

Bingley's reverie was broken, as he comprehended his friend's meaning. "You will not accompany me when I call?"

"No. I am exceedingly sorry for interfering where I should not have, and I hope you can forgive me. I wish you every happiness with Miss Bennet, but there are reasons completely unrelated to your situation that must prevent me from attending the visit with you."

"Darcy, do not distress yourself, you are forgiven. I know you only wished to protect me. But I do wish you would accompany me."

Darcy was very tempted to make the visit with Bingley. They would not have to go at the same time as Colonel Fitzwilliam. But he was again reminded of the vehemence of Elizabeth's dislike for him, and of how difficult seeing him would be for her after what had passed between them, and he renewed his resolve not to see her. He said, "I am sorry, I cannot."

"Well, I had hoped to call sooner than Monday, I was thinking of going there immediately, or tomorrow morning."

This was a new idea for Darcy. If Bingley went before Colonel Fitzwilliam called, he could accompany him, since Elizabeth would not be there. Yes, this was an ideal plan. Then, he thought about Jane's feelings. Would she not wish for the affection and support that could only be provided by her sister's presence at a time such as this? Knowing as he did that Miss Bennet believed Bingley had known of her being in town, and if she had indeed been in love with Bingley all this time, then his calling upon her would be extremely difficult for her to bear. Elizabeth, being aware of Bingley's innocence might be able to offer her sister some reassurance when Bingley informed Miss Bennet of his ignorance. He reasoned that although Bingley would also benefit from having his friend present, Bingley would be more concerned with Miss Bennet's feelings on such a momentous occasion, and certainly, Colonel Fitzwilliam could be of service to Bingley in Darcy's stead. Thus, Darcy said, "I understand your urgency Bingley, but perhaps the next few days will give you time to prepare yourself to meet Miss Bennet again and to plan what you will say to her. You might also consider that she will have her sister with her on Monday, whereas she is quite alone at present, save for her aunt, whom we do not know. If she has truly been disappointed, seeing you again will undoubtedly be a trying experience, although a happy one. I believe having Miss Elizabeth there may be of some benefit to her well being. I can also assure you that you have an ally in Miss Elizabeth, she is in favor of the match as she believes it will bring her sister happiness."

"Very well, I can see your point. I suppose it will be best to wait until Monday. When can I speak to your cousin?"

"I expect him at any moment now. He assured me he would call this morning after breakfast." Thus, Colonel Fitzwilliam soon made his appearance and he and Bingley made the appropriate arrangements for the visit on Monday.

On Saturday, when Elizabeth arrived at Gracechurch Street, she was very happy to see her sister, as well as her aunt and uncle. She would have preferred to wait until they were at Longbourn to discuss the events that occurred in Kent with her sister, but as she expected the Colonel to call upon her while they were in London, she decided to tell Jane everything as soon as possible. There was a park near the home of her relations where Elizabeth enjoyed taking her walks when she was in town. It was not as pleasant as the open air of the country, but it was the best she could do while in town. After church on Sunday, Elizabeth and Jane took a turn in the park and Elizabeth told her sister of both proposals. Jane was amazed that her sister had rejected two eligible suitors within but a few hours of each other. Elizabeth did not wish to hurt Jane by telling of Mr. Darcy's interference with Mr. Bingley, but she told her all about the letter as it pertained to Mr. Wickham, as well as her expectation of Colonel Fitzwilliam's visit and her puzzlement at his declaration that Darcy had convinced him to propose. Jane was equally baffled, and neither could account for it.

Darcy quickly learned the direction of the Gardiner home on Gracechurch Street and ascertained which public park was closest to it. He knew of Elizabeth's love for walking outdoors, and that she would likely take her daily walks in the park closest to her relations' home. On Sunday, he was rewarded as he watched from a quiet bench while Miss Bennet and Elizabeth strolled through the park arm in arm speaking animatedly to each other. A man servant accompanied them, but kept a respectable distance. Just seeing her warmed him. He noted the happiness in her countenance at being with her beloved sister. He so wished that his own presence could bring her so much joy. He delighted in her smiles and the expressiveness of her lovely eyes. He watched the two young ladies unnoticed until they disappeared into one of the homes on the square and he left the park with a heart full of love and hope.

On Monday, Elizabeth began to become anxious for her suitor's promised call, as she knew it was the first opportunity since her return for him to visit her. She tried to tell herself that he would probably not call at the earliest possible opportunity. When the doorbell rang, she started, and Jane took her hand to soothe her. Both ladies were astonished when not only Colonel Fitzwilliam was announced, but Mr. Bingley as well. After the introductions were made, and civilities were exchanged, Bingley immediately entered into a conversation with Jane. Elizabeth was near enough to attend their conversation, and although Colonel Fitzwilliam's presence at her side demanded her attention, she was able to hear Bingley say, "Miss Bennet, I was so pleased to learn of your presence here in London from Mr. Darcy. I had no knowledge of your having been in town until just last week. I hope you have enjoyed your time here."

"I have, thank you," replied Jane quietly.

"Mr. Darcy told you that Jane was here?" interjected Elizabeth.

Mr. Bingley tore his gaze from Jane long enough to address her sister, "yes, he told me of his meeting with you in Kent, and of speaking with you regarding Miss Bennet." Elizabeth blushed at the recollection of that conversation. "I had hoped he would accompany us on our visit today, but he was prevented from doing so."

Jane appeared confused by Mr. Bingley's assertion that he did not know of her presence in London. After some deliberation she said carefully, "I cannot help but be surprised by your assertion Mr. Bingley, for your sister assured me that she had informed you of my being in town."

"I am sorry to say that despite her assurances to you of my knowledge of it, she never told me that you were here, or that you had called on her and that she had returned the visit. I owe all of my knowledge of those events to Mr. Darcy."

Jane could scarcely believe Miss Bingley's willful deception. She had not thought anyone capable of such malice. After her sister's disclosures yesterday regarding Mr. Wickham, and what she learned today of Miss Bingley, Jane's faith in the inherent goodness of human nature was significantly shaken.

The young gentlemen stayed for about a half hour and everyone enjoyed a pleasant visit. Elizabeth was so preoccupied with thoughts of Mr. Darcy that she could scarcely attend to the conversation. She had been able to acquit him of all guilt with respect to Mr. Wickham, after reading his letter. She had even been able to understand his part in separating her sister and his friend. But she could not regret her refusal. Learning that he was a good, honorable man did not change the fact that he was arrogant, conceited and selfish.

His gesture, in reuniting Jane with Mr. Bingley, for to him their reunion must be credited, however, spoke of his thoughtfulness, and his attendance to her reproofs. In his letter he had stated that he could not repent his interference with Bingley and Jane, he had said he would not apologize for it. But here he was attempting to atone for his mistake and to make things right. Not only did this show that he acknowledged his error and that he wanted to correct it, but he had obviously given thought to the feelings of the two people involved.

This line of thought led her to wonder why he had stayed away today himself. She was not surprised, considering their most recent encounter, but he could easily have used this visit as an opportunity to impose himself upon her, if he had wished to. She could contrive no explanation for his failure to appear, other than that he did not wish to see her, he must hate her after the things she had said to him, not the least of which were the unfounded accusations she had placed at his door. She was not distressed by her conclusion that he did not wish to see her. In fact, she was relieved he did not take advantage of the visit made by Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam to seek her out. For, she never wished to see him again herself. She could not imagine having to experience the mortification and embarrassment that would necessarily attend such a meeting. She felt that he could not recover too soon from having loved her and hoped never to see him again. She was also relieved for his sake. Her conclusion that he could no longer care for her, prevented her from lamenting any hurt she might have inflicted upon him by her rejection.

Instead, she turned her attentions to her present suitor, who was becoming more charming by the minute. Colonel Fitzwilliam was just the type of man who could make her happy, and she was growing to like him more and more as the visit progressed. She truly looked forward to furthering their acquaintance and was well disposed to falling in love with him.

When the gentlemen rose to depart, an invitation was extended by Mrs. Gardiner for them to dine in Gracechurch Street on Thursday evening. Bingley accepted eagerly, and Colonel Fitzwilliam did likewise after only a slight hesitation.

After they left Elizabeth and Jane were able to share their delight in the visit. Jane expressed to Elizabeth how much she liked Colonel Fitzwilliam and how well she thought he was suited to her. Elizabeth was pleased, but was eager to turn the conversation to Mr. Bingley. Jane was very well pleased that he had called and she was pleased to acquit him of knowing she had been in town. She was still troubled by his never having returned to Netherfield for her, but that could not be addressed between them unless and until he declared himself to her. In light of having learned of his sisters' deception regarding her presence in London, she began to give more serious consideration to her sister's earlier suspicions that his sisters had managed somehow to prevent his return to Netherfield.

After departing the Gardiner home, Colonel Fitzwilliam accompanied Bingley back to Darcy's townhouse. Both men were extremely pleased with the visit. When they entered Darcy's drawing room, they found Miss Bingley and the Hursts visiting with Darcy and Georgiana. Mrs. Annesley was also present. Upon their arrival, Miss Bingley said, "there you are brother, I have not seen you since you removed here last week. Where have you and the colonel gone out to this morning?"

"We have just called upon Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth in Gracechurch Street," replied her brother.

Miss Bingley was disconcerted and looked at Darcy in astonishment. She was further surprised when he simply smiled at Bingley and asked whether he had enjoyed his visit. "Very much Darcy," he replied, "you must allow me to thank you again for informing me of their presence in town. I dare say that Miss Bennet seemed pleased to see me. You might ask your cousin's opinion, although I do not know whether he was able to spare any attention for my situation at all." Darcy did not like this reference to Colonel Fitzwilliam's attentions to Elizabeth. He did not know how much more of his cousin's courting her he could endure.

Colonel Fitzwilliam laughed and said, "Miss Bennet seemed surprised, but very pleased to see you Bingley."

"And how was Miss Elizabeth?" asked Darcy, looking at his cousin.

"She was very well, she appeared in her usual good looks. Although she seemed much more interested in attending to the conversation between Mr. Bingley and Miss Bennet than in speaking to me," replied the Colonel. Darcy was pleased by this disclosure.

"I am sure you noticed her very fine eyes Colonel Fitzwilliam, I dare say they are her best feature," said Miss Bingley, receiving a conspiratorial smile from her sister. She was indeed very pleased with the direction of the conversation. Although she was baffled by Darcy's having apparently sent her brother to Jane's door, as well as Colonel Fitzwilliam's sudden acquaintance with the Bennets, she was very well pleased with the colonel's apparent interest in Miss Elizabeth. Although she was, most decidedly, beneath the Colonel, his cousin's interest would prevent Mr. Darcy from giving her further attention whenever they should be thrown into her company again, as now appeared inevitable by the reunion of her brother and Jane. She cared not what mistakes Colonel Fitzwilliam made with his life, particularly if they were convenient to herself. He was, after all, only a second son.

"I did," replied the colonel with curiosity, for in his limited acquaintance with her he had never heard Miss Bingley compliment any other woman with the exception of Georgiana, "and I must agree that her eyes are very lovely" Then, with a hint of mischief he concluded, "but I would not say that they are her best feature." Two of the other gentlemen in the room did not miss the implication of this assertion. Mr. Darcy closed his eyes briefly and let out a small sigh, and Mr. Hurst simply gave a chuckle, his first contribution to the conversation, and received an odd look from his wife but was ignored by the rest of the room.

As the good colonel did not seem inclined to disclose just which of Miss Elizabeth's features was his favorite, Mr. Bingley took up the conversation. "Her sister, your dear friend, was also looking very well," said he, looking pointedly at Miss Bingley.

"I am happy to hear it," replied she quietly.

"Indeed, I say Darcy, why did you never tell me what a beauty the elder Miss Bennet is?" asked Colonel Fitzwilliam. Then, after pausing a moment, he resumed his mischievous tone and continued, "although her eyes are certainly not as pleasing as her sister's." Mr. Hurst laughed again, his last contribution to the conversation. While Bingley, though not understanding that anything other than eyes had been meant, protested this assertion, Darcy gave Mrs. Annesley a meaningful look and she immediately summoned Georgiana from the room. Colonel Fitzwilliam noticed this exchange, as well as his young cousin's exit, and had the good grace to appear contrite.

Darcy was weary of his visitors and was happy that he and Georgiana were engaged to dine this evening with Colonel Fitzwilliam's parents, although Bingley was invited to dinner at the home of Darcy's relations he had already agreed to dine with the Hursts. Darcy felt that Bingley wished to speak to his sisters about their duplicity with respect to Miss Bennet in the privacy of their family circle.

Darcy was anticipating a quiet family dinner at his uncle's home. When he arrived he encountered nothing short of a full blown party. The guests numbered in the twenties, at least. Having been congratulating himself on escaping another evening enduring Miss Bingley's attentions, he noticed with disappointment that among his uncle's guests were several young ladies of his acquaintance, who behaved towards him in a similar manner, and who were just the type that he was disposed to avoid. As he looked around the room, he noticed his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, ensconced amongst a group of them, talking and laughing, and very much enjoying the charms of so many young ladies.

Upon seeing the crowd, Georgiana, wishing to avoid the inevitably forthcoming attentions of the young ladies who attempted to insinuate themselves into her good graces in misguided attempts to please her brother, went immediately to her aunt's side, where she stayed until dinner. Darcy's entrance into the room had the usual affect. Several young ladies approached him to bestow their attentions upon him. He found himself less in command of his ability to be civil than he had ever been. When he caught Colonel Fitzwilliam's eye, he attempted to give his cousin a look of reproach for enjoying the attentions of these young women, while openly courting another. Colonel Fitzwilliam, however, remained unaffected.

Darcy had always disapproved of his cousin's propensity to give marked attention to young ladies towards whom he had no intentions. He had done this even with Elizabeth. Now, he felt the offense to Elizabeth of his cousin's conduct, as he observed the man who had openly confessed his intentions to marry her, unabashedly flirting with a roomful of other women. For his part he retreated into his usual reserve and with the utmost politeness and civility did his best to discourage the attentions of the ladies present. He found himself a chair in a quiet corner as he thought ruefully that now he should be introducing Elizabeth to those assembled here, as his future wife.

These thoughts led to further speculation about how different the evening would be if Elizabeth was present. He considered how she would react to the attentions being bestowed on his cousin. Then he realized that if Elizabeth were present, his cousin would not be indulging those attentions. He considered how she would react to his own behavior. He smiled as he told himself that she would know that he cared nothing for any of these women. Then he remembered her most stinging words that evening, 'had you behaved in a more gentlemanlike manner.' She had come to dislike him from nearly the first moment of their acquaintance because of his manners. He recalled her description of him at the Netherfield ball as being of an 'unsocial taciturn disposition' and her belief that he was 'unwilling to speak unless he had something to say that would amaze the whole room and be handed down to posterity with all the éclat of a proverb.' He sighed, then smiled to himself as rose from his chair in search of someone to talk to. He was at a loss to determine how he was to be friendly and agreeable to the other guests without giving rise to expectations in any of the young ladies present, who were so well disposed to take even the slightest gesture as a sign of encouragement. But, he resolved to improve himself, and spent the evening making an admirable effort to be the perfect gentleman to everyone in the room.

After dinner, when the ladies withdrew, Colonel Fitzwilliam approached Darcy and asked, "have you met Miss Rowland yet?"

"Yes, I was introduced to her briefly," replied Darcy, hoping that his cousin was not intending to forward a match between himself and that young lady.

"She is a cousin of my sister-in-law who has come to visit her in London. She is a lovely young lady, is she not?"

He was tempted by his supposition that his cousin intended to match him with Miss Rowland to repeat his first assessment of Elizabeth's beauty, 'she is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me.' He winced at the recollection, how could he ever have said such a thing? It was too painful to remember, much less repeat. Instead he replied, "Yes, I suppose she could be called handsome."

"She also has a fortune of forty thousand pounds."

Darcy was a bit startled by his cousin's enthusiasm for this young lady and her fortune. Surely, Colonel Fitzwilliam would not make such a significant reference to a woman's large fortune with Darcy in mind. As Darcy did not seem inclined to continue the conversation, Colonel Fitzwilliam approached his brother to ply him with questions regarding his wife's cousin. This convinced Darcy that Colonel Fitzwilliam was interested in Miss Rowland for himself, but he could not rejoice in his cousin's interest in another woman, for he knew that the retreat of his rival would bring him no closer to gaining Elizabeth's hand, although it would give him more time, by foreclosing the possibility of her immediate marriage to another. He could only lament the offense to Elizabeth occasioned by his cousin's duplicity.

The men joined the ladies in the drawing room shortly thereafter. After tea and coffee were served, several of the young ladies were applied to for entertainment. Darcy enjoyed listening to the music, but could not help but miss Elizabeth's playing. When Miss Rowland took her turn at the instrument, he was taken with her easy, unaffected manner of playing, it was very reminiscent of Elizabeth's style. Miss Rowland seemed to play out of pure enjoyment, and her skill was of the highest order. Darcy had to concede that Miss Rowland's execution was superior to Elizabeth's. When she finished playing, she curtseyed in response to the applause and gracefully accepted several applications for her to play again, despite the number of young ladies present who had not yet performed.

After her third song, Miss Rowland finally took a seat next to Colonel Fitzwilliam on one of the sofas. Mr. Darcy had been seated in a chair next to his cousin, so he was in a position to converse with both of them. Although Miss Rowland had sat next to Colonel Fitzwilliam, she immediately addressed his cousin with, "I have not had very much opportunity to speak with you this evening Mr. Darcy, my cousin has told me so much about you. I was glad to finally meet you."

"It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance as well Miss Rowland," replied Mr. Darcy.

"How much longer do you plan on being in town?"

"I will be returning to the country for the summer, but I have not yet determined the date for my departure."

"You have an estate in Derbyshire, is that right?"

"Yes, it is called Pemberley."

"I have heard that it is lovely there," observed she.

Before Darcy could respond, Colonel Fitzwilliam added, "it is very lovely indeed Miss Rowland. It is a grand estate with a stately house and beautiful grounds. Darcy has done his best to preserve the natural beauty of the park."

The next player had begun her song at the instrument, so Darcy merely bowed and then politely turned his attention to the performer. Miss Rowland however, said something to Colonel Fitzwilliam, and the two engaged in a whispered conversation throughout the next few songs. Darcy was glad to see the card tables being set up after the last young lady in the room with any talent or ability had played her last song. He joined one of the card games with Colonel Fitzwilliam, Miss Rowland, and Mrs. Fitzwilliam, and stayed there for the remainder of the evening. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Miss Rowland continued to engage in light flirtation, which under normal circumstances would be considered quite harmless, and even endearing; but where the gentlemen was openly courting another having spoken his intent to secure her hand in marriage, the propriety of such behavior was questionable.

As Darcy played at cards, he considered his cousin's behavior throughout the evening. He decided that he would speak to Colonel Fitzwilliam after the guests had left about the impropriety of his conduct. Then, Darcy considered how his castigation of his cousin would appear should his own feelings for Elizabeth ever become known. He laughed at himself for still harboring such a hope, but if by some remote chance those hopes ever came to fruition, his interference now, would appear in hindsight, to have been prompted by his own interests. He could not taint Elizabeth's future choices by creating the possibility for speculation that she might have chosen differently had it not been for his interference, even if that interference was only in the form of admonishing his cousin to behave honorably towards her. He felt helpless, useless - a rare experience for him. He could not very well go running to Elizabeth to tell on his cousin. He knew how that would appear to her. There was nothing he could do but wait and hope that she would perceive enough to know what was in, or more to the point, what was not in his cousin's heart. For, Mr. Darcy knew what it was to love, and as he observed his cousin's behavior he could easily perceive that Colonel Fitzwilliam did not.

The next morning Darcy received a note from Mrs. Hurst inviting him to dine at Grosvenor Street a week hence. He sent back an acceptance quickly and left the house, eager to escape alone before anyone came calling. At the park, Darcy waited less than half an hour on his bench before he was rewarded by seeing Elizabeth emerge from her uncle's home. This time, she was accompanied by both Miss Bennet and Miss Lucas as well as four children. He smiled at the sight of her. Just seeing her relieved him and raised his spirits. He watched her walk about with her young cousins, talking playfully for some time. When she finally returned to the house, he went home.

On Tuesday evening, Mr. Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam arrived at the Gardiner home for dinner as planned. The former bearing a note from his sister inviting the entire household to dine in Grosvenor Street on the following Tuesday evening. Indeed, Mr. Bingley had been severe on his sisters on Monday evening and their remorse was so deeply felt that he was able to extract, with only a small amount of effort, an agreement from Mrs. Hurst to host a family dinner for their dear friend, Jane, and her relations. Mr. Hurst could not help but feel that, although he abhorred playing the role of host, the satisfaction of watching Mr. Bingley set down both Caroline and Louisa was well worth the inconvenience and the cost of the dinner. Bingley understandably had a suspicion of Colonel Fitzwilliam's intentions towards Elizabeth and, therefore, insisted that he be invited, along with his relations as well. Miss Bingley was pleased that the colonel would be present to keep Elizabeth occupied, and naturally, both she and her sister were always delighted to be dining with the family of an earl. Mrs. Gardiner commissioned Mr. Bingley to carry a note to Mrs. Hurst thanking her for her kind invitation and assuring her of the attendance of their whole party.

The dinner at the Gardiner residence went well and everyone enjoyed the evening. The Gardiners made every effort to get to know the gentlemen courting their nieces, while Jane and Elizabeth basked in the attention of their suitors. Colonel Fitzwilliam's attention to Elizabeth was all that she could hope for. After dinner, when the gentlemen rejoined the ladies, Elizabeth played the pianoforte upon the application of Colonel Fitzwilliam, while he turned the pages for her. After she tired of playing, the Gardiners engaged the others in conversation. Although Bingley was enraptured by Jane, he seemed pleased to get to know the Gardiners and spoke to them openly with his usual ease and friendliness. Elizabeth could not help but notice however, that Colonel Fitzwilliam, who she knew to be in possession of similar easy friendliness, seemed interested in attending only herself. He was by no means rude to his hosts, however. To the contrary, he responded to their inquiries with his usual friendly manner, but his conversation with them seemed to Elizabeth to lack any genuine interest. It was very late when the gentlemen finally went away after securing permission from the lady of the house to call again, and Thursday morning was settled upon.

The following morning, Elizabeth and Jane awoke earlier than Miss Lucas and had the opportunity to walk out alone and have some private conversation. They spoke extensively of the night before. Elizabeth related her concerns to Jane that Colonel Fitzwilliam had not seemed interested in getting to know her relations, but Jane assured her sister that he was merely preoccupied with her. This turned Elizabeth's thoughts and she had to confess to Jane that she had been very pleased with his attentions during the evening. Elizabeth had to own that she was growing to like him as much as she had anticipated, but she was not yet ready to call it love.

When they returned to the house, the others had already eaten so they quickly went to the breakfast room. Their aunt joined them there to obtain a moment of privacy with them and said, "I have been thinking that the two of you and your friend might like to stay in town longer." Seeing their surprise at her invitation, she continued, "I simply felt that since both of you have suitors here, you may not wish to return home as soon as you had planned. I am sure you can obtain permission from your parents, and if Miss Lucas wishes to stay as well, and can do likewise, you are free to stay as long as you like."

Both girls thanked their aunt for her thoughtfulness and she immediately protested that she had not been the one to think of extending the invitation. "Colonel Fitzwilliam spoke to your uncle last evening and wondered whether you could stay in town longer," said Mrs. Gardiner, under the impression that such a disclosure would please her niece. Elizabeth, however, was surprised. She felt that Colonel Fitzwilliam was circumventing her consent and forcing her into a courtship that would inevitably inhibit her choice in whether to marry him. She was displeased by his presumption in speaking to her uncle about such a matter without first consulting her. But, she would not entirely foreclose the possibility of staying longer without first learning Jane's feelings on the subject. Each sister wished to discuss the matter with the other and they settled it with their aunt that they would consider her invitation and let her know their decision in time for her to gain Miss Lucas' consent and give her time to write home, if they decided to stay.

After a few moments they returned to the drawing room where Maria was writing to her sister. Mrs. Gardiner told them of her plans to spend the day out. She had a few calls to make and she wanted to visit some shops. All three young ladies agreed to join her. Thus, a pleasant day was spent by the four ladies, but it was not until they returned home, that Elizabeth and Jane had the chance to speak of their aunt's offer to remain longer in town. Elizabeth expressed concern for her sister's having been away from home since January. She knew that Jane's courtship was little reason to remain in London. For, if Jane removed to Longbourn, Bingley could easily come to Netherfield, and she had little doubt that he would do so.

"But what about you Lizzy?" asked Jane, "and Colonel Fitzwilliam?"

"Jane, I can hardly know what will happen. We are in such an awkward situation. I confess that I like him very well, but I know not whether another fortnight will give me enough time to decide that I can accept him without reservation. But if it is not, who is to say what amount of time beyond that would be required? I am not disposed to allow my comings and goings to be dictated by the progress of his suit. Besides, as much as I enjoy the company of the Gardiners, I believe I will grow weary of being in town by the end of that time. Summer is approaching and town will soon become unbearable. I long for the countryside. I also miss Pappa. The expression in his letters of his anticipation of our homecoming is becoming increasingly fervent. I confess that I would like to allow myself more time with Colonel Fitzwilliam, but when I agreed to allow him to call on me here it was with the understanding that such was the extent of my consent. I gave him no reason to believe I would extend my stay, and to own the truth, Jane, I am affronted by his taking it upon himself to see about keeping me in town longer. I do not wish to reward his behavior in failing to learn my feelings on the matter before approaching my uncle."

"Lizzy, I can understand why Colonel Fitzwilliam's actions might make you angry, and your wish not to allow his behavior to influence you, but you must not allow that to get in your way of happiness. Do not give him up for this one infraction if you believe you could be happy with him. I am sure he had the best of intentions and only wanted to keep you near him as long as possible."

"Well, we shall see about Colonel Fitzwilliam, but for the moment we must decide whether to stay in town. I would rather not. What is your wish?"

"I too would wish to return home as planned." They quickly advised their aunt of their decision and their reasons for it, not forgetting to thank her for having extended the invitation.

The following morning brought another call from the two suitors. Mrs. Gardiner suggested that the five young people walk out to the park together. Elizabeth was delighted with the idea, and they soon set out. The five stayed close enough together to maintain a general conversation that included all of them. Elizabeth had a pleasant time, but she could not help but notice that Colonel Fitzwilliam's thoughts seemed distracted. She imagined that he was considering when he should renew his proposal and this lead her to consider what her answer might be. She had to concede that at present, she could not accept him. This lead to further thoughts which caused her to reproach herself for being too selective. Her situation was not an eligible one and yet, at twenty she had rejected three very advantageous marriage proposals. Was she being selfish? Was she not considering the future of her mother and sisters? Here she had a man who was agreeable and respectable, came from an excellent family, had an eligible fortune and who admired her a great deal. Was all this not enough? She began to question whether it was wise to hold out for a feeling that she might never experience, and whether she even had the right to do so.

Elizabeth was stirred from these ruminations by her sister's asking her whether she agreed with something, but Elizabeth knew not what.

"Forgive me, Jane, what did you ask me?"

But Mr. Bingley interjected, "never mind, Miss Bennet, they are both of them quite distracted today. We had better leave them to themselves."

Elizabeth looked at Colonel Fitzwilliam who seemed to be drawn out of his own reverie by Bingley's comment. His expression only caused Bingley to laugh more and Jane suggested that they return to the house. The gentlemen stayed another quarter hour and Bingley amused himself by making further commentary about the distraction of both Elizabeth and Colonel Fitzwilliam. The two people in question bore it with equanimity. Colonel Fitzwilliam had returned to his normal humor and responded in kind to Bingley's remarks. Elizabeth however, could not shake the uneasiness brought on by the gravity of her thoughts. She was glad when the visit was over and was able to spend some time in her room in quiet reflection.

On Friday evening Darcy had planned to hold a dinner party for his relations and Bingley's family. When he awoke Friday morning, he went to the park near Gracechurch Street. It had been several days since he had been able to go, and he could not go when he knew Colonel Fitzwilliam to be there. Luckily for him, the circumstance of Bingley's residence in his house made him privy to the intelligence of when the two gentlemen would call at Gracechurch Street since the two gentlemen always visited together so he had been able to avoid being there when the gentlemen visited. On Friday morning, Darcy felt a great urgency to see her. He was disappointed. He waited nearly an hour around her usual time for going outdoors, but she did not emerge. It occurred to him that something had happened to her, that she might be ill. But if that was the case he would have heard something from him cousin or Bingley. It stung him to realize he had to wait to hear news of his beloved from her suitor. Darcy went home, dejected and in low spirits, to prepare for his dinner party. He attempted to rally his spirits and renewed his resolve to maintain his friendly manner.

Darcy knew that it would have been appropriate for him to invite Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth to his dinner party. He was well enough acquainted with them to extend an invitation and considering that they were being courted by two of the gentlemen who would be attending, it would have been more than acceptable, almost expected for him to invite them. Colonel Fitzwilliam considered the possibility that they had been invited, and was eager to be sure that such an invitation had not been made, as he had no desire to be in company together with both Miss Elizabeth and Miss Rowland.

Thus, when Darcy returned from the park, he found Colonel Fitzwilliam with Bingley in his library. A few minutes after Darcy had he entered the room Colonel Fitzwilliam asked, "who may we expect at dinner this evening, Darcy?"

"Your parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam, Miss Rowland, Mr. and Mrs. Hurst, Bingley, Miss Bingley, yourself, myself, and Miss Darcy. Mrs. Annesley will be dining with some relatives of hers." Colonel Fitzwilliam was satisfied, then Darcy said, "why do you ask?"

"I was just surprised that you did not invite the Miss Bennets."

Bingley's interest was piqued as if the thought had never before occurred to him.

Darcy maintained his composure and offered by way of explanation, "I am not acquainted with their aunt and uncle."

A look of understanding crossed Colonel Fitzwilliam's features and he replied, "I am not surprised you would not wish to admit them into your acquaintance."

"It is too late now, in any case," added Bingley.

Soon it was time for dinner and Darcy, together with Georgiana and Bingley made ready to greet the guests. The Hursts and Miss Bingley arrived first. Then, the Earl's family arrived. When everyone had been greeted and introduced, dinner was served. When the men rejoined the ladies after dinner, Darcy noticed that Colonel Fitzwilliam went directly to Miss Rowland's side. Darcy joined them, hoping to temper his cousin's attentions to the young lady. This, of course, drew Miss Bingley to them as well. Soon the four of them were conversing amiably. Miss Bingley was not pleased by the attention Miss Rowland was showing to Mr. Darcy and she soon began to stake her claim. Miss Rowland, for her part, was amused by Miss Bingley's jealousy and was only encouraged to increase her attentions towards Mr. Darcy in order to incite Miss Bingley further. Darcy would have been amused by the spectacle before him if he had not been the object of the obvious tension between the ladies. He was always thinking of Elizabeth, but at this moment, he was reminded of her unaffected manner and her generous nature, she would never behave in the manner in which these two well-bred ladies of fashion and fortune were now conducting themselves.

In an effort to draw Miss Rowland's attention, Colonel Fitzwilliam asked her, "how did you enjoy your excursion this morning to the Kew Estate* Miss Rowland?"

"Very well, thank you, sir. The gardens were quite beautiful. There were so many exotic plants from all over the world. It is amazing what grows in some places. Have you been there Mr. Darcy?"

Darcy was stirred from his meditations on how much Elizabeth would enjoy such an excursion. "I took Miss Darcy there two years ago. We enjoyed it very much."

"Oh yes," chimed in Miss Bingley, "it is a lovely place. Mrs. Hurst and I made a visit there last season. But I must say, we were quite fatigued by the time we had walked over most of the grounds. I hope the walking was not too much for you Miss Rowland."

"Not at all. Mrs. Fitzwilliam and I were able to pace ourselves so that we were not fatigued at all. I believe we were too caught up in the beauty of the scenery to be thinking of our own comfort. It is pleasant to be able to enjoy so much natural beauty while in town. It reminds me of being at home in the country on my father's estate in Devonshire."

Colonel Fitzwilliam was, at that moment, called upon by his brother to settle a point of contention between himself and Mr. Hurst and he reluctantly left Miss Rowland's side. Darcy was glad to see it, but was not as happy to be left alone at the mercy of the two young ladies.

Scarcely acknowledging the colonel's departure, Miss Bingley continued, "Yes, there is nothing like a country estate for natural beauty. Although I have traveled little in Devonshire, I must profess a preference for Derbyshire. I have never seen a lovelier country."

Miss Rowland gave Darcy a knowing smile, which he did not acknowledge, and then said, "is your family's estate in Derbyshire, Miss Bingley?"

Miss Bingley colored a little bit before answering, "No indeed, my brother's estate is in Hertfordshire. We spent several months there last year. What a wretched place. I have been encouraging him for some time to give it up and settle in Derbyshire."

"But Hertfordshire is closer to London, surely you would consider such a convenient distance an advantage."

"The distance from town to Derbyshire is nothing to me. I have made the journey several times. I could have no objection to being well settled in Derbyshire. It is certainly infinitely more preferable to the neighborhood in which Netherfield is situated. The increased distance is but a small sacrifice to make for the benefit of superior society."

Both Darcy and Miss Rowland comprehended that Miss Bingley's idea of being well settled in Derbyshire contemplated Pemberley as her home rather than any house her brother might purchase. Darcy remembered his conversation with Elizabeth about a similar topic, and smiled to himself, as he considered her words, "Where there is fortune to make the expense of traveling unimportant, distance becomes no evil." Miss Rowland caught his eye and, thinking he was as amused by Miss Bingley's obvious implication as she was, smiled back.

"And what did you find so objectionable about Hertfordshire?" asked Miss Rowland, returning her attention to Miss Bingley.

"I have never been surrounded by a more tedious group of people. They were, all of them, so absorbed in their petty concerns. I am sure I have never been suffered to endure the society of such an unfashionable, distasteful lot. I was never so happy to leave a place in my life as I was upon our removal from Hertfordshire."

"All of them? That is a rather sweeping condemnation. I cannot speak of the society in Hertfordshire as I have never been there, but you were also there, were you not, Mr. Darcy? Do you agree with Miss Bingley's assessment?"

"Not at all. Most of the society was tolerable, and I found some of them to be quite pleasant."

"Oh yes," cried Miss Bingley, "we cannot forget the lady of the fine eyes, and such an excellent walker, I dare say she would do very well at the royal gardens Miss Rowland."

"Fine eyes?" asked Miss Rowland, looking at Darcy, who had colored slightly at the reference.

He made no answer and Miss Bingley, having sufficiently amused herself, moved on to another topic. Miss Rowland was disappointed at not learning the identity of the woman referred to by Miss Bingley. It had not occurred to her that there might be someone out there that Mr. Darcy admired.

Soon after, Darcy issued a general petition for some music and appealed to Miss Bingley to play first. Although the prospect of being left alone with either of the two ladies was not particularly appealing to Darcy, he preferred the company of Miss Rowland to Miss Bingley. Darcy was a bit disappointed when Colonel Fitzwilliam, anticipating that Miss Rowland would soon be playing and wishing to escape the conversation of his brother and Mr. Hurst, offered to turn pages for Miss Bingley. Although he was happy to escape having to do so himself, he could not approve his cousin's motivations. Miss Bingley, who had been hoping Darcy would turn the pages for her, was likewise disappointed in the colonel's offer.

After Miss Bingley and Miss Rowland played, Mrs. Hurst and Mrs. Fitzwilliam each played briefly, and then Georgiana gave a short performance. Darcy was delighted with his sister's playing. She was becoming more comfortable playing for others, and he was pleased. He did not like the idea of forcing her to perform against her will, but she had to accept that certain things were expected of her and once she was out she would not be at liberty to decline requests for her to play while in company.

The card tables were soon placed and Darcy again felt obliged to follow his cousin who immediately sought out Miss Rowland's company. Miss Bingley managed somehow to join their table. Due to the even number of people, Darcy was cognizant that Georgiana would have to play, and he had hoped to secure a seat for her with himself, for her comfort, but his plan was foreclosed by Miss Bingley's eagerness to be near him. The Fitzwilliams and the Hursts sat down together, and Darcy was pleased to see that Georgiana was at least able to sit with her aunt and uncle who were joined by Mr. Bingley. Darcy noticed Miss Bingley's smile in consequence of seeing Georgiana and Bingley sitting at the same table, and he avoided any sign of acknowledgment of her conspiratorial glance in his direction.

On Saturday, Darcy again visited the park on Gracechurch Street. After he waited for over half an hour and Elizabeth had not appeared he feared that she might have taken her walk before breakfast. He could not resign himself to another disappointment and was resolved to remain until she emerged. At length however, he could stand it no longer and he was about to rise and go home, crestfallen and disheartened, when the door to the Gardiner house opened and Elizabeth emerged holding a child with each hand. The manservant followed and closed the door behind him. He was surprised to see that she was walking without her sister. As usual, seeing her pleased him, warmed him, and raised his spirits. The disappointment of the day before melted away. All of his concerns were temporarily forgotten as he lost himself in watching her. He considered, not for the first time and not for the last, how happy her continued presence would make him.

Darcy's bench was in a secluded part of the park and somewhat hidden from view, while allowing a view of most of the park from where it was situated. This had heretofore allowed him to observe Elizabeth without being detected. On this occasion, however, he noticed Elizabeth's eyes turn in his direction at one point. He was not sure whether she had perceived him until she rested her gaze on him, her face registering surprise and embarrassment. He simply looked back at her unabashedly, with his slight smile and bowed in acknowledgment. This shared look lasted only the briefest moment until Elizabeth was distracted by the antics of her young cousins. When she was able to return her attention to the bench, a few seconds later, Darcy was gone. She looked around the park, but perceived no trace of him and she began to consider that she might have imagined having seen him.

This exchange in the park gave Elizabeth something entirely new to think about. She had already accepted it as a foregone conclusion that Darcy would soon overcome his attachment to her and that it had probably already been accomplished. She had dismissed what had happened between them as an unfortunate event in her past that could not be too soon forgotten. But now, she realized that if Darcy had been there, there could be only one reason for it. He had come because of her. She began to reconsider her previous notions that he could not possibly still love her. For continued affection could be the only reason to account for his behavior in coming to the park. That he could still love her was a bit troubling to Elizabeth. She was gratified by the possibility that he could still love her and wish to be as near to her as circumstances would allow, after everything that had passed between them. These thoughts evoked feelings of gratitude and respect for what his behavior said about the depth of his regard, and for his constancy. She was impressed by his apparent ability to forgive her all the petulance and acrimony of her manner in rejecting him, and all the unjust accusations accompanying her rejection. But the suspicion that he might still love her could not give her pleasure, and it only evoked compassion for his situation and further self-reproach on her part.

These thoughts caused her to reevaluate her reasoning for his having stayed away rather than joining his friends in their visits. If he had come to the park to watch her, then his avoidance of her company could not be attributable to a lack of desire to see her. If he was still desirous of seeing her, she could only attribute his failure to do so to an unwillingness to make her uneasy. His consideration of her feelings in that regard was remarkable. From what Colonel Fitzwilliam had said, she believed that Darcy was aware of his cousin's suit and realized that Darcy must have known how difficult for her meeting both of them together would have been. If he still loved her, he must have been most eager to attend the visits in which his rival was courting her. Then she was more confused as she reflected that it was Mr. Darcy himself who had sent that very rival to ask for her hand. Nevertheless, he had put aside any desire to see her and to observe her interaction with his cousin either to protect her from embarrassment or out of respect for her decision, or perhaps both. She could not but appreciate this sign of his consideration for her feelings.

When Elizabeth returned the house, she found time for a private discussion with Jane before dinner, and she told her sister that she thought she had seen Mr. Darcy in the park. Jane agreed that if that be the case, he must still be in love with her. Elizabeth continued to tell her sister about her feelings in response to this possibility and Jane's singular act of listening and caring served to soothe Elizabeth significantly.

On Monday morning, Mr. Bingley and Colonel Fitzwilliam called again at Gracechurch Street and again went for a walk in the park with the Miss Bennets and Miss Lucas. Their visit was a pleasant one, enjoyed by all. As they were walking out, Mr. Bingley began to speak animatedly of his evening with the Darcys. He spoke of having renewed his acquaintances with Colonel Fitzwilliam's parents and brother and sister in law. Then he spoke of having met Miss Rowland. In his description of the young lady, Mr. Bingley gave his companions to know that he considered her an ideal match for his friend, Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth was surprised by the disturbance of her own feelings at this suggestion and looked expectantly at the colonel when Mr. Bingley applied for his corroboration of the compatibility of the two people in question. Elizabeth discerned that Colonel Fitzwilliam also appeared uncomfortable by the suggestion, but answered with composure that she was a fine young lady who could possibly meet even his cousin's high standards, but that Darcy would not take kindly to any matchmaking on his behalf.

Bingley continued to speculate on the relative feelings of the gentleman and the young lady towards each other. He confessed that he had never seen Darcy show any signs of interest in any young lady in the past, and went on to describe the various ways in which Darcy had appeared to make every effort to make himself agreeable to Miss Rowland on Friday evening.

The thought of Mr. Darcy moving on would have relieved Elizabeth were it not for her having recently been convinced of his constancy to herself upon seeing him in the park. But because she had seen him in the park, and drawn certain conclusions about the meaning of his presence there, she was baffled by his behavior. She questioned that he could be showing marked attentions to another woman so soon after having proposed to herself. Such behavior did not speak well of his honor nor of the depth of his feelings for her. Particularly in light of the passionate manner in which he had proposed. He had declared his love for her so ardently and had described how it had endured many months of struggle, with such emotion as made such a quick and thorough recovery from it, such as to be courting another within but a few weeks, seem unlikely. Darcy's behavior, as described by Bingley, could not but shed doubt on the strength of Darcy's former declaration.

Being familiar with his manner, she knew that for Darcy to exert himself in social intercourse as Bingley described could only be attributed to strong feelings for the lady to whom those exertions were directed. This would be particularly true when the expression of his feelings need not be tempered by any disparity in situation between himself and the young lady receiving his attentions. It had been different with her, but then Mr. Darcy had been struggling with his feelings, and he would not have wanted to make apparent his regard for someone so inferior to himself. With a woman of such standing as Miss Rowland he would have the freedom to let his feelings and intentions be perceived. And she knew all too well, that if Darcy did not have intentions of that nature, he would not be showing such attentions to the lady.

When calling Mr. Darcy's honor into question, she considered that her vehement rejection of him would have gone far in quelling his affection for her, and that perhaps he was not courting one woman while still loving another. After all, she could not expect him to pine away for her forever. But then why did he appear in the park near the home of her relations and so far from his own home? why had he apparently been watching her and smiled so when she noticed him? This new information only caused Elizabeth further confusion. If he did not love her, why did he come to the park to see her? and if he did love her, then why did he seem to admire another? If her rejection of him had prompted him to make a match of convenience, then he need not behave so uncharacteristically towards the young lady as Bingley described. She could comprehend him continuing to harbor feelings for herself, and she could likewise comprehend his not acting on them given the nature of her rejection and his cousin's suit. But the only way she could reconcile his attentions to this Miss Rowland was to surmise that he no longer loved her, which was not in accordance with his appearance at the park. Then, the most despicable possible solution occurred to her. Perhaps he was awaiting the success or failure of his cousin's suit and wished to have Miss Rowland's regard secured pending its outcome. But she quickly dismissed the idea, she could not think so ill of him, and she instead remained in a state of doubt and confusion regarding the enigmatic Mr. Darcy. Little did she know how close her idea was to being right, but about the wrong man.

*Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew.

DNA: I do not pretend to know anything about London (although I have been there once!). I didn't want to make something up, so I looked on the internet for a touristy place for a day trip that would have been around during this time period and would have attracted the fashionable set, and required walking. I found this place - the Kew Estate - which is about 10km SW of London. There is a brief history on the internet (www.kew.org). Apparently, it was an estate acquired by the royal family prior to the time in which this story is set, which was in the process of being transformed into pleasure gardens and into which plants were imported from around the world around the time of this story. I could not readily discern from the information online that it was definitely open to the public during this time period, but I believe it was at least open to visitors. I got the impression that fashionable people would have been allowed to go in and tour the grounds. If anyone notices that I have made some kind of mistake, please let me know. Likewise with the mention of Devonshire, I know nothing about it except that it is a name of a county in England. If someone notices some inconsistency with Miss Rowland's being from there, please let me know. Thanks.

On Monday evening, before going to bed, Jane and Elizabeth had an opportunity for a few minutes of private conversation and Elizabeth was able to share the feelings and concerns that had been plaguing her all day. They discussed the visit made by the gentlemen earlier and Jane was surprised at the level of Elizabeth's agitation and puzzlement with respect to Mr. Darcy. Jane conceded that she could not reconcile Mr. Bingley's report of his attentions to Miss Rowland with his appearance in the park. Lizzy's preoccupation with Mr. Darcy caused Jane to wonder whether Elizabeth had made up her mind with respect to his cousin. When she asked Elizabeth about it, her sister's agitation grew even stronger.

"Oh Jane, I am not sure that I wish to continue to accept Colonel Fitzwilliam's addresses. Am I being selfish? Am I demanding too much? Should I just marry him and be done with it?"

"Of course not Lizzy. You should not marry a man you do not love, and you cannot make a decision while you have these doubts."

"That is just the trouble Jane, I believe I am prepared to make a decision, but it is the opposite one that I anticipated making."

"Perhaps you should defer your choice until after you see him tomorrow evening. You will meet his family, and perhaps you will learn something that will assist you."

"Do you suppose Mr. Darcy will be there?"

Jane was surprised the Elizabeth had so quickly turned the conversation back to Mr. Darcy. But, she could understand that her sister would be experiencing no small level of anxiety at the prospect of meeting him again. "I am sure he was invited, but if he has been purposely avoiding you up to now, I do not see why he would change his mind and appear there tomorrow. Would it make you terribly uncomfortable to see him again?"

"I do not know Jane. He said such offensive things to me, but his letter has helped improve my opinion of him. And the thought that he might still love me after everything, is compelling. I am beginning to doubt even my assessment of his pride and selfishness. Still, I cannot wish to see him again, nor repent my refusal. I know I made the right choice, for I could never be happy with such a man. It is so easy for you Jane, you know Bingley is the right man, and you know that he loves you. All you have to do is wait for him to declare himself."

"Lizzy, you know it has not been entirely easy for me, and I am not unaware of my own good fortune, but the easiness of my own situation merely gives me leave to attend more to yours. I will be of as much assistance to you in sorting this all out as I can be."

"Thank you Jane. You are the best sister anyone could want." Their conversation concluded on a pleasant note, and they retired for the evening.

On Tuesday morning, Colonel Fitzwilliam called on Darcy early enough to breakfast with him and Georgiana. Bingley was still abed. Colonel Fitzwilliam was pleased with the way things had been going with both Miss Elizabeth and Miss Rowland and he wished to discuss his interactions with both ladies with his cousin. After they had exchanged good mornings, Colonel Fitzwilliam said, "well Darcy do not you wish to ask how my visit with Miss Elizabeth was yesterday?"

"How was your visit yesterday cousin?" he asked dryly.

"It went very well. Miss Elizabeth was pleasant company as always, though I did not have much opportunity to converse with her privately. It is a shame she had planned to spend so little time in town, but I believe I may have arranged for her to stay longer."

"How have you managed that?" asked Darcy attempting to hide his interest.

"The night we dined at Gracechurch Street, I mentioned to her uncle how unfortunate it is that she and her sister are to leave so soon, and how much I would have enjoyed more time getting to know them. Bingley was also helpful by supporting my suggestion that perhaps the ladies could remain in town a bit longer. He is certainly mad in love over the eldest Miss Bennet, but who can blame him?"

"What was Mr. Gardiner's response?"

"He said that he would invite the Miss Bennets to stay longer if they so desired. I have not yet received any information with respect to their decision, but I feel confident that they will remain. They really have no reason not to. I am anxious to hear what they have decided, in any case. At least I will learn something about Miss Elizabeth's feelings from her decision on whether or not to extend her stay in town."

Darcy observed to himself that certainly if she stayed that would be a favorable indication for his cousin, because Jane's situation alone would be no reason to stay, as Bingley could easily go to Netherfield. But, if she did not stay, he could not say that would definitely be an unfavorable indication for his cousin, as there might be several reasons for her decision to return home as planned. He did not voice these considerations to his cousin however, although they might have eased the colonel's mind a bit. It also seemed to Darcy that Colonel Fitzwilliam's anxiety to understand Elizabeth's feelings was due more to a wish for leave to more openly pursue Miss Rowland than a concern that his feelings for Elizabeth might be unrequited.

Darcy found himself torn again by this new information. If Elizabeth stayed in London, there was the possibility that he might be able to see her, but so would his cousin, and probably more so; but more importantly, it would probably mean she was inclined to accept Colonel Fitzwilliam. If she left, there was at least the possibility that it meant she did not wish him to continue his suit. However, it would mean that Darcy would not be able to see her unless he went to Netherfield with Bingley. Her leaving would force him into a position to make the choice of whether or not to go to Hertfordshire. His dilemma was that while he wanted nothing more than to follow her there and make every effort to win her, he did not feel that he had the right to do so given her recent bitter and unequivocal rejection of him, and he did not want to cause her any uneasiness by forcing his company on her.

Colonel Fitzwilliam had seemed inclined to speak at length about both Miss Elizabeth and Miss Rowland, however Darcy did not wish his sister to be exposed to his cousin's simultaneous raptures over two different women, and he cut the conversation short.

Later, that evening, when the party from Gracechurch Street entered the Hursts townhouse, they were greeted with all the warm insincerity Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley could contrive between the two of them. Upon entering the drawing room, Elizabeth immediately looked around to discern whether Darcy was in attendance, when her eyes were arrested by the sight of Colonel Fitzwilliam sitting on a sofa in very close proximity to an attractive young lady with whom he was engaged in a quiet but lively discussion. Elizabeth was surprised at the lack of jealousy in her own reaction, although she did comprehend the insult to herself at his apparent intimacy with the woman. In fact, she thought she felt some measure of relief, but had not the time, at present, to reflect on that feeling.

When the initial shock of the scene wore off as she was introduced to some of the other guests, Elizabeth was able to reason away the concerns she had felt upon the sight that she had witnessed when she entered the room. She supposed that this young lady was in all probability not unlike Miss Bingley and she initially laid all the blame for the appearance of intimacy between that young lady and Colonel Fitzwilliam at the former's door. She reasoned that Colonel Fitzwilliam could hardly ignore the woman if she insisted on demanding his attention and although Mr. Darcy usually responded to similar treatment from Miss Bingley by being distant and terse, she allowed that Colonel Fitzwilliam had a much warmer disposition and thus, would be more inclined towards conversation. Upon perceiving Elizabeth, Colonel Fitzwilliam had arisen and come forward to greet the party from Gracechurch Street. In so doing, he introduced Miss Rowland to them.

Elizabeth was surprised to learn the woman's identity, and she soon settled into a conversation with Miss Rowland, which caused her to question her initial perception and her preconceived ideas about the young woman. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner fell into easy conversation with Colonel Fitzwilliam's parents, while Bingley, Jane, and Miss Lucas spoke to his brother and sister, and Colonel Fitzwilliam settled down near Elizabeth and Miss Rowland. The Hursts and Miss Bingley talked among themselves, staying near the door, to welcome the guests they were still expecting. Elizabeth quickly discerned that Miss Rowland was a self assured, confident and independent young lady. Her manners bore little resemblance to those of Miss Bingley and she certainly did not seem intimidated in the least by Elizabeth's intrusion into her conversation with Colonel Fitzwilliam. The two ladies took an immediate liking to one another.

Meanwhile, when Darcy made ready to go to the Hursts' townhouse, he was, again, expecting a quiet family dinner with only six total in attendance, but he was again mistaken. Due to his pressing matters of business, not to mention his trips to the park on Gracechurch Street, Darcy had spent little time in Bingley's company over the past several days and they had spoken little of the upcoming dinner at the Hursts. Thus, when Darcy arrived at the Hurst home, he was surprised to find the assembled party much larger than he had expected. When he entered the drawing room, his gaze was immediately drawn to Elizabeth. Their eyes instantly met, and the cheeks of each were overspread with the deepest blush. He absolutely started, and for a brief moment seemed immovable from surprise. His comprehension of who else was in attendance only followed his awareness that she was there. Shortly recovering himself, however, Darcy immediately averted his eyes to avoid causing her any embarrassment or distress. This exchange lasted only the briefest moment and no one in the room noticed it but the two persons involved. In spite of Miss Rowland's proximity to Elizabeth, Darcy's eyes did not drift to her at all during or after this exchange.

Elizabeth then noticed the young lady at Darcy's side, who she supposed to be his sister. Miss Bingley had already claimed her place at Darcy's other side and begun praising his sister. At her first opportunity Miss Darcy retreated to her aunt. This behavior caused Elizabeth to observe that Miss Darcy seemed to be extremely shy. Mr. Darcy, after managing to extricate himself from Miss Bingley's grasp, began to make his way around the room and greet the other guests. Elizabeth was able to observe him unnoticed, while continuing her conversation with Miss Rowland. He began with his aunt and uncle and was introduced to the Gardiners. Elizabeth watched carefully to discern any reaction to their identity, but she perceived none. She noticed that he stayed and talked to them for several minutes, much longer than would have been required by mere civility. He seemed to take an interest in the conversation and from what she could discern, he was taking some initiative in getting to know them.

After spending some time with them, he moved to greet Bingley, Jane and Miss Lucas, along with Mr. and Mrs. Fitzwilliam. When he finally made his way around to Elizabeth, he was able to greet her, if not with perfect composure, at least with perfect civility. When he approached the two ladies he said, "Miss Bennet, Miss Rowland, it is a pleasure to see you both again." He spoke to both of them, but he looked only at Elizabeth. They both thanked him and returned the compliment. He continued, "I must confess I was surprised to find so many people here this evening. I suppose I have become too accustomed to quiet family dinners with the Hursts and the Bingleys." Elizabeth realized that he wanted her to know that he had not known she would be there. She surmised that he wished her to understand that he would not have come had he known she would be there, but whether this was because he no longer loved her and did not wish to see her, or out of regard for her comfort she could not immediately say. When she was finally able to look at him however, she no longer had any doubt that it must be the latter, because the former simply was not the case. She was able to discern as much upon looking at him because, while his demeanor was reserved, his eyes spoke volumes of his repressed passion. His feelings were evident, she could easily see that he still loved her. She immediately comprehended that he could not have felt what she saw in his eyes while forming or acting upon any designs towards another. Mr. Bingley's description of his prior behavior towards Miss Rowland must have been in error. She also did not note anything pass between the two indicative of any previous intimacy.

Miss Rowland responded to his comment, "well, this is a much more intimate gathering than the one at which we first met, Mr. Darcy, last week at your uncle's home."

"Yes, that is true Miss Rowland," he replied, then glancing at Elizabeth and then back at Miss Rowland, he continued, "please do not believe that I am in any way disappointed." He then made civil inquiries as to the families of both young ladies.

After a few more awkward moments, dinner was announced and the party moved into the dining room. Elizabeth happily found herself situated between Colonel Fitzwilliam and Jane. The dinner was very well done, and all of the guests enjoyed themselves. Elizabeth was well entertained by the lively conversation of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Miss Rowland, who was seated across from her. Jane's attention was preoccupied almost entirely by Mr. Bingley, who sat on her other side, undoubtedly due to a subtle suggestion to Mrs. Hurst made by the man himself.

After dinner, when the ladies withdrew to the drawing room, Miss Rowland took a seat next to Elizabeth and the two spent the time getting to know each other better. Elizabeth learned of Miss Rowland's fortune, and of her family connections, and Miss Rowland learned of Elizabeth's sisters and the unfortunate circumstances attendant upon their father's estate. The two ladies found that their opinions and ideas coincided greatly and were becoming fast friends. Their growing intimacy was interrupted when the gentlemen entered the room, and Colonel Fitzwilliam joined them.

After a few moments and several significant hints from his wife, a half-hearted entreaty for the young ladies to play was forthcoming from the host. Miss Darcy blushed deeply when she was immediately applied to by Miss Bingley, and Elizabeth was about to volunteer to save the poor girl from her obvious embarrassment, even though she knew her own performance could not compare to Miss Darcy's, when Miss Rowland thankfully stood up first saying, "dear Miss Darcy, do not distress yourself, there is no need to play if you do not wish to. I will oblige the company in your stead, if you will agree to turn the pages for me." The young girl looked relieved and happily obliged.

Elizabeth was attentive to Miss Rowland's performance, as were the other guests. Both Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy were watching Miss Rowland and listening to the lovely music she was making. She noticed however, that Darcy shifted uncomfortably from time to time and glanced in her direction more than once. Miss Rowland played two more songs in response to entreaties from her audience and then rose to return to her seat. Miss Bingley was now struck with a very satisfying notion, and in an effort to have Elizabeth's inferior playing contrasted with the capital performance just witnessed, she implored her to oblige the company. Elizabeth was able to comprehend Miss Bingley's motive, but moved to the instrument unintimidated.

Georgiana remained, and turned the pages for Elizabeth as well. She played a piece she was well acquainted with, and managed to execute the whole of it with no mistakes. Each time she looked up from her playing she noticed Mr. Darcy watching her in rapt attention. His gaze was not unlike the one she used to mistake for disapproval before he confessed his love for her. Now, she wondered that she had ever failed to see the feelings he harbored. The first time he caught her eye, he maintained a steadfast gaze for a moment, but remembering his resolve not to make her feel uncomfortable he soon looked away. He averted his eyes each time she looked at him thereafter. When she glanced at Colonel Fitzwilliam, she noticed that, although he was attentive to her, he exchanged a few whispered comments with Miss Rowland throughout her performance.

When Elizabeth had finished one song, she was entreated to play again, but she politely refused. Mrs. Hurst then urged Miss Bingley to play, and everyone enjoyed her performance as well. After the music ended, the card tables were brought out and most of the guests were seated around them. Elizabeth and Miss Rowland remained in their position in the hopes of resuming their previous talk. She was surprised to see Mr. Darcy sit down to a game with Mr. Bingley, Jane, and Miss Lucas, which was also joined by Miss Bingley. Colonel Fitzwilliam was urged to play by his brother and they sat down to a game with the Hursts. Elizabeth and Miss Rowland were left to their own devices for a few moments. They were not alone for long however, when Mrs. Fitzwilliam approached them, and asked her cousin, "how do you get on this evening Emma?"

"Very well, Elinor," replied Miss Rowland, and then continued in an amused tone, "although I must confess my disappointment that Colonel Fitzwilliam has been far less attentive to me tonight than the two times we dined in company together, last week." Elizabeth was taken aback by this observation, and by Miss Rowland's next comment, "his cousin, however, is as reticent as ever."

"Actually, I was surprised to notice last week an improvement in his usual reserved demeanor," replied Mrs. Fitzwilliam, "I do not believe I had ever seen him so sociable as the two times we dined in company with him last week, and he seems to be conducting himself in like manner this evening." Elizabeth stole a glance at Mr. Darcy who was participating animatedly in the card game before him, and appeared to be fully absorbed by it.

"If his behavior tonight and last week is more affable than usual, I can only imagine how withdrawn he must have been in the past. He seems different to me tonight than he was last week. Although he is being friendly enough, he seems uncomfortable, as if he is preoccupied by something. Nevertheless, it does me little good that he is sociable to everyone else," returned Miss Rowland, in the same playful tone, "he seems to be unaffected by my charms, which, I flatter myself, are considerable. For that matter, he was unresponsive to the charms of any of the many single ladies who were present last Monday night, but at least he was uniform in his indifferent treatment to all of us. I can console myself in the knowledge that it is not me alone that he avoids. At least Colonel Fitzwilliam gives the appearance of enjoying my company."

"Perhaps that is because he has greater need for a wife," said Mrs. Fitzwilliam mischievously.

"Which is exactly what makes Mr. Darcy more desirable," replied Miss Rowland with growing amusement. "Luckily for me, my situation is such that I do not find myself in need of a husband, and would be happy to live out my life in all the luxury and comfort my fortune can afford a spinster." Both girls laughed at this, and Elizabeth smiled. "Sadly," continued Miss Rowland turning to Elizabeth, "I cannot say the same for my newest friend. But you are young yet Miss Elizabeth, surely you still have plenty of time to find a good husband."

"I hope that I can find both happiness and moderate comfort through matrimony," replied Elizabeth, "but I'd rather be a governess to my sister's children than marry without love and respect." She glanced at Jane and Bingley as she finished.

"Yes, she seems to have achieved the ideal situation: love and money, much like my cousin here. But are they engaged?"

"Not yet," replied Elizabeth.

"I am surprised," returned Miss Rowland, "they are obviously very attached."

Miss Bingley, tired of making a fifth at the card table, left the game to join the ladies in conversation. "Who is very attached?" asked she as she sat down with the other three ladies.

"Your brother and Miss Bennet," replied Miss Rowland.

Miss Bingley's distaste with the idea was evident. "They have only recently renewed their acquaintance."

"Yes, of course, Miss Elizabeth was just telling us that she is from Hertfordshire. You and your brother must have made their acquaintance during your stay there last fall."

Miss Bingley nodded her assent.

"Miss Bingley was telling us the other evening all about her acquaintance in Hertfordshire," said Miss Rowland to Elizabeth. Then she looked at Mrs. Fitzwilliam and replied, "perhaps that is the reason for Darcy's immunity to the charms of ladies Elinor, did not you say, Miss Bingley, that there was a young lady that had caught his fancy in Hertfordshire?"

Elizabeth was alarmed and she blushed heavily. "I said no such thing," replied Miss Bingley, not deigning to glance at Elizabeth lest she betray the identity of said young lady. The last thing Miss Bingley wished to do was give Elizabeth any idea that Darcy might admire her.

"You did mention something about a young lady with 'fine eyes' whose company he had enjoyed." Elizabeth was astonished that Mr. Darcy might have confided in Miss Bingley regarding his feelings for her.

"I certainly never said anyone had caught his fancy."

"But he did voice a compliment, at least to you, on the fineness of some mysterious young woman's eyes, did he not?"

"He did say something to me once, but it was merely a comment made in passing."

"But you will not reveal the name of this young woman to us?"

"I do not really recall who it was," said Miss Bingley.

"You seemed pretty certain of her identity on Friday evening, in fact, I believe you said something of her also being an excellent walker."

"Did I? I am sure I do not recall."

"Then we must appeal to you, Miss Elizabeth, to discover who this young lady might be." Elizabeth struggled to maintain her composure, "did you ever notice him being particularly attentive to any one young lady while you were in company with him in Hertfordshire?"

"No, I did not discern anything in his manner that evinced a particular regard for any of the young ladies in the neighborhood."

"How mysterious!" replied Miss Rowland. Miss Bingley then changed the topic of conversation.

While the two cousins continued their conversation with Miss Bingley, Elizabeth desired a moment alone, to consider all that she had just learned. She walked to a table on one side of the room where supper had been laid out. As she perused the offerings, she considered, what Miss Rowland had said about Colonel Fitzwilliam's attentiveness to her last week as compared to tonight. Elizabeth found that she was not so much disappointed in Colonel Fitzwilliam's attentions to another, as she was cognizant of the insult to herself inherent in his behavior. She was certain that the difference in the colonel's attentions to Miss Rowland on the two evenings last week in contrast to this one, was due to her own presence. Colonel Fitzwilliam's conduct made Elizabeth doubt his regard for her, which was yet undeclared, even further.

Then Elizabeth considered what both ladies had said about Mr. Darcy. His behavior last week had been marked by less of his usual reserve, according to Mrs. Fitzwilliam. Elizabeth had noticed that even tonight, while he seemed uncomfortable being in her presence, he was behaving more warmly towards his company in general, than she was used to seeing him. She had witnessed his uncharacteristically open demeanor while meeting and talking to her uncle and aunt. Although she could not hear what they said, she was able to perceive an absence of his usual haughtiness. His conversation with the very relations whose inferior position he had spoken of with such disdain during his offer to herself had been marked by an easiness and affability that she was unused to seeing in him, but was not unbecoming. She could not help but wonder whether this change in him was in response to her reproofs. But she guarded against making such an assumption.

Even more amazing however, were Miss Rowland's complaints that she had been unable to gain his attention. She recalled Mr. Bingley's assertion that Mr. Darcy had been very attentive to Miss Rowland. She was certain that Darcy felt nothing for Miss Rowland so she supposed that what Mr. Bingley had perceived had been merely Darcy's more open demeanor, as observed by Mrs. Fitzwilliam. The idea that Miss Rowland had been attempting to gain Darcy's attention explained why they had spent so much of the evening together, and Mr. Darcy's more open manner would account for his failure to rebuff her attempts, at least in Mr. Bingley's eyes, for Miss Rowland certainly had a different view of things and clearly felt that he had not been responsive to her attempts.

She thought only briefly on Miss Bingley's comments. She could not account at all for her obvious intelligence regarding Darcy's feelings. All Elizabeth could be sure of was that apparently Mr. Darcy had complimented Elizabeth to Miss Bingley.

Elizabeth was interrupted from her thoughts by the very subject of her reverie who appeared beside her. Darcy had noticed Elizabeth walk towards the other side of the room, and seizing an opportunity to speak with her alone, he had excused himself from his card game and approached her. "Miss Bennet," he began quietly, "please forgive me for taking the liberty of speaking with you in this manner. I simply wished you to know that I was unaware you were to be in attendance this evening. I would not have come if I had known it, for I would not wish to cause you any discomfort or uneasiness by my presence."

Elizabeth was amazed at the civility with which he addressed her, as well as his compassion for her feelings, and she made every effort to respond in kind, "I appreciate your thoughtfulness, Mr. Darcy, however, I am glad to have the opportunity to speak to you." His countenance brightened in response to this. She continued, "I wish to thank you for telling Mr. Bingley of Jane's presence in London and reassuring him of her regard."

Darcy looked remorseful as he replied, "please do not thank me, it is unwarranted. I only did what was necessary to correct my own error. I am pleased with the result, they both appear very happy."

"I believe they are, and I anticipate that their friendship will lead to its most natural and appropriate result this time, thanks to your efforts."

"You give me too much credit, Miss Bennet. Although I do confess that I am able to see things from a different perspective now, only recently having learned to appreciate the level of pain I inflicted on my friend by my interference."

Elizabeth was visibly startled by his speech. She blushed and averted her eyes, not knowing how to respond.

"I am sorry," he said upon noticing her discomfort, "please accept my apology. I should not have said that. Causing you any distress was the last thing I wished to do, and what I most feared would occur by my speaking to you."

She looked up at him and was able to see an expression of the deepest love, mixed with all the pain associated with its being unrequited. At that moment, she felt an urge to hold him in her arms close to her, she wished to comfort him and tell him everything he wanted to hear her say, to relieve his suffering. But she could not. These thoughts however, had caused her to blush and avert her eyes again. After a moment, she merely smiled weakly and said, "no, it is all right, there is no need to apologize."

"You are too generous," he replied sincerely.

"No. It is I who owes you an apology, Mr. Darcy." He looked at her in surprise and confusion. "I grossly misjudged you and accused you . . . "

"Please Miss Bennet, you owe me no apology. You had no way of knowing the truth and I gave you no reason to disbelieve the lies that were told to you. I would not wish you to distress yourself over the matter. I am only relieved that you are no longer deceived."

After a moment, she said, "I am very sorry about your sister."

His expression became sad, as he replied quietly, "thank you."

Then, after a momentary pause he said, "Miss Bennet, I noticed that you have not yet been introduced to her. Would I be asking too much to be allowed to introduce her to you? She wishes very much to make your acquaintance."

The surprise of such an application was great indeed. Elizabeth immediately comprehended the compliment of such a gesture, and immediately felt that whatever desire Miss Darcy might have of being acquainted with her must be the work of her brother. "I would be very happy to meet your sister Mr. Darcy. Thank you."

"If you will wait here a moment, I will fetch her."

"Certainly."

"Thank you."

Elizabeth returned her attention to the table while Darcy approached his sister who was sitting between her aunt and Mrs. Gardiner watching their card game. He guided her to where Elizabeth was and made the introduction. Elizabeth was then able to confirm her suspicion that the girl was not proud at all and was only extremely shy. In fact, she had difficulty extracting a response greater than a monosyllable from her at first. But after a few moments the two girls fell into a comfortable conversation, although Miss Darcy contributed much less to it than Elizabeth. At length, Miss Darcy asked Elizabeth how much longer she planned on being in town. Elizabeth responded by giving the original date for her departure, to which Miss Darcy replied, "I understood from my cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, that you might be staying longer."

Elizabeth glanced at Darcy who appeared a little apprehensive. She wondered whether he knew of Colonel Fitzwilliam's machinations to effect her continued residence in town. "My aunt was kind enough to extend us an invitation to stay longer, but both my sister and I, as well as Miss Lucas, have been away from home for a very long time and we are all eager to return." Darcy appeared relieved, while Miss Darcy appeared disappointed.

Darcy then walked the two ladies back to where Mrs. Rowland and her cousin were still conversing with Miss Bingley. Once the five ladies were situated comfortably, he excused himself and returned to his card game. When Mr. Darcy had gone, Miss Rowland gave Elizabeth an inquisitive look, but said nothing about her private conversation with Darcy. Miss Rowland was not the only one who noticed and was curious about the exchange between Elizabeth and Darcy. Nearly everyone in the room accounted for it in some way or other.

That evening, when he went home Darcy recalled his encounter with Elizabeth with pleasure. She had read his letter, and she had believed him! Two of her objections had been attended to. There was but one left to address, but it was the most difficult. He must amend his manners, but he had already made progress to that end. Once she could see that her reproofs had been attended to, then he could begin to try to win her love.

Due to the lateness of their departure from the Hursts, Jane and Elizabeth had no opportunity for private conversation that evening. The next morning, however, they took a long walk in the park. Darcy had not dared return to the park to watch Elizabeth since the day she had seen him there. During their walk, Elizabeth told Jane all that she had learned of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mr. Darcy from Miss Rowland, of her subsequent conversation with Mr. Darcy, and of her introduction to Miss Darcy. Elizabeth determined, with the help of her sister that she did not wish to continue accepting the attentions of Colonel Fitzwilliam. She would be relieved to be separated from him by her removal to Longbourn.

Elizabeth still enjoyed Colonel Fitzwilliam's company and found him to be very agreeable, but she felt that she could not love him, and she doubted whether he loved her. He seemed to take the issue of marriage very lightly, and she had not been able to reconcile his previous views about needing to marry for money with his sudden change of heart towards her. She also had trouble with the fact that his proposal to her had not been brought about of his own accord. He had required a push in her direction from an external source. She realized that she did not approve of the easiness with which he gave his attentions to young ladies upon whom he had no designs. She observed this both in his treatment of herself, as well as Miss Rowland.

This reminded her of Mr. Darcy's contrasting behavior before his proposal. At first she had disapproved of his detached manner, but now, after having heard his confession of how long he had loved her and how he had struggled with his feelings, she realized that he had been gua