Mama's sickness

Papa wouldn't let me in Mamas room this morning !

" Scarlet fever dearest I cannot risk you catching it " said Papa his face troubled.

"Papa that is dangerous for someone of Mamas age ! " I said my heart thumping loudly Papa just nodded worry was all over his face.

" Rosie I must must send you to My Mamas" He sounded as though his heart was broken. I nodded .

Papa ordered the carriage ,in minutes ( what more seemed like hours) it arrived at our gate I stepped into it with a heavy heart .

Lady Dyrimple greeted me when I entered

"My dear Rose I just heard what happened to your mother ! poor soul I will send Betsey and Amalia to assist her since they had Scarlet Fever when they were 4" She said with Feeling

" thank you Grand mama" I answered simply looking at the old Lady who had Married 2 Gentlemen a simple farmer and a Lord each had died leaving her heartbroken she was immensely rich.

I was put into a big room bigger then the one at "East Green Manor" .

it was a very warm day ,I noticed a small glade that looked very cool so I walked into it and sat under a tall Oak

"excusez-moi Mademoiselle but Ce la Maison De Madame est-Elle Dyrimple ?" Came French words .(Translation ex use me but is this the house of Lady Dyrimple

"what ? " I asked standing up and turning around I met a Handsome face I knew to well

" Pierre ! how is Amae is she alright why are you here ? " I asked looking at the face of my Best friends brother.

" Amae is ze reason Zat I am here she has Eloped !" His face was full of sorrow

" Amae elope ? but that does not sound like her at all Pierre " I was confused how could Amae do that ?.

To be Continued .......

The Excitement is Brewing

It was the night of the most glorious ball of the season. Uncle Darcy had decided to throw a ball. And not just any ball. This was a splendid occasion, to be held in the Darcys' luxurious townhouse. I got shivers down my spine every time I thought of it.

But something unsettled me that evening as I watched Maria dress for the party. She was wearing her silver-gray silk, and her curls were piled on the top of her head, extreme in their curliness. I had never gotten the chance to have a discussion with Maria regarding her strange behavior as of late, because the minute I stepped in after Edmond rescued me, Mama rushed her off to get new clothes for the ball, this silk gown among them. I had used the excuse of my ankle to stay home.

 Maria seemed to be back to normal, but a slight anxiety seemed to reign in her mind. Her hands fluttered anxiously and something seemed to be awry.

"What is wrong, dear?" I queried softly.

"Oh, nothing, Eva," Maria said, swiftly turning towards her jewelry box, so as to conceal her face. "Do you know where my silver chain is? I cannot seem to find it."

I realized that she was changing the subject, so I answered simply, "I believe it's on your nightstand, Maria."
Maria was almost dressed when Mama came in and motioned for me to come with her. "There are flowers at the door for you, dear," she said confidentially. Suddenly I felt my face grow warm.
"Here," Mama said, pressing a card into my palm. Then, with a beckoning motion to the servant, who was standing by the door, holding a bouquet of flowers, she whispered to me, "I believe it is from Mr. Kingsley."
I gasped at Mama's knowledge, then quickly glanced at the card she had put in my hand.
"Miss Evelyn," it said...


"I know not even your last name, and yet I know full well that my heart doth tremble when mine eyes see you. I hope that you will accept these roses as a token of my admiration." The note was signed "Your rescuer."


I frowned. Something about this note did not reflect the kind gentleman who had carried me home just yesterday. And the romantic, old-fashioned terms, though pleasing to the eye, did not seem very like the Edmond I knew. Mama did not notice my expression, for she was still exclaiming over the gorgeous roses, of which there seemed to be over a dozen. For a moment I forgot my misgivings in my rapture over the roses. They were gorgeous. I decided to wear one in my hair tonight.

The gown I planned to wear tonight was a deep emerald green. It shimmered as I put it on, contrasting beautifully with my dark curls and pulling out the green in my eyes. It was done in the new style, with a lower waist and sweeping train. I sighed in satisfaction as I glanced at myself in the mirror.
"Eva! Come quickly, dear! The carriage is here!"
I turned to place one of the roses in my twisted ringlets, then rushed from the room. I expected the door to slam sharply behind me, but it only closed with a soft thump. I didn't pause to go back and check what had caused that; instead I tripped daintily down to the waiting carriage. Maria was there, her cheeks a brilliant red from the chilly night and her curls piled on the top of her head. The night was dusky and romantic, and this time I felt both.

Rose Ivangelean Morgans

I am Rose ( but you can Call me Rosie) I am the Daughter of Mary (Bennet) Morgans and George Anthony Morgans . I wish I had a brother or sister Papa and Mama say " It is up to God Rosie" every time I ask " Why can't I have a little sibling ?".

My friends call me musically talented since I can play the piano forte in Lady Dyrimples house . Lady Dyrimple is my Grandmama she doesnt have a Daughter of her own so she has taken me "under her wing" Papa sends me to her house four times a week were I read to her and play the Piano forte .

I have 1 friends since my time is taken for becoming a "Young Lady" she is from french school I spent two years in france becuase Grandmama thought it important and what she thinks goes .

Amae and I wright to each other five times a week keeping up our long distance friendship.

Lizzy is overwhelmed (continued)

This post is before the Darcy's ball

I walked in slowly, Mr. Gould was standing by the fireplace. As soon as I came in, he rushed over to my side, fell on one knee and said "Miss Darcy! Have come here hoping that you end my deep torment and marry me."

My mouth dropped open and a deep blush flooded my face, "Sir, have not...I do not understand you?''

He stood up and grabbed my hand, "From the moment I saw I loved you! I have been waiting to tell you this, please marry me!''

Gently I took my hand away from him and moved over to a chair, sinking down in it I looked at Mr. Gould with puzzled expression. This did not seem like the man I had first met, there was something different, but I did not know what it was.

"Do you keep me in agony?" He said dramatically.

"Sir, of course not!" I said alarmed.

"Then," Mr. Gould came closer, "Will you marry me?"

For two horrible minutes I was tempted to accept and put him out of his pain, then I saw something in his eyes that disturbed me.

"No, no Mr. Gould I will not marry you. And interrupt me!" I said giving him cold look, " Sir I was tempted to accept, but you have behaved very badly. Indeed I do not know what to make of you."

I saw his face go scarlet, and murderous look crept into his eyes, I paled. Seeing this, Mr. Gould changed his manners. Putting on his gloves and hat, he said, "I will again."

It was almost a threat, "Good day Miss Darcy!" And he walked out of the room, into the hall, brushing aside our maid and left.

I stood there dazed, until I noticed that my hands were trembling. With an effort to stop them, I left the room and headed back to where my sister, cousin and I had been packing.

Aunt Georgie must have told them a gentleman had come to see me, for they sat silently, waiting for me to tell them what had happened.

I sat down and quietly told them all that had transpired, when I finished, Aunt Georgie said,

"Dear if I had known that he would act so I would not have let you go in."

Liza stormed, "That abominable man! How dare he treat you so! If Lee were here this would not have happened."

I laughed, "Liza, Aunt Georgie, don't worry about me. It does not matter, I did not care for him that much."

They looked at me quizzically, but said nothing. I blushed at there stares, but got up and finished my packing.

Lizzy is overwelmed

In the week that followed our house was full of presents and well-wishers. It was physically draining for me, as I seemed to be the person who everyone talked to. I seemed to have written on my forehead "Here is a nice quite girl who listens."
Besides this, there was the packing to do, and getting ready for our party. At times, a sadness would come over me, my dear Aunt Georgie would be a married woman in a fortnight. She would no longer go on walks with Liza and I, she would not come and spend nights in our room, and no longer play so beautifully at the piano-forte for us. I had gotten so used to having her, that it was painful to give her up, even for such a wonderful man as her fiance.
I looked out the window onto the busy London street, I pressed my forehead against the cool panes. Outside Liza waved, she and Becka had just come back from church, for it was Sunday. I had stayed home on account of a headache. I smiled back, and slowly left my spot and went down to see my sister and cousin.
Both girls where in high sprites, laughing and chattering. I joined a little, but mostly watched them, with a half happy half sad look.
"What is it Lizzy?" Liza asked concerned.
I looked at them both tears welling up in my eyes, I went over and hugged them both tightly saying,
"I you both so much, that both must be married happily, or else I will never be able to bear losing you!''


"Oh Lizzy!" Liza hugged me back, "Don't worry about that."

I laughed whipping away tears, "I know its silly, its just I'm Aunt Georgie so much."


Becka and Liza, nodded, "Yes." They said in agreement.

"Let's get back to packing" Liza suggested.

The door opened, and Aunt Georgie looked in with a motherly smile, "I see you girls are hard at work. But could I borrow Lizzy for a minute?"

I looked surprised, but followed, my Aunt down the stairs and to the small sitting room.

"Here I leave you."


"What?" I said alarmed.


"There is a gentleman in there to see you." she explained.


"Who?" I asked, my heart beating wildly.


"Mr. Gould." Aunt Georgie answered.


My face fell, "Must I?" I begged her.


"Yes, go."


That was it,I had to go in and see Mr. Gould, I straighted my dress and pulled back my shoulders and walked into the room.



(To be continued)

Surprise Encounter

This part of the story takes place after this post and before this post.

In front of us, standing on the path, two men were standing. One was dressed in the normal, fashionable dress of London society, the other was dressed in military attire. They were both tall, and carried themselves with dignity.

"James and Lee?" Liza breathed. "What are they doing here?"

"James wasn't supposed to arrive for another three days, and Leland was at home just a little while ago."

"And why are they meeting? I never knew they were such particular friends."

We had been standing at the head of the path during this conversation and the young men were about fifty paces ahead of us, also standing still. Now one of them turned and saw us.

"Rebekah, Liza, what a surprise!" Leland's voice carried clearly to where we stood. "I did not know you were planning on walking today." Liza and I looked at each other and exchanged a smile. "Bekah, your friend James is here, he arrived here just this morning." They began to walk towards us.

"I wish people would stop referring to him as *my* friend James. He's more of a friend to my entire family." I whispered Liza as we walked towards them.
"Most *people* pair you two together, like they pair Leland and I. I wish they wouldn't do that me either." she whispered back.

"Rebekah, a pleasure." Leland bowed to me, then turned to Liza. "Liza, may I escort you home." Liza glanced at me and smiled again, before taking Lee's offered arm.

"And may I escort you?" James asked me.

"Why thank you, I'd be happy to have you escort me home." I smiled. "What a surprise this is! I had no idea you were coming to London so soon!"

"I didn't want to risk missing the ball that your uncle and aunt are hosting on Friday. Speaking your aunt and uncle, isn't that them over there?"

"Yes! I nearly forgot. Liza!" I turned to my cousin. "We need to tell your parents that we're going home with Lee and James."

In the Same Room

When Mr. and Mrs.Collins arrived home that evening from their outing, an unexpected sight met them.Seeing shadows through the window outside, and hearing voices, they walked into the front parlor. The room, in which Anne, William, Catherine, and their aunt Maria were chatting merrily, was full of laughter beside a bright fire.
"Shall you stay for dinner, William?" inquired his aunt of him.
"Well, you are most kind aunt, but I think I must be leaving." He rose from the couch, leaving Catherine's embrace.
"Oh, Will, please, stay!" pleaded Anne. Catherine looked her wishes, though she knew what he would say.
"You forget, sister- I have not yet seen our parent's informally," he replied in a low voice. "And I do not think now is the time, or here the place."
"Perhaps," his aunt speaking again," perhaps, they will not be so unforgiving as you think, nephew. My sister loves you very much, and I am sure cannot do without you much longer. This separation has exhausted her health!" William looked startled. Anne even, looked down in realization of what had caused her mother's ill health.Her aunt continued speaking. "If your reunion goes as well as I think it will, will you consider leaving Mrs.Murchin's boarding house, not only for dinner tonight, but until your family leaves London?"

The butler suddenly opened the door, and Mr.and Mrs.Collins entered. The room seemed to freeze.

"My dear son," and Mrs.Collins walked towards William, who was now standing, and embraced him. She had not been able to do any such thing when her husband and she happened upon him in the streets. William, who was taller than his mother, embraced her as he did his sister's.
Though he was now a man, he had been a boy when he left, and hardship and hard work had had to been gone through alone. He had lacked his mother's care, his father's guidance, and had been left to fend for himself, besides occasional assistance, in the beginning, from his aunt and uncle Fitzwilliam.
Mr.Collins now approached his son. Releasing his mother, William stood up straight, as if to put weakness far from him.
Mr.Collins put out his hand. William took it, his face somewhat surprised at his father's congeniality,and grasped it heartily. Mr.Collins could no longer conceal his emotion, and with a broken voice said, "It is good to see you, my boy."

The Wedding Dress

Aunt Georgie’s wedding dress had finally come. It was a beautiful creamy white silk dress with blue violets embroidered along the hem. A silver-blue cape came with the dress, along with a fashionable bonnet. Needless to say everyone was excited. The whole house had been turned upside down in preparing for the wedding, which was to be in a fortnight.
Georgianna stood in her room with three servant girls working on her dress. Liza came in the room, “Auntie your gloves!” She said holding them aloof, showing that they had seen better days.
“Oh dear, what are we to do?” was the worried reply.
Lizzy came to the rescue. “Don’t worry Bekah and I will go and buy a new pair.”
So out the two went on the quest of the gloves. Meanwhile Liza helped her Aunt out of the mostly finished dress. Liza noticed her Aunt looking a little stressed,
“Aunt dear maybe we should have a small bite to eat?’’
Aunt Georgie smiled, “Yes that is a good idea.” The two women walked down into the kitchen together.
As they ate, they chatted about weddings.
Liza laughed and remarked, “It’s a good thing this only once!”
“I too will be relived when it’s over.” Georgianna sighed.
“When you’re happily married?” Liza asked slyly.
Aunt Georgianna blushed slightly, making Liza laugh fondly.
The front door opened, and Lizzy and Bekah came smiling. They showed off the gloves, which were pronounced perfect.
“Now the only things left to do are: Have the last adjustments on the dress finished.” Liza stopped and asked Lizzy when that would be done.
“Tonight I hope.”
“Good,” Liza continued checking off things on her fingers, “the gloved are here, oh and the trunks!”
“Almost done!” Bekah called from the other room.
“I think that’s all Aunt.”
“Thank you so much girls, I don’t know what I’d do without you!” And they each got a kiss on the cheek.

The Damsel in Distress and Her Knight in Shining Armor

I hurried out of the house, struggling to get my bonnet strings tied, trying to quickly escape the dreary hopelessness of Maria's unknown troubles. Her whole countenance, although much more sedate then was her usual nature, seemed to trouble me more than her previous persona. There was something so flat, so hopeless in Maria's quiet stillness and wakeful watching that I wanted to run away from it all, to shake my sister, to get her to speak. More than anything I wanted my sister to tell me the secret that seemed to chill her to her very core. 

Walking at a brisk pace down the street, I glanced idly at the shops, not interested in anything. I had planned on purchasing something for Aunt Georgie's wedding, but the thought of approaching any other human being right now, in my present mood, did not appeal. However, I knew I had to do something, so I forced myself to go into the next store, a small shop that sold bonnets, ribbons, and trim of that sort. I forced myself to look interested, and soon discovered that I no longer had to pretend - I was truly enjoying myself.

The store was quaintly decorated, without being showy, and I strolled luxuriantly around the store, looking for something that satisfied my tastes. Suddenly my eyes rested on the most beautiful bonnet, made of gleaming golden straw. It was tied with a wide satin ribbon, a ribbon that was the exact shade of lavender I needed - the color of my gown for the wedding. I felt a moment's hesitation; who knows how much this lovely headwear may cost? But it would do no good to guess. Meekly lifting the bonnet off of the display, I went to the counter at the front of the shop, where a rather gruff old man stood. His eyes seemed to glare out at me from under his bushy eyebrows, and for one moment I forgot my purpose in approaching him. But I swallowed quickly and opened my mouth to speak.

"Sir," I began softly. "How-how much would this bonnet cost?"

"That bonnet?" the gentleman said, still gruff.

"Yes, this is the bonnet I meant."

The older man seemed ready to frown, but then a smile lit up his face. "For you, madam, nothing."

I blinked, aghast. "You-you mean to tell me... that it does not cost anything?"

"No, no, you may take it."

"Sir, that-that would not be right of me."

"No, no, I insist upon it, miss. It will look lovely with those dark ringlets of yours." He motioned towards a curl that had escaped from the bonnet I was wearing.

"Oh! Oh, well, thank you, I thank you most gratefully, sir!" I gasped out.

"You are welcome, miss."

I turned to go, but then the gentleman called me. "Young lady! What would your name be?"

"Eva-I mean to say, Evelyn Wickham, sir."

"Wickham? Is your last name truly Wickham?"

"Yes, sir," I answered.

"Is your father's name George Wickham?"

"Yes, sir."

"I knew your grandfather," the gentlemen said softly. "We were great friends as boys."

"Sir," I said shyly. "What would your name be?"

"My name," he replied, "is Lowell. John Lowell."

My meeting with Mr. Lowell seemed to be an act of Providence. I walked out into the street, thinking things over. It was then that I happened to glance as the sky, then shrink back in dismay. The blue sky seemed to have disappeared, being replaced with heavy, dark clouds that seemed to glower at me. The whole climate threatened rain.

Luckily, my new bonnet was wrapped well in brown paper and tied with string. I worried not for my own attire, but rather for my lack of direction. As the sky grew darker, I began to have a sinking feeling in my heart about how to get back to out townhouse, into which we had recently moved, leaving the much-less tasteful inn. I turned this corner and that, but only succeeded in confusing myself more and more. By the time the first few raindrops began to fall, I was thoroughly, completely, and hopelessly lost. Just at that moment I slipped and twisted my ankle dreadfully.

Sinking down onto the walkway, I slipped around the corner into a small, uninhabited alley. There I awaited help, and the stop of the rain, whichever happened first. I tried to be optimistic, but as the rain poured down in torrents that seemed never to end, my situation began to feel more and more drab. My eyes brimmed with tears, and one or two spilled down my cheek.

"Madam, is something the matter?"

I jumped at the sound of the voice. Turning around, I beheld the most handsome gentlemen I had ever seen. He had dark curly hair, warm brown eyes, and a very reassuring manner. My heart started to beat wildly and I brushed the few tears away fiercely, enraged that this handsome stranger should see me crying. 

"Madam?" The gentleman was clearly still waiting for an answer.

"Oh-oh, no, no, I'm fine," I said quickly. 

"Pardon my interference, but you seem lost."

"Oh, well, you see, it's just my ankle. I will be fine-"

"No, no, I couldn't allow you to walk on that foot. Here, let me help you home." He held out his hand to me.

I grasped the man's hand gratefully. The stranger swept me into his arms and proceeded to carry me home, so as not to worsen the poor condition of my ankle.

"Where do you live, miss?"

"Just down the street. The address is 105 North-"

"Oh yes, I am very familiar with that area." He smiled down at me. I felt a warm heat creeping into my cheeks and realized I was blushing.

"Do-do you come to London much, sir?" I asked, by way of changing the subject.

"Yes, as a matter of fact I do. I live just down there." He pointed down the street.

"Oh, that's a lovely house!"

"Yes, I quite like it myself. It has been in my family for years. Here is your house now, miss," he said, placing me lightly on the ground.

"Oh," I sighed, feeling regret that he had to leave. "Wait!" I called at his retreating figure. "What would your name be?"

The man turned. "My name is Edmond. Edmond Kingsley. And your name is..."

"Eva?!" Maria gasped in a shocked voice, staring out at me from her open window.

I quickly straightened my dress, hoping not to appear too bedraggled. Then I turned to my rescuer.

"Evelyn," I said with a small curtsy. "My name is Evelyn."

Edmond tipped his hat to me, then strolled back down the street. I turned, limping up the stairs while gripping the rail for support, and saw Maria staring at me from her window, her face full of misery and shock. My heart gave a quick stab of regret, which was then replaced with a determination to discover, once and for all, what was troubling my sister.

More Questions Left Unanswered

The evening of the Carter's party was dusky and "romantic" - the former my definition, the latter my sister's. I could tell that there was a certain giddiness to Maria as we were dressing in our bedroom - for once she didn't criticize Lillian's dressing skills. The maid seemed relieved at this, I reflected, and that made her less nervous around my critical younger sister, the result being an especially good job with Maria's extensive hairstyle. This, of course, put my sister in a lovely mood, and so we all dressed with an air of peace and contentment.

I had chosen for the evening my pearly gray taffeta, thinking to myself that it would never do to get dressed up more than that - the evening was not to be a formal affair. My curls hung around my face particularly well, to which Lillian cooed in satisfaction. 

My sister, of course, was the dictionary definition of "plumed." Her hair, twisted into a bewildering amount of tiny braids, was knotted and kinked until is could be no more knotted or kinked. She wore her sea-green dress, with the matching ribbons, and Lillian seemed satisfied that there would be no changing of gowns today. I watched in amazement as the maid pulled, seemingly out of thin air, a handful of white ostrich feathers and placed them in Maria's hair, to my sister's satisfaction. 

"But... Maria.. did Mama say-"

"Oh, Eva, don't spoil my fun!" Maria interrupted quickly. "Mama will be perfectly happy if I look my best - she does not care what elements I use to obtain that beauty."

I interrupted no more, but instead stared rather dully at myself in the mirror. Compared to my sister, I looked plain and dowdy. I had no feathers, no pearls, no braids. My only form of jewelry was my simple cross pendent. Mama constantly showered Maria with clothes and beads and jewelry of all kind, in the hopes of her making a "splendid match." Having expressed myself to be utterly against any of Mama's forms of matchmaking, I was simply "pushed to the side" sometimes to make room for Mama's second - and very willing - subject: Maria. 

With a straightening of my shoulders, I reflected that I did not want to be made into a doll. Besides, I was not going to this gathering to find a husband, as Maria seemed intent on doing. I was going to have fun. My sister had swept out of the room to present herself to Mama, and I followed her, suddenly feeling much better.

The evening party was a "great success," in every manner. The food was delectable and the talk was very entertaining. But something happened toward the end that seemed a bit strange. Maria was playing cards with a few of the young gentlemen, but she seemed pensive in spirit, constantly glancing at the door as if expecting someone to enter. When no one did, and the hour grew late, I nudged her to leave. Mama and Papa were putting on their cloaks, and it was clearly time to go. With a reluctant sigh, she rose and put on her cloak - but not willingly. 

The days continued like this. Maria would stare out of her bedroom window each and every day, only to be pulled away for meals and such. Her interest in gowns and ribbons seemed to wan, and she grew paler and more serious after each passing day. I began to feel a deep concern for my flighty sister - what could possibly be wrong? I knew it would do no good to ask, for all my efforts at unearthing this secret were in vain. And I had still never discovered why Maria had fainted on the day of our arrival...

The morning after the Carter's party dawned golden and rosy. The sky was a lovely soft blue, and the few clouds floated around airily, like downy puffs of cotton. The gorgeous climate seemed to beckon me out to take a stroll down the streets of London. I realized with a pang that I had never done this once, for we had been so busy with our unpacking that the idea had simply never occurred to me.
"I am going to take a walk about town today, Mama, if that is alright with you," I said at the breakfast table.
"Oh, yes, yes, of course, Eva," Mama replied hastily, while buttering a biscuit. Then she turned to Maria.  "What ails you, dear?" Mama asked questioningly. "You have not been yourself as of late. Is something the matter?"
"No, no, I am perfectly fine, Mama," Maria replied vaguely. "You shouldn't worry about me."
At this I turned from my plate of eggs to stare at Maria. This certainly was new. Since when did my sister care whether Mama worried about her or not?
"All the same," Papa said quietly. "You haven't been yourself lately, my daughter. Are you sure you do not wish to join your sister on her outing?"
"Yes, Maria, do come along," I added quickly. "The fresh air will do you well."
"No, no, I don't want to go. I have some stitching I wish to complete this morning."
Realizing that Maria seemed intent on staying home once more, I sighed quietly and left the table to retrieve my bonnet.

A Beautiful Morning

"Now that Lizzy has left, how shall we spend our morning?" Liza asked me. She was sitting on my bed, watching me go through my things to find an outfit.

"Well, you could start by helping me get ready for the day." I answered with a smile. Liza bounced up and came over.

"In order to decide what to wear, we need to decide what to do." she reasoned, grinning. "For instance, if we were going out walking, you wouldn't want to wear your dark linen, but if we were staying home, you wouldn't want to wear your silk."

"Alright, you win!" I answered laughing. "What shall we do? I feel a need for fresh air today.  How about a walk around the town?"

"Around the town? Two unchaperoned ladies? Madness." Liza said, pretending to be offended. "Well, seriously, a walk would be nice. How about that little common area, um, park that we passed on the way here yesterday?"

"Lovely." I said with a sigh. "Of course, we should bring Leland as a chaperone. He's good at that sort of thing."

Liza glared at me. "We *don't* need to bring Leland on this particular excursion." she said in stiff tones.

"Liza." I said, in mock reproaching voice.

"What?"

"Oh, nothing." I said with a mysterious smile and wave of my hand.

Thirty minutes later, we were both set to go. Our aunt and uncle also wanted to walk in the park, so they accompanied us, but stayed a little behind so that we could be on our own.

We walked, arms linked, through the bush lined paths, enjoying the fresh air and the sunshine.

"What a beautiful day!" I breathed. "It makes me miss Derbyshire. I wonder what my family is doing today."

"Are you homesick?" Liza questioned. "I'm not really. Maybe that's because everyone I really love and care is here in London with me."

"That would make a difference. No, I'm not homesick...exactly. It would be nice to have a piece of home here with me."

"If plans go right, you'll get your way." Liza said, copying the mysterious smile I'd used earlier. "Won't James be at the party coming up?"

I ignored the previous part of the question. "Oh yes! The party! I'm very much looking forward to it. Would you help me 'dress up' my blue dress? You have such an eye for fashion."

"Certainly! Only if you do my hair!"

We continued to chat in a light-hearted manner for a while longer, jumping around from topic to topic. Then, as we turned the corner, I saw something that made my heart palpitate and I held on a little tighter to Liza's arm. She turned to look at my startled face, then forward to the path in front of us. I felt her start with surprise as well.

With William

(Previously)

Anne and Catherine sat on either side of William, holding his hand or leaning on his shoulder. It was almost as if he was back from the dead, for mentioning him was forbidden after he had left. It seemed as if they had the house to themselves, and they were in their own little world for quite some time.


"So, my dear sisters, what have you been occupying yourselves with whil-in the past two years or so?" William merrily inquired.

"The usual- except that I have completed my formal education, and am now thought of as quite a woman back home," replied Anne.
"And you, Kitty?"
"Things are much the same with me, Will. Nothing changed. Though I read more than I used to,and Anne is forcing me to learn the pianoforte, when we can do it at Lady Catherine's."
"How is she, and her daughter?"
"Quite well when we left-as for her daughter,we have recently learned that she is to be married! Can you believe it?" exclaimed Anne.
"No! To whom is she to be married?"
"I see you are quite surprised, brother," Catherine now spoke. "She is to marry Lady Carter-do you know her?"
"No, I do not..."
"Well, she is to marry a Lady Carter's brother, Sir Nilson. I am supposing he is as old as Miss Anne herself, for Lady Carter is not young, and speaks of him as she would of an older brother."
"Ah, I see, I am quite interested in how that turns out."
"You sound like quite the old man," Anne said teasingly.
"I do? Well. How is that young preacher, Mr.Reading? You left him in good health?"
Anne was silenced.
"Yes, brother, though perhaps not in such good spirits." Catherine looked down with a smile. She looked at Anne, then at her brother with a knowing look. William said nothing.
"Brother, what have you been doing? all these years?"
"I have been preoccupied with study."
"You have?" Anne smiled at his eager solemnity.
"Yes..."
"Brother, is there something you're not telling us?" Catherine looked keenly at his face.
"No-yes. I was not going to mention her-"
"Her!?" the sister's exclaimed at once.
"Yes...I have met the most beautiful, lovely, darling creature that is not my relative that ever existed!"
The girls looked at each other, then at their brother.
"Are- are you engaged?" asked Catherine.
"No, and-no, I am not. I have not breathed a word of anything to her."
"Who is she? What is her name?"
"Her name is Isabella."
"Brother, there are thousands of Isabella's. What is her family?"
"Oh, her name is Isabella Hamlington," he added this quite complacently.
Anne thought for a moment.
"William, the Hamlington's of Derbyshire- is that of whom you speak?"
"Why, yes. How did you know?"
Anne looked at Catherine. Catherine started.
"We know her older brother!" they said together.

To be continued...

My visit part 2

I stepped out into the chilly morning air of London, the air was filled with all noise of every kind. I began at a brisk pace. Miss More's little house was not far from ours. Soon I was it ahead, it was a little cottage almost, such as one might see in the country. I waled up and knocked at the white door. Miss More's only servant, Sarah, opened up the door.


"Oh morin' Miss Darcy! Do come in."


"Good morning Sarah."


"Who is it Sarah girl?" Miss More asked.


"Lizzy Darcy Ma'am!"


"Lizzy?! Well show her in!"


"Come on miss." She said with a wide grin.


I came into the bright sitting room, Miss more was sitting in a low chair by the fire, when she saw me her face brightened.


"Lizzy! I was hoping you would come." Her face fell, "No likes to visit an old lady like me. But your here!" Her face brightened once more. Miss More was by no means young, indeed she was over fifty. She had gray hair, bright blue eyes and red cheeks.


"How have you been Mary?" I asked.


"Fine enough. But I haven't been able to get out much."


"That's to bad."



Mary's round red lips formed into a pout as she agreed with me, "Yes, yes indeed it is," then to Sarah she said, 'Sarah bring the tea."



Soon I was sitting, with a shawl about my lap (so I would not get a chill), a steaming cup of tea in hand, and was listing to the latest gossip.



Mary patted my hand and said with a happy sigh, "'Tis so good to be with you again."


"I am happy to be with you too Mary."


Just then Sarah came in again, "Ma'am, your nephew is here."


" Francis? Here? My goodness show him in!"



I sat straight, wondering who this Francis was. My hand flew to my mouth in utter surprise when in walked Mr. Gould! The man I had met in the Smith's library.

He seemed very surprised to, though he quickly over came it. With a wide grin he stepped forward, kissed his aunt's hand and bowed to me.

"My aunt did not tell me you where here Miss Darcy, but it is very pleasant to see you again."

Mary looked at us both and asked, "You have met?"

"Yes Aunt," said Mr. Gould sitting down next to Mary, "We met at a party."

I then ventured to speak, "How are you Mr. Gould?"

"Oh please, none of this Mr. Gould, my name is Francis. But, I have been very well, thank you Miss Darcy. I trust you too have been in good health?"

"Yes M...Francis. I am in a very good state of health."

"Good, good." Francis said looking very pleased.

Then turning to his aunt, Francis began a conversation with her, giving her all the family news.

This made me very uncomfortable, listing in on family matters, that as soon as there was a brake in their talk I said,

"I must go now, Mary I had a wonderful stay."

"So soon dear?"

"Yes." Francis stood up, "I am sorry you have to go so soon. Might we have the pleasure of seeing each other again?"

"I hope so." I said, giving him a smile.

"Good. Might I escort you home?"

"Oh no," I said hastily, "You must stay with your aunt. We will see each other again. Good by."

I gave Mary a kiss in the cheek and walked to the hall, took my bonnet and shawl, and once more stepped out into London.

Morning With the Wickhams

It took me one minute after awaking to realize where I was. I awoke to the chiming of the clock. Bong! Bong! Bong! Bong! Bong! Bong! It was six o' clock in the morning.

I rolled over in my bed and stretched. So this was how wealthy ladies felt when they woke in the morning. Lazy, luxuriant, and without a care in the world. I certainly felt that way at this moment. I stretched once more, than stepped out onto the balcony. The new morning in London needed proper greeting, such as what I normally gave to the sunrise at home.

When I stepped back into the room, I saw Maria standing by the floor-length mirror, fixing her hair. The maid, an Irish girl named Lillian, was watching nervously, hoping that Maria would issue no complaints.

"It-it's the best I can do, Ma'am," she was saying nervously.

"Yes, I can see that," Maria said slowly. "However, I don't think I look my best. Fix that ribbon, Lillian."

"Yes, o' course, Ma'am," Lillian said quickly. She arranged the sea-green ribbons again with nimble fingers, braiding the strands of silk in and out of Maria's ornately-twisted bun. 

"There, that will do," Maria said quickly. "Now for my gown."

Lillian took a gown of the same sea-green, starched until it could stand on its own, out of the wardrobe. The gown was be-frilled and be-ribboned as much as possible. I recognized it as Maria's best.

"Maria, if you wear that gown now... well, what do you plan to wear to the evening party tonight? Remember how Papa's old army friend, Mr. Carter, invited us to dine at his home tonight?"

"Miss Evelyn, Ma'am, perhaps you shouldn't have mentioned that-" Lillian said pleadingly.

"No, no, Eva is entirely correct, Lillian. Take out my sky-blue gown with the lacy ribbons, please."

With another despairing glance at me, the maid once more turned to the wardrobe. I felt a stab of pity for her and almost wished that I had held my tongue. But Maria had been wearing her best dress... and if she wore it now she could not wear it then... My conscience was pricking me from all angles, and I knew not what to do. I finally decided to just leave Maria and Lillian to their dressing and attend to mine.

I had decided on a white cotton gown with tiny pink roses sewn into the fabric. The high pink satin sash looked splendid in contrast, and I thought I would ask Lillian to arrange my curls with a ribbon of the same color. It was then that I overheard a conversation going on between the maid and my sister.

"Do you think Mr. Smith will think me beautiful, Lillian?" Maria asked.

"Aye, o' course, Miss Maria," the maid said, not daring to disagree, lest she anger her master's daughter. "Anyone can see that you are a very bonny girl," Lillian added hastily.

"Yes," said Maria in a condescending tone. "I am sure I must look my best. Therefore, you, Lillian, must do your best."

"I-I, o' course I will, Ma'am," answered Lillian. What else was the poor girl to say?

"Now, help me into that gown," Maria ordered.

As soon as she was in the other dress, Maria decided that she must change her hairstyle as well. After all, she pointed out, I couldn't possibly be expected to wear a sea-green ribbon with a sky-blue dress. What would people think of me? Lillian just nodded - as was her response to everything Maria said. Maria didn't like the way her hair was braided - Lillian nodded her assent to change it. Maria thought her shoes were too plain - Lillian went to retrieve another. After all, in the maid's way of thinking, she was the servant, and Miss Maria was the master's daughter. Nothing was too good for her.

I was attaching my small cross necklace around my neck when I heard my sister speak once more - and not to order Lillian around.

"I mean to make Leland ask me to marry him," Maria said placidly, forgetting to call him by his proper name. "What do you think, Lillian?"

"Well..." Lillian began. "I never went about making a man propose to me afore, but I am sure if any man could be induced to propose to a young lass, you would be the lass to do it, Miss Maria, Ma'am."

"Of course I could," said Maria, all the more placid. But suddenly she whirled 'round and looked with worried eyes at the maid. "But-but what if he can't be pushed into a marriage proposal? What if he is the type of gentleman who can't be forced to do anything? Uncle Darcy is that way, you know. And they are very good friends..." she added with a sigh, as if some of Uncle Darcy's character could somehow be rubbed off on those who were his close acquaintances. 

"I'm sure he likes you very much - Mr. Smith, that is," Lillian said hastily.

With an assured smile, Maria nodded her agreement and turned to the mirror, waving her hand to signal that she was done. And then she swept out of the room.

Sighing with relief, Lillian walked quickly to me to help me with my dressing.

"I know you must suffer much, taking all that trouble with Maria, Lilly," I said to her sadly.

"Oh no, Ma'am... I mean, I'm payed to do my job here, and, as me Mam always says when I arrive home each evenin', "it's all in a day's work." I don't like to complain, Miss Evelyn - that's the way I was raised."
I was shocked into silence at this selfless reply. "Doesn't she ever aggravate you?"
"Yes-and no," Lillian replied thoughtfully. "I see my place here as maybe, in some small way, having a chance to help Miss Maria. Your sister may be pretty vain," this said with a sad shake of her auburn head, "but she's got a heart, though she may hide it. You've just got to give her a chance, Miss Evelyn." Lillian sighed, then spoke to herself quietly. "I just hope she doesn't get her heart broken by that Mr. Smith."

In the Parlor (Part 2)

(Previously)

Anne ran into his arms, and William held her there for a still moment. He then drew her from him, and looked into her face. 


"Its been long- too long, my dear sister. I- I am- I cannot believe how much older you look. A woman already." He smiled sadly.
"Indeed," she replied laughingly, though with tears in her voice. "It has been too long, but let's forget all about it, darling Will.  We can't start over if we're in the past." He pressed her to him again. Then gently, and cautiously, he eyed Catherine, who stood opposite them, her face full of suppressed emotion.
"Kitty," he begun to walk towards her with open arms.
"William," with tears in her voice but a resolutely unforgiving face.
"I have missed you extremely."
"You should have never left."
"It was a choice I made, for the better."
"Who's better? Only yours, according to my observations. And you left wi-with-withou-without saying goodbye." Tears now streamed down her face, though she visibly struggled to keep her composure. His face showed deep emotion.
"I know.I'm sorry," he replied.
She turned her back to him.
"Kitty, my Kitty, please forgive me."
Anne looked at her with beseeching eyes from the window where William had stood. Catherine lost her composure, and leaned sobbing into her brother's arms. He was surprised, not noticing what had passed between her and Anne, but he embraced her for many minutes, repeating his apology.

Some time later they were seated on a sofa, William in the middle with one of his sister's on each side. Their parent's had not returned, and Mr.Landish had left the house with their uncle, while their aunt amused the children, thinking nothing of them or their whereabouts.