Sisters of Pemberly

A Rose of Another Name

2011-07-05T15:32:00.000-07:00

The love that surrounded the happy couple seemed to shimmer in the air. I could not believe that in a few weeks that would probably be me standing there and getting married to someone that I loved utterly and completely. John stood next to me, smiling gently.

"Do you believe in fate, Rose?" he whispered.

"Yes, I think I do," I answered.

"Then will you do me the honor of telling my sister that she need not be afraid of Mama disapproving of Herbert anymore?" John was smiling.

And then I saw it: Herbert and Lady Kingsley where talking and laughing together, as if they had been friends for years.

"Oh John, the world seems perfect right now! If only I could pause it at this moment," I whispered.

"Don't pause the world yet, you still have to be the Rose of another name," John teased.

I smiled at him. John leaned toward me and when our faces were only a small distance away from each other, he whispered:

"Are we to be completely scandalous, Miss Morgans?"

"No indeed, Mr. Kingsley," I answered in my most hoity-toity tone.

"Please call me John."

"When you call me Miss Morgans then you will be Mr. Kingsley."

"Then I shall call you Rose, for you will always be my beautiful flower."

John kissed me on the lips.

"Rose! Look!" Amae's voice came quickly from a short distance away.

John and I looked where she was pointing and, to our great surprise, a woman with long grey hair was in a great carriage along with a girl who looked very ill. 'Twas none other than the Lady Catherine de Borgh and her only daughter, Anne.

Mr. Collins had of course told her where he was going to be and she had decided to come and see her niece off. The happy couple were gone by now, and she was in an uproar.

"Rosie, vat kind of voman is zat?" Amae whispered in supressed horror.

"I don't know, Amae, but let us hope she will not be too much of a nuisance!" I whispered back.

Aunt Lizzy and Uncle Darcy had to be the ones to receive Lady Catherine, as was proper. I saw Aunt Lizzy bite her tongue before she uttered a few rude remarks more than once.

"Rose, it's time to go," John said.

I only nodded and ran to Eva, Maria, Lizzy and Liza. Kissing each of them on the cheek, I bid them a tearful fairwell, for I did not know the next time I would see them. Before long, John and I were in the carriage with Amae, making our way home. And as we rattled and bounced along in the carriage, the only thought that was in my head was "I am to be married in four weeks," echoing over and over again every time we hit a bump.

Oh, Hear the Wedding Bells Ring!

2011-06-30T14:35:00.000-07:00

"Mama, hurry up! We will be late!" Maria's voice was anxious as she rushed down the hall and into our mother's bedroom, where I was helping Mama dress for the wedding.

"Child, 'tis only eight o' clock! The wedding does not begin until ten! Why are you so anxious?" Mama turned from her dressing table to look at her daughter's face, her countenance puzzled.

Maria did not answer, for was standing before the mirror fixing her curls for the tenth time.

"She is eager to be on time because a certain someone may be at the wedding..." I said teasingly, my voice low.

Maria's cheeks heightened in color, but she tossed her head as if she did not know of what I was talking and retied one of her pink ribbons.

"Such nonsense," she said lightly. "I am to be an old maid, remember?"

I didn't reply, but I doubted very much that she would remain alone all of her days.

"Besides," Maria continued, still preening in front of the glass, "it is our own Aunt Georgie's wedding--why, we should be there at least an hour early! We are family, after all. Do I have to have an ulterior motive just to see my own aunt?"

"Maria, she is the Darcys' aunt, not ours'. We have met her but two or three times... we certainly are not as close as Liza and Lizzy are," I admonished practically. "We shall arrive with the rest of the wedding guests--no one will need us before then."

My sister turned back to her hair with a petulant frown. "Mama?"

"Evelyn is correct, Maria," Mama said sternly. "Now go and see if breakfast is ready, dear."

Maria flounced out of the room, a bit of her former prissiness returned.

"Do you know why Maria is so adamant about arriving early?" my mother questioned me when we were alone. I was surprised that she had even taken notice of Maria's strange behavior. Mama normally concerned herself only with our gowns, ribbons and prospective beaus; anything beyond that was of little matter to her.

"Oh Mama," I said kindly. "You know as well as I that Maria loves to prepare for a formal event. It is in her nature. Naturally, she does not want to be late. That is all."

Mama satisfied herself with that as she finished her dressing. I put on the charming lavender silk I had been saving for this occasion, and sighed as I withdrew my new bonnet from its wrappings. I wondered if Edmond would like it on me, then blushed to be thinking of such things. Silly girl, I scolded myself. This is to be Aunt Georgie's day, and all eyes are to be focused on her--not you. Now fix that ribbon and go downstairs like a good girl... and not one more thought about Mr. Kingsley, mind you! I smiled at myself in the mirror, knowing full well that not thinking about Edmond was easier said than done.

~ ~ ~

Pulling my bonnet from my head, I stepped into the pretty country church where the wedding was to take place. It fit Aunt Georgie just perfectly. I began searching among the crowd for a familiar face, but my searching seemed to be in vain.

"Hello, Miss Evelyn."

I jumped as someone behind me spoke, then relaxed when I realized it was Edmond Kingsley. I extended my hand and he bent to kiss my gloved fingers lightly.

"It's good to see you," I said, smiling up at him. "But why are you here? I did not know you knew Aunt Georgie."

"Oh no, I have not had the pleasure of meeting your aunt yet--"

"My cousins' aunt," I corrected.

"My apologies," Edmond said. "You refer to her so often as "Aunt Georgie," so I assumed you were related. But, enough about that. I have been a good friend of Matthew Clock's for some time, and I came here today because he would not allow otherwise." He grinned. "How could I refuse?"

"Well, I am glad you did," I said softly, blushing slightly. But Edmond noticed my somewhat-anxious eyes, and he questioned me about them.

"Is something wrong, Eva?"

"I'm looking for Pierre DeJohns," I replied. "My sister Maria will be heartbroken if he is not here."

"Isn't she the sister who--"

"Fainted at the Darcys' ball? Yes," I finished for him. "But she is much changed now. She no longer harbors any affection for Mr. Smith, other than that of a friend. Her heart lies elsewhere."

"She is not acting too quickly again, I hope?"

"Not at all. Pierre and she are good friends."

"Very good friends," Edmond said, nudging me. I turned and spotted Maria already sitting in one of the pews, speaking with Mr. DeJohns. Her face was alight with happiness, and they seemed to be having a most interesting conversation."

"If you will excuse me, Edmond, I think I'd best go get my sister so that we may sit down. Mama and Papa will be wondering where we are."

"Of course, Eva." He tipped his hat, then went to sit down himself. I managed to get Maria to come sit down with the rest of us, although not without some difficulty.

A hush came over the church as Aunt Georgie made her way down the aisle on the arm of her brother, since their father had passed away many years before. Her dress was absolutely breathtaking, and her happiness made her radiant beyond comparison. Mr. Clock had eyes for no one but his beautiful bride as he watched her walking slowly toward him.

The wedding ceremony was beautiful. I noticed not just one sniff coming from the audience as both Aunt Georgie and Mr. Clock said their vows. How beautiful, I thought as Mr. Clock kissed Aunt Georgie sweetly on the cheek. The way they looked at each other was just precious--I could see so much love shining through the two pairs of eyes.

After the ceremony, and many hugs and kisses to family and friends alike, the newlyweds climbed into their carriage. Big white satin bows, flowers, and many ribbon streamers hung from the vehicle, and all of this festive decoration fluttered in the wind as the carriage made its way down the country road, 'round the bend, and were gone.

I am Married

2011-06-30T10:07:00.000-07:00

The dress that I had was beautiful--I had my nieces to thank for that. Standing next to my to be husband, I smiled up at him. He smiled back at me. My Matthew was so handsome. Behind me, I could hear Lizzy sniffling. Such a dear girl, and now she too was to be married. The service was done before I could even think, and then Matthew kissed me lovingly on the cheek. Everyone cheered for us as we ran out of the chapel. Matthew and I kissed again outside. Then I had to say goodbye.

"Oh Lizzy! Liza! I'm going to miss you!" I said to them.

"You'll have a wonderful time, Auntie," Liza said. I hugged them both tightly. I thought of years ago, when they were just little girls, and then I thought of how quickly time flew by. I let go of them and asked,

"You'll be good girls?"

They laughed and said, "Aunt, we aren't three anymore."

They should have been twins, I thought. I hugged them again. Then I hugged my sister-in-law, the first Lizzy.

"I'm so glad that you're happy," she said, her cheeks pink with excitement.

"Thank you." We where like sisters and it made me sad to think we would not share tea in the early mornings anymore. I saved my brother for last, because saying good-bye to him was the hardest. He had tears in his eyes. We hugged each other, neither one of us wanting to be the first to let go.

"You look lovely," he whispered.

"Thank you. I'm going to miss you."

"I will too."

"You have have been the best brother a young lady could ever have," I said softly, trying to hold back my tears. Darcy did not say anything, for Matthew had gently taken my arm and led me to the carriage. The last thing I saw was Lizzy and Liza waving madly to me. How I loved them. And how I loved Matthew.

The day has arrived!

2011-06-30T10:04:00.000-07:00

I could hardly believe it, today was the day that my very dear Aunt Georgie was to be married. I sat in the front row, Aunt Georgie stood by her to be husband, both smiling lovingly at each other. As I wiped a tear from my eyes, I felt a hand squeeze my arm. I looked over and saw Liza. Putting my arm around her waist, I smiled at her and she smiled back. I felt a pang in my heart; if only William were here with us. But his commander had a last minute job for him to do. Liza looked at me and whispered:

"He'll be here soon."

"I know. At least you have your Lee." She blushed prettily and nodded. We both turned back to the ceremony. Too soon, all too soon, it was over. The bride and groom kissed and everyone cheered. We followed them out of the small country chapel. Aunt Georgie covered us with kisses, which we returned through tears.

"Come back soon!" Liza said as they got into the carriage.

"Have a wonderful time on your honeymoon!" I said.

Liza and I stood arm-in-arm, waving madly until we could see them no more.

"She's very happy," Liza said to me softly.

"Yes. Just think, that will be you soon." We smiled.

"Yes, and then you." I blushed.

Pierre Comes to Call

2011-03-20T13:02:00.000-07:00

I was passing through the halls one morning, looking gloomily out the windows at the pouring rain. I had intended on taking my daily walk, but the rain had made that impossible. Every time I tried to sit down and read or do a bit of stitchery, I found it hard to concentrate. I was just about to go in search of Maria, in the hopes that she would have an idea as to how to spend our afternoon, when the maid entered.
"There's a gentleman at the door, miss," she said, curtsying. "He's inquirin' after Miss Maria."
"Tell him he may come in," I said, curious as to who this gentleman may be. I knew that Edmond was out of town for a week on business, and besides, the man was here to see Maria and not I.
"Mr. De Johns, miss," the maid said softly, interrupting my scattered thoughts. A tall gentleman with dark hair stood behind her.
"Pierre!" My voice was shocked.
"Miss Wickham," Pierre said politely, removing his dripping hat and bowing. "I, er... would Miss Maria be in the house?"
"Yes, she is here," I responded quickly. "Please, do sit down. I will go and fetch her."
"Thank you," he said, taking a seat by the fire.
I turned and left the room quickly, trying to think where my sister might be.
I soon found Maria in the bedroom we shared, reading a book. She looked up when I entered.
"What is it, Eva?"
"Mr. De Johns is here to see you."
Her face colored. "Here? To see me?"
I nodded, then took her hand. "Come, he's waiting."
Maria allowed me to drag her along the halls until we reached the parlor once more.
"My sister, Mr. De Johns," I said politely, curtsying.
Pierre rose from his seat, a wide smile on his face. "Miss Maria!"
Maria's cheeks turned pink once more, but she smiled a small smile. "It was good of you to come, Mr. De Johns, especially in such horrid weather."
"I didn't mind the rain a bit," Pierre assured her. Then they fell to conversing like old friends. I slipped out of the room quietly, a smile on my face.

Forever..

2011-01-14T09:51:00.000-08:00

"Rosie!" I heard Amae's voice calling me. She had come for a visit to cheer herself up.

"Amae!"I said, running down the steps.

We embraced each other.

"It is so good to see you!" I exclaimed.

"I must say I thought I vas completely stuck with zat horrible man, but I found out zat ze marriage vas not valid for ve had no vitnesses other zan ze parson. So, I am free from his clutches forever!" she exclaimed joyfully.

"I am ever so pleased, Amae," I said, smiling at her.

Then, taking Amae's hand, I brought her to the garden where flowers were in full bloom.

"I shall have roses for my wedding--red ones," I said, pointing out the lovely blossoms.

"Roses... love everlasting..." Amae said softly.

"Amae! You are always going to be a dreamer, aren't you?" I teased.

"I dream because I have friends in England as vell as in France. I have crossed the barrier between zem, and I am almost ready to do it again."Amae paused and smiled. "I must return to my family in France. But I shall not go alone. Pierre will go with me. Do you know, he is always wanting to talk about a certain Maria, and I am almost tired of it! I hope that taking him with me to France will cure him of this nonsense."

I laughed "Oh Amae!"

"Rosie, it is true he never stops talking now. Oh, how I wish he was the solemn brother that you met in France!"

Peggy, my maid, came up from the house with a letter in her hand.

"It is from Mr. Kingsley," said Peggy, handing the note to me.

"Thank you, Peggy," I said to her.

I opened it and read its contents:

My Dearest Rose,

I request the presence of your parents and you, of course, at my mother's tea party this afternoon. Please bring your friend; Mother has decided that the more there are, the better.

My father is away on business as usual; he never seems to be able to leave it. But, you shall

enjoy yourself, for Lillian is to be married to Herbert, and I'm sure you and Lily will have much to talk about in the way of wedding arrangements.

Please come.

Forever yours,

John Kingsley

"Amae, we are invited to a tea party at Lady Kingsley's!" I exclaimed, closing the letter.

"Let us change into something more formal, so that ve shall be dressed appropriately for a party. And ve should alert your parents as vell," said Amae.

My mama made a fuss, of course, while Papa laughed at her bobbing around trying to find Jenny to do her hair.

"Now dearest, calm yourself; Jenny isn't the only one in this house who can do your hair!" said Papa, his face cracking into a smile.

Amae and I slipped up the stairs and went into my room to pick out the dresses we would wear. I chose my green paisley with a white shawl, and Amae brought out a light pink dress.

"Rose! Miss De Johns! The carriage has arrived," called Mama.

Amae and I walked down the stairs, out into the garden and onto the terrace, where the carriage was waiting. Papa helped me and Amae into the carriage.

"You see, Amae, we shall be quite happy when Rose marries John, for he shall make her happy and he also has a large estate in Devonshire, but oh, we shall miss her dreadfully," said Mama mournfully, when we had finally set off.

"Of course, it will be a relief to see your daughter well situated in her own home," said Amae kindly.

"Yes it shall, but... It will be very lonely without Rose around... Well, we shall have to manage. Rose has been away from home for a long period of time many a year," said Mama sadly. Papa gently took her hand and smiled at me.

"John is a good fellow, and he will take Rose down to see us often, my dear," said Papa. Hardly anything could dampen his always-cheerful spirits. This made me very grateful.

By this time, we had arrived at the Kingsley's manor, to be greeted by John and Peter.

"Rose!" said John, helping me down from the carriage.

"Good afternoon, John," I said, a happy smile on my face.

He looked tired and a bit stressed.

"I must beg you to excuse her, sir," John said, looking to my father. "I have something urgent to tell her."

Father nodded, and John led me away from the cheerful party.

We stopped underneath an apple tree.

"You might have heard rumors about our business failing, Rose... Dearest Rose, I must tell you that these rumors are true." He looked greatly troubled, as if a large burden weighted him down. "I must go to the Indies and keep the business going. It is hard for me to ask you to rush our marriage on such short notice, but we must. I will be gone for two years, and I don't want you waiting that long to get married."

"I would not mind marrying earlier than planned," I said, smiling up into his eyes.

I held his hand, and it seemed as though time had stopped for us two. Taking my other hand in his, he leaned down and gently kissed me under the apple blossoms.

Of Weddings And Other Matters

2011-01-14T09:24:00.000-08:00

"Oh Mama, we have so many weddings to attend... how shall we do it?" Maria said one afternoon. She had been sitting by the fireplace, sketching complacently, but suddenly stood and put down her pencil. "Do you think it would be all right to wear the same dresses to each?" she asked, her tone worried. For all that she had changed after the incident with Leland Smith, clothes still ranked high in importance in her mind.

"Oh dear, I hadn't thought of that," Mama said worriedly. "There is Miss Georgiana Darcy's wedding, and then Miss Liza's, and then Miss Rosie's..."

"Don't forget Lizzy's wedding," I reminded her. We had just received word of Lizzy's engagement to Captain Milton that morning.

"Oh yes, and Lizzy's," Mama agreed. "How on earth shall we do it?"

"I'm sure it will be fine, Mama," I said, patting her hand reassuringly. "After all, they are all family affairs--it is not as if we have to impress anyone. We shall just be ourselves."

"Yes, but dresses!" Mama said impatiently. "I shall ask your father if he can afford to purchase several new gowns for each of you."

"Oh Mama, that won't be necessary," I interupted. "My emerald silk will do just fine for all of the weddings."

"But Miss Georgiana's is sure to be outside, and you can't wear such a dark gown to an outdoor wedding!" Mama protested. "You will need a light colored one."

"Mama, I purchased a lavender gown about a week ago, and with my emerald silk, that will be all I need." I set my jaw firmly. "I can't allow you to spend money on me when it is not needed. Maria?" I looked to my younger sister, hoping that she would back me up.

"Well..." she said reluctantly. I could tell that she would have wanted to purchase a new gown; several, even. Maria had quite a fondness for finery. But, she knew we couldn't be frivolous. Mama had been known to spend more than we could afford when it came to her favorite daughter's apparel. "I'll do just fine with my grey silk," she said slowly, sighing.

"Maria, I think I have a gown in my wardrobe I don't wear anymore," I said thoughtfully. "It's a very light pink, and a bit small for me... perhaps it will fit you. Would you like to try it on?"

Maria's eyes lit up. "Oh yes, thank you, Eva!" she said. "May I go now, Mama?"

"Yes, yes, of course," Mama conceded. We both left the room eagerly in the pursuit of the gown.

The gown was perfect, and Mama even had a pearl necklace that matched it perfectly. Maria was all alight with eagerness for the wedding, now that the issue of proper attire had been resolved.

Captain Milton comes before he leaves.

2010-12-17T15:00:00.001-08:00

Lizzy was sitting in a corner reading a book. It was the first free time that she had in a long time. The packing was now finished and they are were taking a well earned rest.

Lizzy dropped the book when the door burst open to reveal Captain Milton, hat askew, and wild hair. Lizzy immediately thought the worst.

"Oh good God what is the matter!" She rushed to him. He was silent a moment then he took her small hand in his and said, "Don't be alarmed. Nothing of that kind...is the matter." Lizzy looked down at his hand that was covering hers, needless to say her heart fluttered.

"Captain-"

"Please call me William."

"I..." William stopped her,

"Please, I have to tell you before I leave. I don't know if this will change anything, but. Lizzy, I love you." Lizzy gasped.

"It came over suddenly, I saw your kindness and love towards others and I could help myself. Lizzy tell that we might be able to get married some day?"

Tears came to Lizzy's eyes.

"Captain, I mean William. I was so horrid that first day we met!" A small smile came to his lips,

"I know. But I deserved it. I've tried my hardest to be worthy of you."

"I could tell that something had changed."

"But Lizzy, will you answer me?"

"Yes, I say yes!" Lizzy said with a laugh. William looked as if he did not believe it,

"Lizzy." All he could say was her name. Lizzy's face fell,

"But not know. Not soon..." She trailed off. William looked alarmed.

"Why not?"

"Because, my Aunt is getting married. And then Liza. I have to be there to help. They mean so much to me. William-" He cut her off,

"Very well. My darling Lizzy." Lizzy sighed and she took his other hand in hers,

"Thank you William." Just then the cloak chimed 12:00, William looked up and said with a sigh, "I have to go now." Lizzy nodded,

"Yes, you must."

"We can write." Lizzy nodded. William made as if to go, but he stopped and said,

"Lizzy I shall miss you."

"We shall see each other again soon." I promised.

"Yes, yes we shall I will make sure of it." Then he bent down and kissed her very softly,

"Goodbye..."

Long time

2010-12-10T13:09:00.000-08:00

I am sorry for it being so long! I plan to post very soon. My family has been very busy, far to busy to say, as it would take such a long time. But if you do want to know what I have been up too you can go to my other blog.

Till later dear readers!

My Visit With Mr. Roberts

2010-09-18T13:17:00.000-07:00

I was walking in the fields, just wandering about in order to get some fresh air, when it started raining. I was two miles from home, and if I walked much further, I would soon be lost.

"Miss!" came a shout. A tall figure moved towards me.

"Miss, you must get out of this rain! My house is only a couple seconds away." His voice sounded familiar.

"Thank you," I answered, taking his arm. By now, my teeth were chattering.

I entered a mansion, and, in the light, I found who my rescuer was.

"Mr. Roberts?" I asked, looking at him closer.

"Hello Miss Morgans," replied Rupert Roberts, making a gallant bow.

I was too shocked to curtsy, so I stood there, my eyes wide.

"Oh, don't look at me like that, Miss Morgans," said Mr. Roberts.

His hair was grey and long, tied back in a ponytail. His eyes--which were green--were sad and worn.

"Miss Morgans, you know who I am, so there is no reason for you to look at me in such a manner. I have a terrible reputation here for being a brute."

"Mr. Roberts, how do you know me?"

"I am related to your fiance. He talks about you a lot when he comes to visit me." Mr. Roberts looked down at me, his eyes very intent on my features. "Same hair and eyes..." he whispered, almost to himself.

"John comes and visits you?"

"Oh yes, he is my favorite. I would love if he would bring Lily more often, but Mary doesn't approve."

"That must be due to your unseemly behavior since Hilda's death..." my voice trailed off.

"She's dead," he said, looking even more sad then ever.

"I am sorry," I said.

"Never mind, Miss Morgans. The rain seems to have stopped. You will allow me to escort you home?"

"Oh no, that won't be necessary," I said quickly. "It's only just over the hill. Thank you so much for your hospitality, Mr. Roberts."

I left the sad mansion quickly, my brain churning. I had certainly experienced a new side of the ferocious Rupert Roberts!

A Garden Discussion

2010-09-16T18:45:00.000-07:00

It was only three days before Aunt Georgie's wedding, and I was anxiously awaiting the happy day. Maria and Mama had bestowed all their time on the wedding, and Aunt Georgie was very gracious towards their always willing, if not useful, help. I devoted my time to taking lovely strolls through the parks and gardens of London, drinking in the delicious scents of the rosebushes. Bekah often joined me in these walks, and her presence was always very welcome.

One morning I awoke early, dressed silently, and slipped out of the house. I strode down the still-quiet streets, heading towards one of the large public gardens. I was concentrating on the beautiful foliage around me, and I failed to recognize the pretty strawberry-blonde girl who was sitting sullenly on a small bench.

"Lizzy?" I asked in surprise, recognizing my cousin.

She lifted her large blue eyes to my face, two tears shining in them.

"Lizzy, dearest, what is wrong?"

"You have heard, I assume, about Liza and Lee?"

"Oh, yes," I answered, still confused. "Isn't it splendid?"

"Indeed," she answered quietly, although her voice suggested otherwise.

"Lizzy, why are you crying here?"

"It is the only place I could go where I could be... alone. Oh, it is not fair!" I almost jumped at her sudden outburst. "Lee and Liza's romance turned out perfectly! Just like a fairytale. And mine..."

I sat quietly, listening.
"It's Captain Milton," Lizzy spoke quickly.
"Captain Milton." Ah, now I understood. Captain Milton was an aquaitance of Lee's, and Lizzy had been introduced to him at a ball back home. From my understanding, she had been immediately disgusted by him at their first meeting. But over the time we had been in London, Lizzy's opinion towards Captain Milton seemed to have altered. Her tone when she spoke of him became softer and less harsh, and she was less inclined to think ill of him. I had sensed that something was going on between them.
"What about Captain Milton?" I asked softly.
"He... he's leaving. Today."
"Why does that bother you, Lizzy? You often spoke of him in such tones that gave me the feeling that you disliked him."
"I do!" she almost shouted. I jumped a little, then shivered in the chilly, early morning air.
"I do," she repeated again, this time softer. "Or, at least I think I do. He was such a gentleman at the ball..."
"Lizzy, do you remember the story about Aunt Elizabeth and Uncle Darcy?"
She turned to me, understanding in her eyes.
"Aunt Lizzy strongly disliked Uncle Darcy at their first meeting, the same as you and Captain Milton,"--she blushed when I put her name together with his--"and Uncle Darcy felt as though Aunt Lizzy's position in life was decidedly below his. But, after a while, they began to understand the love they had for the other. Uncle Darcy realized this first, and he proposed, but in a very disagreeable manner. Aunt Lizzy refused him. It took some time, but after a while--and after Uncle Darcy started behaving in a less-haughty manner--Aunt Lizzy realized that she loved him. And when he proposed a second time..."
"... she accepted him," she finished for me.
"Yes," I said.
"Eva..." Lizzy spoke slowly. "Perhaps Captain Milton and I are acting in the same manner."
"Indeed," I said, a smile coming to my face. "Now, shall we go to our separate homes? I am sure we must be the cause of much angst--leaving this early, without a note to anyone."
"Yes, you are right," Lizzy answered. She too was smiling. "And, perhaps, we can arrive home before Captain Milton leaves..."

Lee talks to Liza

2010-09-14T15:45:00.000-07:00

Lee rushed rather hurridly to the house. The maid was dusting.

"Where is Miss Liza?" he asked. She looked at him oddly, but he did look rather queer. His hair was mussed, his hat in hand.

'In her room..."

"Please call her to the parlor," he said, no longer dignified.

"Yes, sir." As she walked up stairs, Lee walked into the parlor.

She rapped twice on the door of Liza's room, "Miss Elizabeth?"

"Come in."
The maid entered and curtised.

"Ma'am, Mr. Leland is in the parlor waiting for you."

"At this time?" Liza asked as she got up from the window. She walked down the stairs and to the parlor slowly, and just before entering she smoothed her dress and hair.
When she came in, Leland bowed, and politely inquired, "How are your parents, Liza?"
Liza, still not understanding why he was here, sat down with a puzzled look.

"Why, yes Lee, they are very well," she said uncertainly, then, as if it was an after thought, "Please be seated."

He looked like he wanted to sit down, but was much too nervous to stay in one spot. After some unimportant talk, Lee walked over to Liza.
Bending down on one knee, he began to speak.
"Liza, we grew up together, and we were always fond of each other, and lately I have come to understand that,"--he paused--"that I love you. Elizabeth, will you do the honor of becoming my wife?"

Liza, who had at first turned white, now blushed and was smiling.

"Leland... yes, I will marry you."
Lee looked lovingly into her eyes, he took one of her hands and kissed it.

"I must speak to your father now," he said getting up.
Liza got up also.

"Yes, but stay for dinner. Our visit in London is almost done. We only have a week until Aunt Georgie's wedding."
The two looked at each other with love.
"Will you stay for dinner, Lee?"

"Yes, then I leave in the morning."

Meet Herbert

2010-09-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

Lily and I were sitting on the veranda when a maid entered.

"Mr Peters for you ma'am," she said, curtsying.

Lily blushed deeply.

"Send him in," she said.

A tall gentleman with brown eyes and blonde hair stepped into the veranda.

"Good evening, Miss Morgans and Miss Kingsley."

"Good evening Herb.. Mr Peters," said Lily, rising at his entrance.

"Good evening. How do your parents fare?" I said, also standing.

Herbert looked at Lily while he spoke.

"Very well. And I hope I find your parents in good health, Lily?" he asked.

"Do not speak in such an improper manner towards my daughter!" Lady Kingsley's voice boomed. "That's Miss Kingsley to you."

"Lady Kingsley," I said.

"Yes, sweet child," she said fondly.

"I was wondering if you would show me were Freddy is."

"Oh, yes, of course." She gave a hostile glance in Hebert's direction and led me out of the room.

We found Freddy on his small pony, receiving a riding lesson.

"Look at me, I'm riding!" he shouted at me when I arrived, jumping up and down in the saddle.

"Very good, Freddy," I said.

He dismounted, hurried over to me and gave me a big hug.

"So how are you?" I asked picking him up.

"I am good. Papa is coming home today!" he said.

John had left on a business trip to London and, as soon as a house for us was secured, we were going to be married.

A black mare trotted down the drive. I placed Freddy back on solid ground, and turned towards the rider of the mare.

"John!" I exclaimed.

John dismounted, smiling at me.

"Good to be home," he said, looking down at my face.

"Papa!" Freddy shouted exuberantly.

John gave Freddy a big hug, then instructed him to go prepare for tea.

"Herbert is here," I said, when Freddy had headed towards the house.

"What? He is here?"

"Yes."

"Good. I need to talk to that boy before he gets into trouble."

"What do you mean?"

"I ran into Edward Hornburg and Herbert yesterday."

"Herbert with Edward?" I asked, my voice somewhat worried.

Tea With The Kingsleys

2010-08-10T11:39:00.001-07:00

I met a little boy of three running down the hill from where John had told me to meet him.

"Now who are you?" I asked, as he slowed to a halt.

"I'm Freddy Kingsley. Papa sent me to find Miss Rose," said the boy, smiling at me sweetly. His eyes were John's, but his hair was that of another.

"Well, you're in luck, dear," I said. "For I am Miss Rose."

"Then you are to come with me. Papa is waiting for you at Uncle Peter's house."

Freddy grabbed my hand and we made our way up the hill, his little voice chattering and telling me about his Uncle Edmond and Peter and his Grandpapa George.

"And sometimes Papa takes me with them to see the fair in London--it happens once a year!" he said as we neared Peter Kingsley's house.

"Rosie!" Came the well-known voice of Lilian Kingsley.

She rushed forward to meet me.

"I have concluded I shall be an old maid," she said. Her brown curls were falling out of their bun, and her eyes looked as though the merriment in them had been firmly pushed away.

"Oh really? What about Herbert Peters?" I said teasingly.

Her cheeks turned red.

"You noticed? Oh dear, Mama doesn't think Herbert a good husband--just because he's a lawyer!" she said angrily. "As if I cared about all that!" Then she imitated Lady Kingsley's voice: "He is not right for you, Lily. You deserve better! Sometimes I think your head is empty by the way you think."

"Talking about Mama?" asked Peter, walking across the lawn towards us. He was followed by John, who smiled at me.

"Lily, when I first told her about my marriage to Helene..." Join trailed off. "She was most upset at me because Helene was a maid. But she eventually warmed to Helene, but Helene was so dear--who could not have warmed to her?" A wistful look came into his eyes, and then he turned to the matter at hand. "Don't worry, Lily, she will soon be used to Herbert."

"Shall we go in?"

"Yes, let's go or the tea will be cold."

I was escorted by John and gallant little Freddy to the sitting room.

"Even though Mama can be determined when she decides who is and who is not an eligible husband, we all love her," said Peter, looking sternly at Lily, who blushed profusely.

"Of course, Peter, of course," she said quickly. "But she still hasn't found your perfect match yet, has she?"

"No, and thank goodness! I don't want to end up like Uncle Rupert and Aunt Hilda--their marriage wasn't a very happy one at all. Uncle Rupert married Hilda because his mother had wanted a lady in the house... he was five and thirty when he married her, and she was but seventeen," said Peter, pointing at a portrait of a grim-looking couple. "I had met them once, before Hilda's death, and he had been the most violent husband you could imagine. Hilda was sad until her death; she used to come to our house until Rupert Roberts forbade his wife ever to enter our threshold again. You see, Father had bought his dream home, and Rupert was terribly jealous."

"Yes, they were very sad," I reminisced. "I wish Miss Hilda was still around to calm Mr. Roberts down."

"Yes dearest, it would make living here much more easy," John said. "Did you hear he-"

"Shh, not in front of Fredrick!" Peter said, casting an anxious look at the sleeping boy. "Lily, take him to Fanny. She'll take care of him."

"Are you sure Fanny won't be too tired, Peter? Your housekeeper does do a lot..."

"No, Fanny enjoys Freddy as much as I do."

And with that, Lily and Freddy exited the room. Peter continued:

"Well, as I was saying, Uncle Rupert burnt down the small grain mill, since they didn't have enough for him to take home."

"And what happened to the miller and his workers?"

"Robert burnt his foot really bad. Harold lost his eye brows--he does look really comical now. And the miller was all right, except for a bruised ankle from Rupert's walking cane."

The horrors of what Mr. Rupert Roberts did always had an affect on Lady Kingsley, for he was her brother. She went into hysterics every time his antics were mentioned. At this moment, she proceeded to do so, and our attention was distracted from Peter's story for the time being.

An Interesting Talk

2010-07-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

It was mid-day, and I was in our garden, waiting for Leland.
"Miss Lizzy?" I heard him ask a housemaid.
"Waiting for you in the garden," the maid told him. I saw his hat and ran toward it.
"Lee, I'm here!"
Lee smiled and walked over. Bowing, he asked, "How are you today, Miss Lizzy?"
I played along, sweeping my best curtsy. "Very well. And you?"
Lee became silent. "Can we talk now, Lizzy?"
"Of course. There is table over there" -- I pointed -- "with tea. Come." I took his arm and we walked to the table.
After sitting down I poured us some tea.
"I don't know how to begin," Lee said playing nervously with his hat, "I-"
"You are in love with Liza." I interrupted him.
Lee looked up at me startled, "How...?" Then he got up suddenly, running his hands through his hair. "How did you know? Was it that obvious?"
I smiled, "I know you, Lee. I just guessed. It isn't that obvious -- I was not even positive myself until now."
"Well," Lee said as he sat back down again. "What do you think, Lizzy? Give me some of your wisdom."
"Ask her to marry you."
Lee looked up in surprise. "Really? Do you think I should?"
"Yes, Lee. I do."
Lee got up from his chair again, "Lizzy... I want to thank-"
"Go!" I got up and gave him a little push towards the house.
"Go?" He looked confused. I gave him a look.
"Oh! Go!" And he was off.

Johns Confession

2010-07-23T19:31:00.000-07:00

Days went by, and soon John was allowed to be walking. He found me on the balcony one evening, looking out at the stars.

"Beautiful night, isn't it?" he said.

"Yes, very beautiful," I answered, looking at him. His arm was in a sling, but other then that he looked as though he hadn't been shot.

"I must tell you somthing now before we marry." John spoke in a low voice.

"What is it?"

"Well, it's a long story, Rose. But tell you I must." He sat down on one of the sofas that were arranged on the balcony.

I followed his example and sat down on one, too.

"Well, I met Edward Hornburg two years ago, and we talked of many things; mainly politics and general statuses. Edward was very interested in you when I first talked to him." He began looking at me gently, and I noticed with surprise that there was a similarity in his face to a stranger I had bumped into on the street in London two years ago.

"You see, at your grandmother's house wasn't the first time I saw you..." He paused, then spoke quickly.

"Two years ago, on the twentieth of June, I was in London and bumped into you in the streets. I knocked some of your bundles off of the stack of bundles you were carrying, so I helped you take them to your hotel. The only name you gave me was Ivangelean Morgans, using your middle name as your first.

"Edward told me that you would be going to a French school. Thinking like an idiot, I left for France." He paused in his story. Seeing I wasn't moving from my spot, he continued:

"But I never found you. Instead, I found a young girl named Helene; she was very beautiful and won my heart. I married her and bought a small house in Paris, where we lived. She became pregnant, and, God forgive me, I left for a business trip during her confinement. When I came back, I was told that my lovely wife had died, leaving me with an infant boy. His name was Frederick Jonathan Robert Kingsley. I was overcome with grief, but I made sure my son had everything he needed. I soon found Edward Hornburg was the brother to my dearest Helene, and so, since I had broken my poor wife's heart by leaving, I made it up to her by helping her brother with many things." He paused again, then spoke:

"Rose, I helped him marry Amae."

"You helped him...?" Words failed me

"Yes, I did." John buried his face in his good hand.

"John, it is alright," I said, rushing over to him.

"If I hadn't helped Edward, he never would have married Amae and caused trouble to you." He said. He removed his hand from his face. Tears rested in his eyes.

"John, you can't change the past, so there's no use in worrying over it. We all do something we regret but God chose for these things to happen, and He has a plan. And part of His plan was for you to bump into me on the street."

John looked at me hopefully.

"Where is your son now?" I asked, changing the subject that was so painful to him.

"Here in England, at my brother in-law's. He will be coming to meet you soon."

Our conversation lightened a bit.

When the clock struck ten o' clock, I said good night and made my way back to my rooms.

"John has a son... well, I must get to know him... he must be only one and a half... oh, the poor little dear..." I thought as I fell asleep....

That night in bed

2010-07-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

The ball ended, and I was a little overwhelmed with all that had happened. Aunt Georgie stood by the door bidding the gusts goodnight. Lee rushed over and took my hand, "Lizzy I must talk to you!"
"I know." I answered, taking my hand from his grip.
"When? It must be soon, I can not bear-"
"I know," I interrupted, "Tomorrow in the garden."
"Thank you!" He said, his eyes gleaming with gratitude, and with that he bounded away.

I fell into my wonderful bed exhausted. I lay there for a moment in my night dress looking up at the ceiling, thinking on the day.
"Lizzy?" I heard a whisper.
"Yes Liza?"
"Can I talk to you?"
"Of course.'' Liza got out of her bed and came to mine, laying next to me, looking up, she sighed.
"Roll over and I'll rub your back." I offered. She did so.
"What is on your mind?" I asked her gently.
"Lee!" She groaned.
I gave a small laugh.
"It's not something to laugh over, Lizzy!" She said.
I smothered a smile, "Yes, I'm sorry."
"How beastly I was tonight," she said violently, "And yet, how could he? Lee can be so thoughtless sometimes. How could he?"
"How could he make you fall in love with him?" I asked her.
Liza shot up, grabbing my shoulders she asked, "How did you know?"
"I know you, Liza."
"Do you think he knows?"
"No." She fell back down and gave another sigh.
"What do I do?" She moaned.
"Nothing, you wait." I answered.
"But its so hard!"
"I know, but you will live." Liza sat up and gave me a hug, "I love you, little sister!"
Hugging her back I said, "I love you, too."
And we went to bed.

John is Rescued.

2010-07-09T11:38:00.001-07:00

I could not Do anything else Johns face was so pale ,I thought He was going to die any minute.

"Miss Rose? Miss Rose were are you ?" Came the voice of my father's Hired hand Micheal.

"Micheal Im over here Help me " I sobbed.

I heard him running when he saw John he looked shocked.

"Jumping! Jack-Pipes" He exclaimed, as he Helped me get John to his feet . We Tried to keep him as Still as possible.

"Rose..." Whispered John ,his face Contorted with Pain.

"It's going to be alright " I said, Soothingly.

When we reached the front Porch I found Papa waiting for me.

"Rose! Dear God what is wrong with John? " said Papa, coming down to help Micheal.

"He been Shot ..By..by Edward Hornburg " I answered.

When we got him inside. and onto the Guest quarters bed. Father went to Call for the Doctor.

"Rose ... I'm Sorry "Whispered John

"John what do you mean ?"I asked ,Kneeling beside him.

"That..I Didn't ..Mean to.." He struggled with the Words, I felt Tears coming to my eyes.

"Mean what ?" I exclaimed ,Sobbing into my hands.

He reached out his uninjured hand and stroked my hair ,whispering words that I Could not catch . Just then the Doctor Burst in he forced me out of the Room.

My father along with Betsy were sitting in the two Chairs outside the Door.

"Rose sit down " Pleaded my Papa standing up.

"No I must Wright to Eva and Lizzy " I said Firmly and I ran up the Stairs I passed my mothers Room then arrived at mine, I sat down at my writing Desk then got out Five pieces of Paper and wrote two Eva and then to Lizzy using almost the Same words.

Dear Eva
I must tell you John has been shot by Edward Hornburg.
this Letter must be short for I have to Wright also to Lizzy
I am fine but Johns life could be In danger if his Wound gets
infected. John Apologized but He didn't tell me Why I am Troubled
by this.

Sincerely Rose

Home at last.

2010-07-06T12:35:00.000-07:00

The Ball was splendid but I was glad when I was home .
My mother was no longer Sick so I could be at East End once more oh how Lovely everything seemed to be the Garden was as I always remembered with a Small duck pond that reflected me and my Dark Brown hair .

"Rosie ! oh how good it is to have you home!" Exclaimed Mama when I entered she was still confined to her bedroom just in Case of losing the use of her Legs.

"Hello Mama " I said coming over to her Bed and giving her a hug.

"Well Please sit Rose " she seemed like she always was full of Wisdom.

"Oh Mama it is good to be Home " I said fiddling with one of my Curls that had come out of the French twists Fanny had arranged.

"Now what is that on your finger My little woman "

"Mama I am Engaged to John Kingsley " I said holding out my hand to my Mama who Beamed at me.

"Sir Georges son ?"

"Yes"

"Oh Rose ! this is Wonderful I must tell Betsy go ring the Bell for her then go downstairs and get Jenny up to my room ." my Mama made a big deal of it so I obeyed her and rang the bell for Betsy .

and slid down the Banister an old habit of mine .

"Rose don't let anyone see that " Came the cheery Voice of my Papa his spectacles on along with a Purple waist coat and a green robe making him look Odd but sophisticated.

"yes Papa" I said heading down to the Servant Quarter's.

"Jenny Mama wants you " I called to the Old maid her white hair done in a tight bun under her Cap.

Jenny bustled out of the room leaving her two helpers Brigitta and Josephine to do the Beds.

I headed out of the House into the Fields that Separated Grand mamas Mansion and our Manor house I wasn't surprised to Find John there gazing at the Woods.

"Hello Dearest " He said gently.

His Eyes were gazing across the Field as though it would tell him something.

"what is it ?" I asked

"A while ago I heard someone Maybe I was Imagining it but I don't know"

just then I heard a twig snap and I grabbed onto John . I could hear Footsteps but I couldn't see anyone.

"YOU HAVE RUINED MY LIFE " Screamed the voice of Edward Hornburg

I heard the sound of a Gun being loaded Edward Hornburg emerged from the Tall Grass.

"You have ruined Me my wife has Left me her dowry was the only thing that could save me from becoming Bankrupt" He pointed the gun at me .

"Oh God protect me " I thought .

He pulled the Trigger John threw himself in front of me and fell Blood gushed from his side Edward Hornburg Ran dropping the gun.

"Rose I..." John was becoming Weak I couldn't move him I knelt beside him sobbing.

"John please don't Die " I said between Sobs .

"The ...bullet... is lodged...in my left ..arm." He whispered struggling to cover the wound .

I took hold of the bottom of my Petticoat and ripped it out and stemmed the Blood flow by tieing it around his arm. his face was completely Pale I didn't know what to do...

All is Revealed ~ Part 2

2010-07-06T06:10:00.000-07:00

The next morning I awoke to find myself in my bed at our townhouse. I could hear the carts clattering down the street and the whistle of the wind 'round the house. Suddenly, I sat up straight in my bed, recalling the events of the previous evening. I wondered how my little sister was doing this morning, and at that moment I decided to check on her. Rolling over in my bed, I turned to face her. Maria's face was pale and streaked with tears. Her lashes gently brushed her cheek as she opened her eyes and glanced over at my bed. "Oh, good morning, Eva," she said sheepishly, finding me to be awake.

I got up from my bed and walked over to hers. Sitting on the edge, I pulled Maria into my arms and stroked her tangled curls.

"Dearest," I began. "Do you think you could let me know what has been troubling you?"

Maria sighed in consent, then began:

"When I met Mr. Smith at that ball last winter, I found him to be a most gentlemanly person, very polite and obliging. I got it into my head that I loved him and that he was in love with me. What I took to be love, he only intended as politeness, and now I see it was no more than that. But, at the time, I was not to be brought down from my dream. I was in love — what could be more splendid?

"Well, when I learned he was to be in London, I persisted constantly that we should go as well. Aunt Georgiana's wedding was the perfect excuse. You know Papa saw right through me, but he consented anyway, to please me and Mama.

"Even before we left, I started sending the letters. Letting him know I was here, wondering if he could come see me, things like that. I am ashamed to admit that I got more "romantic" with each letter. It embarrasses me to recall what I wrote in those foolish notes," and at that, Maria pressed her hand to her forehead despairingly. She then continued. "But the only thing that troubled me slightly is that I never once received a reply.

"The night of the Darcys' ball, I knew I had to be there to see Leland. So, with no thought of proper manners or propriety, I showed my great enthusiasm at seeing him. And... well, you know the rest." Maria concluded her story with a sad glance up at my face, as if to ask if I meant to scold her. I could not find it in my heart to scold her at this moment, so I simply continued to stroke her hair.

After about five minutes had passed, I looked down at Maria. Her face was slightly distraught, as if she feared to tell me something.

"What is the matter, Maria?" I asked gently.

"Well... I don't want this to end in the same fashion as... well, the situation with Mr. Smith, but... Eva, tell me right now if you think it is wrong of me to enjoy Pierre De Johns company?"

"Maria," I began. "From what I know of Mr. De Johns, he seems to be a most respectable gentleman. I find no fault with him. But..." I said in a warning tone, "take care not to assume that he loves you or cares for you more than he has expressed."

"Oh, I won't, Eva!" Maria said quickly. "It is just a friendship. I do not desire to be married, ever. I think I shall die an old maid."

Her reply brought on a fit of giggles in both of us, which sent Mama scurrying down the hall to our door.

"Girls, girls, is something the matter?" she asked with alarm.

"Oh no, Mama," Maria said, smiling up at me. "Everything is just splendid!"

Enough Excitement to Last a Lifetime - Part 2

2010-07-05T06:48:00.000-07:00

"Liza?"
I knew my cousin was somewhere upstairs, but I couldn't find her. I also knew that the episode between Maria and Leland had considerably ruffled her emotions. Then I heard a sniffle and muffled sob and found her huddle in a chair in one of the bedrooms.
"Oh, Liza." I put my arms around her. "Why are you crying?"

"I don't know!" Liza sniffles.

"Is it about Lee?" I asked gently. I had just spoken to Lizzy, and she had filled me in on all the excitement that had been going on while I had visiting with James and my siblings.

Liza turned her head to look at me, and I could see in her eyes what the problem was.

"I know I hurt him. How could I speak to him like that? I knew it wasn't his fault. I was feeling so....." She paused. "I just didn't realize until then how much....how much he meant...to me."

I smiled. "Leland is more than ready to forgive you if you ask. I'm sure you know that you mean alot to him. Come, wash your face , I'll help you fix your hair and outfit up again and then we'll go find Lee."

Liza's eyes began to glow and she pressed my hand gratefully. After she was feeling *mostly* herself again, we went downstairs.

"Wait here." I advised when we reached the private family parlor. "I'll find Leland and send him in." Liza gave me nervous, happy smile as I tripped away.

Lee was glaring moodily into the punch bowl. "Lee?" He turned slowly around.
"Oh, hello Bekah."

"Leland, there's someone who wants to see you. They're waiting in the parlor." A surprised, unguarded smile crossed his face. His eyes asked "Liza?" and my smile answered his question. He bowed, kissed my hand and was off to the parlor as fast as he could walk, yet still being a gentleman and not running anyone over.

Amae rescued .

2010-07-04T18:28:00.000-07:00

Amae wanted to stay next to me but I stopped her.

"Amae you must have rest " I insisted and she went out onto a balcony and rested on a small Sofa.

I looked around and found Eva having some Punch I made my way through the Dancing Crowd to her.

"Eva I haven't been able to tell you since I have been busy but I must tell you " I said and I held out my hand that.

"Rosie your Engaged ! oh how wonderful " Exclaimed Eva .

"I know ! " I answered.

"To who ? "

"John Kinsley he looks very much like his brother except he has Red hair"

John was Talking to Lilian his sister her long Brown Curls were done in french Twists.

"Oh I must go and talk to Pierre he is Probably next to Maria "

"Next to Maria? " Asked Eva confused.

"He knows what shes going through " I answered

Eva just nodded so we made our way out of the Stuffy room into Lizzy's Room were Maria was .

"Do you think Leland might have liked me at some point? " asked Maria

"I bet he does like you but maybe you mistook his meaning " answered Pierre.

when we Entered Maria burst Into tears .

"Oh Eva I've been so Blind ! will you ever forgive me" exclaimed Maria between sobs.

"Oh Maria don't cry ! " Said Pierre gently .

"Maria of course I forgive you " answered Eva soothingly

Eva and I went to her Bedside and started Soothing her .

"thank you Mr.De Johns .. thank you " she whispered to Pierre as she fell back to sleep..

All Is Revealed ~ Part 1

2010-06-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

Edmond chased after Mr. Hornburg, catching his coattails.

"For shame!" he said to the quivering man. "Behaving so rudely to a woman and then, when you are found to be a scoundrel and a cheat, you try to run away! You are a spineless man who does not deserve to be called a gentleman!"

I jumped a little and shivered. This was a side of Edmond that I had never seen before.

Just then, Rosie ran to us. I quickly explained the situation to her, quaking as I described Mr. Hornburg's behavior. She put her hand in mine and squeezed it, soothing me. Then suddenly, she dashed back into the crowd, returning with a man whom she introduced as Mr. Pierre De Johns, the elder brother of Amae. I nodded my head towards Mr. De Johns, but I was much too distressed to curtsy and introduce myself.

Rosie began addressing Mr. Hornburg, her voice soft and sweet, though the words she spoke were fiery with their hatred. Mr. De Johns seemed ready to let out a laugh; he glanced at Rosie several times, a smile on his face as if he found her speech comical.

Mr. Hornburg, however, did not seem to be enjoying Rosie's tirade. He sneered at me, then Rosie, then Edmond, then back at me. Then his eyes seemed to catch something in the distance, and he looked past us, over my head, with a triumphant smile on his face. I turned and saw Amae herself hurrying towards us.

"Pierre? Rose? What are you doing to my husband?" Amae choked out her question through her tears, and her words were barely louder than a whisper.

"Amae, don't cry," Mr. Hornburg started to say, his voice barely disguising his disgust.

"Amae, don't go to him. He is a liar and a cheat." Rosie spoke with authority. Amae's eyes were now drawn to her face, and then to Pierre's. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Mr. Hornburg trying to slip away.

"Edward, what are you doing?"asked Amae. Mr. Hornburg turned, startled, and then, sighing with a look of defeat, allowed himself to be lead out of the room by Pierre.

I realized that I had never once danced during this whole ball. It had all been very frustrating and emotional, what with Maria fainting and Rosie's revelation about Mr. Hornburg and then Mr. Hornburg trying to fool me into thinking he was Edmond... I glanced at the clock on the wall and realized that it was just now nine o' clock. This evening had seemed to last so long, and yet it was now barely begun. Thinking of Edmond, I turned towards him. A smile was on his face.

"Would you care to dance, Miss Wickham?"

"I would be delighted, Mr. Kingsley."

And we whirled away into the other swirling dancers, no longer outsiders, but now apart of them. And soon, I forgot about the troubles and trials we had experienced before, only that it was all over now and that I was dancing with the man I loved.

The Betrayer is Betrayed

2010-06-28T12:14:00.001-07:00

I knew I would have to meet Edward Hornburg eventually this was my chance He was looking wounded and Angry though .

"why does he Look Angry " I thought. "I must find Pierre He will help me " was my final conclusion. looking around I found Eva her cheeks were Tear stained the Gentle-man with her looked like John minus the Red hair.

"Eva? what is wrong? " I asked Going over to her.

"you were right Rosie Edward Hornburg is a Tyrant and a Betrayer he pretended to be Ed.. I mean Mr.Kingsley " Eva looked nervous as she told me

"I must find Pierre" I whispered.

I searched the crowed and found him Looking regretful I Made mt way over to him .

"Pierre I found the man who convinced Amae to elope " I said in a hushed voice.

his face imediatly changed to Expetancy.

"Were is he? " said Pierre looking around. I beckoned him to follow me Edward Hornburg looked at me with distaste.

"So its you ? " he sneered at me.

"Yes I must tell you that if you lay your hands on any of my Cousins ,Relatives and Friends I will hunt you down and I will not be so Forgiving as I am about to be " I said Lightly as though this was perfectly wonderfull.
Pierre looked at me and gave me a big smile.

"And if you Tuch my Little Sister Again you will as you are now Face the law and be in jail " Said Pierre.

"Pierre ? Rose ? vat are vou doing to my 'Usband? " I turned to see Amae her eyes full of tears.

"Amae don't cry " Said Mr.Hornburg pretending to be Tender but I saw a Flicker of hate in his Eyes.

``Amae dont go to him he is a Liar and a cheat `` I pleaded . Amae looked at Edward then at me then at Pierre and back again.

`Edvard Vat are vou doing ` asked Amae looking at him he was trying to sneak out of the room.

Pierre led him out of the room and came back and said to me `` May I ask who the girl who fainted was ``.

``Maria she is my cousin now don`t you get any idea`s yet `` I said his face broke into a smile .

``you are just like another sister Rosie `` ..

Heartbreak Comes Quickly ~ Part 3

2010-06-28T11:39:00.000-07:00

Rosie then went on to reveal that she had met Edward Hornburg before, during the period of time that she had attended a boarding school in Paris. I listened in shock as she related how both she and Amae had witnessed his angry shouting at a young girl in the school's courtyard. The scene she described sounded shockingly similar to Amae's situation: the gentleman makes the young lady fall in love, persuades her to elope, and then steals her dowery and is never heard of again.

"But this cannot be true!" I gasped. "Surely he has changed-"

"Evelyn, he has not changed," Rosie insisted. "How can you even consider that when you see how he looks at her? Not with love at all - no, rather like she is something to be bought and sold. It's awful, awful." And with that Rosie sank down to the ground with a despairing face. I was going to stroke her hair in an attempt to sooth her, but I saw a young red-headed gentleman approaching us with a hopeful look on his face. Rosie looked up and I saw her smile shyly. With one more glance in her direction, I left the room with a mysterious smile on my face.

"Miss Wickham!" I heard Edmond's voice call me. I whirled around and saw him with his arms stretched out towards me. "Do you care to dance?"

I felt a strange prick on my conscience that I ought to refuse, but I saw no way out. Walking slowly towards him, I took his hand gingerly, keeping at least a foot between us.

"You seem a bit pensive, Miss Wickham," Edmond observed as we twirled.

"Sir, I find you changed."

"I know not why you should feel so."

"Well..." I looked up at him, searching for words. I noticed that his eyes were green. That's odd, I thought. I was sure they were brown. And how would he know my last name?

"Did you like the flowers I sent?"

"Yes - and the note was very nice. But sir..."

"What is it, Miss Wickam?" he asked, curious.

"Sir, it is not at all proper that you should behave so. I am but eighteen!"

"I see no harm. You love me. I love you. Why should we not express our emotions?"

"But, sir-" I paused as I realized what he had just said. "Sir, when did I ever tell you that I loved you?"

"Of course you did not put it that clearly, but I know what you feel." He smiled, but something in his smile was off. An edge of menace was there - slight, but clear. And then he reached down towards my face, in an attempt to stroke my cheek. I stepped back once more, an expression of disgust on my face. This did not seem like Edmond, at least not the Edmond I had met. I spoke once more.

"Your eyes are green," I began, listing each fact. "You behave with much less decorum. You display a tendency towards an improper display of affection. And how do you know my name? I only told you my first name, yet all you have called me this evening was Miss Wickham! I do not know who you are, but I know that you are not Mr. Kingsley! Shame on you!" And with that, the fury of my anger burnt out and I burst into tears, much to my chagrin.

"Edward Hornburg," I heard a voice behind us speak in a deep tone. Whirling 'round, I beheld Edmond, the real Edmond Kingsley. Without a thought to proper decorum, I flung myself into his arms.

"Evelyn, what is wrong?" he said, pulling me away and looking at my tear-stained cheeks.

"This gentleman has been trying to fool me into thinking he was you, Ed - I mean to say, Mr. Kingsley."

"I can see that," he said in a stern voice, staring at the other man who must have been Edward Hornburg. The smirk on Edward's face was gone, replaced with an expression of fear.

Edward glanced warily at Edmond once more, then back to me, and then, before I had time to blink, dashed off and disappeared into the sea of dancers.

Pierre's Rage

2010-06-20T08:50:00.000-07:00

I walked out of the Room and looked around John was in Conversation with his sister Lilian who was Beaming at him, Eva was by her mother I couldn't See Lizzy and Amae her Eyes still red from our Argument was With her Husband then I found another Familiar Face Pierre making his way over to me.

"Rose ! how are you ?" Said Pierre shaking my hand though he looked as though he would have liked to hug me.

"Hello Mr.De Johns I am very well " I said

"Rose I thought we agreed to call each other by our Given Names "

"that was before I got Engaged Sir " I felt odd His eyes grew Wild Anger dwelt in them.

"you are Engaged ? " He said trying to control his temper.

"Yes" I answered Hoping John would come over to my rescue.

"Then Miss Morgans Will you do me the Honor of Taking a walk outside "

"But Sir Its pouring rain " My heart was beating wildly "John Help me " I thought I looked in his Direction he had spotted us and was making his way over.

"Well you didn't seem to mind when you went with that Mr.Kingsley " He Hissed

John was Half-way across the Room in a couple more minutes he would be there.

"That was because I was..." My voice Trailed away.

"Sir Leave Her alone " Said John In Stern Tones.

"Oh so This is him ? Miss Morgans I thought you would do Better then Get married to Mr John William Kingsley First son of Sir George Kingsley why he is A....... pompous man who has Everything he wants" Pierre's Word were Daggers each piercing my heart.

He left the Room with as much Dignity he Could muster.

"Rose did he hurt you? " Asked John His face Full of Concern.

"Only my heart but I know you can fix that " I said Quietly.

John Gently Kissed my Forhead .

"Well I know one thing " He said "I'd be lost without you ".

John Kingsley's proposal

2010-06-17T14:29:00.000-07:00

John Ushered me to the middle of the dance floor He Looked at me and Smiled I gave him a small smile back

"Miss Morgans I really must Talk to you about This Mr.De Johns Character " He said as we started dancing.

"Oh Really ? " I Asked My Temper rising a bit.

"He is not a suitable Companion for you "

"Why not? he is my Best Friends Brother I know him to be suitable " I Answered Blushing to a Bright Red.

"Rose you Cannot Marry him I will not allow it" He Said looking at me Tenderly.

"Sir I am not Engaged to him " I said Quietly.

"I Know you are not but the way you Look at him ! " . the dance Ended I Headed outside Eva Glanced in my Direction as I Left but didn't move towards me. It was Raining but I didn't care

"Rose Please! Rose Don't go " Called John as I started running.

The Gravel Crunched beneath my feet as I Ran I could hear John Running behind me .
in a Minute he grabbed my hand.

"Please ..Don't go" He said his face searching mine " I have Been trying to ask you since we met but I never could Ever since I saw your face I couldn't stop thinking of you I ask you now putting aside all of My Fathers Pride " He drew breath I was Afraid He wouldn't Continue.

"Will you be my Wife ? ". I looked at him his Red hair was drenched rain falling down on us.
My Heart Was Beating faster As I Said "Yes". I couldn't see anything before Me except a future with him This was Why I had thought about him more then Pierre.
John Slipped a Ring on my Finger and Kissed my cheek.

"You have made me the most happy man on earth Rose" He Said Beaming at me.

When we reentered the Ballroom heads turned to us in our Drenched clothing but I didn't care I was So Happy My Grand Mama rushed forward and took me out of the room.

"Why are you Wet Rose" Said my Grand Mama rapping a blanket around me.

"Becuase I was Standing in the Rain " I answered .

"What is that On your finger ? "

"Grand Mama I am Engaged to Marry John " I said gently. her face Transformed from Worried to Joyful.

"Oh God Bless you Dear Girl I knew you and John would be together!".

Our dance part 2

2010-06-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

The music started, it was a slow waltz. Needless to say I was not happy about that.
Mr. Gould struck up a conversation, "You do not seem happy to see me."
"I don't see why I should." I said with defiances.
'Most girls are happy to receive a proposal." He said giving me a sly look.
"From gentlemen, yes." I retorted.
We turned and he caught my waist, looking into my eyes he asked, "I am not a gentleman?"
We twirled and went back to the starting position, "No, you are not." I said, a cold look creeping onto my faced.
Mr. Gould seemed to pale, "Why do you think that?"
"Because of the way you behaved when you asked for my hand, I never saw more ungentlemanly behavior."
"Do you favorer someone else?" He asked, his face turning red now.
I blushed as we twirled, "No."
A cruel look came to his face, 'Are you sure? Perhaps young Mr. Smith?"
I was tired of this talk, I blushed hotter at his comment, breathing heavily I knew my temper was rising, but the music did not stop.
"No!" I said between my teeth.
"Are angry Miss Darcy?" He was really going to far now. The music stopped, and moved as to go, but he caught my hand firmly. "Miss Darcy, your not going anywhere." He said.
"Mr. Gould I beg you to let me go!" Tears gathering in my eyes as I tried to struggle form his grip.
'Let go of her sir." A strong male voice said. His hand fell away but he did not move, "Sir, leave me alone."
"Go away." the voice said, and to my surprise Mr. Gould left. I looked up, my hear beating fast, I knew the voice.
"Come with me Miss Darcey." Captain Milton said gently holding out his arm, I took it.
He led me to Lee, who was standing with his father.
"What happened Lizzy?" Lee asked alarmed.
"Just give her some air, and suggest you ask Mr. Gould to leave." Captain Milton said and prepared to leave.
"Thank you!' I said, finding my breath again. He smiled and left.

Our Dance part 1

2010-06-17T07:59:00.000-07:00

As Lee was called away, I went to see how Maria fared in my room. When I got there Eva and Rosie were giving her water and covering her with a light shawl. I walked over and smiled gently at Maria,
"How are you?" She sniffed and wipped her eyes,but said nothing. Eva looked apologetic, I squeezed her shoulder.
"Rest as long as you want dear." I said giving Maria a kiss on the forehead. "Let me stay here and you go down and dance." I said to Eva.
"No-" She began but I cut her off, 'Please Eva, it will be fine."
She got up and together she and Rosie went back down to ball room. It was not very long before Maria cried herself to sleep so I also went back down.
I entered the room, Rosie and Liza were dancing and I could not see Eva, nor Lee. I sat down next to Aunt Geogie, and we started up a lively conversation on the dancing.
Then put of the corner of my eye I saw Mr. Gould coming towards me. I tried to apper absorbed in conversation, but he came over and asked me to dance.
I had no choise but to accsept him, and so I went put to the floor and preparied to dance with Mr. Gould.

My suspsion

2010-06-17T07:52:00.001-07:00

I had not yet come down the stairs when I heard the noise of people rushing up the stairs. I ran and opened the door to see Liza and my cousin Eva coming up the stairs. Behind them was Mr. Gould, I saw with alarm he was carring my other cousin Mari. She appered to have fainted, but was reviving. I ran to Liza's side,
"What happened?" I asked.
"Maria has fainted, she apparently was in love with Lee, and he was not. She took him to seriously."
They hurried to my room to Maria in bed, but I stood a wild thought running through my head. I turned and fled down the stairs, I heard Mr. Gould call my name but I didn't listen.
Once in the ball room I sought out Lee, I asked Aunt Georgie but she said she had not seen him since Maria fainted.
Then I caught sight of him on the balcony, resting on the railing.
"Lee?" I called. He turned looking alarmed, then seeing it was only me he half smiled.
"Well Lizzy, come to lecture me?" he asked teasingly.
I walked over pity on my face, I touched his arm gently, "No Lee, I've come to talk to you."
"About Maria?" He asked bitterly.
"No..Yes in a way."
Lee started to say something but I shoock my head, "Lee, I do not blame you!"
He sighed and gave me a look of gratitude, "Thank you Lizzy, I could not bare it if you too were angry at me."
"Liza?' I asked. He nodded glumly, "I do not know what she more angery with, Maria fainting, or me "leading" her to this point. Which I did not!"
"I know that Lee. Maria has always been this way, there would be a time when she would learn that not every man is in love with her."
Lee half smiled again, he put his arm about my shoulders, "My dear little Lizzy, your just like another sister to me. You know me so well." And then he gave me a queer look, "Lizzy, do you know what's been on my mind for a long time?"
I was about to answer when Aunt Georgie called us to start the dancing.

Heartbreak Comes Quickly ~ Part 2

2010-06-17T07:52:00.000-07:00

Mama gasped as Maria fell, all the color having left her face. Seemingly out of nowhere, two girls appeared to come to our assistance. I recognized cousin Rosie, my Aunt Mary's only daughter, but the other girl was unfamiliar. She had large blue eyes and pale blonde hair.

"We must get her air," the unknown girl said to me, in a French accent. I nodded quickly, and helped her and Rosie support Maria's head. We lifted her to a couch out on the terrace balcony, from which we could still see the swirling dancers. I turned my head towards Rosie's French friend, wondering what her name might be. The girl was nervously twisting her hands in her lap, glancing nervously from Maria's ashen face on the pillow to Rosie's face.

"Eva..." Maria whispered hoarsely.

"I'm here, Maria," I answered.

To the others, I said, "We must move her to a bed. I am sure Lizzy will not mind us putting Maria in her room." Rosie nodded, glancing once more at Maria. "But none of us are strong enough to carry her!" I said despairingly. "Who can help lift her?"

"I would be honored to be of service, madam," a gentleman said. I whirled and looked up at a man I instantly knew to be Mr. Gould, the man cousin Lizzy seemed to admire very much a while ago, but now despised for some unknown reason. Her letters had given me a little insight as to his looks, and this gentleman matched the description exactly.

"Yes, thank you, sir! She just fainted - lack of air, I think, a case of too many people in one room-"

"I can lift her to a bed," the gentleman said.

"Maria," I whispered to my sister. "This kind gentleman is going to take you upstairs, dear. I think you should lie down."

She nodded weakly and made no protests when he lifted her into his arms.

Cousin Lizzy met us on the stairs, a look of alarm on her face when she took in my sister, pale and sickly-looking, in Mr. Gould's arms.

"What happened?" She asked.

"Maria fainted. She apparently was in love with Lee and he was not in love with her. She took his actions too seriously."

We took Maria to Lizzy's bed, where she seemed to be reviving. I left her there in the care of Mama and a very trusty maid of my aunt's. Mr. Gould had bowed, introduced himself, expressed his wishes as to her speedy recovery, and then rejoined the party. Lizzy had also come in and convinced me to rejoin the dancers. I gave her a grateful smile and left. But I did not intend to dance... not right away, at least.

I looked for Rosie on the stairs, but I could not find her. Locating her among the many people in the ballroom would be impossible. That's when I heard a small whisper. I recognized the sound of the French girl's soft voice.

"It ees not possible, Rosie," she said. "And I do not want to leave him. I love him!" Her voice sounded like it was about to break.

"Amae," I heard Rosie say gently. "I am not forcing you to end your marriage. It is just that you are so young..." Her voice trailed off.

"I will be eighteen next summer," Amae said stoutly. "Zat ees old enough, is it not?"

"Yes, but this Mr. Hornburg does not seem to be the most admirable of gentlemen, convincing you to elope..."

"He is ze finest, Rosie! Ze best! You leave me alone!" I heard Amae sobbing as she ran away.

I went softly down the stairs. Rosie was sitting underneath the staircase, looking pale and worried.

"What is wrong, Rosie?" I asked.

She seemed about to turn, but changing her mind, faced me. Her cheeks were stained with tears.

"Amae... Amae eloped with a man by the name of Edward Hornburg. We just learned of this a few days ago. Her father is searching for her."

My face went blank with shock. "But she seems such a nice girl! How could she-"

"She is nice, Eva!" Rosie was quick to defend her friend. "It is just... well, I think this gentleman is very affective in persuasion. She seemed absolutely swept off her feet in love with him, and she will not listen to reason!"

"She is married to this man?"

"Yes."

"Then what is wrong? Is not that enough to help repair her honor?"

"Evelyn, listen! He is not a man to be desired! I know this Edward Hornburg!"

My face went pale.

The Ball

2010-06-17T07:51:00.000-07:00

I stepped out of the Carriage looking at the grand house I heard Grand Mama say "Oh look at it The Nephew of Lady De Burgh lives in this house no more then your Uncle Dear Rose "

I heard her fiddle with her Dress trying to make it more grand then it was . My heart was beating in my throat as I entered Music was being played Dancers and their Partner My Grand Mama the Lady Dyrimple looked as though she was Seventeen like me.

"Oh Rose look over there it is my Nephew Edmond Kingsley Oh how well he looks Handsome to not like John at all John Inherated his mothers hair but Edmond looks like my Brother Very much Oh how good his Sister Lilian" My Grandmother Bustled over to a Handsome young man.

"Rose ma Chere how are vou ?" Came a voice behind me

"Amae? Amae !!! you're Papa and Brother have been looking all over London for you! Where have you been ?" I said Looking at Amae

"Rose I have veen vis my 'usband Edward Hornburg " Said Amae Gently

"Your Husband ? Amae you Married that man who took you away.." Words failed me

"Rose my fazer Vouldnt let me Marry him and ve loved each other very much Don't be Prejudice against me Rose I followed ...." We stopped talking because we heard A girl Exclaim "Leland !"

I found the girl who spoke next to a Woman who looked very much like my Aunt Lydia my mother showed me when I was sixteen.

"Leland " she said Again loudly.

Leland Smith turned around he Obviously wasn't very happy to see her the look on his face My heart went out to her . The girl Rushed over to him.

"Oh Lee its wonderful to see you - did you never get my letters? -I was so worried-why Leland what on Earth is the matter? "

He had withdrawn from the Embrace she had given to him Amae looked at Leland as though she wanted to rush over and tell him something very bold.

"Miss Wickham " he said stiffly so stiff he Reminded me of the first time I met Pierre "I never Encouraged any of this Behavior were did you get the idea I loved you? when did I ever give you reason to think that"

Amae looked at Leland with Disgust and great disdain .

The girl stepped back "But- but the Party-"

"I don't believe I was anything more than polite to you, Miss Wickham. I intended only courteousness, but I see you took more from my actions than I intended. I do not see how bringing you a towel when you spilled punch on your dress is love-" He stopped. "I am sorry, Madam. If you will excuse me." He bowed and walked away towards the Darcy's.

The girl shuddered then she collapsed a another girl rushed to help her.
Amae and I Also ran to help the girl .

"We must get her Air " said Amae to the other girl Who nodded we supported her out onto the balcony and gently set her down on a small sofa

"Eva.." Whispered the girl gently

"Im here Maria " Said Eva.

Heartbreak Comes Quickly ~ Part 1

2010-06-17T07:50:00.001-07:00

I stepped quickly out of the carriage, turning to offer my hand to Maria to help her out of the vehicle as well. We had arrived at the Darcy's. Papa was standing as though he was strict and stern, but I knew he was pleased to be invited. Much had happened in the many years that had passed since Papa had attempted to elope with Aunt Georgie. Papa himself seemed to have changed; he was kinder and more generous. Uncle Darcy had cautiously invited him to this ball, in the hopes of renewing the friendship they had as boys. I smiled up at Papa, hoping that their camaraderie would be renewed this night.

Mama was beaming with pleasure that her daughters should be invited to such a fine ball, but she refused to admit that even a single piece of furniture was up to the standards of our home. "Tsk, tsk," she would complain. "This chair needs dusting," or "this sofa is entirely too fancy; quite spoils the sitting if one is always worried about ruining the furniture." Maria shot a sharp glance at Mama, her green eyes blazing. I knew that she did not want Mama to embarrass us even as much as I did. She pointedly brushed her gown and smoothed the ribbon in her hair. Nothing was to stop her from making her grand entrance tonight.

I too shook out my own gown, but not because I was worried about my entrance. I had overheard a conversation between a few gentlemen nearby, and I recognized one voice. The low voice of Mr. Kingsley rang back into my ears, and I blushed while trying to make myself look busy with my gown. Mama turned to me with a question in her eyes; I was not usually this awkward. I could tell that she was about to ask a question when I heard Maria scream.

"Leland!"

All heads turned to look in our direction. I blushed furiously at the attention, but I forced myself to look at Maria. Many emotions played across her face at this moment. Surprise, joy, anger, shock, disappointment, I counted off each one as it left her face. Surely she did not have any emotions left. But with a wild shriek, she tore herself from Mama's arms and flung herself into the swirling dancers.

"Leland!" she called once more.

And he turned. His face was surprised, but not particularly pleased. I could see him manfully hiding his disgust as Maria rushed at him.

"Oh, Lee, it's so wonderful to see you - did you never get my letters? - I was so worried - why, Leland, what on earth is wrong?"

Leland Smith withdrew from her embrace with a slight prying of Maria's arms.

"Miss Wickham," he said stiffly. "I never encouraged any of this behavior! Where would you get the idea that I -" he choked on the word - "loved you? When did I ever give you any reason to think that?"

Maria stepped back. In a shaky voice she said, "But - but, at that party-"

"I don't believe I was anything more than polite to you, Miss Wickham. I intended only courteousness, but I see you took more from my actions than I intended. I do not see how bringing you a towel when you spilled punch on your dress is love-" He stopped. "I am sorry, Madam. If you will excuse me." He bowed and walked away towards the Darcys.

It happened so quickly I barely had time to draw a breath. Maria shook, shuddered. Her face grew wild with pain. And then she collapsed.

Enough Excitement to Last a Lifetime - Part 1

2010-06-17T07:50:00.000-07:00

I heard the clock strike the hour, and I knew it was time to go downstairs for the ball. I turned once more in the mirror, looking for any flaw. I peered anxiously at my hair, then spun around as fast as I could and laughed at my own foolishness. Lizzy was still getting ready, but Liza had already gone downstairs. I loved the floaty feeling my dress gave me as I descended to the party below. I saw Leland and Liza already talking to the few guests that had already arrived, and as I glanced out the window, I saw my cousins' carriage pulling up the lane.
Feeling a little thirsty, I moved as elegantly as I could towards the dining room. The punch bowl was already out and filled and some little snacks had been set out. A young lady and two gentlemen were around the table drinking and laughing merrily. The younger gentleman turned around and I drew in my breath in surprise.

"Richard!" I cried.

"Rebekah!" He exclaimed. Forgetting for a moment the cup in his hand, he nearly spilled it as he ran over and gave me a big hug. The other gentleman grabbed it from him just in time and laughed heartily at my surprised.

"What are you doing here?" I asked, pretty much winded from the bear hug he'd given me. "I though you were back home!"

"I missed you too much, so I wrote James and he came and picked Margaret and me up in his carriage yesterday morning. We arrived late last night." That's when I recognized the young lady to be my sister Margaret and the other gentleman to be James. I thought I'd had enough excitement to last me a lifetime as I embraced Margaret and kissed her on both cheeks.

"You can't imagine how much I've missed you both!" I said, the tears standing in my eyes. "I've been lonely sometimes, missing my siblings."

"Have you enjoyed yourself?" Margaret asked, concerned.

"Oh, yes! But there's no place like home." I said with a sigh. Then I turned to James. "Thank you so much for bringing Meg and Dick here this evening."

"No problem. It was the least I could do." He replied with a gallant bow.

That comment struck me as strange, but I had no time to think about it because all of sudden a great commotion broke out in the front hall and we all hurried in to see.

Attending the Ball

2010-06-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

"My dear wife, I have some news for you, for all of you," announced Colonel Fitzwilliam at the breakfast table the next morning. "Though I am afraid that I shall be scolded when you hear what I have to say," he continued, looking gravely at his wife, though with a twinkle in his eye.

"Oh, I'm sure I could never scold you, my dear! But what is the news?" asked his wife. Anne and Catherine looked eagerly at their uncle,their mother and father subtly signaling to them to ask not questions.

"Well, my dear, I received an invitation to a ball, hosted by the Darcy's at their city house," he paused, as his wife exclaimed her delight, and Anne and Catherine tried to suppress their inquiries.

"When is it?" Mrs.Fitzwilliam asked almost as eagerly as Anne and her sister were looking their questions.
"Ah, you see, here is where I prepare to receive my scolding. It is tonight-I forgot to inform you earlier."

"Oh, my dear, that is bad, but not very bad. You see, I already refreshed my wardrobe and that of Anne's last week. So I am quite prepared. Prepared to prepare, that is. Thank you my dear, for remembering to tell us in decent timing before the actual event. Such old acquaintances as the Darcy's are! It shall be quite a grand event, I am sure. Will you be accompanying us, brother?" she asked, turning to Mr.Collins.

"Indeed, indeed, I should not have missed such an opportunity of seeing my cousin, or her husband and children. And I am , as Lady Catherine De Burgh most tactfully pointed out, when informing us of this position in London, most fond of balls and evening parties. Am I not, my dear?" He now turned to his wife,who was an interested listener.

"Oh, uh-yes, yes you are. Do you not remember that we first met at a ball? The ball at Netherfield, I believe it was. But, sister, brother, are we, my family and I, invited?" Mrs.Collins looked concerned.

"Yes, yes, sister do not concern yourself with invitation! I have already informed them that you are my guests, and unless you could be theirs also, I would not be attending." The Colonel smiled.

"Brother, you are too kind, indeed, I am astonished at your graciousness. Not because it is unexpected from you,' Mr.Collins said, with a sudden realization, "but because very few men would give up the pleasure of an evening's society." He finished with a slight bow.

"Well, my dears,"and Mrs.Fitzwilliam turned to her sister and nieces,"we must begin our preparations."

That evening, Anne stood before the full length mirror in the dressing room she shared with her sister. Carefully smoothing her dress, which was provided for through Lady Catherine De Burgh's generosity, she turned to face her sister.

"I wish you could come, Cathy!" she exclaimed softly, with a sigh."How shall I bear being a wallflower without you there to talk to? Though if you came, I dare say I would still be all alone, for you would not be without partner's." Anne sat down on a settee. Her sister laughed.

"There is no use in wishing, Anne. We know I cannot go, but I am not sorry, for balls sound like tedious affairs. In two or three years when I attend one, I am sure it will be worth it. But for now, I will console myself with the thought that they are troublesome and tiresome." Anne smiled, then rose as she heard her aunt calling her. Her sister walked down with her, to see her parents, aunt and uncle out, and to comfort the crying little ones by taking them to bed.

As the full carriage rolled along the cobblestone, Anne's anticipation rose. Having never been in society, except that of church and an occasional celebratory party, she was also anxious that she should behave well. While thinking of these things, an unexpected thought came into her head.

"We are to return home soon. I must not attach myself to any gentleman." She started when she thought of Mr.Hamlington. "I must not think of such things! I am too young, and I barely know him! Though brother does, and is in love with his sister. Will they be there? I wonder if I shall meet any of the Darcy or Bingley girls?They must be so accomplished! Mother will be glad to see Mrs.Elizabeth Darcy-I hope she may. Though uncle did say that some of the family were in town.We are here!"

Invitation to Pemberly

2010-06-10T12:59:00.001-07:00

I Entered the parlor and to my Surprise my Grand mama was In conversation with a man I had never set eye's on before.

"Good Evening Rose I was wondering where you were " Said Lady Dyrimple looking at me smiling

" I.. I was In the glade close to the woods" I answered my Glance going to the Gentleman

"Oh Rose This is John Kingsley from Plymouth son of Lord George Kingsley my Brother His Brother Edmond is in London" said my Grand mama.

" Nice to meet you Madam My Aunt has told me so much about you " He said with a stiff bow

"You have been invited to your Aunt Elizabeth's Ball And I dare say you shall go "

"but Grand mama I couldn't possibly leave Mama is sick "

"Tut tut I will have no Refusal you shall go to this ball " My Grand Mama's voice was firm and the look on her face I knew to well it was the same look that Convinced Papa to send me to France.

"Yes Grand mama " I answered Mr.Kingsly was watching this spectacle with Amusement I felt like flouncing from this room.

"You may go Dearest " Said Lady Dyrimple giving a flick of her wrist as dismissal.
I Left the room nearly bumping into Betsy and Jemima I ran down the hall way out into the yard

"Miss Morgans " Came the voice of Mr.Kingsley I had to turn around His Red hair reminded me of a doll I once had.

"Yes Mr.Kingsly?"

"I was wondering If you would do me the houner of Having Tea with me and my Sister ?"

"I would be Delighted " Though I added in my mind "Oh I wish I had something to do so I didn't have to go"

"Wonderful See you Tomorrow " He turned and headed back to the Mansion

My head spun Mixed feelings I asked myself "Do I love Pierre? or is it just Pity that makes me go to him ?" .

Miss Isabella Hamlington

2010-06-10T11:40:00.000-07:00

(previously)

"William, your uncle and I," began Mrs.Fitzwilliam, turning to her nephew at the dinner table the next evening, "have decided that, if it is agreeable to you, you must stay here until your parent's and sister's leave." She looked up into his face (he was decidedly taller than everyone except his uncle Fitzwilliam) with pleasant expectation of his delight.

"Well, um, aunt, that is most kind of you, but I think I must remain where I am- it is better to stay as close to my studying quarters." He looked down with unpleasant expectation of their disappointment.

"That is very wise," began Mr.Collins, beaming with pride at his son's dedication. His wife, on the other hand, was obviously disappointed, and Anne was on the point of exclaiming her protestations. Catherine was still and quiet. She feared her brother would always keep a distance.William looked at her questioningly.

"I understand," Colonel Fitzwilliam said in his usual agreeableness. "A young man must be dedicated to his work! Yes, indeed." They all smiled and nodded in agreement.

Later that day Anne and Catherine were busy at the piano,waiting for William to arrive after his study hours. Their parent's soon came in and listened to their playing. Some of their little cousins were about as well, amusing themselves with books and dolls.

"Mr.Hamlington and Miss Hamlington!" announced the doorman with a bang of the door. Anne blushed slightly-Catherine, noticing it, thought that her sister had been thinking too much about a certain person. Their aunt swiftly came in ushering the guests. Greetings were exchanged, and then Miss Isabella Hamlington took a seat close to Anne and Catherine.

"I am so pleased to meet you!" she exclaimed, looking from Catherine to Anne. "My brother seemed to be very impressed with you and your parent's." Isabella smiled sweetly.

"Thank you, your brother is very kind," Cathy replied."We did not know he had a sister until our brother, William Collins, mentioned it." Anne thought she saw Isabella blush faintly.

"Your brother is too kind. Yes, he and my cousin are good friends."

"I see," Anne said graciously, not wishing her to be uncomfortable."And your mother, I hope she is well?"

"Yes, thank you. We have a country seat, but my mother thought that the business of London would rouse her from her complaints."

"I hope it does," said Catherine kindly."We are returning to Hunsford at the end of the month."

"Ah, yes! You live in Lady Catherine De Burgh's parish, do you not? I think my brother mentioned it-yes, he said your father was very-enthusiastic about his Lady's generosity." Isabella looked down smiling. Catherine was not pleased with this last remark.

"Their are few people as grateful as my father," she said, looking down as well, but without a smile. Anne looked with surprise at her sister, and attempted to excuse her by saying,
"Lady Catherine is very kind to us. Are you acquainted with the Darcy family?"

"Yes! I am. Well, that is to say, I have heard of them, but have never been introduced. But, I think they are in town, that is, I think some of the family is. You see, Mr.Darcy's sister, Georgianna is to be married, and they are arranging her trousseau." Miss Hamlington looked proud of her knowledge of affairs.

Anne smiled with excitement. "How pleasant! I do hope we are able to see them. My mother and Mrs.Darcy were close friends-" At this moment, Mr.Collins came up to them hastily.

"My dears, did I hear the name of Darcy mentioned?" he inquired of Anne.

"Yes, you did father. Miss Hamlington was just informing us that some of the family are in town, preparing for Miss Georgianna's marriage."

"I see, I see. This is some news. Miss Hamlington, you will understand that Mr.Darcy is the nephew of the generous Lady Catherine De Burgh, upon whose beneficiary kindness my family and I depend. My dear sister in law Maria is married to Mr.Darcy's cousin as well, so we are quite closely connected," he concluded with benevolent smile.

"Indeed, that must be pleasant indeed," Isabella replied graciously. Mr.Collins walked away with a bow, and Isabella turned to Anne. "I had the impression that you had never met the Darcy's?"

"No, um, we have not. You see, we cannot often get away, and Mr.Darcy, when he does visit his aunt, it is usually briefly, and without his family."

"Yes," Catherine agreed."Though our parent's have met, the offspring has never, but we are quite anxious to. Are the Miss Darcy's very accomplished?"

"I must suppose they are, very. But they are not much talked of in London. They are more of rich country person's-they are not often in the city."

"I see," replied Anne and Catherine, nodding.

"Mr.William Collins!" announced the doorman, once again startling everyone in the room.

To be continued...

Rose is devastated

2010-06-04T13:35:00.000-07:00

Pierre's eyes were full of tears this was the first time I had seen his stony expresion he usaully wore crumble.

" My Father and I have tracked zem as var as London my father told me to ask you for more help Amae told you everyzing in her Vetters she must have told you about this man who persuaded her to Elope " He said as he Collapsed onto the ground.

In pity i knelt next to him and held his Trembling hands .

" Amae did say she liked someone " I said slowly Mr.De Johns looked at me hope shone in his eyes
" His name was Edward Hornburg she said he was tall handsome with blue eyes and black hair a firm chin but she only mentioned him twice "

"Miss Rose you have been a great help Merci Merci J'taime for you have told me some use full news "

My cheeks colored when he said "J'taime" I love you somthing only my mama ,Papa and Grand mama told me.

"Promise you will wright to me ?" I asked looking into his brown eye's

" I Promise Miss Rose " He answered with a swift bow

" Mr.De Johns to you I am just Rose"

"Ah Rose And to you I am Pierre" Bowing again he turned swiftly and left.
I leaned against the Oak and sighed.

"so many things to think about ".

Mama's sickness

2010-05-29T19:58:00.000-07:00

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

2010-05-29T15:08:00.000-07:00

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

2010-05-28T18:25:00.000-07:00

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)

2010-05-26T12:43:00.001-07:00

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

2010-05-26T12:16:00.001-07:00

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

2010-05-23T13:19:00.000-07:00

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

2010-05-22T20:12:00.000-07:00

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

2010-05-19T10:20:00.001-07:00

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

2010-05-17T11:28:00.000-07:00

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.

A Beautiful Morning

2010-05-13T12:33:00.000-07:00

"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

2010-05-12T19:27:00.000-07:00

(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

2010-05-12T17:39:00.000-07:00

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

2010-05-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

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)

2010-05-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

(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.

In the Parlor

2010-04-29T14:43:00.000-07:00

(Previously)

In one of the roomy and elegant parlors in the Fitzwilliam's house, Mr.Landish sat with a face full of placid yet sometimes enthusiastic smiles. Anne and Catherine sat on two chairs separated by a small table, on the other side of Mr.Landish. They appeared restless, but with extreme politeness, waited for their aunt to come down.

"I am so glad to find you ladies in," began Mr.Landish. "I did hear from your uncle that you were to be out today, but I thought I might find you back at this hour. Indeed, I am quiet satisfied with my success. You see, I was so pleased with our conversation when I last came, that I had to give myself the pleasure again, very soon," he continued, addressing both of them, but looking particularly at Catherine, who merely nodded and smiled slightly.

"Thank you for your compliments. Do you reside in London much longer, Mr.Landish, or are you returning to Devonshire soon?" inquired Catherine, in an attempt to distract him from her sister's expressions of impatience.

"Uh, yes, I do. In a fortnight, to be exact. And, uh, when do you ladies return to Hunsford?"

"We have no exact time, but we will not be here for more than 2 months, at all events. My father is here to take the place of another minister, here in a London church."

"Ah, yes, he told me so much himself. Well, I do hope that you," again looking attentively at her, " have a very enjoyable stay."

"I am sure we shall," she replied graciously, in her head adding "if you would leave us be!". Of course she was all smiles outwardly, and almost started from her placid politeness when her aunt softly entered in.

"Indeed, Mr.Landish, you must forgive me. I am afraid that my child will not nap without my being there with her till she falls asleep. I am sorry to have kept you waiting."

"Oh, no ma'am. It has been a pleasure with these young ladies to amuse me." Anne thought that the last thing they had been doing was amusing him, but kept silent. Her aunt was now engaged in full conversation with Mr.Landish, and her sister and she made their escape when her aunt engrossed him in viewing some engravings.

They almost ran through the hallway, their arms clasped together. Their parent's were not at home, and the maid told them that the gentleman was still in the parlor. Anne reached for the doorknob with her cold hand, her pale face assuming an expression almost as cold as Catherine's. She opened the door.
By a window on the left side of the bright room, stood a tall, manly figure, his back turned towards them. At the sound of the opening door, he turned, showing a handsome face, at that moment as pale as his sisters'.

to be continued....

My visit part 1

2010-04-28T18:06:00.000-07:00

The next morning I was a little late in waking. Lottie our maid brought me breakfast in bed, a treat for me! With a sigh and a smile I put away my book and ate a few more bites. Liza came up from a walk in the garden,

"Good morning Lizzy! How are you?"

I gave her smile, "I'm fine Liza."

Liza looked at me with a little frown, but said nothing.

"Lottie!" I called.

"Yes miss?" Lottie came in from Becka's room, which adjoined our room.

"Can you get out my warmest stockings?"

"Yes miss."

I walked to my closet and pulled out my dark Velvet red dress, holding it for Liza to see I asked

"Is it alright?"

"Yes dear, but where are you going?"

I answered as I pulled the dress on, "You remember my friend Miss More?"

"The um...oh! Miss More the unmarried lady that you visit when we are in London right?"

"Yes that one."

Lottie came with my stockings and I slipped them on my cold toes. Sitting down at my dressing table I brushed my matted hair, till the red-gold cruels shown. Then I took the sides of my hair and pulled it back, securing it with a gold pin.

Lottie then came with my plaid jacket and boots, after putting these on I stood up and made for the door

"Lizzy?"

I stooped and turned, "Yes?"

She ran over to me and gave my a tight hug, 'Remember I'm always here. To talk with you."

I drew back a little then smiled, "I'm fine Liza, nothing is wrong with me. I have to go now." Hugging her back I ran out and into the streets of London.

(to be continued)

No, but there is...

2010-04-26T17:57:00.000-07:00

(Previously)

The girls were in the carriage with their aunt and eldest cousin Maria in minutes.Before they left, Anne had left her letter with her uncle's man, as Colonel Fitzwilliam had directed her to do. For some time afterward 's she was silent. Her aunt observed this, and putting her hand affectionately on her lap, she said,
"I am sure your brother cannot fail to answer your letter, he thinks of his sisters most affectionately, I am sure." Anne smiled and returned her aunt's caresses. Catherine looked uncomfortable and put her head very nearly entirely out the carriage window. Maria, not entirely comprehending the situation, merely sat silently smilingly, looking very much like her mother.

They soon drew up in front of a store, and continued to do that over and over, until their aunt had made all her purchases. The sisters were enthralled by busy London, and the riches they saw in the stores were admired and exclaimed upon most enthusiastically. Though every now and then, Catherine would say something about "how useless and frivolous those tings were", and how "fleeting the material things in life are", or something in the way of religious philosophy. But she was intrigued, none the less, and soon threw off all pretense off indifference under the weight of her enjoyment.

For a very few hours they wandered the stores and square, but their aunt did not want to spend too much time away from baby Ally, so they were evetually on their way home. When they arrived, Anne ran in and asked the butler if there was any letter's or notes for her.
"No madam," he replied.
Anne looked dissapointed and leaned her back against the wall.
"But there is a gentleman in the parlor."
Anne was roused. She asked the butler who was he.
"I do not know ma'am. But here is his card." He handed her a small card. Quite contrary to his expectations, she turned quite pale, and, to his relief, Catherine came at that moment and said,
"Anne, whatever is the matter!"
Anne turned to her sister, and handed her the card.
Catherine said faintly,"Oh, its William." She was paler than her sister, and they were about to run into the parlor with her , when the butler opened the door and announced,
"Mr.Landish"
That gentleman came in, and with an enthusiastic smile, made a deep bow.

Unanswered Questions

2010-04-18T15:55:00.000-07:00

I was awoken from my slumber with a jolt. Mama was shaking me, trying to wake me from my sleep, and Maria was staring out the window, exclaiming at the size of the buildings she saw.

"Oh, look at that one! It's four stories! I never thought their could be a building so tall! And our townhouse... oh, I can just imagine how grand it must be!" Maria lay back with a dreamy look on her face.

"Dear..." Mama began. "Er... Your father decided that it would be best for us to stay at the inn while we await for our house to be..." she paused. "Ready."

Just at that moment the horses were reined to a stop in front of a rather shabby-looking building.

"You mean, I have to sleep in there?!" Maria gasped, looking with haughty disdain at the inn at which we had just stopped.

"Yes dear," Mama replied. "But I'm sure it will only be for a short while. Close your mouth, Maria." Maria snapped it shut. "That's better," Mama cooed. "You wouldn't want to appear as a codfish in front of any fine gentleman, now would you?"

But Maria wasn't fully convinced. "What chance do we have of finding wealthy gentlemen here?" she asked, clearly doubting that gentleman of high class ever graced the inns with their presence.
I smiled. I clearly remembered the story of how Uncle Darcy found Aunt Lizzy where she was staying at an inn. That was when my aunt had just learned of Mama's elopement. Clearly, if a gentleman wanted to visit Maria, he wouldn't let the rather shabby abode in which she was housed stop him - of that I was sure.
Luckily, Maria seemed to be more calm now. She fixed the ribbon on her bonnet and said with a smile, "Well, if any gentleman wishes to visit me, he will have to come to me." She spoke as if she could read the thoughts that had just run through my head.
Just then the coachman peeked into the carriage.
"Ma'am," he said, addressing Mama. "Mr. Wickham said to direct the servants to carry the luggage and he asked me," this said with an air of importance, "to escort you ladies to your rooms."
Maria and Mama didn't speak.
"Ladies?" the man questioned.
Still no response.
"Um... yes, of course, that would be lovely," I said quickly, seeing how my sister and mother were quite frozen in shock. "Thank you," I added to the coachman rather quickly, wondering what could be so shocking as to hold my mother's and sister's gaze for so long.
"Maria? Mama?"
Maria answered by fainting right then.

"Maria? Maria? Dear, are you quite alright?" Mama was getting to be nearly frantic now.
Maria's eyes blinked open. I could see them rolling sickeningly for a second, and then she suddenly seemed to remember where she was.
"Mama? What - what am I doing on the ground?" Now that she was awake, all of my sister's disdain seem to return.
"You - you fainted," Mama gasped. "And I don't know what I would have done without you!" At this, Mama began to weep. "Don't - don't you ever do that to me again! I was worried to death!"
"Mama, it's alright," I said in a soothing voice. "Maria is fine, see?"
"Yes, yes, I can see, I have eyes, don't I?"
"Of course you have eyes, Mama. I only meant -"
"Oh, never mind what you meant, child," Mama said. "Maria is fine, and there is no need for you to worry about your sister so." As if I had been the one in need of consolation! I swallowed the urge to smile.
"Get me off of the ground!" Maria said, interrupting my train of thought. With the help of two housemaids who had come out to help with the luggage, and the coachman, we were able to successfully lift her into the inn, up the stairs, into the room she and I were to share, and finally, onto one of the beds. Once there, Mama exited to her own room that she was to share with Papa, and the housemaids left with a rather apologetic smile.
When the room was finally empty, I turned to Maria, who was lounging like a queen on her bed.
"Whatever made you faint, Maria?" I asked her. "Did - did something frighten you?"
"No, no, do you think I would faint at that?" Maria questioned, a bit of color coming into her formerly pale cheeks.
"I don't. But if you could tell me what made you and Mama... um, freeze up so, then perhaps I could help you!"
"Nothing is wrong now. It was a matter of little importance that bares no relevance now," Maria said coldly.
And with that, I had to be content.

" My Dear William"

2010-04-17T18:37:00.000-07:00

...How are you? My father tells me you are in town. I have been well, since I saw you last. I can hardly believe it was two years ago. How does your study go? I suppose becoming a lawyer is no easy task- you must have many laws to memorize. I am glad to be in London- father says that you ask how Cathy and I do here. Well, we have hardly been here four days, but I like it very much. My aunt's house is always pleasant, and all our dear cousins are so charming. I have only attended one evening party, which my uncle hosted, but I am soon to attend a ball, which will be my coming out. I do not know when, but perhaps you can be there. Oh, I have so much to say to you, but a letter will not do. I long to see you! Please, my dear brother, say you will come and see us!

most affectionately,
your sister,
Anne

After she had sealed her letter, she held her face in her hands and sat at the desk thinking for many minutes. The separation broke her heart- "Why did papa insist that brother Will must become a clergyman?! And why did Will have to refuse and go off to become a lawyer instead!? Would he come? She hadn't seen him since he left the house against father's wishes and declared he'd never come back. That was almost three years ago- was he still angry? Father wasn't, she was sure. He seemed sorry for all of it, and wished for reconciliation. Oh, and mama was almost sick with the joy and pain of seeing her first born son again!"

Her thoughts were interupted by Catherine entering their little sitting room.
"My aunt says we must go with her, to assist her in her shopping this morning- why, Anne!" Catherine exclaimed in the midst of her sentence,seeing Anne's face covered in tears. "What is the matter?" she asked, going and kneeling by her.
"Oh, nothing," Anne replied, wiping her face with both hands, and endeavoring to smile.She looked at her sister and said, "I have just written William."
"Oh." Catherine looked cold.

"I know you don't forgive him for leaving- but you must, Cathy. He might come see us, surely, after he recieves my letter, he will be more willing. Don't you see? Their is hope for reconciliation!"
"Our brother does not- I don't- he left us, why should we make the effort to reconcile?"
"Oh, Cathy, I know you are hurt. I am-this has broken my heart as well, but I know that I cannot hold it against him, for we all err, and if he is sorry and willing to change things, we should accept him. He is our brother, and no anger or separation will change that."

"It may not for you, but it does for me!" Catherine was angry. "Why," she began to sob, "he left without a word to me, after- after- after what we were to each other. That is not brotherly, and I cannot forgive him!" She sat on a chair and hid her face in her dress.
"Oh, Cathy, dear, please, don't be so distressed- please, I didn't know you were so affected." She put her arms around her sister, and continued to comfort her. After a few minutes, Catherine was more composed. She smiled and hugged her sister back.

"Why did you not speak of your feelings to me?," implored Anne. They were now sitting on their bed, wrapped in each other's arms.
"I did not want to speak of- Will."
"Do you- can you really no forgive him?"
"I will- I will try. I do love him, and what you said is very true. He is our brother, and nothing can change that. If he does come, I will- I might forgive him. But if he does not come, I fear I may never be able to."
"I hope, I pray he will come. I am sure- after what father told us of how he acted and what he said when he met them in the street, I am almost certain that he is not as angry as he was. Though I am afraid he is just as determined to go his own way," she said smilingly. Catherine laughed.
"My dears, I must be leaving within the next five minutes! Are you ready to accompany me?" called their Aunt Maria from below.
"We are coming!" cried Anne, as she and Catherine jumped up- she to grab her letter and her cloak, and Catherine to run downstairs.

To be continued...
(Previously)

What Lizzy did

2010-04-17T08:35:00.001-07:00

Sleeping came very easy for me that night, as soon as I laid down my head down, I felt my eyes close and my whole self relax. It was around midnight when I awoke again. A thought had come to me. I sat up in bed, a smile played around my lips.
"Lizzy," I whispered, "you silly girl! How selfish you have been! Thinking only of your self!"
I rested my head against the bed board, "You who are called smart and sensible, have been most foolish!" I gave a low laugh, "Lizzy you must stop!" I commanded myself.
"Think of Liza and Bekah, they came here to have fun and help Auntie, not to worry about you. Come now, promise to stop."
I took a deep breath, and promised myself. A happiness filled me, "Lizzy you were not made to pity your self." I said a little to loud. Liza turned over in bed and mumbled, "Lizzy?"
"Yes?"
"Are you alright?"
"Yes, dear I'm fine."
"Then go to sleep."
"I will. Liza?"
"Yes?"
"Good night!"
"Good night Lizzy."
And I fell asleep once more.

The Morning's Discussion...

2010-04-13T18:38:00.000-07:00

of the evening party's guest's was an entertaining one, and enabled Anne and Catherine to empty their minds of the affair in a way which every young lady feels necessary to adopt after such an event. The morning after the party, they sat together in the sitting room, each busied with needlework and embroidery, and Catherine began by saying,

"Were you not delighted, Anne, with Mrs.Westing? I found her a woman of good sense, kindness, and elegance. Did you not?"

Anne paused her sewing to re-thread her needle. She then placed her work in her basket, and from her chair to a settee, where she lay down comfortably. She could not both be productive with her hands and her voice. "Besides," she thought to herself, "I have been working for an hour already, and auntie's house is supposed to be a time of refreshment". She lay there (or sat, according to the height or excitement of their discourse), for the rest of the conversation.

"I do agree with you, Cathy, except that I found a certain something in her, that seemed to separate her from the others, in a way that I could not distinguish to be positive. Never the less, I did find her kind."

"I think it might be a bit too early to be speaking of 'certain somethings'. We are too inexperienced, and it all may amount to 'certain nothings'. Our society has been very limited, and we have not had the necessary time for observation of those who are fond of these circles."

"Indeed, Cathy, I do not think that our lower situation so far as money goes has impaired our power of judgment," Anne said laughingly. "But I do not intend to dislike her, indeed I do not. But let us change the subject- I think you were particularly pleased, as I was, with Mr.Landish and his attentions to you during the evening?" Anne said this without affectation.

"I did observe his politeness towards me, but I think he was equally attentive to every lady there- and he cannot help each lady at each necessary moment, therefore he may unintentionally attend one lady more than the others," replied her sister, with a slight blush.

"Very true, I will remember that in future. But,none the less, it is not wise to form opinions or even expectations on so short an acquaintance. "

"Indeed. None the less, I found Mr.Landish a very pleasant man, and papa vastly enjoyed his company."

"Ah, yes. That is a good sign- perhaps of a patient and easy character," Anne said, smilingly slightly. Her sister looked up from her work with a disapproving look. "Speaking of father," Anne continued, now looking a bit uncomfortable, and rising, walked to the window and stood there, " he is yet to give us his opinion of the guest's. He and mama should be back from shopping soon."

"Perhaps," Catherine now appeared to be fully engrossed in her work.

"Mr.Hamlington appears to be a very gentlemanly man. Mrs.Cammins, whom I sat next to at dinner, told me that he is very wealthy, and lives in a mansion not very far from London. He has only a mother and younger sister.His father died soon after he became of age, and so he was left the inheritance."

"How singular! and unfortunate! But at least he was old enough that he and his mother and sister were not left destitute, or in a state lower than that they were born in. But how is Mrs.Cammins aware of these affairs?"

"Indeed, very true. Oh, Mrs.Cammins is a friend of Mrs.Hamlington's, 'a dear friend' , she said. Oh,and Sir and Lady Carter, who sat on my other side, are also acquainted with the Hamlington's. Oh my, were the Carter's not all elegance? And what they said of Miss de Burgh!? I cannot believe it, but of course it must be true. We will ask mama if she knows of it- papa will most likely unite Sir Nilson and she in marriage. I still am in shock. What shall papa say? Presuming he does not know of it, which of course he must not, because we would have heard of it. But why would Lady Catherine not tell our father and mother? Why should it be secret?"

"I do not know- I cannot tell you. Though Lady Catherine is on such terms with us as few other people can boast, she is not on our level, therefore perhaps thinks it unnecessary to inform us of any changes affecting her family. Think of it- has she ever informed us of anything before?"

"Yes, every thing of significance that happens with her nephew, Mr.Darcy, and his family."

"Yes, but this is a different matter. It may be a matter of embarrassment for her, that her daughter is above 5 and thirty, and not married."

"Very true, I had thought of that." Anne looked out of the window, and saw her parent's coming out of her uncle's carriage. Mr.Collins entered the house very swiftly, and called his daughter's downstairs. They looked at each other with some surprise, and immediately went to their father.

To Be Continued...
(Previously)

Maria's Sister

2010-04-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

The carriage shook and rattled as we bumped along the windy road to London. I would have taken out my sketchbook and done a sketch in charcoals, but I feared that the drawing would smudge dreadfully with all the bouncing. Instead, I turned my attention to Maria, who was talking animatedly to Mama about what awaited all of us in London... or rather, what awaited her in London. She seemed to have this rather odd impression that Leland Smith loved her; had always loved her. As the days wore on, her fancies grew more and more ridiculous. Lee would be waiting for her in London; he would have missed her dreadfully; he would sweep her into his arms and proclaim his love for her.
"And then," Maria added. "I will execute a perfectly-timed faint, falling into his arms, to show him I am totally in control of my feminine delicacies."
I didn't quite know what she meant, and I don't think she did either, but I rather got the impression that Maria thought it sounded elegant to tack that onto the end of her long-winded speech.
But even Mama seemed to think it was time to curb Maria's enthusiasm a bit.
"Dear," she began. "Um... you have only met Leland once... and... I don't think he could have such strong emotions for you so quickly, seeing how he barely knows you."
"But Mama," Maria replied pertly. "It wouldn't take more than one meeting for a gentleman with knowledge to fall head over heals in love with me. They would see how I simply outshine all of the other girls, so they would use their heads and go after me."
It took all of my self-control not to laugh out loud at this remark of Maria's. Even so, a giggle escaped me, and Maria turned to look at me with scorn.
"It's just too bad you won't follow Mama's instructions, Evelyn," she replied cooly. "You could really make a lovely marriage. But instead, you spend all your time with your nose in a book, or sketching outdoors!" Maria laughed scornfully. "I guess you'll just die an old maid."
Mama interjected here.
"Maria!" she said. "You know you should not tease your sister so! I know that she is not as beautiful as you are, but that is no reason to behave so rudely."
Maria smirked at me. Mama had succeeded in subconsciously snubbing me in a way even she hadn't thought of. My sister couldn't be more pleased.
I decided to think of other things. I was greatly pleased to be going to London for one reason and one reason only: to visit with my cousins. Lively Liza, with her quick smile and ready laugh, was bound to be laughing about something when I came. And I was eager to discuss books with my quiet cousin, Lizzy. She and I had a great deal in common, and if it weren't for Liza and Bekah, we would spend all our time reading together.
Maria was now sleeping, leaning against a pillow on Mama's shoulder. Though Mama calls Maria her 'little beauty,' it is not quite true. Maria has curly, straw-colored hair. Her dark green eyes are thought to be alluring, but that is mostly due to the fact that she powders and paints them until they are no longer her own - just a mask she has chosen to paint on her face. In fact, she would be very beautiful if she just accepted her own, natural beauty. She looks a good deal like cousin Lizzy, but because she chooses to paint her face with makeup in order to outshine other girls whom she believes to be her "rivals," the contrast between the two is stark.
I suddenly realized something I had never thought of. Poor Maria. She was pampered and spoiled, allowed to paint herself up with powders and such, all because she was under the impression that she was not beautiful. It seemed a very sad place in which to be.
I immediately resolved to try to encourage my sister not to be so... forward. Perhaps, with improvement, Maria could become a beautiful young lady, one whom people enjoyed being around.
With my intentions resolved, I settled back against the carriage and closed my eyes. Slumber seemed to descend on me as the carriage lulled me to sleep...

The Evening Party

2010-04-12T09:03:00.000-07:00

(Previously)

Colonel Fitzwilliam's house, a large and comfortable one, was decked with lanterns, chandeliers, and the dining room with glass plates and cups. Anne and Catherine, who had seen things more grand at Lady Catherine de Burgh's, but had not experienced them, were delighted. Anne, though she was excited before the event, was calm and ladylike, and the only proof of her pleasure was her lovely smile, which could hardly not be seen on her face. Her sister, though rather unlike her, was also pleased, and her smile was seen almost as often as her sister's. Though Catherine was more like her father, she did not necessarily have his way of patronizing or talking constantly. This made her more like her mother and sister, though Anne was more open tempered.
The two girls sat on a sofa in the parlor by the fire, and were animatedly discussing their surroundings and what was to take place.
"Anne, I am quite nervous!" Catherine cried in a low voice to her sister,though they were alone in the room. "Do you think they will think poorly of us? Or that we are poorly?"
"Indeed, I have entertained such doubts myself, dear Cathy," and here she paused and held her sister's hand, while looking at the carpet.She presently added, "But only entertained, you see, for they can only be founded on fear and inferiority, not on truth. Our father is a gentleman, and a clergyman, and we are his daughter's.I can see no reason why anyone who is not proud or conceited themselves, can belittle us in area's where there is nothing to be belittled."
"Very true-as soon as father informs them of our patroness, Lady Catherine, they will perhaps be more willing to accept us into their circles, for a time."

Anne was about to say something, but they heard their Uncle in the hall, and the front door was thrown open, as a carriage came along the front of the building.The girls waited and listened as greetings were exchanged, and they heard their fathers frequent yet small and short laugh. Before they could guess what party had arrived, a woman dressed in all elegance walked in. Behind her came a man who appeared to be her husband, also fashionably dressed. Anne and Catherine rose, and their aunt came in and began introductions.
Approching her nieces, she said-
"Dear Sir and Lady Carter, these are my nieces. The eldest, Anne Collins, and her younger sister, Catherine, named after Lady Catherine de Burgh. Anne, Catherine, Sir Carter and his wife, Lady Carter."
The girls made low curtsies, and Sir Carter and his wife bowed, curtsied, and smiled. Mrs.Fitzwilliam entreated them to be seated, and then Anne and Catherine did the same, while their aunt went back into the hall.

"I understand," began Lady Carter, with a kind smile and look at Anne,"that you reside at Rosings Parsonage in Hunsford? I have been there, once many years ago, and it is quite lovely. Lady Catherine de Burgh is a very wealthy woman, and so my family knew, of course, of her." Here the lady smiled and looked at her husband, who had been nodding pleasantly now and then.
"Yes, indeed. Her grounds are extensive. We are soon to go there, for my wife's brother, Sir Nilson, is to soon be married to her daughter, Anne."
Anne and Catherine had merely nodded in acquiescence, until this last part, which quite startled them. They had often seen Anne de Burgh, but rarely conversed with her and had thought her too old and sickly to be married. But they had seen a carriage there quite often during the months preceding their departure, but had never heard anything about it. However, now was not the time to marvel at this turn of events. Their uncle was ushering in a young but almost middle aged looking man. Their uncle exited the room almost as soon as he had exited it. The young man approached them and bowed to Sir and Lady Carter, addressed a few inquiries as to their health and the health of their children, then turned towards Anne and her sister.

He bowed, and they rose and curtsied.
"Your uncle thinks me such a close friend, that he left me at liberty to introduce myself. Pray, excuse me. I am Mr.Landish. You," looking with quiet admiration into Anne's face,"must be Miss Collins. And you," turning to Catherine and smiling widely, "are Miss Catherine. My friend informed me well, so that I might not make a mistake in your names." The girls smiled politely,and he continued to speak with them and the Carter's- of their home and life, and what they thought of London. They found that he resided in Devonshire, but was in London on business every spring through the summer. They had little time to find out more of him, or even the Carter's, before more guests arrived. In the course of the evening, they were introduced to Mr.and Mrs.Cammins, Mr.Dolshen, and Mrs.Westing. These were kind people, and very attentive, especially Mrs.Westing. About an hour after they were all comfortable, what Mrs.Fitzwilliam called "the last guest" arrived. He was a man who looked very young, but could not be less than 20. His name was Mr.Hamlington, and he was all apologies for his tardiness, which the Fitzwilliam's entirely overlooked, and merely asked everyone to the dining room.

To be continued...

At the Fitzwilliam's

2010-04-10T19:35:00.000-07:00

(Previously)

Anne woke up in a pretty and prettily furnished room in her Aunt Maria's house. Her sister lay next to her sleeping. They (Anne, her sister and parent's) had arrived at Colonel Fitzwilliam's house in London late the previous night, and Mrs.Collin's sister had attended them, feeding and settling them in adjoining rooms.
Anne was looking forward to seeing her cousin's, and even more so to speaking with her aunt about arrangement's. She thought it would be some day's before she could attend an evening party, so made plans to spend time with her cousin's and find out who was in town in the meanwhile.
She had donned a shawl and was sitting on a window seat overlooking the street. Lovely dark purple curtains shielded her from view of the people traveling the road and sidewalk, though she could see them through the fabric. Leaning her head on the wall, she wasn't aware of what a pretty picture she made in her white nightgown and brunette hair, with her blue eyes bright and shining.None the less, though, her sister greeted her with censure, of the playful kind.

"Charlotte Anne, what are you doing? Shouldn't we be dressing? My aunt will soon have breakfast on the table."
"Oh, Cathy, you startled me. I was merely giving myself time to fully awaken."
"Indeed- I've never seen you look so awake," Catherine said, with a smile and a little run to hug her sister.
"I shall take that as a complement. You look well yourself- oh, I wish you come to the balls too," she said with a sigh. Presently she added, "I find it hard to think of anything else- I am trying to be modest about it, as I am a clergyman's daughter, and should act accordingly- but, I am still so delighted!"
"You know very well I couldn't possibly, and besides, I don't know how to dance very well. Besides, should I attend balls merely because I look well this morning? I will be going to the evening parties, though."
"Oh, Of course I didn't mean that, you willful girl," Anne said laughing. "Yes, and I shall enjoy them all the more with you there. I think it will do you good to socialize-it will do us both good...I think I hear our cousins awake. Let us dress!"

The girls were soon descending the stairs of their cousin's house, and found their way to the breakfast room, which was fairly easy because of the noise coming from that place.As they entered, their cousins ran toward them.

"Oh! Cousin Anne, Cousin Cathy! We are so glad to see you!" exclaimed the oldest of the four children, Maria.
"Indeed we are," said a little boy, whose name was Charlie. He held up his 7 year old face for a kiss. Both girls pleasantly gave one to him, and to all the cousins, from Maria to the baby Ally. They then sat down to eat, and greeted their parent's and aunt and uncle.

"Did you sleep well, my dears? Its a lovely morning, which is a sign of a good sleep for beautiful young ladies," said their aunt smilingly.
"Thank you aunt. My sleep was very satisfactory. I have often found that sleep is a necessary remedy for tired travelers.Though an excited mind is a difficult obstacle to overcome- though I suffer from no such ailment."
Mr.Collins was roused at once from the silence he had until now been lost in- anything in the way of praise or observation of human life never failed to catch his attention.
"Indeed, indeed it is, my daughter," he agreed. Turning to his sister-in-law, he added, "Is she not a most wise and lovely specimen of those women who observe life?"
Mrs.Fitzwilliam looked confused, but nodded her head in agreement and smiled her small but charming smile.

"And what of you, Anne? Are you prepared to attend an evening party tonight? It will be a small one, given here, in honor of all of you. Do you not think that is capital?" asked their uncle.
"Oh, Uncle! You are too kind! Is he not mama? I shall be more than happy to attend!" exclaimed Anne.
"Yes, you are too kind, brother," Mrs.Collins said, thanking him with a smile. "Such an evening party will be most appropriate as a way of introducing Anne before she attends a ball."
"Indeed, too kind.We accept your invitation and the honor you bestow upon us, most humbly. May I ask, who is to be attending this most prestigious event?"
"Now now, William, it is to be small party, I assure you," replied Colonel Fitzwilliam calmly, "There is to be some of my friends from my days in the army, and their families. My wife has also invited one or two of her friends.I can vouch for their amiability, and we shall have a pleasant time. Now, if you will excuse me, I have some letters to attend to," he concluded by bowing to each of his guests,and exiting the room.

Anne spent the rest of the day speaking with her aunt and amusing her cousins, while Catherine perused her uncle's library. The party was not until 6 o'clock, and Mrs.Collins and her sister assisted Anne and her sister in choosing suitable dresses.

To be continued...

Supper

2010-04-10T17:49:00.000-07:00

As soon as Liza saw Lizzy's red face, stained with dried up tears she knew it must have been about Captain Milton. Liza knew her sister so well. She walked up to her and put her arm around Lizzy's waist. "Lizzy, dear, what's wrong?"
Lizzy looked at Liza in surprise, as if she didn't know what Liza was talking about. "N-nothing, dear sister. I was just washing my face and hands for supper."
"Lizzy," Liza began. "I know that something is wrong. What is it?" Lizzy didn't answer. "Is it Captain Milton?" Lizzy shot a look of disapproval at Liza. "Oh, Lizzy. I knew it!"
"Shh, Liza. Stop it," Lizzy said, blushing, yet feeling angry.
"Oh, I'm sorry, Lizzy. I wasn't being very sensitive to your feelings. Are you alright? Seriously, now. No lies."
Lizzy pulled Liza away from the dining room, where there were other people eating and chatting. "Liza, I have mixed feelings. I-" They were cut off by Lee.
"Girls, it's time to eat," Lee said. He saw the mischievous look on Liza's face. "Liza, what kind of mischief are you up to now?"
"N-nothing, dear Lee. Come, now, Lizzy. It's time for supper." Liza took her sister's hand and pulled Lizzy along behind her. Lee followed along and took his seat, next to Liza. "Lee, don't sit so close. Move your chair over," Liza said, complaining. She always felt as if she never had enough room at the table. Liza wasn't one for being in tight places. Lee rolled his eyes, sighed and moved his chair a bit further away.
"Liza, put your napkin in your lap before you ruin that beautiful dress," Lee commanded.
"Lee, why is it you always treat me like such a child? I am nineteen years old. Please. I'm not a child anymore," Liza said, a bit frustrated, but she put her napkin in her lap anyway. "Oh, and thank you for the compliment."
Lee blushed. "W-what compliment? I didn't-"
"Oh yes you did," Liza said, smiling. "You said this was a beautiful dress," Liza said, pointing to her dress.
Lee wouldn't look Liza in the eyes. "Yes. I said the dress was beautiful. I never said that it was you whom I was referring to."
Liza giggled. "Lee, lest you forget, I never mentioned you saying that, either." Lee met Liza's gaze. Liza chuckled and ate a spoonful of her soup. Lee looked away and did the same.
"Oh," Liza said, putting down her spoon and turning to Lee. "I was wondering, I mean, we were wondering, the girls and I would like to go into town tomorrow. Would you like to accompany us, Lee?"
"I'd be more than happy. After all, I was sent with you to watch over you, for your father," Lee answered in a very sophisticated way.
"Oh, Lee, you don't have to act as if it's your duty to spend time with us. Will you come as a friend? Not a guardian?" Liza said, putting on her pleading face.
Lee chuckled. "As you wish, malady." Liza laughed and turned to Bekah who was sitting next to her.
"He's coming," Liza said in Bekah's ear.
"Oh great, now we have to deal with him telling us all about the art of dancing, or something grown-up, such as that," Bekah said, laughing. Liza laughed too. Lee wondered why they were, and who they were laughing at.
"Oh, Bekah. He promised to come as a friend, so at least we don't have to worry about him telling us what we should and shouldn't do."
"Liza, you know he's going to do that anyway," Bekah replied. The girls laughed again, then regained their composure. Liza had been wondering about a certain gentleman for a few days. She had to ask.
"Bekah," Liza whispered. "Do you think that Mr. Bryant will be here, in London?"
Bekah smiled, knowing this was coming. "Oh, Liza, you must stop thinking about him. Remember, he's with another woman."
Liza felt sad, but shook her head in agreement. "Yes. You're right, dear Bekah. I must get him off my mind."
Bekah smiled. "But, I did hear from one of Captain Milton's friends that Milton has a dear friend coming to join him here, any day." Liza perked up and her face lit like a candle.
"Oh, Bekah, do you think it could be-" Liza said, a bit louder.
"Shh, Liza. Lower your voice," Bekah said, but not too firmly.
"Oh right."
"But," Bekah said, taking her cousin's hand. "I do believe it might be Mr. Bryant." Liza smiled and sat up straight in her chair, with pleasure. Then she turned and finished her supper.

Lizzy's thoughts

2010-04-10T16:26:00.000-07:00

As soon as we got to our town house I ran straight to my room. Throwing off my coat and bonnet I threw myself on the bed. Covering my face with my hands I thought.
Why did I act like that? There is no reason for it! It was simply not rational. How is it that Captain Milton can cause such confusion?
Then a horrid thought struck me, I am I in love? Blushing my thoughts screamed, NO! I AM not in love! It can not be so.
Getting up I went to my toilet table and looked myself in the mirror. One by one I took the pins that held my bun fast. My golden-red curls framed around my face. Twisting my hands I thought some more.
You must change your behavior Lizzy! My thoughts said fiercely, You can not arouse gossip.
I looked at the gold chain my mother had given me on my sixteenth birthday.
What would mother do if she were me?
"Lizzy! Come down for dinner?" Liza called.
"Coming!" I answered. I stood up and opened up the door, running out I joined the rest at the table.

Leaving

2010-04-10T14:21:00.000-07:00

It was a competition.

It was titled See How Fast You Can Pack Your Trunk, and I was losing.

But soon our maid, Betsy, entered the room to relieve me.

"I'm really going to miss you, honey," she said as she set my trunk to rights.

I leaned my head on Betsy old, thin shoulder. "I know. And I really wish I could stay. It's just..."

"You must follow your mother's bidding, dear. And you're doing the right thing by listening to her without a complaint. Remember the fifth commandment."

I leaned my head on the bedpost and slumped over a bit.

"Are you alright, honey? You don't look so good." Betsy's voice was slightly alarmed.

"Oh, I'm fine. I don't know what it is - I just haven't felt myself these past few days. Perhaps it's all the worry over this trip."

"You need a good sleep tonight, dear."

"I know. But I don't see how I'm going to get one, rattling around in a carriage."

"You need a good sleep," Betsy repeated. "I'll see if Mrs. Wickham can put you in a softer part of the carriage." She finished folding my garments and closed the trunk lid. The door shut softly behind her.

I flopped on the bed and lay for about ten minutes. I thought on the last few days.

I hadn't really had time to watch the sunrise ever since that one day a week ago. Mama and Maria had gotten me up at dawn, but not to view the horizon. Rather, they wished that I spend my time shopping in the city with them. Mama was determined that we should not be outshined by our wealthy cousins, and Maria is in full agreement. As for myself, I don't really worry about that sort of thing. All the time Mama spends on our frills and gowns and laces and sashes seems ridiculous.

"Eva! Evelyn, come! We are to leave soon, and we cannot be late!" Maria dashed into my room the minute the words left Mama's mouth.

"Did you hear that, Eva? You must come! Goodness, won't it be so fine in London, with all those gentleman swirling around us?"

I opened my mouth for a reply, but she didn't give me a chance. "And when that darling boy Leland Smith sees me - why, he'll just fall head over heels in love with me! Don't you agree?"

I once more tried to speak, but she cut me off. "Oh, there's Mama! Come, Eva!" And with that, she skipped out of the room.

This was getting to be a very frustrating situation.

I peeked out the window and saw that the carriage had arrived at the door. Papa was helping Mama in, who was fixing the ribbon on her bonnet. Maria was doing the same, and taking occasional peeks into a small pocket mirror to check if her feather was straight.

Sarah, our young housemaid, came to help carry my trunk to the carriage. She smiled at me sadly, as if to say she was sad to see me go, but didn't speak a word.

Once we were all squished into the small carriage, the driver flicked the whip and the horses started off. I glanced back at our house and saw Becky waving sadly.

"Stop!" I cried. "Stop the carriage!"

Mama and Papa looked at me with alarm, but I didn't answer their unspoken questions. Instead, I climbed out of the carriage and ran back to the house. I ran into Betsy's arms, to give her one last hug.

"I'll never forget you, Betsy. I won't forget you."

She kissed my hair, than pushed me forward. "Go. They are all waiting for you."

Climbing back into the carriage, I saw Maria staring at me, as if to say "I can't believe you ran back to hug a maid."

I ignored her disdain and once more turned to look back out the carriage window. Betsy was growing smaller and smaller, far off in the distance. I repeated the words I had spoken to her not one minute ago.

"I won't forget you."

The Sunrise

2010-04-09T13:45:00.000-07:00

The morning was beckoning me and I had to oblige. Slipping from between my bedclothes, I crept out of the room, so as not to disturb my sister, who was still sleeping. I stepped out onto the porch that was right off of my bedroom and took a deep breath of the clean morning air. It was slightly chilly, and for a second I wished for my dressing gown, which I had left lying on a chair. But for nothing would I have gone back indoors. The wind blew my dark ringlets into my eyes, and I brushed them quickly to the side.

Oh, how lovely it is, I thought.

Mama and Papa, it seemed, were enjoying a rather enthusiastic disagreement in their room down the hall. I could hear the voices rising and falling, changing swiftly. I sighed. Why can they not see that life would be much easier if they did not argue? I thought to myself. It seemed that my parents were discussing whether or not to go to London. I didn't see Maria slip out, but suddenly her voice was mingled in with theirs, sweet and persuasive.

But the morning was too lovely to waste on arguing, or even thinking about arguments. I turned my attention to the horizon, where the sun was just starting to rise. The dusky clouds were rising, the sun was peeking out, and the horizon was a light pink. It was a gorgeous sight to behold. Every morning when I could, I would wake early and watch the sunrise. There was just something so soothing in the thought of a brand-new day, open to what ever I chose to make of it.

Suddenly the voices grew louder, and I strained my ears to hear what was being said. The few words I could pick out were "London," "gentlemen," and "fortune." I shook my head sadly. It would have been so lovely if I could just travel to London in the way that my cousins did: to see the sights, enjoy the food, without a thought of marriage or money. They were so lucky; they didn't have a mother who was constantly thinking of their marriages. Then I stopped myself. Grandmama was just like Mama to Aunt Jane and Aunt Lizzy, and yet they didn't let it bother them. In fact, they both ended up marrying fine, wealthy gentleman - but they didn't really do anything to try to attract them. I straightened my shoulders and looked once more to the sunrise. The day seemed a little brighter.

It seemed to me that the voices had stopped. I perked up my ears, but I couldn't hear a word. Then I heard a door slamming shut violently and giddy, girlish squeals.

My bedroom door banged open, and Maria ran in gasping.

"Eva! Eva, come here! Oh you'll never guess... oh, Papa is so kind... oh it's just so wonderful...!" Maria was gasping for air as she attempted to tell me her news.

"Maria, calm down! What is it?"

"Papa... Papa has decided that we... we are to go to London!"

My heart started beating at twice it's normal speed.

In the Carriage

2010-04-09T13:10:00.000-07:00

"How much Captain Milton's manners have changed since we first met him! I am coming to believe that James was right." I commented as Captain Milton's carriage took us to Uncle Darcy's house.

Liza laughed. "I know! What was James right about?"

"Well, he said that he thought that Captain Milton's behavior would change after being in society for a few months. I was doubtful, but it has proven true! But really, it's only been three weeks since the ball at the Smiths. I wonder if he's going under the same transformation as your father did way back when." I said playfully. Liza and I laughed together, but then I saw that Lizzy was not enjoying the conversation.

"Oh, Lizzy, I'm sorry! I wasn't trying to pain you. We'll not talk about it anymore." I apologized. Lizzy smiled gratefully at me while Liza gave her a reconciliatory hug.
"Thank you." she said quietly.

"Let's talk about something pleasant." I suggested. "How much do you two know about the town house that Uncle Darcy owns?"

"Not much," Liza replied. "except that it is in a very fashionable part of town. It was our grandfather's before, and is very old and stately. My mother has been trying to describe it to us, but I think we'll have to see it with our own eyes first."

"My father owns a house in town, near your father's. I've never been there either, although my brother has before. Father used to be in town often on business, and took Richard -at the boy's insistence- along as a traveling companion for safety." All of us smiled, Richard was well liked and respected, but often took his role as oldest son so seriously that it bordered on humorous.

"Richard is a dear fellow." Lizzy piped up. She was looking much better, her color was returning. "It's been too long since we've seen him."

"Speaking of your family," Liza said, with a trace of slyness, "how's your family friend, James? Wasn't he planning on coming to town soon."

I felt my face turning a little red against my will. "Yes, but I don't know when. He said at least a fortnight. Do you know when our first party is scheduled?"

Liza said she didn't know, and just then we pulled up in front of Uncle Darcy's house. It was more splendid then any of us really were prepared for. As the coachman helped us out, all three of us stared up in awe. The entire front of the house was stone. Huge pillars were on either side of the door, which was made of fine, dark wood. Each of the stone blocks under the windows was carved with elegant scrolls. I could only imagine how the inside looked. I got shivers up my spine, and knew that I was in for the time of my life here in London.

What we did first

2010-04-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

It was decided after we moved from the inn to our much nicer town house that we would go shopping. It did not take long for us to re-pack our trunks and ready them for moving. Aunt Georgie said she would accompany the luggage and take a nap, but we could go and have fun.
Liza and I stood arm in arm as we waved till the carriage was out of sight. As soon as we could see it no more the three of us girls tied our bonnets and on off we went.
“What are you going to get Liza?” I asked.
“I was thinking of trimming for my bonnet.”
“The one for the wedding?” Bekah asked.
“Yes that one.”
The shop was a small one, but it had good prices, and soon we trying on hats and looking at ribbons.
I pulled out a purple silk ribbon and pined it on my hat.
“What do you think?” I asked the others.
“Turn around Lizzy.” Liza commanded.
I did so slowly, and then I stopped my mouth opened with surprise.
“It looks wonderful Lizzy,” Liza told me as she turned back to her own things.
It took a few seconds to calm myself, then I hurried to Liza. Taking her arm I rested my head on her shoulder. She turned to me alarmed, “Lizzy dear what is it?”
“Captain Milton is here.” I said in a whisper.
“He is?” Liza said with eyes wide.
“What is it girls?” Bekah had just come over.
“Lizzy has just seen Captain Milton.”
“Oh,” Bekah said, “Lizzy do fill ill? You’re as pale as a ghost!”
“You don’t look well.” Liza confirmed.
“Maybe I should go back with Aunt, but…” I hesitated, “Is he still out there?”
Liza looked for a second then answered, “I can’t see him.”
“Alright." I agreed to leave.
Taking me by the arm Liza led me outside. Bekah hurried after us and took my other arm.
“I’m sorry Liza, truly I am.”
“Oh don’t worry Lizzy!” Liza said with a laugh.
“Liza!” Bekah said with a start. We looked to see what caused this, and it was none other than Captain Milton, standing right in front of us.
He bowed, “Miss Darcy, Miss Bingley, and Miss Lisbeth.”
We curtsied, and not knowing what to say we stood there mute.
“Are you going somewhere?” He asked.
“My sister Lizzy is not well, we are taking her home.” Liza answered.
The captain looked alarmed,
“I’m sorry, may I offer you my carriage?”
“Oh no…” I began, but Bekah cut me off with, “Yes thank you captain.”
“Very well, I’ll call it.” And off he went.
As soon as he was out of sight I said, “Bekah?!”
“Lizzy it will be fine and it will be shorter.”
“Oh.” Was all I said. Captain Milton was back in a matter of minutes with his carriage.
“Hanson will take you home and then return to me. He is a good driver, you have no need to worry.” The captain said as he helped us in.
“Are you not coming?” Liza asked.
“No, I have other matters to attend.”
“Oh, well thank you then.”
“Your welcome. I hope you feel better Miss Lisbeth.” He looked at me with something in his blue eyes.
I manged a small smile.
“Good day then.” And Captain Milton left us.
The carriage moved slowly though the streets of London, and I rested my head on the door.
“See Lizzy, what did I tell you?” Bekah said with a smooth of her skirt that set us all laughing till we reached home.

Leaving Derbyshire

2010-04-08T11:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Journal,

For the first time in my life that I remember, I am leaving Derbyshire. I'm very excited, but a little apprehensive. At least I'm not going by myself. Having my cousins, aunt and uncle and adopted aunt there will make the change much easier.

I apologize for the messiness of my handwriting. I'm bumping along in a carriage with my cousins as we head to London. It's pretty tight in here, so I think I'll stop writing and read instead.

~Rebekah~

I slipped my journal and pen into my traveling bag and took out a book. My cousins were dozing off, and after a few chapters, I felt like sleeping myself. Before I knew it, I was being awakened by my uncle, and we were in London! It was late in the evening, which prevented me from getting a good look around me.

The next morning, I woke up late because of our traveling. I saw that my trunk had been brought into my room. After glancing around, I saw with pleasure that there was a little closet in one corner, perfect for my clothes. I picked out a dress to wear for the day, and began to unpack.

In Lady Catherine's Carriage

2010-04-08T09:40:00.000-07:00

"Anne-Anne! Are you ready, my dear? Catherine- are these your bags?", called their mother from downstairs.

"Yes, they are mother! Anne is not ready yet," replied Catherine.

"Well, hurry along, girls!"

Upstairs, Anne was hurriedly packing some small items into her third suitcase. Lady Catherine de Burgh had provided her with more than enough for her coming out. Her packing took long, with all the gowns and evening dresses, and Catherine stood by, exclaiming at the time every minute or so.

"Cathy, please stop! I am going as fast as I can! If you would help, instead of rush-"

"My dears, please do not argue! It is extremely unladylike! What would Lady Catherine say!" entreated their exasperated father from below. "And hurry, we shall be late! Lady Catherine's carriage arrives in five minutes to take us to Bromley, and from there to London! How good is our benefactress!...", he continued, becoming so overwhelmed with gratitude that he walked quickly into the garden.The sisters looked at each other and Anne smiled. Catherine's face, very much like her father's , was serious.

Finally, the trunks were placed in the carriage when it arrived, and they were soon sitting in the carriage, still in view of the parsonage. Their mother smiled. Anne imagined it must be a relief to her to leave this place for a while, and she was sure she was hoping to see her dear old friend, Elizabeth Darcy.

"Mama," she began, " Is it certain that Mrs.Darcy is to be in London?"

"No, my dear, it is not. But whether she is or not, I am glad to go."

"Perhaps some family member of hers is there, Mr.Darcy say, and he will invite you there, so you can see her! I do so hope it will be so."

"My dear daughter, we are not going to London to socialize. We are going to fufill our duties as servant's of the Lord."

"That is true, father. But there are so many people we have never met, and you and mother have not seen for a long time, and it would be lovely to do so. And I am to come out- I am so grateful to *Aunt Maria, and Colonel Fitzwilliam, of course, for assisting us with that. Mama, did you ever think that your own sister would marry Lady Catherine's nephew? I mean, he and Mr.Darcy are such friends, or so you've told me, Mama. I am so glad they live in London- it will be so much pleasanter to stay with them than at an in. They are still to visit us this winter, as they do every year, Mama?"

"I hope so, my dear. Shall you be glad to see your cousin's as well?"

"Of course, though they are younger than I. They are such dears."

"I cannot read with you chattering so, Anne. Could you please quiet down? You're like a schoolgirl- if anyone should be chattering so, it should be me. But I am not in such a hurry to leave our humble parsonage and Rosings Park as you are."

"I know you aren't. You're like father, and I am like Mama."

"But considerably more talkative," added her father, half smiling.

Anne sat back in the elegant carriage and smiled at her father. She felt that she knew better than anyone what adventures were to be had, and though she was of a quiet type, she did not enjoy their exceedingly quiet life, and was ready for something she had never experienced before. She thought once of Mr.Reading, but put him out of her mind, and read the book she had brought along for the 3 hour drive to Bromley.

To be continued...

*Maria is pronounced as if it was spelled Mariah. This is Charlotte Lucases younger sister, who visited her in the company of her father and Elizabeth Bennet when she was first married to Mr.Collins. Maria married Colonel Fitzwilliam about four years afterward.

To London or Not to London?

2010-04-08T07:47:00.000-07:00

"Pleeeease, Papa?" my sister Maria begged. She was known for her talents in the way of persuasion and manipulation, but she was not getting very far here.
"Absolutely not," Papa replied. I could see a slight smile on his face, but the beginnings of parental guidance hid behind his eyes.
"But why, Papa?" Maria asked, a frown on her pretty face.
"For one reason, and one reason only. I do not wish to send you to London only so you can flirt with Leland Smith!"
"Papa..." Maria began petulantly, with a slight pout. "You know that is not why I wish to go to London. I simply would love to visit my cousins, the Darcys, and Rebekah Bingley, who have planned a trip there. In fact," she paused to glance at the clock. "They should be there already. What a good joke it would be if we showed up, too!"
"I don't think they would enjoy that, my dear," Papa stated. "They have a slight... aversion to you, though why they ever would avoid you, I cannot think. I just don't..."
"My dear," Mama interrupted. "Why on earth are you so against us going to London? After all," with a slight glance at me, "you would not wish to take away from the girls their one change to find an eligible husband, now would you?"
"I would not," Papa said. "But-"
"Oh, never mind your worries!" Mama interjected again. "The girls and I will be fine on our own. You can stay at home, Wickham, though I will be desolate without you."
At this Papa's eyes snapped.
"I most certainly will not let you go to London by yourselves!" he said. "It is far, far too dangerous. We will discuss this matter later. Girls?"
Maria and I looked up.
"Go to bed now. Your mother and I have some discussing to do."

"Are we really here?"

2010-04-07T20:09:00.000-07:00

"Lizzy, can you believe it?" Liza said, squeezing her sister's hand. "We're really here! In London!" Liza plopped down on the bed at the Inn they were staying at. Lizzy giggled and sat on the edge of the bed, beside Liza.
"I know. When I was little I used to dream of walking the streets of London, and now I'm here," Lizzy said, closing a book she had brought along.
Liza stood from the bed and made her way over to her luggage, sitting in the wardrobe. She held up a pretty, light pink dress with little flowers sewn onto the hem. "What do you think, Lizzy? Is this a good dress for our first day in London?"
Lizzy giggled and shook her head enthusiastically. "Oh, Liza, it's absolutely perfect! And, what do you think about this one?" Lizzy asked her sister, holding up a light brown and black, checkered dress that looked comfortably perfect for a day full of walking.
"Lizzy, it is superb!" The girls spun around in circles, laughing and having a grand time, until they heard a knock on the door. "Come in," Liza said, straightening up her hair.
Bekah peeked in the door. "Am I interrupting anything?"
Lizzy waved her cousin to come on in, "Oh no, we were just picking out our outfits for the day. Bekah, what do you plan on wearing?"
She smiled and fluffed her blue, cotton dress. "I plan on wearing this. Do you like it?"
Liza and Lizzy exchanged glances. "It's perfect," Lizzy said, walking up to her cousin, and linking arms with her. Liza did the same. "What shall we do on our first day out?"
Bekah giggled. "Maybe we should go shopping."
"Or, maybe we could take a long walk in the beautiful, crisp weather," Liza said, spinning the girls around. The all giggled.
Lizzy gave a chuckle. "Shopping sounds good. So does taking a walk. Perhaps we'll do both!" It was decided.

Introducing Evelyn Grace Wickham

2010-04-06T16:33:00.000-07:00

How are you doing today? My name is Evelyn Grace Wickam, but most of my close friends just call me Eva. My mother is the infamous Lydia Bennet Wickam, notorious for eloping with my father, George Wickam. Mama seems to feel that the attention she received after the elopement (in my mind, bad attention) is lovely, but I feel otherwise. Anyone will tell you by looking at my mother and I that we are related; we could be twins. I have her same ringlets (although mine are several shades darker) and gray/green eyes. However, I sometimes feel that we could not be more opposite in personality. I love the outdoors, I love reading, and I am quiet. My mother considers me a great beauty, and she is anxious to have me wed to a gentleman of extensive fortune... but that is what I despise. Sometimes I wish I had been born plain - if it would just make Mama leave me to choose my own future husband.

Papa is distant towards me - when he is home, which is not often. He is most commonly to be found a great distance from our house, traveling for "his work" as he says. Perhaps if he were around more often I would be able to have a better relationship with him, perhaps we would be able to understand each other better. Alas, that is not likely to happen soon. "It's is not so easy for the leopard to change his spots."

Aunt Lizzy and Aunt Jane are positively lovely. I wish I was their daughter - perhaps like Cousin Bekah or Lizzy and Liza. That would be wonderful; there is just something about my aunts, Auntie Jane especially, that makes you want to pour your heart out to them. They comfort me in my times of turmoil, when I feel like I utterly despise my mother. They grew up with Mama, so they understand how I feel.

Alright, I fear I will wear out my welcome by going on much longer. You know all that you need to know about me - I will let you figure out the rest. Thank you for taking the time to read my story!

Love,

The wheels are a'rolling

2010-04-05T15:03:00.000-07:00

I looked out the window of the carriage upon the moors. IT was almost midnight and Liza lay against me sleeping. I smiled at Bekah, who had just put down a book.
"Do you think we will be there soon Auntie?" I asked my Aunt Georgina who sat next Bekah.
"I don't know dear," she answered, "I hope soon." She added to herself.
I perused my lips then went back to looking out the window. The moors flew past, barely see able. The moon was hidden in dark rain clouds, and a sharp wind blew. I looked at my family again and said in a sad voice.
'It’s going to rain."
"Yes I believe so." Bekah said, neither of them noticed my tone. In her sleep Liza mumbled something. I put my arm around her and sat, my eyes clouded over as I thought.
"Go to sleep dear." Aunt Georgie advised. So, feeling there was nothing else to do, I closed my eyes, trying to sleep.
With a jolt I awoke.
"Here we are dears." Aunt Georgie said, gently shaking Bekah who was also asleep.
"Liza." I whispered.
"Hum...?" She mumbled.
"We are here dearest."
"In London?"
"Yes, come we must go into the inn."
Liza sat up and rubbed her eyes and got out of the carriage. I juped out and put my arm around my sister. The roads of London were muddy as usual. A young porter held a torch which was not nearly enough light. I looked up at the inn. It was tall and newly white-washed.
"It looks nice." I said to myself.
"What Lizzy?" Liza asked me, barely awake.
"Nothing, let's go inside." She nodded.
Soon we were in warm beds, I lay awake for sometime after the others had gone to sleep.
"Well, here we are." I said, and went to sleep.

A Fortnight to Consider

2010-04-02T13:55:00.000-07:00

Previously..

A bright but windy morning, Catherine ran (in an unladylike manner) down the stairs from her room and into the breakfast room. Anne was still grooming- she always took longer than Catherine, but was never unladylike or disheveled, so her parents excused the amount of time her grooming required.

"Father, father, its been a fortnight- have you decided-whether we are to go to London or not?!", she eagerly inquired of Mr.Collins, as he sat placidly eating his meats.

"My dear, more ladylike behavior would be appropriate. I'm sure Lady Catherine would not approve.", he reprimanded, with a deeply disappointed nod.

"Never mind what Lady Catherine de Bourgh thinks- it is simply unacceptable in the house, my dear.", her mother stated with a look at her father and a slight smile at Catherine.

Anne walked in at this moment, and bidding her family members, "Good morning" with a smile, sat down and began to help herself to breakfast. She was as anxious as Catherine, but thought it best to allow her father to inform them of his decision in his timing.Catherine was now seated, and both girls looked almost impatiently at their father now and then. He deliberately ate his meal, but eventually placed his napkin on the table and leaned back.

"My dear daughters, my thought process, when considering whether we should reside in London for a time or no, was very-complex. As you must know, there are many aspects to be taking into consideration. Your mother's health, the parsonage keeping, if the man who is to take my place is of reputable character and competence, expenses, and the fact that the length of our journey may tax Lady Catherine de Bourgh's loneliness and opinion..."

" Mr.Collins, I hardly think Lady Catherine would mind- I'm sure she would not have recommended us to go if she were against it- she will not be lonely without us, I am sure.", Mrs.Collins said softly, looking down at her plate.

"Oh, uh, um, well, my dear, I disagree. But, nonetheless, I have thought deeply about this, and am convinced that we should go. As a minister, I feel it is my responsibility to take the place of another minister- and to give the young man that is taking my place some experience as a clergyman, as he so desires.", he replied. As he concluded, he smiled and his face beamed.

"I think that is very sensible, my dear. And I think my health, and our daughter's manners in society, would be improved by this trip." Mrs.Collins looked satisfied, and rose to leave the table. " Shall we talk privately about arrangements, Mr.Collins? We shall have to visit Lady Catherine this evening."

"Oh Catherine! I am so pleased about father's decision! Are you not simply delighted?!", asked Anne, as they began their usual walk directly after breakfast.

"I don't find so much pleasure in these things as you do, but yes, I am pleased. Father's reason's for going impressed me very much. Were they not godly?"

"Yes. But I must confess, mother's health has worried me-", she began, but paused, as they came face to face with a young gentleman, also walking in the woods.

"Oh, Mr.Reading, how are you?", inquired Anne (with a curtsy) of the pleasant and plain looking young man,as the sisters stopped in front of him.

He bowed and smiled at both of them. "Miss Collins, Miss Catherine! I am so pleased to run into you.I am very well, thank you. And how are you both?"

"Very well, thank you Mr.Reading. Anne, I am going to pick some wildflowers by that rock- will you excuse me, Mr.Reading?", Catherine said. Anne looked at her with a reluctant expression, her face shielded by her bonnet when she turned sideways.

"Of course", Anne and Mr.Reading replied at once. They laughed, and the slightest hint of a blush could be found on Anne's fair face.

" So, Miss Collins, are your parents in good health? I was just on my way to your house to reply to the note your father sent me this morning."

"Oh, yes, they are quite well. I-I was just saying to my sister that I am worried about my mother's health, though she is fine. You see, as you probably know, we are going to London, and I hope the trip will benefit her.", replied Anne,with nothing more than politeness and a slight smile. He noticed her attitude, and said

"Well, I must meet your father. Please excuse me.", and he bowed and walked past her. She looked behind her with a raised brow, and then turned and joined her sister. She was surprised he took her hints.

"Anne, whatever is the matter with you?", asked Catherine, as her sister knelt beside her.

"Whatever is the matter with you? Leaving me alone with Mr.Reading!?", Anne replied with indignation.

"I thought I was being considerate. I thought you liked Mr.Reading?"

"I do, but not in the way you think."

"But why ever not? He is very nice, and admires you. He is quite eligible."

"I am not interested in marrying a clergyman, not to mention one below middle class."

"You always have thought too much of material things, father says so. Truly, what are your prospects of finding a man above middle class?"

"Well, perhaps, if we socialize in London..."

"Ah, so you are changing your behavior towards Mr.Reading because you don't want him to have "false hopes", just in case you meet someone in London? Someone as good, but more wealthy?"

"No, not at all-", she thought for a moment, then sighed. "I suppose that is what I am doing. I don't want to be cruel, or caniving, but I must do it. Do you think I am wrong?"

"Yes, I suppose so- as long as you don't accept Mr.Reading (if he ever asks you after your behavior today) when we come back from London, just because no one better came along and asked you.", Catherune replied, with a warning look.

"I hope I would not be so base- three things would keep me from doing such a thing- integrity,consistency, and whether or not I love him. Which I do not, of course.", she said with a blush at the latter statement and anxious look at the first.

"That is wise and well said.You may not think I know of human dynamics, because I spend so much time "pouring over theology", as you and mother say, but within the human spirit is an instinct for these things, if we would only hold on to it from birth."

"You are right, Catherine.And this situation is the perfect example.", Anne smiled and took her sister's arm as they stood up and began their walk home. "I hope Mr.Reading is gone by now."

Catherine looked at her teasingly, and leaned her head on her sister's shoulder. The two sister's sauntered along, partly to enjoy the lovely weather, and to give Mr.Reading enough time to walk home.

To be continued....

The Coming Trip

2010-03-23T10:44:00.000-07:00

When Uncle Darcy announced yesterday at breakfast that we were all invited to take a trip to London, I was so excited! As soon as the meal was over I went to my room and wrote a letter back home to my parents, asking their permission to accompany the Darcys to town. I had just finished dressing this morning when the reply came.

"A letter for you Miss Rebekah." announced one of my uncle's servants. I thanked him politely and sat down immediately to read it. It was from my mother.

"My Dear Rebekah,

Of course you may go to London with my sister and her family. It will be a wonderful adventure for you. We will miss you sorely, especially since you've already been away from us for two weeks.

We would all love to see you one more time before you leave. Please come over this afternoon with your trunk so I can help you go over your clothes and pick out outfits for the trip. You may also spend the night if you wish.

Lovingly yours,

Mama."

That evening, I packed my trunk and went home for the night. There was hardly any need for a good-bye with my cousins, since I would be seeing them again the next afternoon. At home, I was affectionately greeted by my brothers, sisters and parents. It had been over two weeks since I'd seen them last. My seventeen year old sister, Margaret, and I had a long talk together that night. She, Mama, our maid and my thirteen year old sister Emma helped me to pack my trunk.

Also that evening, I talked to my father for a long time. He reminded me, gently, of what happened to my Aunt Lydia when she went away from her family for an extended period of time. He gave me many fatherly charges, and then wished he was going too so he could make sure I was protected.
"You don't have to worry about that, Father. Uncle Darcy and Leland Smith are accompanying us. They are both good strong men."
"Yes, yes, but I would feel better if I came."
"I understand." I nodded. Then added mischievously, "I could take Richard with me." My father began to laugh. Richard was my fifteen year old brother, and a very protective one at that.
"No, that won't be necessary. I trust you completely, Rebekah my dear. Still...."
It was then that I remembered something.
"Father, I just recalled that our old friend, James Taavetti, is planning a short business trip to London in two weeks. He could stop in and check on how I'm doing and bring a report back to you. Would that be satisfactory?"
"Good old James." My father mused. "Yes, that is a good plan. I will write him this evening." He stood to leave. "Good night, Bekah."
"Good night, Father." I replied, giving him a kiss before tripping up to bed.

The next morning I spent an hour or two playing around with the little ones of my family. My three little brothers were happier to see me than they would admit. I hiked up my skirts and went outside with them to see the new treefort and inspect a few new wooden swords they had constructed. Alexander, a brilliant ten year old, had designed them himself, with special features he and Frederick, age eight, had invented.
Michael, five, just walked beside me, holding my right hand. Three year old Harriet held my left.

All too soon, it was time to say good bye. I held little Celine, just two, as long as I could before handing her off to her nurse. Then I kissed my mother and sisters goodbye and stepped into the carriage. I did not know how many months it would be before I saw them again.

Alexander and Frederick ran alongside the carriage as far as they could, waving and calling. I waved back at them as the carriage left our family estate and headed off towards Pemberly.

Now that the hardest good-byes were through, I could look forward with anticipation for the coming trip.

The Collins at Rosings Park

2010-03-15T10:04:00.000-07:00

That evening, Anne, Catherine, and their parents put on their second bests and walked less than a mile to Rosings Park itself. As they entered the enormous hall, Anne and Catherine, though they had been dining there since they were 8, were awed. The contrast between their parsonage and this mansion always struck them.

Eventually they reached the parlor, the only one used by Lady Catherine, and were greeted by the grand Lady Catherine de Bourgh.

"Ah, Mr.Collins, I see you have come, and brought your wife and daughters with you. Sit down. Shall I call for refreshments?" As she spoke, she motioned a servant standing behind her large cushioned chair to come nearer.

Mr.Collins immediately responded. " Ah, uh, no madam, we are quite, quite, content. As you know it is only a short walk-"

"Perhaps your wife and daughters would have some tea and cake, though you require none." She looked closely at him.

" Whatever you would prefer, my lady. I and my humble family only-"

"Rupert, bring tea and cake for the ladies", she said, interrupting Mr.Collins again, and turning toward the servant.

"Yes ma'am", the servant replied, as he exited the room with a bow.

"Mrs.Collins, I hear you are feeling unwell. Is this true?". Lady Catherine inquired, turning towards Mrs.Collins, who was seated across from her on a couch next to her daughters.

" Yes, my lady. I fear the weather here has not been good for my constitution."

"Then I hope this news will please you. You have heard of my nephew, Mr.Darcy, of Pemberly, have you not?"

"Yes, ma'am, I know of whom you speak."

"He has informed me that he and his family, and some others, are going to London shortly. My niece, Georgianna, is to be married, and they are going to London to arrange her trousseau. My nephew attends church, at least that is my presumption, and he has informed me that the preacher of the church in London has been called elsewhere." She now turned to Mr.Collins, who opened his mouth to speak. Ignoring him, she continued.
"He inquired whether you, Mr.Collins, would be willing to leave this parish for a time and replace Mr.Lowett, the preacher, you see. He says his wife, Elizabeth, has been wanting to see her old friend, your wife. Are you aware and do you understand the circumstances I am relating to you?"

Mr.Collins looked at his wife, looked back at Lady Catherine, and made a deep bow.

"Very well. You have a fortnight to consider my nephew's proposition. If you decide to accept, you will stay in an inn, suitable to your needs, close to the church. Now,young lady," she began, and turning to Anne, looked at her from top to bottom.

"Yes, madam?", Anne replied, in almost a whisper. Already stunned from the news just related to her and her family, she could not imagine what this lady had to say to her.

"How old are you?"

"I am not yet 20, madam."

"It is about time you came out. London is the best place to do so. Have you enough ball gowns, evening dresses, and slippers?"

"Uh, no madam. I have no such articles of clothing. I am the daughter of a Reverand- it is unlikely I would attend such affairs, my lady."

"You will. I happen to know that your father himself attended several balls and evening parties.Is this not true, Mr.Collins?" She turned to that gentleman, who seemed a little bafffled, but instantly responded.

"Ah, yes, my lady. It was my great fortune to meet your nephew, Mr.Darcy, on one such occasion. Indeed, I did not enjoy these things a little." He smiled and nodded slowly.

"Then your daughter must come out in London. As you do not have the means to provide all she needs, I will provide you with 100 pounds for each of your daughters, as I see your other one will also need clothing."

"Madam, I cannot more humbly accept such an offer,and I assure you, your orders will be obeyed with the utmost-"

"Mr.Collins, I must retire, and your family should do so as well. Rupert (who had returned at one point), show Mr.Collins and his family out. I hope you enjoyed your visit, you always do. Remember, one fortnight. The church in London cannot wait forever."

Lizzy talks

2010-03-12T14:42:00.000-08:00

After I talked Liza, I went up stairs to see to my packing. After throwing about several dresses and making a general mess I sat down in a heap by the fireplace. Sighing, I laid down cooling my hot brow. The door opened and in came my beloved mother, seeing me she looked alarmed.
"My dear what is the matter?" she asked coming to me, and placing my head in lap.
"Nothing really, its just I have so may things on my mind."
Mother laughed softly, "Do wish to tell me about theses things.''
"Yes please!" I answered.
"Very well then, tell mother all about it.''
And out it came, about Liza and Bryant, Lee. It was a surprise even to myself, for it is not often that I speak of my feelings, even to my mother. She was thoughtful for some while, "What do you think of this Bryant?"
"I do not know about his character," I answered, "For only meet him a few times. But as for him and Liza...Well I think they like each other very much. That's why I was upset about Liza's news. It does seem like him to stoop as low Tyra Brunner!" I was now speaking to myself more than my mother, "There is nothing really wrong with her, its just that..." My sentence trailed off to nothing.
"Well," my Mother said standing up, "We will just have to see what happens."
I stood up too, putting my arm around my mothers shoulders, we went out together.

Hi, I'm Katherine

2010-03-11T17:44:00.000-08:00

Hello! I am very excited to be a part of the amazing group who brings you "Sisters of Pemberly". My characters are the Collin family of Rosings Park Parsonage, particularly Anne and Catherine.
I just wanted to post a little hello, and keep visiting for the continuation of the exciting upcoming trip to London. If you are new, just look in the archives for the firstt part of the story, entitled "The Beginning".
Enjoy!

Rosings Parsonage: Anne and Catherine

2010-03-11T17:40:00.000-08:00

While the Darcy girls and the rest were preparing for the trip to London, two sisters were sitting in a drawing room miles away at the Rosings Park Parsonage in Hunsford. The room was silent, except for the sounds of a pen scratching on paper, and the pages of a book being turned.
Eventually, one of the young ladies,who appeared to be about 20, with dark brown hair and dark blue eyes, broke the silence.

"Catherine, I do wish you would lay down that book and take a walk with me", she said to a young girl sitting in a chair, apparently buried in a book entitled, "The Sermons of Montelluiney".

The girl, who looked about 15, slowly closed the book, and placed it on the table. In her usual careless way, she placed it too near the edge and it fell with a bang on the wood floor. A cat near the hearth gave a startled jump.

"I would take a walk with you, Anne, but father says improvement of the mind is much more important than wandering about the grounds", she said, as looked into her sister's face with her large black eyes and placid expression. She smoothed back her black hair from her forehead and rearranged her rumpled dress.

"Yes, dear, but mother says that exercise of the body is as important as exercise of the mind, and I know very well you cannot have one without the other. So don your bonnet and come along", replied Anne.

The two young ladies were soon sauntering about the lawn. They were quiet young ladies, and by society's standards, were not particularly interesting.
Anne spent most of her time assisting her mother,Charlotte Lucas Collins, and attending to domestic affairs. She was very much like her mother, and was a great likeness to her, though her plain features had a prettiness that her mother's did not.
Catherine was usually engrossed in a book, though not of the usual kind for a girl of her age. She read sermons, theological essays, and whatever else her clergyman father, William Collins, put into her hands. Though not as reserved as her sister, she was absent minded, like her father, and was not very intelligent.

The girls were very much loved and disciplined by their parents, and were treated to society at church and Rosings Park, whenever the Honorable Lady Catherine de Bourgh (whom Catherine herself was named after) invited them to dine or spend an evening. Lady Catherine de Bourgh was a very old lady now, so the only amusement to be found there was listening to her speak about her past and her nephew Fitzwilliam Darcy and his family, consisting of his sister Georgianna, wife Elizabeth Bennet Darcy (who had been their mother's close friend), and his two daughters.
Anne always found interest in hearing about this wealthy family, whom her father claimed cousin-ship to, through the wife, Elizabeth, and Catherine delighted in speaking of her connection to Lady Catherine de Bourgh and the Darcy's to everyone she met.The Collins family were to attend Rosings Park that evening, and the sisters hardly knew what awaited them there.

A Trip?

2010-03-10T16:53:00.000-08:00

Liza couldn't believe it when her father told she and Lizzy the news! Her emotions were swirling! London? What happened to her father? "Father, this is lovely!" Liza said, hugging him tightly. "I am so excited! London?" Liza looked at Lizzy and they both giggled.

"I am letting you go under one condition." Mr. Darcy paused. "Alright, two conditions. One, that you make sure to behave yourselves and try not to embarrass the family." Lizzy and Liza exchanged glances. Liza's seemed to say she would try, but that it would be hard. Lizzy's seemed to say that what her father had demanded would be no problem for her. "Two, that Lee goes with you." Liza and Lizzy exchanged glances once more. Both of them saying the same thing.

"What?" Lizzy said.

"Father, why does Lee have to come? He'll only bore everyone," Liza said, turning back to meet her mother's disapproved glance. "Forgive me. I didn't mean to-"

"You are forgiven my daughter. Let it not happen again," Mr. Darcy said with loving, kind eyes. Liza smiled. "Lee must go with you to take care of you and keep an eye on you." Liza opened her mouth to speak, but Lizzy touched her arm, indicating that she shouldn't speak at this time. Liza closed her mouth. "I've already spoken to Lee about it," their father went on. "He says it sounds like a lovely idea and asked if Cassie might go along. Of course I said yes. Cassie is such a bright young lady and would be a very good traveling companion."

"I think it's a lovely idea as well," Lizzy chimed in, trying to break the silence.

"I supposed if I want to go to London that I must be content with my traveling companions," Liza replied, half smiling, half frowning. Just at that time, Lee and Cassie walked up to the garden area where the Darcy's were chatting.

"Good evening, ladies." Lee nodded his head. "Mr. Darcy, I trust that your evening has been well?"

"Indeed it has, so far," he answered.

"Good. Liza, I have to talk to you about something. If you could excuse us," Lee said, looking at Liza, then to her father. Mr. Darcy nodded, giving his consent.

"Liza, did you hear about Mr. Bryant?" Lee asked after a few minutes of them walking around the green pastures of the Darcy's land.

"No. What about Mr. Bryant?" Liza asked, trying not to sound too anxious.

"He and Mrs. Brunner are- well, they are..." Lee stopped short after seeing the look on Liza's face. "Maybe I should just let you figure it out."

"Figure what out? Lee, are you trying to say he's with someone else?" Liza asked, picking a rose from the nearest bush and slowly peeling off each pedal.

"Well... yes." Lee sat down on the bench under the big oak tree. Liza just stood in front of the bench. "I'm sorry, Liza. I know that you-"

"I what? Was friends with him?" Liza said, a bit jumpy. She was afraid Lee had noticed her interest in Mr. Bryant. "He was a very nice gentleman, but why should I care about his affairs with other woman?"

"I- I just assumed that you were interested in him."

"Well," Liza replied, "You assumed incorrectly." She took a seat on the bench next to Lee. He turned to face her.

"I am very excited about the trip." Lee paused. "To London."

"Oh, that. Yes. Me too," Liza replied, tossed the green stem that was left after all the beautiful, scarlet pedals were plucked from it.

Lee looked puzzled, "You don't sound that excited, Liza."

She tried to smile and placed her hand on Lee's shoulder, "I am excited. I was just distracted." Liza stood from the bench and started walking back towards the house. "We better get back. Mother is probably wondering how long I'm going to wander around the grounds." Lee knew it was just an excuse to get away from him. He figured Liza wasn't happy with him for "meddling" in her affairs with Mr. Bryant. Lee knew she was interested in him, even though she denied it. It upset for some reason. He had an unpleasant feeling he had never felt before.

When Lee and Liza made it back to the house, Cassie and Lee left for home. Lizzy pulled Liza aside, "Liza, what's wrong?" She waited for an answer. Then after a moment of silence, "Liza, tell me!" She was looking Liza hard in the eyes.

"Lee says that Mr. Bryant is... seeing someone else. If I had known this was true, I wouldn't have engaged myself with him so much. I feel like such a fool," Liza said, putting her hand on her forehead.

Lizzy took her sisters hand, "Whom is he seeing?"

"Lee says it's Mrs. Brunner. Tyra Brunner."

"Tyra? Why would he stoup that low?" Lizzy said, looked off into the distance thinking.

"Lizzy, you shouldn't say such things. If Mr. Bryant is in love with her, we shouldn't try to meddle. She must be a nice woman to get the interest of such a wealthy man," Liza said, bringing Lizzy back to the here and now.

"Yes, you're right." Lizzy put her arm in Liza's, "Well, if he's too blind to see what a lovely, beautiful woman my sister is, he's not worthy of her." They both smiled and giggled, walking off towards the house with the others.

Welcome!

2010-03-10T04:34:00.001-08:00

I have great news! Yesterday we added on new author and got one back! Please welcome Eldarwen and Kathrine! I am so glad to have my "sister" Liza back, and to be meeting someone new.
~Lizzy

The Coming Trip

2010-03-09T15:09:00.000-08:00

The night after the Garden Party, and after the girls had gone to bed, Georgianna walked down to the parlor to speak with Elizabeth Darcy. Elizabeth walked up to her sister-in-law and hugged her. "Georgie! I'm so happy for you and Matthew Clock!"

Georgianna sighed happily "I can't believe we're finally getting married." She then took on a serious expression. "But that's what I came down here for. I'm going to London before it gets busy and buy my trousseau. I was wondering if I could take your daughters and Bekah with me."

"Oh Georgie! That's a wonderful idea!"

"You think so?"

"Yes of course! we must tell the girls tomorrow."

Thus it was decided, the Darcys' were going to London.

The Rose

2010-03-09T14:44:00.000-08:00

The day of the Smiths' garden party could hardly have been better. The air was cool and a breeze was blowing. I felt refreshed as I sat at the tables out in the garden having tea and chatting with my cousins and friends. Aunt Georgiana came with us and I was enjoying spending time with her. Soon, Liza and Lizzy moved away from the table. I saw Lizzy go into the house and I saw Liza talking to Leland, then moving away and talking to the man she had met at the ball, although I couldn't recall his name. The Smiths' maids came to clear the table, and my friend Captain James came over to take me on a walk.

"How have you been enjoying the first few weeks of your holiday?" I asked him.
"Oh, they've been splendid. I love being home." he replied.
"You've come home older, that's a fact."
"In age, yes."
"I didn't only mean that, you've gained experience in a trade. It's a good thing." As we talked, we were strolling among the flower gardens that the Smiths' gardeners took such good care of. This particular lane was bordered by rose bushes, alternating pink, red and white. Their fragrance was breathtaking.

"How have you been spending your time?" James asked.
"Oh, the usual." I replied.
"And what is 'the usual'?"
"Reading, needlework, tending to my brothers and sisters, playing the pianoforte."
"That's quite a list!"
"I keep busy, that's a fact."

Just then, I spotted an unusual rose among the bushes. There, sandwiched between a large, blooming blood red rose bush and an equally large pink rose bush, was a tiny little yellow rose bush with only one little bud on it. James spotted it too.
"Here's something unusual to spark up your usual life." he said with a little laugh, plucking the flower and putting it in my hand.
"It is pretty, a little loner in all those other flowers. Thank you." I tucked the flower into my hair, and together we began to walk back to the house. There was something about that flower that made me feel...excited somehow. I'd think about it more later, once we got home.

Mr. Gould and my family

2010-02-20T14:32:00.000-08:00

Two hours later Mr. Gould and I walked outside and re-joined the group. I curtsied to Mr. Gould and skipped over to Liza. She smiled quizzically at me, but I said nothing.

"Ho! Lizzy you've re-appeared!" Lee cried out, "Come join us over here."

"Lizzy?!" Liza said as she grabbed hold of my arm.

''What?"

"Aren't you going to tell me who that is?" Liza said, referring back to Mr.Gould.

I smiled and said gently, "Wait, be patient dear sister."

Liza gave me a small pout, but took my arm in hers and we joined the gentlemen.

Once we were in the carriage and on our way back home I was attacked with questions from the girls.

"You must tell us now Lizzy!" begged Liza.

"Very well then I will." And I launched into my story, when I had finished I sat back into the seat of the carriage and looked the faces of my dearest friends and family.

"He certainly sounds like a gentleman." Bekah said.

"Yes, calling you madame and all." Aunt Georgie agreed.

"Well Liza what do you think?" I was anxious for her approval.

She beamed down on and said happily, "I think he is a very nice man, and we should get to know him."

I smiled very content, my family was the best in the world.

Long Time!

2009-12-24T13:34:00.000-08:00

Yes I know it has been a long time since we have posted! I was moving and that took a lot of my time. Also Liza will sadly be leaving us(I hope not for long!), her dad is ill and in the hospital. But any way we WILL get back to posting! I know I have two posts in mind and so does Aunt Georgie.
Thanks for being so patient!
~Lizzy

A Wonderful Afternoon

2009-12-23T16:51:00.000-08:00

I was seated next to Bryant at the tea table. Lee was sitting on the other side of me and he whispered something in my ear, "Don't eat the snacks Cassie made, they're atrocious." I giggled and recollected myself. We smiled at each other and Bryant cleared his throat.

"I meant to give this to you at the ball, but I couldn't find you after we departed," he said, holding up a white glove.

I blushed, "Thank you. I didn't even notice." He smiled.

"Liza, do you have a moment?" Lee asked me after lunch when everyone was playing crochet. I smiled and excused myself.

"Lee, I was in the middle of a conversation with Mr. Bryant. What is it?" I was quite anxious to get back to the game; more or less, to Mr. Bryant.

"I can't help but notice your sudden interest in Mr. Bryant."

I blushed and cleared my throat, "Lee, you must be ridiculous. He's simply a very talented young man. And very interesting."

"But Liza..."

I my feelings had been considerably rumpled by Lee's questions, so I cut him off with,

"Lee, I am just being nice. Please excuse me."

With that I swept back to the game and Mr. Bryant. After sitting myself back down I looked back at Lee through the corner of my eye. He stood where I had left him, he was looking at me with a hurt look in his blue eyes. With a small pang of remorse, I looked away and concentrated my mind on the game. Lizzy was my savior, for in she came with a stranger. A tall dark good-looking stranger. We met eyes across the room, hers were dancing.

What happend in the library.

2009-12-22T19:35:00.000-08:00

I followed her into the library, which was a grand room lined with shelves, with a table, six chairs and an empty fire place. Cassie brought me a book I had long wanted to try. 'Tis called Life of Johnson, by James Broswell.
"Thank you Cassie! May I read it for awhile?"
She smiled "Yes Lizzy, I will come get you in a bit." And with that she left me to my reading.
I must have been there for over a half an hour, when I heard.
"Madame?"
I looked up into the eyes of a man about twenty, with beautiful kind brown eyes.
"Madame?" He said again.
I shook myself and smiled slightly, "Yes?"
He bowed and smiled back, "I was, um, coming to retrieve a book. That I lent Leland. Do you know the Smiths?"
I stood up from my chair and replied, "Yes, I do, my father Mr.Darcy grew up with Leland's father."
His face lit up, "Then you must be either Liza or Lizzy. Leland speaks of you all the time."
I curtsied, "I am Lizzy. Lisbeth Darcy."
He bowed, "And I am Francis Gould."

The Garden Party

2009-12-20T13:17:00.000-08:00

The Garden Party was at the Smith's house. It was after luncheon, and was a simple affair of tea and cards. We arrived promptly at one. I was dressed in a simple, yet flattering dress of white, with short sleeves and a simple gold chain about my neck.
Leland's sister, Cassie came to greet us.
"Liza! Lizzy! Welcome! Oh and Becka, Aunt Georgie! Come, come do join us." She gave hugs all 'round, then led us to the parlor where we joined the guests. Leland, James and Captain Milton were sitting around the main table playing cards with dark handsome fellow.
"That's him Lizzy," Liza had grasped my arm and was whispered excitedly, "Bryant Woods.''
I looked him over closely, this is were my dear sister and I differ most. While she is quite taken with meeting and becoming friends easily, I prefer to meet and watch, before bestowing my friendship.
"He has good manners, and pleasing face." I agreed, as the men stood at our entrance.
Lee did the introductions,
"Ladies meet my friend Bryant Woods."
Bryant's eyes light up at the sight of Liza, he came forward,
"My dear miss Elizabeth!" he said kissing her hand.
"Have you met?" Lee asked surprised.
"Yes," answered Liza, "At the ball, I'm afraid we ran into each other."
''Yes we did." Bryant agreed smiling, still more.
Cassie took me aside from the group, "Lizzy, I have the book you wanted. Will you come into the library with me?"
"Oh yes!" I said.

An Thoughtful Conversation

2009-12-19T07:43:00.000-08:00

As the dance began, I decided it was time I figured out how James had been doing. I began to look over him intently, looking over his face for worry lines and looking straight into his eyes to see if he could meet my gaze. I'd learned to do this type of face study years ago, and had practiced on James many times. This time however, there was something in his eyes that worried me a little.

"Scrutinizing me again, Bekah?" James asked amusedly.
"Yes." I answered.
"What do you see?" James had gotten used to this staring ritual over the years, really since we were twelve.
"I see that you getting more headstrong and independent and I'm worried you'll go to far." I said frankly. James looked surprised.
"You worry about me?"
"Sometimes. When I see that glint in your eyes, the 'I can do anything I want to' look. Sometimes I think that you going the royal navy wasn't such a good idea."
"Aren't you proud of me?" James looked a little hurt.
"Of course I am. Please don't get me wrong here. I'm just concerned that you're using the Navy as an excuse to sidle out from under your mother's guidance and trying to do everything on your own."
"Well, not everything yet. I still write Mother." James defended himself, but he looked a little guilty.
"Not nearly enough. You really should use this furlough home to draw closer to her. She needs you probably even more than you know."
"I am aware of that. I'm realizing now how hard it is to be the man of a family." We were silent for a little while, each of us thinking. I thinking of James and his family: his mother, brother and two sisters. He was the youngest, his oldest brother had already left home, leaving James to take care of his mother and two sisters. James's father had disappeared at sea when he was very small. Life had never been very easy for the Taavettis after that.
The silence was broken when I shook myself, smiled and said, "I'm not that worried about you. You'll do fine, just keep your mind focused." After that, the conversation changed to lighter topics.

A Lovely Night

2009-12-19T07:31:00.000-08:00

After introducing us to Mr. Milton, I quickly left when I saw my old friend, Cristy with her fine husband. We talked and talked. Then, the musicians started to play a different, more lively tune. Cristy and her husband bid me a good evening and made their way to the dance floor. I went in search of Lee, for he promised me the first dance.
"There you are!" I heard him yell and he quickly made his way towards me. "Time to dance?"
"Why certainly," I replied blushing. We glided along the dance floor and clapped and cheered, it was a lovely dance. When the music stopped playing I needed to look for Lizzy. I hadn't seen her since we were introduced to Mr. Milton, and I wondered if something went wrong. I hadn't been there for the rest of the conversation. "Lee, do you know where my sister is?"
He looked around, "No, but where ever she is, I can assure you it's far from Mr. Milton."
"What? What happened, Lee?" I asked.
"Look, there's Christy and her husband, shall we go say hello?"
"I already have. Lee, why are you avoiding my question?" Leland looked at me sheepishly.
"Well, do you promise to tell no one."
I shook my head, "Not a soul."
"Especially not Lizzy."
I repeated, "Especially not Lizzy."
Leland took my hand and led me away from the noise. "I had hoped that Lizzy would take a fancy to Mr. Milton and..."
"Are you saying, sir, that you're trying to be a matchmaker for my sister?" I said in surprise.
"No, no. I just had hoped they might, talk more this evening. You see, Mr. Milton is a very lonely, very prideful man and I had hoped Lizzy might be just the girl to-to carry on a decent conversation with him. That's all."
I stood up straight, "What exactly did he say to make Lizzy distraught?"
"He was just talking about how woman are a nuisance at sea." Leland hung his head.
"Uh! The nerve! Why would he choose such a subject to speak to a woman about?"
"It's my fault really. I brought it up."
I excused myself from Leland and went to look for Lizzy. I wondered if she had been emotionally hurt by Mr. Milton's remark. She is such a delicate soul. When I found her, she was gaily speaking to Christy.
"Liza, you didn't tell me you had seen Christy this evening," Liza said, taking my had and squeezing it.
"Well, I hadn't seen you since I talked with her," I said smiling at them both.
Lizzy giggled, "That's true."
"Lizzy, did you meet Mr. Milton?"
Her eyes got a bit sad, "Yes. He's a very outspoken gentleman."
I sighed, "Lee told me. Are you... okay?"
Christy was watching and listening, a little confused, yet interested.
"Yes, Liza, I'm fine." Lizzy squeezed my hand again and smiled, just to reassure me.
"Hi girls," Bekah said. "Are you ready to go? It's getting quite late."
I said yes and Lizzy shook her head. It was decided. I went to tell Leland good-bye and Bekah went to tell the coachman to get our carriage. Lizzy was saying her last minute good-bye's to Christy.
"Leland, we're going to take leave."
Leland looked worried, "Is Lizzy okay?"
"Yes, we're just tired and it's getting quite late. Papa will not be to happy if we stay out much longer."
Leland smiled, knowing that is was true. "I'll see you tomorrow. I'd like to come over, if it's alright."
I smiled and shook my head, "It's perfectly fine. Good-night!"
Leland waved his hand as I walked off towards the door.
"Ow!" I said, stumbling over someone's foot. "I'm so sorry, I didn't-" And there he was. The most handsome man I've ever met.
"No, it's quite alright. Are you okay?"
I was speechless.
"Do you talk, Mrs...."
"Oh, I'm sorry. Yes, I'm alright. The name is L-Elizabeth Bennett."
"Well, Mrs. Bennett, my apologies for stepping on you," he said, smiling.
"Oh, it's quite alright, Mr..."
"Bryant. Bryant Woods. Well, I can see you were making your way somewhere, so I will not deter you any longer."
I blushed as he took my hand and kissed it. "Good evening Mr. Woods."
"Please, it's Bryant."
"Bryant." I walked away, wanting to stay and get to know this wonderfully charming man, but Bekah and Lizzy were probably waiting for me at the carriage. I turned to get one more glance of Bryant. He was looking at me too. I blushed and scolded myself for looking.
"What took you so long, Liza?" Bekah asked while being helped into the carriage.
"I met the most wonderful man in my whole life," I said after we were all in the carriage and the door was shut.
The gasped, "What? Are you referring to Le-"
"No!" I quickly explained, "His name is Bryant Woods. He's tall, handsome and he is a very kind gentleman. I bumped into him on my way out."
"You know all that stuff about him just because you bumped into him?" Lizzy said, giggling a little.
"No, we talked for a while. Exchanged our names and... well, I just know he's a gentleman because something in his manner of speech. I can tell he was well brought-up." We all giggled together excitedly and talked about the evening. When we arrived at home Papa said we should get some rest and reminded us about the Garden Party the next day. I secretly hoped Bryant would be there.

The Smiths' Ball

2009-12-18T12:08:00.000-08:00

Dear Journal,

What a night we had at the Smiths! I'm so glad I was able to go, and now I need to settle down and collect my scattered thoughts discernibly on paper.

I was barely ready when the carriage arrived to take us, and I was feeling so excited and bouncy that it was hard to keep still on the ride. Lizzy, Liza and I talked and giggled all the way. I'm inexpressibly happy to be with them again!

When we walked into the Smiths' beautiful home, I got a thrill up my back as I saw all the lovely dressed people walking around, the music playing, and could smell the delicious supper prepared for us. As I gave my cloak to the attendant, I felt light, free, and ready for anything!

Soon after we arrived, I was delighted to be greeted by an old family friend, Captain James Taavetti. I hadn't seen him in a while, and it was good to catch up. He's in the navy, and often away at sea. His father came from Finland, and James's love of the water came from him.
"How's my handsome navy hero?" I teased him.
"Fine, fine. A little rusty on home manners, but fine." he replied.
"Nonsense. Your manners are emaculate." I countered.
He looked over towards another part of the room, where I saw Leland and Liza talking to another man.
"Sure, sure. I see you are here with your cousins. Fine young ladies they are. Oh, I see they're meeting William! He's a good friend of mine. Also a little rusty on his manners around ladies." he smiled.
"I think your manners are perfectly elegant, and you know they are." I insisted. "You act like a gentleman."
"Thank you. I appreciate that compliment. Must store it somewhere, so as not to forget it."
I laughed. James has often been teased for his bad short term memory. Just then, we saw the conversation between James's friend and Leland and Liza break up. Liza seemed to be looking for someone, and when she saw me she began moving our direction. James and I walked over to talk with her.
"Liza, this is my old friend Captain James Taavetti. James, this is Elizabeth Bennet, my cousin."
"How do you do?" James bowed. Liza curtsied and smiled. I noticed she looked a little out of sorts.
"I see you've met my friend Captain Milton!" James continued. "What did you think of him?"
"Honestly?" Liza asked.
"Hmmm, methinks my friend has been voicing his opinion on women to you, has he not?" James said in an all-knowing air (which he is also famous for).
Liza sighed. "He is not the most pleasant spoken of men."
"Nothing time won't improve." James said cheerfully. "He's here on extended furlough, as am I. I wouldn't be surprised if eight months in wonderful, wholesome society doesn't polish him up somewhat."
Then my favorite dance began, and Liza curtsied goodbye and James led me back to the floor.
"I hope I'm not taking away dances from other promised young men." James said.
"No, not at all. I am not engaged at all this evening."
"Good, good. I hope you will not be bored with me this evening. May I be your escort to dinner?"
"I would be honored." I replied.

We meet Captain William Milton

2009-12-18T09:09:00.000-08:00

Before the dancing started Leland introduced us to a friend from Oxford. His name was Captain William Milton.
"I knew you would want to meet him Lizzy, he fought on Nile. Won a great victory there. Now he is on leave. Isn't that right Will?"
The Captain was a man of average height, with blond hair pulled back as English fashions commands. He had sharp blue eyes that seemed to look right through me.
"Yes my dear fellow, I'm afraid I caught some blasted illness the Caribbean."
"That's too bad Captain," I said, "what where you doing there? May I ask?"
"Following some French ship, twice our size, twice our gun. But we got them."
Leland smiled, "Will, I have never known you take to women before, this is a surprise. I even recall you saying that they are a "Bloody nuisance."'
My eyes widened in surprise, "A nuisance?" I asked
Captain Milton shifted uncomfortably, and then replied, "I'm afraid you misunderstood me. What I said was that women are a nuisance at sea. Its not good for their health to be on the Waves. They catch one thing or another, and when battle comes they are just plain in the way."
"Sir," I said a little hotly, "Not all women are this way. I love sailing, and wish I could more often."
"Most women that I have had escort, ruined the venture completely." He said firmly.
Just then the musicians struck up a lively country dance. Leland turned to us and said,
"Well I must leave you to find Liza, for I believe I have the first dance."
With that Leland left, leaving me standing with the captain.
My feelings had been rumpled, so bid goodnight to the captain and I went in search of Becka.

The Glorious Ball

2009-12-18T07:45:00.000-08:00

(the dress on the right is Liza's ballgown)

"I'm so glad you ladies could make it," Leland said as he gave each of us his hand and helped us down from the carriage. As soon as we were all out of the carriage I was stunned by the magnificent lights that were hung everywhere.

"Oh Leland, it's beautiful!" I said and he gave me his arm. I put mine in his and said, "Well, it's beautiful for a small party." We all laughed.

"Well, I must say, Liza, you look beautiful tonight as well," Leland smiled and finished with, "For an unimportant young woman as yourself." We laughed once more. "Come, come inside and meet some friends of mine." Leland led the way and when we stepped inside the beautiful ballroom Rebekah gave a sharp gasp.

"It's, it's beautiful and so bright and... just beautiful!" Leland smiled as all us girl stood there and admired the brightly lit scenery and sighed happily. We felt so beautiful in our ballgowns, we felt like princess'. Rebekah took my hand, I took Lizzy's and we all took a deep breath.

"Wow, I'm so exited. A ball!" Lizzy said and she silently giggled. I giggled, too and Rebekah squeezed our hand and reminded us we were to be following Leland. We giggled again and walked a bit faster to catch up with him.

Sorry!

2009-12-01T20:35:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone! We are sorry we have not posted in a while. It's been a busy month, eh? We will try to get back to the story as soon as possible. Please be patient with us. :)

~Eldarwen Failariel~ (Liza)

The Afternoon With Rebekah

2009-11-17T11:43:00.000-08:00

(the pic to the right is Liza by the lakeside)

Note from the author (Eldarwen): This is going to take place before Rebekah's last entry.

This afternoon Lizzy and Liza spent their time with Rebekah. They talked about so many things. The girls had a lot to catch up on. Rachel made a delicious lunch and everyone ate it by the lakeside. It was an absolutely beautiful day! After lunch, the girls played a wonderful game of crochet. When the game was over everyone packed up their things and headed back towards the house. It wasn't long before Liza's dear friend Leland Smith came riding up on his horse.
"Good afternoon, ladies," Leland said, dismounting the horse and taking off his hat.
The girls curtsied and bid him a good afternoon as well.
"Are you all excited about the ball tonight?" Leland asked, already knowing the answer.
Liza spoke up, "Should we be? Who would want to go to a silly ball?" The girls giggled and Leland smiled brightly.
"Well, then if the most beautiful woman in Pemberly won't join me, I guess I shall have to cancel the ball," Leland said, playing along.
"Well," started Lizzy, "I guess we could attend. If you really, really want us to."
Leland laughed and said, "I would be delighted!" Liza and Lizzy put the arms in Leland's, while Rebekah put her arm in Lizzy's and they all strode happily to the house.

When they arrived in the house, Leland asked Liza if she'd like to play a game of Chess. That was somewhat of a tradition whenever Leland visited Pemberly. Liza heartily accepted and walked merrily over to the chess board. They immediately started their game while Lizzy sat on the sofa listening to Rebekah play the piano. It was a lovely afternoon and after an hour or two with Leland, the girls decided they must get ready for the ball. They bid good-bye to Leland and dismissed themselves. Rebekah sat on her bed and wrote in her journal while Lizzy and Liza were giggling and laughing in excitement while showing Rebekah what they planned to wear. Rebakah excitedly jumped up and showed them her dress, too. The girls took each other's hands and spun around the room. They were laughing and making such a fuss that their mother, Elizabeth came up to check on them.

"My dears, what on earth is going on up here?" Their mother said peeking into the room cautiously.
"Nothing mother, dear. We're just so excited about the ball tonight. It's been such a long time since we've danced with some gentleman, that I fear I might have forgotten how," said Lizzy. Liza lay her hand on Lizzy shoulder and smiled at her.
"I do not think, dear Lizzy, that you could ever forget how to dance. It comes so naturally."
Lizzy smiled at Liza's compliment.
"Well," replied the girls' mother, "I shall leave you to your preperations." And with that Elizabeth walked out of the room and down the hall.

My Trip to Pemberley

2009-11-12T16:01:00.000-08:00

Dear Journal,
These past few days have been quite exciting! Yesterday evening, I packed up my trunk in preparation for my month long trip to see my cousins at Pemberley. This morning was spent in last minute preparations, goodbyes to siblings and Mama, and a few modifications made to my party gown. Papa drove me over to Pemberley this afternoon, where I was happily greeted by my two cousins. I'm so happy to be with them! They invited me to come with them to a ball tonight, so I was quite glad I'd finished my party gown! This will be my first party I've been to in several months, and I'm very much looking forward to it.

I've taken this quick minute to write in my journal and now Liza has just come in to tell me it is time to get ready for the party.

~Rebekah Jane~

Preperation

2009-11-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

Liza was soon finished eating breakfast and, along with Lizzy, dashed back up to their bedroom and were discussing what they would be wearing to the Smith's ball. They planned how they'd do their hair, what shoes they'd wear. Liza was so excited she couldn't stop laughing. She grabbed Lizzy's hands and twirled around the room laughing and jumping up and down.
"Liza, stop it, you'll upset Rachel," Lizzy said, thinking about their governess who never liked it when they jumped around in the house. Liza quietly giggled and then regained her composure.
"I suppose you're right, Lizzy... But Rachel will surely forgive us this morning, for she knows we are both terribly excited about the ball." Liza once more jumped up and down, forgetting Lizzy's earlier warning. Lizzy grabbed Liza's arm to stop her once more. Sure enough, Rachel was coming up to their room.
"What is all that noise?" Liza and Lizzy stood there, hands behind their backs, fingers crossed. "You girls better behave yourselves... or I might just have to tell your father he'll have to accompany you to the ball." Liza and Lizzy were a little ashamed, but when they saw the playful smile cross Rachel's face they ran up to her and gave her a tight squeeze. Rachel chuckled and left the room.
"Oh Lizzy, I'm so excited! I just can't contain my energy!" Liza said spinning around and around until she was dizzy. "The best part is, cousin Rebekah will be coming this afternoon to stay for a month! If she gets here soon enough, maybe she'd like to go to the ball with us. Wouldn't that be marvelous?" Liza gave a big, happy sigh and plopped on the bed. Lizzy giggled and plopped on the bed beside her.

Later that morning the girls went for a walk in the garden. Their father always insisted upon them getting some fresh air and a good walk everyday. Lizzy brought along a book and was reading while walking alongside Liza. It was nearly impossible to get anything read in the company of Liza, though. She never would stop talking for a moment. Always going on and on about how beautiful everything was and how lively the birds were. Lizzy gave a sigh and brought the book down from in front of her face.
"Oh, Liza, will you ever let me read?" Lizzy said giggling. Liza covered her mouth and giggled along with her.
"Sorry, dear Lizzy. There's just so much to talk about." Not but a moment later did they hear a carriage pulling up. Liza and Lizzy looked at each other with wide, glowing eyes.
"Cousin Rebekah!" They both said in unison. They ran to the arriving carriage and slowed to a stop. Fixing their hair and un-wrinkling their dresses. They straightened their hats and stood completely still, full of excitement.

~Liza

Plans

2009-11-11T15:55:00.000-08:00

It was a cool spring morning at Pemberly when I opened my eyes. Sitting up I blinked several times, checked to see if Liza was awake then pulled out the book I had under my pillow. I only had a few second before Liza was also awake. “Good morning!” she said between yawns. I looked up and smiled in response. “Lizzy always has her nose in a book” Liza grumbled while dressing. I jumped from bed and threw my arms around her saying, “I’m sorry dear Liza, I didn’t mean to ignore you!”
Liza hugged me back, “ there is nothing to forgive dear Lizzy’’ We both laughed and I knew peace had been restored. A half an hour later both Liza and I raced down to the room in which our parents were waiting to eat. Hugs went round as Liza and I bid our parents good morning. When we had finished we sat to eat, and the morning talk began.
“ You do not think the carriage will be needed to night do you dear?” asked Papa, vainly trying to hide a smile.
“No my dear, I do not believe so” replied Mama with a mischievous gleam in her eyes.
Liza and I looked at each other in horror, if Papa needed the carriage we could not go to the Smiths ball! The Smiths were very good friends, especially Leland and Cassie.
Then we caught the look on our parent’s faces, and realized they were teasing. They knew how long we had waited for this day. Laughter filled the room and the meal whent on merrily.

~Lizzy

Sisters of Pemberly

A Rose of Another Name

Oh, Hear the Wedding Bells Ring!

I am Married

The day has arrived!

Pierre Comes to Call

Forever..

Of Weddings And Other Matters

Captain Milton comes before he leaves.

Long time

My Visit With Mr. Roberts

A Garden Discussion

Lee talks to Liza

Meet Herbert

Tea With The Kingsleys

An Interesting Talk

Johns Confession

That night in bed

John is Rescued.

Home at last.

All is Revealed ~ Part 2

Enough Excitement to Last a Lifetime - Part 2

Amae rescued .

All Is Revealed ~ Part 1

The Betrayer is Betrayed

Heartbreak Comes Quickly ~ Part 3

Pierre's Rage

John Kingsley's proposal

Our dance part 2

Our Dance part 1

My suspsion

Heartbreak Comes Quickly ~ Part 2

The Ball

Heartbreak Comes Quickly ~ Part 1

Enough Excitement to Last a Lifetime - Part 1

Attending the Ball

Invitation to Pemberly

Miss Isabella Hamlington

Rose is devastated

Mama's sickness

The Excitement is Brewing

Rose Ivangelean Morgans

Lizzy is overwhelmed (continued)

Lizzy is overwelmed

Surprise Encounter

In the Same Room

The Wedding Dress

The Damsel in Distress and Her Knight in Shining Armor

More Questions Left Unanswered

A Beautiful Morning

With William

My visit part 2

Morning With the Wickhams

In the Parlor (Part 2)

In the Parlor

My visit part 1

No, but there is...

Unanswered Questions

" My Dear William"

What Lizzy did

The Morning's Discussion...

Maria's Sister

The Evening Party

At the Fitzwilliam's

Supper

Lizzy's thoughts

Leaving

The Sunrise

In the Carriage

What we did first

Leaving Derbyshire

In Lady Catherine's Carriage

To London or Not to London?

"Are we really here?"

Introducing Evelyn Grace Wickham

The wheels are a'rolling

A Fortnight to Consider

The Coming Trip

The Collins at Rosings Park

Lizzy talks