The End

Lizzy watched the rolling waves stretching as far as the eye could see. She stood on the stern of the ship The Phantom,  she had never been so happy as now.
She had told William she did not want a honeymoon, she only wanted to be with him on his ship.
William came up behind her and asked softly,
"How do you like your new home?"  Lizzy took his hand in her own and said with a smile,
"I like it very much indeed."
"I'm glad."
Lizzy laughed, a laugh as gentle and tender as a morning dew, "Think about how silly we both were when we first met."
William joined in her laughter, "How hard I tried to speak what I thought, but it came out so rudely."
"Nonsense," She disagreed, "I was so prideful."
The two looked at each other, eyes shinning with happiness.
"Now we shall be together for ever." She whispered.
"Yes."  William agreed.

They stood hand in hand, content.


The End

A day to remember.

Mama gasped when she entered the room. Jenny had finished my hair Baby's breath and roses where arranged prettily at the front.

"You are so beautiful!" Mama exclaimed taking her handkerchief out of her sleeve and wiping tears away from her eyes.

"Thank you Mama" I whispered choking back tears.

"Now don't you start crying...Your father wouldn't forgive me if I made you cry" Mama said, hugging me close.

"Oh Mama! everything is happening so fast"

Mama smiled at me and wiped the tears from my eyes.

"I remember this feeling but I will tell you this no matter where you are and no matter how far off I am I will always be there with you cheering you on"

Amae burst through the room a bright smile on her face.

"Rosie! It is time!" She exclaimed.

I went over to the dresser and grabbed my bonnet, after doing so we headed to the church. The whole way there Papa was quiet which was not normal for Papa he was usually the one to be bounding with excitement, but he was solemn his eyes were downcast I slipped my hand into papa's and leaned over to him.

"I will always be your daughter" I whispered putting my head on his shoulder like I had done so many times.

We then got to the church doors, Amae ran inside to tell the Priest that I had arrived, then the doors opened everything around me didn't matter in that room all I could see was John at the alter waiting for me and after what seemed like seconds were married. John's face as we faced the whole congregation as man and wife, was all aglow it was as if all of my life had been leading up to this point, and for that moment my life had been completed...

Reflections of Lizzy

The house was quite now, Liza and mother were at the dressmakers, and I was alone, reading.
"Hello little one." The strong voice of my father said behind me. I turned and ran to hug him,
"Father!"
"Why aren't you with your sister and mother?" He asked, the two of us sitting down.
"I was tired, and I had to write a letter to William." I told him.
"I see. Captain Milton told me that you two will be living in Bristol."
"Yes, you see he's going to be station there."
"You know sailors don't get much money in times of peace."
"I know father, William has some money from his father, but I'm not afraid of being poor."
"My brave girl." Father placed a kiss on my forehead, "You love him very much."
"I do."
"So Liza will be married soon, and then you." My father sighed, he suddenly looked very old. I had never noticed the grey in his hair, nor the wrinkles in his face, but now I did, and it made me sad to see my beloved father getting old.
"We are getting married father, but we'll be coming and going. Its not going to bad." I said, stroking his hair.
He smiled and said, "I know, I shall miss you. But," He got a twinkle in his eye,"Now I shall have your mother all to myself again."
We both laughed.

A Rose of Another Name

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!

"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

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!

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

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..

"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

"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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.