Pride Prejudice and Perplexity

Springtime in Derbyshire

Chapter Eleven – Springtime in Derbyshire

Charles Bingley was more than happy to commence their journey by a different route, in order that Elizabeth might pay a brief visit to her acquaintance. They were on tour; all was delightful; and he was happy to go in one way as well as any other.

For a time, Elizabeth was confident that they followed the same route that Mr Darcy's carriage had taken herself and Kitty. But little more than an hour beyond London, she found herself in entirely unfamiliar surroundings, which accorded neither with her recollection of the previous journey, nor with the notes that she had made at the time. Eventually, she was obliged to concede that she was no longer certain of the direction they must take, and so they returned to the main turnpike road northwards.

The three travellers spent a most pleasurable month visiting all the famous beauty spots of the Lakes, before finally bending their way southwards. Now that he was married, Charles Bingley was determined to establish himself in the country; and wished, if at all possible, to find an estate tolerably close to Pemberley. He had engaged an agent in London to identify suitable properties in the vicinity of Derbyshire, which he might inspect, and was hopeful that a letter from the agent awaited him at Pemberley.

Mr Darcy welcomed them warmly, and was a most attentive and charming host. Elizabeth was reminded of his behaviour when she had visited Derbyshire the previous summer, with her Aunt and Uncle Gardiner. It occurred to her that Pemberley somehow brought out the very best in his character. It was abundantly clear that he wished to please her – and he did so in every way possible, except the one that mattered most – in satisfying her with regard to the young lady she had met in Suffolk. Though they were keenly aware of the mutual preference and the high regard that they each held, the one for the other, whenever they were in each other's company, that mysterious young lady seemed also present.

Spring was in full flourish, and the grounds were exquisite. Georgiana was delighted to be able to share the beauty of the season with Elizabeth and Jane. She took them to all the places she loved best; and all around them was the song of birds, and the delightful music of the river, and a feeling of life bursting forth from the earth with the vigour of the season.

Colonel Fitzwilliam was staying at Pemberley, and Elizabeth found his manners and behaviour as delightful as they had been in Kent, the previous year. Although she had seen him in town, it had been but little. In his company, she found herself able to relax and enjoy that sense of carefree pleasure that the countryside and the season invited; something she was unable to do with his cousin; for with Mr Darcy there was always a tension – and that unspoken third person intruded upon their every conversation.

Upon their arrival, Georgiana had informed Elizabeth and Jane that two additional guests were soon expected. Victoria Barclay had written, informing her that she was planning a journey to Blackpool, to visit a dear friend with whom she had been educated, and would be delighted to pay a brief visit to Pemberley upon her journey northwards, if it was at all convenient.

“As you may imagine,” said Georgiana, “I was delighted at the prospect, but naturally I sought my brother's approval before replying. At first, he appeared happy to encourage the scheme; however, when he learned that Miss Barclay was to be escorted by Captain Radford, he began discovering all manner of reasons why it might, perhaps, not be such a propitious time for her to visit.”

Elizabeth shook her head. “Your brother's attitude to that gentleman is quite unfathomable.”

“Oh, yes, indeed,” agreed Georgiana. “Fortunately, Colonel Fitzwilliam was present when I raised the matter. He saw immediately what my brother was about, and challenged him on it. He said that he, himself, was entirely satisfied with the character and conduct of Captain Radford, and that it was absurd that I should be denied the company of Miss Barclay on account of his nonsensical prejudices. My brother, finding himself unable to advance a single rational reason for his objection, was obliged to yield in the matter.”

Elizabeth smiled. “It was fortunate, indeed, that your cousin was present, for I suspect that you are not the only person at Pemberley whom he would be loath to see denied the pleasure of a visit from Miss Barclay. But perhaps his presence was more than merely a fortunate coincidence?”

Georgiana smiled shyly. “I was in little doubt that my brother would not be pleased to receive a visit from Captain Radford; and I have suspected for some time that my cousin is an admirer of Miss Barclay, and might be depended upon to support the visit. Though I would never be brave enough to speak against my brother's opinions, my cousin has no such reticence; so I made certain that he was present when the matter of the visit was discussed.”

“You were very clever, Georgiana,” said Elizabeth approvingly.

“Please do not think that I would normally behave in so artful a manner – most especially with my brother – it is very probably the first time. In general, he is eager to please me, and our wishes are almost always in accord. For example, I received a letter from Caroline Bingley last week, full of affection and praise – both for myself and for Pemberley. She informed me that she and the Hursts would be delighted to visit us at any time that was convenient. I do not wish for them to visit, for they are no particular friends of mine, and I have learned to distrust Miss Bingley.”

“Most wise,” said Elizabeth, “if ever there was a lady worthy of distrust, it is she.”

“I showed the letter to my brother and asked him if I was obliged to invite them; and it was obvious that he was no more eager for such a visit than myself. But I must reply to her. What am I to say?”

“Simply write that at present you are expecting visits from a number of friends, and that Mr Darcy will very likely be equally engaged over the summer,” said Elizabeth. “You need make no apology.”

“Thank you,” said Georgiana. “I hope that she will not persist in continuing to write me insincere letters, begging for an invitation.”

“If she does, simply continue to politely decline her,” said Jane. “Unfortunately, when Bingley and I have found a place to settle, we will be obliged to suffer her visits from time to time; but you may be sure that I shall put her off, as often as I am reasonably able.”

“That should not be particularly difficult, Jane; all you need do is inform her that I shall very likely be staying with you,” said Elizabeth with a satirical smile. “And if I am known to be otherwise engaged, then you might inform her that you expect a visit from Captain Radford – who would perform the office equally well.”

~~~~~

A day or two after their arrival, Elizabeth was sitting outside in the garden, enjoying a book from the Pemberley library when she was approached by Mr Darcy.

“I am sorry to disturb your reading on this lovely afternoon, Miss Bennet; may I beg a moment of your time?”

“Certainly,” she replied, putting down her book.

Mr Darcy sat on the bench beside her. “You are probably aware that Miss Barclay and Captain Radford arrive tomorrow to stay some days with us.”

“Yes, I am greatly looking forward to seeing them again – but perhaps you are not able to express the same sentiment – at least not in so far as the gentleman is concerned?”

Mr Darcy sighed. “You are well aware of my concerns regarding that gentleman and my sister. I must say, I find it most surprising that they should be travelling together – for they are not, after all, related.”

“I understand that Captain Radford escorts Miss Barclay at the express wish of the Admiral, who treats him almost as a son. Indeed, from my observation, the relationship between Miss Barclay and Captain Radford, who have known each other since they were young, is very much one of sister and brother.”

“While they may, to all intents and purposes consider themselves brother and sister, in the eyes of the world, they are not related. Still, if her father is not concerned at how it might appear to others, then it is really no concern of mine.”

“I think it is evident from the arrangements in his own household, that the Admiral cares very little for the opinion of others,” said Elizabeth, referring to Madame Lasalle.

“Yes, it would certainly seem so. Miss Bennet, do you think it at all possible that Miss Barclay has perhaps contrived to have Captain Radford accompany her for the purpose of introducing him to her friend in Blackpool? It has been my observation that ladies seem to delight in such match-making,”

“It would seem that it is you, Mr Darcy, who is hopeful of such a match – or perhaps a match between Captain Radford and any young lady – other than your sister – would suffice?”

“No, not any young lady,” said Mr Darcy, looking at her intently.

Elizabeth blushed, for his meaning was obvious. “I am afraid that I shall have to disappoint you regarding your present hopes.”

“Oh?” he exclaimed, alarmed at what might be her meaning.

“I speak of your hopes for Captain Radford,” she said with a smile. “I understand that he has no intention of staying at Blackpool with Miss Barclay and her friend; after escorting her to her destination, he returns immediately to town.”

“Oh, I see,” said Mr Darcy, evidently disappointed that Captain Radford was not to be so providentially disposed of. “I am aware that you do not share my concerns regarding Captain Radford and my sister; however that shall not prevent me from requesting a service of you. You will agree, I hope, that whatever may be your own opinions of the gentleman, that as her brother and guardian, and above all, the person in the world who cares the most for my sister, that I have some right to have my opinions considered.”

“Indeed, I do agree.”

“In that case, I wish you to do everything in your power to ensure that nothing of a romantic nature should arise between my sister and Captain Radford; and, that should you suspect such a thing, you will inform me. My sister is far more likely to confide in you than in myself; and your penetration into such matters is very probably far more acute than my own. Should such an unwanted development arise, you will very likely notice it long before I do.”

“I consider any development, such as you describe as being highly improbable. However, I will be happy to do as you ask. I should not like to see Miss Darcy hurt; and should she and the Captain form an attachment, that would most certainly be the result; for it is most evident that you would deny her permission to marry him.”

“Indeed I would. I thank you most sincerely, Miss Bennet, for your assistance in this matter, it is greatly appreciated.”

~~~~~

Bingley was initially disappointed when the anticipated letter from his London agent was not awaiting him at Pemberley. However, the agent did not fail him, for it arrived not many days after themselves, and identified several potentially suitable properties.

“I have a very good collection of maps of the local area in the library,” said Mr Darcy. “Perhaps we may be able find where these properties are situated and so form an opinion on their desirability.”

Bingley, Jane, and Elizabeth accompanied him to the library, where they spent some time poring over maps. From his local knowledge, Mr Darcy considered several of them to be in less than desirable locations; on account of soil, climate, or the reputation of the neighbourhood and local society. There were two, however, both of them within a dozen or so miles of Pemberley, that looked most promising.

A plan was formed to visit the first estate, which was located at Ashbourne, the following day. Bingley was naturally anxious to have Darcy join them, for he could not contemplate such an important purchase without hearing his opinion. Colonel Fitzwilliam was happy to be of the party, and eager of the opportunity for a good ride. However, Victoria Barclay and Captain Radford, who had just arrived, were not enthusiastic at the prospect of further travel, and Georgiana preferred to remain with her guests.

Elizabeth was immediately alive to the dilemma this presented to Mr Darcy: He was loath to leave his sister with Captain Radford, despite the presence of Miss Barclay, whom, he feared might oblige her friend, should he hint at wishing for an opportunity of being alone with Georgiana. “Miss Bennet,” he said softly, so that only she might hear, “do I ask too much of you, if I request that you remain behind tomorrow to keep my sister company?”

Elizabeth had been looking forward to the excursion, but she was well aware how much Bingley relied upon the judgement of his friend, and so she acceded to his request. She spent a most enjoyable day accompanying Georgiana in conducting a tour for her two new guests of the beautiful gardens and all the delightful places beside the river. Should he ask her, Elizabeth would be able to reassure Mr Darcy, that his sister was entirely safe from the imagined matrimonial designs of Captain Radford.

When the party returned from Ashbourne in the afternoon, the opinion was unanimous that it was an exceedingly charming estate. The park was somewhat smaller than at Pemberley; and, if the gardens, too, were not quite so extensive, they were equally beautiful; with a delightful stream running through them, in which, to Bingley's joy, they observed many fish. The house was handsome, and of exactly the right size. Although they did not yet know the asking price, Mr Darcy guessed that it was unlikely to exceed his friend's means. Jane spoke enthusiastically; everything she had seen had been to her liking. The house was lovely, and the rooms were all of a good size. Bingley was so eager to have it, that he contemplated not even troubling to look at the other estate; but rather, returning straight away to London to begin making the purchase arrangements.

Mr Darcy advised his friend that one or two days would make no material difference, and that he might as well view the other estate the following day. “There is a river of some note and local fame, which runs through it,” he said. “Let us all go together, and make a picnic of it.”

And so they set off the following morning for Hartington, which was in the direction of Buxton. When they entered the gates, they were immediately impressed with the beauty of the park and the charming rolling hills, the higher reaches of which were cloaked in ancient stands of forest. It was evidently a considerable estate, for it took some time before the house came into view; and when it did, it made a stunning picture, against the backdrop of a forested hill; while before it, the gardens sloped down to the delightful tree-lined river.

Upon inspecting the house, the party were equally impressed, and every opinion was favourable. In size and grandeur, it was the equal of Pemberley. “I suspect it will be beyond my means,” said Bingley, as they later sat beside the lovely river, enjoying their picnic.

“It is certain to be the case,” agreed Mr Darcy. “To purchase an estate such as this would require two or three times the amount of the one that we viewed yesterday.”

Bingley was little concerned. “I shall enquire what is its price, simply out of interest; and be perfectly happy to purchase Ashbourne, which is everything I ever dreamed of, and offers all I could possibly wish for. And if I feel in need of grander surroundings, or I manage to fish out my own stream, then I shall visit Pemberley.”

~~~~~

They returned at an early enough hour to permit the gentlemen to engage in some fishing, which was principally at the behest of Charles Bingley, who greatly enjoyed the sport. He was perhaps imagining the felicity of possessing his own stream at Ashbourne, where he might indulge his taste for his favourite pastime as often as he wished.

Georgiana served the ladies tea, and lamented that they would all depart the following day. Victoria Barclay was to carry on to Blackpool; while Jane would return to London with her husband, who was most eager to transact the business of purchasing Ashbourne. Their journey would take them through Hertfordshire, where Elizabeth was to remain, until Jane and Bingley had established themselves in their new home.

“Do not be sad, Georgiana,” said Jane encouragingly, “Bingley and I have hopes of being settled at Ashbourne as soon as may be.”

“It will be delightful,” said Elizabeth, to her sister, “that you shall be so close to Pemberley, for it is a tolerably easy distance to drive for visits, dinner parties or other amusements.”

“Yes, and you are to live with us, Lizzy; for as long as you wish.”

Elizabeth blushed, for the eyes of both Georgiana and Victoria Barclay were upon her; for there was, in both their minds, an expectation that Elizabeth might soon be living at Pemberley – as its mistress, rather than at Ashbourne, as a guest. Only Jane was aware of the material impediment that seemed destined to prevent an expectation that was shared by so many, from reaching fruition.

This recollection served to remind Elizabeth that she had need of visiting the library; and excusing herself to search for a book of poetry from Mr Darcy's excellent collection, she left the other three ladies to talk of dinner parties and all the other delightful amusements that would soon be enjoyed at Pemberley and Ashbourne.

Upon gaining the library, Elizabeth went straight away to the shelves where Mr Darcy kept his maps. Most were of the local district around Pemberley, or the neighbouring counties. There were also maps of London, and one of Kent. Finally she found what she was looking for – and had half expected she might find – a map of Suffolk. She took it to a table beside a large window that she might examine it carefully, in the hope of identifying the place where she had visited Lydia.

Elizabeth smiled; she had no difficulty in finding it, for someone had circled the very spot. It was located at a place by the name of Freston, beside the River Orwell, along which she had walked – and where she had encountered the mysterious young lady. Elizabeth took a pen and paper and drew a map detailing how it might be reached from the turnpike road. It was a little out of their way, and would require them to make a small detour to the east. It looked to be as close to Longbourn as it was to London, so there should be time to visit, and still arrive at Longbourn on the second evening of their journey, where Jane and Bingley would stay overnight, before carrying on to London.