" All the Jane Austen characters are ready for an extended life
which the scheme of her books seldom requires them to lead,
and that is why they lead their actual lives so satisfactorily"
E.M.Forster
Chapter 1
“I couldn’t believe my good fortune! Three, yes, three daughters married within a year! And me, left with just two, to pair off. It wasn’t that hard for Kitty, as with all my daughters, she was a talented joyful girl who never gave me any complaint. So the next summer when the regiment came to be stationed again in our little village of Meryton, and Mr Bingley (you remember my Jane’s husband don’t you. A great catch, very wealthy and full of all the charms you would expect from a true gentleman) threw what has now become his annual ball at Netherfield. I was not in the least bit surprised when Kitty caught the attention of quite a few of the regiment!
She had her pick! Lucky girl! Not unsurprising, I had been known to turn quite a few heads in my younger days! She was asked to dance by at least half a dozen officers and had a full card, that whole night! She never stopped smiling the whole way home in the carriage (Mr Bingley always sends a carriage for us, you know. He is so attentive to us all!). Mr Bennet of course poured scorn on any mention of our dear Kitty having secured her match in marriage that very night. My husband advised us not to put so much emphasis on one night and mentioned how hearts waver from one night of frivolity and can be inconsistent. I heard my husband’s concerns and held them under advisement, but in my heart, I knew and was proved right, as I always am on these matters, that Kitty had indeed made an impression on a few young officers!
The very nest day when we were all occupied with our past times in the drawing room (I writing correspondence to Mrs Gardiner, Kitty finishing some needle point and Mary once again making a terrible noise with her attempts to sing with the piano), three young gentlemen from the regiment came to ask my daughters out on a walk. No doubt the only wanted to see Kitty, for Mary is very plain, and will not, no matter how much I encourage her, endeavour to make the most of her features. Still was good of them to include Mary on their outing, even if she was only a glorified chaperone.
You must think me very remiss as I have not mentioned our young suitors’ names and prospects yet. I do so get caught up in a story, that I often forget the most important details!
Mr Charles Finch, Mr Henry Thomas and Mr Edmund Bronlow were all in their regimental uniform, when they called upon us. I must say the sight of them sent my heart a flutter, for the looked glorious! I ran into Mr Bennet (for Kitty and I had spotted them from the drawing room window) and told him that I had been right the night before, Kitty had caught many an eye, and three were about to knock on our door, that very moment. Mr Bennet of course, spoil sport that he is, told me not to count my chickens before they were hatched, and that we had no way of knowing what the young officers want.
Just then our maid announced the three gentlemen Mr Finch, Mr Thomas and Mr Bronlow. I ran directly back into the drawing room, and arrived just before they made their admittance. Thankfully, Kitty had the good sense to remove Mary from the piano, as her infernal singing would sour any romantic mood.
Mr Finch was the first to speak,
“Mrs Bennett, Miss Bennet and Miss Bennet. Thank you for receiving us. I am Mr Charles Finch of Northamptonshire originally. And this Mr Thomas....”
“How do you do?” I said.
“…..and Mr Bronlow.”
“Pleased, to meet you.” I said.
Mr Thomas was the next to speak, “ We were all at the Netherfield ball last night and decided as it was such a fine day to act upon your kind invitation to call upon you any time while we are stationed in Meryton.”
I knew that it was prudent to extent that invitation at the time! “I am very glad that you felt comfortable enough to visit us here at Longbourn! The days here can be so very long and trying for my girls. I wonder since it is such a glorious day. Would you like to take Kitty and Mary of course, out for a walk?”
It was at this point that I noticed Mr Bronlow who was nervously fiddling with his pocket watch throughout the conversation. He was exceedingly nervous, but he had no need to be. Bronlow is a highly thought of soldier within the regiment and may even make to general someday I have already been told. He is also very well off. Mr Bronlow eventually realised that most of the eyes of our company were upon him.
“I am so sorry. I feel very nervous being in the company of such beautiful women…”
Kitty and I could not contain our giggles at this point.
“….I suggest both the young ladies, collect their bonnets and shawls. Then we shall start our walk and return within the hour.”
Kitty and Mary both said thank you and ran to collect their bonnets and shawls. I have always taught my children to remember their manners. I may have been mistaken but I do believe that I saw Kitty’s eyes fixed upon Mr Bronlow.
Upstairs Kitty and Mary search for their belongings. “Good grief he may be handsome, but that Mr Bronlow is almost as severely polite as our cousin Mr Collins! What do you think Mary?”
Mary is lost in thought so Kitty has to repeat, “Mary, what do you think of Mr Bronlow?”
“I think that he is very polite and attentive” With that Mary grabs her shawl and bonnet, leaving Kitty smiling as she collects herself and follows her sister downstairs.
My daughters made haste and returned to us in no time at all. “Off you go now, enjoy yourselves!” I said as they walked down the drive. My husband joined me to watch them leave.
“I believe one of those fellows is indeed Kitty’s husband.” I told him.
Of course Mr Bennet would have none of it, “What did I tell you about jumping to conclusions? One of them could just as easily marry Mary.”
“Don’t be silly! Mary will marry a boring vicar with no money and no prospects, and be perfectly happy with that because she is so pious!”
“My love, do you not think that perhaps your opinion of Mary’s prospects is a little too harsh?”
Honestly, does he not realise that all I ever think of are my daughter’s prospects!
“Not at all Mr Bennet. I have had five daughters. If only we could have had a son as well. That wretched entailment has been the bane of this family throughout all their lives! A son would have secured Longbourn for them, and provided them with something to offer a prospective husband! However, we had no sons and so since the day and hour each of our daughters was born, I have worried about how we were to marry them off!
Mary is the plainest by far off our daughters. I have never had any illusions about that, and as a result have never been under an illusion that she would marry well. Mary will marry into tolerable poverty, you mark my words.”
“Mrs Bennet, do you not see the virtues of Mary’s character and realise that they could be attractive to many a young man?”
“Oh Mr Bennet, how silly you are! Young men marry what they like the look of and they do not care for personality at all!”
“Mrs Bennet, you know I do believe you are right. I believe I myself was guilty of marrying what I liked the look of. Perhaps if I had looked at your beauty less and listened to what you said more, we might not have been married. My love, however trying marriage has been with you, I still love you though, and love you more for the five daughters you produced.”
Watching the ripples on the lake, Kitty and Mr Finch make conversation.
“So Mr Finch, do you like Meryton?”
“Very much so, the people here have been very welcoming. Coming here has almost been like coming home. My family had a large farm and as a lad I often helped my father in the fields. My father owns the estate but he likes to be hands on. He was never one for books and learning. When his father died the state manager was very kind to my father and took him out to learn about his land. Ever since, my father has been a very hands' on gentleman. He doesn’t do all the farming. The estate is too large for that, so we still have an estate manager. Who is my father’s best friend, and son of the old estate manager.”
Kitty is apprehensive at hearing of the level of Mr Finch’s involvement, “So, you work on the farm, all the time in Northamptonshire?”
“No, not at all, my mother insisted that I had an education worthy of my status as a gentleman, and learned the pursuits a cultured man should know. My father thinks all you need is the land, but my mother still cherishes the old ways of the gentry. I myself believe that there is room for both in life.”
Kitty is relieved by this, “So, do you have any other siblings? We have three other sisters who are married.”
“I have two younger sisters, both married too.”
“Mr Finch, may I ask why you are not home on your estate working the farm with your father? Why did you join the army?”
“Ah, confession time I finished my education some years ago, but I have never seen any more of England, than my own little borough. My mother suggested that a years' commission in the army would be the perfect opportunity to see the country and find myself a wife.”
Kitty laughs, “She was concerned, you needed a wife?”
“Yes, the only women I had come into contact with were farm hands. Although very nice, they do not have the qualities would look for in a wife. And certainly not the qualities my mother wishes of a daughter-in-law.”
Kitty smiles and her face colours, “So, how many months are you into your commission?”
“This is my ninth month. It has been a very enriching experience, 26 years in one place is far too long.”
Kitty’s face once again displays alarm, for she is still only 17. “You are 26 years old?”
“Yes, I will be twenty-seven next month.”
Kitty studies his face, “You don’t seem to be as old as that in my eyes.”
“Well, that’s due to the good exercise that farming vegetables on our estate. Harvest must be collected in all weather. The army provides me with a good deal of exercise too.”
Kitty has remember there are other people within the group and turns her attention to Mr Thomas. “Mr Thomas, tell us where you are from.”
“I am from Brighton originally. My father is a fisherman. I joined up because I too wanted to see more of life, and because I knew the army would give me a steady income.”
Kitty’s interest has never been more acute. Mary continues the conversation and asks, “Mr Thomas, how many siblings do you have?”
“There are six of us in all, three girls and three boys. I used my inheritance to purchase my commission. My mother was sad to see me go, but she knew it was the right thing to do. Five mouths are easier to feed than six. I am the eldest you see. When I turned 21, I inherited a small amount from my grandparents. Just enough, to purchase a commission, giving me a living.”
“A very sensible course of action, do you miss your family?” enquires Mary.
“Yes, a lot more than I anticipated. We correspond regularly though. My sister Lucy recently got engaged to a man who works for my father. When they set a date I shall ask for a few days leave to visit my family in Brighton and attend her wedding. It is a great relief to me that one of my sisters is on the road to marriage. It will lighten the load on my old father.”
Kitty asks, “Mr Bronlow, pray tell us where you are from?”
“Southampton” says Mr Bronlow with a frosty look.
Kitty, never one to be scared of by a look “Another seaside town! Why, are you the son of a fisherman too?”
Both Thomas and Finch laugh, and Finch volunteers “Bronlow, is no fisherman.” Bronlow looks aggressively at both men, a look that once again does not go unnoticed by Kitty.
“Does Mr Bronlow not wish us to know his profession?”
Finch continues to laugh whilst telling the girls “Mr Bronlow does not need a profession. He is wealthy enough not to need to work.”
Bronlow’s face remains quite serious and unimpressed by his friends’ lack of tact. “I felt I hadn’t seen enough of real life, so I joined the army. I never had any brothers so I enjoy the company immensely.”
Kitty is unimpressed with Mr Bronlow and once again turns her attention to Mr Finch, practically ignoring Mr Thomas. Mary sees clouds roll in on the horizon and suggests “I think we should head back to the house. It looks as if it may rain.”
Mr Thomas jokes, “Yes we must be getting back to our regiment or they will think we have disserted.”
Kitty and Mr Finch walk ahead of the others, arm in arm, to the house.
Mr Bronlow observes “I do believe Mr Finch is quite taken with you sister’s beauty. She is a beautiful girl. She would be more pleasing though, if she adopted some of your personality Miss Mary.”
Mary blushes, and Mr Thomas remarks “Yes, your sister has a flaw common in a lot of young women. She cares too much for money and not enough about people.”
Mr Bronlow asks “Do you agree, Mary?”
“I am afraid my face betrays I agree with your assessment of Kitty’s personality. I feel ashamed for Kitty, that one afternoon spent in her company would betray her whole personality. But it is the way Kitty is, and she is my sister and because I love her, I forgive her.”
Mr Bronlow and Mr Thomas take an arm each of Mary’s. Mr Thomas compliments Mary, “I do believe Mary, you are truly the most beautiful sister. What do you think Mr Bronlow?”
“I do believe you are right, Mr Thomas. Mary is quite the most beautiful.”
The party return to the house and the soldiers bid the sisters farewell. The parting between Kitty and Mr Finch is particularly affectionate. They all promise fervently to visit again soon and Kitty can hardly contain her happiness and expectation as she re-enters the house.
Mrs Bennet anxiously greets them, and puts her arm around Kitty. “Well my dears! How did it go? Come Kitty you must tell me everything. Every detail! Do not leave a thing out!”
“Oh Mama, Mr Finch is so wonderful! He told me at first he was a farmer, and my hopes were nearly dashed! He went on to explain though that his family own the state outright, and that he is the eldest and the only male heir!”
“Oh Kitty, this is splendid! Didn’t I tell you Mr Bennet that one of these men would marry Kitty?” Mrs Bennett’s elation is so obvious one would think she might begin to float!
Mr Bennett surveys his wife and then in a tone that conveys both bewilderment and amusement replies “Mrs Bennet! Calm yourself! We do not even know for sure if Mr Finch reciprocates Kitty’s affections. All we know for sure is that he possesses property and farms.” With some visible scorn Mr Bennet continues “Go on Kitty what other information have you managed to extract from our Mr Finch this afternoon?”
“Mr Finch is not just a farmer, he is a gentleman too! Mr Finch’s mother insisted that he had the education of a gentleman too. It seems that his mother is old gentry. He has two younger sisters, both of whom are already married.” Mrs Bennet’s jubilant state seems to have taken somewhat of a descent, “Kitty my dear, what age is Mr Finch?”
“Mr Finch will be twenty-seven next month. I know its old Mama, but he looks younger. Don’t forget how much older Mr Wickham is than Lydia.”
Mr Bennet becomes usually very jovial face becomes more serious now “Yes my dear, Mr Finch looks younger. It does not do your cause any good though to compare him to Mr Wickham. Wickham and Lydia’s marriage was hasty and I feel sure your sister will regret it, if she does not already. I will not let our experience with Mr Wickham spoil your happiness though, although I would be a fool if I did not urge some caution. Mr Finch has his own land and his own trade, and the age gap between you, were you to become romantically involved, become a good thing. Lord knows you could use some maturity Kitty!”
Mrs Bennet laughs at her husband undermining all the advice he has just given Kitty “Oh you are too serious Mr Bennet. Our daughter has found a man she likes and who may indeed like her!”
Kitty shrieks with delight “Mr Finch does like me Mama! He bid me a most tender goodbye and promised to visit soon.”
Mr Bennet laughs and smiles, shaking his head in a fashion that conveys how used he is, to these displays “My dears, please remember, no declarations or proposals have been made! So, let’s not get ahead of ourselves!”
Kitty and Mrs Bennet look at one another and roll their eyes in their own naïve disbelief.
“Of course, Father, I promise you I will not get carried away! Mama and I will just go and put the bonnets and shawls away upstairs.” Kitty and Mrs Bennet rush of giggling and whispering in co-conspiracy.
Mr Bennet turns to his middle daughter “Why can’t your mother and sister be more settled like you Mary?”
“I don’t know, father.”
Mr Bennet looks closely at his daughter as if he has noticed something “Mary, are you blushing?”
“No.”
“Kitty didn’t mention anything about Mr Bronlow or Mr Thomas. Did you find out anything about them Mary? Did they not have enough money to hold Kitty’s interest?” Mr Bennet laughs and mops his brow with his handkerchief.
Mary laughs too “Yes, Mr Thomas didn’t have enough money to hold Kitty’s attention. Mr Thomas is from Brighton and his father is a fisherman. He is a decent responsible fellow, who has used what little was left to him in trust, to secure a commission in the army. He joined the army because he is the eldest of six and he feels he can no longer burden his parents. I do so admire him.”
“It appears that your heart may too have been stolen today Mary. But what of Mr Bronlow, who is he?” Mr Bennet smiles and reclines back in his arm chair.
“Mr Bronlow is very quiet but amiable. Kitty does not like him at all though. When we asked of Mr Bronlows’ background, he was cagey. At first he would only say he was from Southampton. Eventually, Mr Finch told us that Mr Bronlow is very wealthy. Mr Bronlow joined the army in order to see more of life. Kitty has totally destroyed all chances of him. Mr Bronlow says he admires her beauty but not her personality. He believes she is too interested in money.”
“Does he now? It appears Mr Bronlow is very perceptive. Kitty is like your mother, in that money and status easily impress her.”
“It is a pity Kitty doesn’t get on with Mr Bronlow. She would be overjoyed if she knew…”
“If Kitty knew what, Mary?” Mr Bennett asked with an arched eyebrow.
“Mr Bronlow is not only wealthy, he is an only child! How disappointed will Kitty be, when she realises what she lost through her own personality.” Mary and Mr Bennet laugh.
“Mary, it is unlike you to gloat!” Mr Bennet chortles.
“Sorry Father, I will not Lord it over her. I just found it amusing and wanted to share it with you.”
“I am glad I have you now Lizzie is gone. You always take the time to talk to your poor old Papa.”
“I will always talk to you Papa!” laughs Kitty.
Mr Bennet shakes his head and with a wry smile replies “If you marry, your husband will take you away. Just like my Lizzie! And I will be heartbroken again.”
“Oh father, there is no danger of that just yet!” giggles Mary.
Looking over his spectacles Mr Bennet asks “Did Mr Thomas and Mr Bronlow promise to visit again?”
“Yes.”
“Well, do not tell your mother, for I will never hear the end of it, but I believe you may too leave us soon Mary.” Mr Bennet’s face saddens a little.
“Oh father, how you can say such a thing, on the basis of one afternoon! You are beginning to sound like Mama!” Mary’s laughter at a liking to her mama fills the room.
“And that is why you shall never tell her what I just said!” said Mr Bennet laughing until he cries. Although, he may have been crying at his apparent shared personality traits, with his wife.
She had her pick! Lucky girl! Not unsurprising, I had been known to turn quite a few heads in my younger days! She was asked to dance by at least half a dozen officers and had a full card, that whole night! She never stopped smiling the whole way home in the carriage (Mr Bingley always sends a carriage for us, you know. He is so attentive to us all!). Mr Bennet of course poured scorn on any mention of our dear Kitty having secured her match in marriage that very night. My husband advised us not to put so much emphasis on one night and mentioned how hearts waver from one night of frivolity and can be inconsistent. I heard my husband’s concerns and held them under advisement, but in my heart, I knew and was proved right, as I always am on these matters, that Kitty had indeed made an impression on a few young officers!
The very nest day when we were all occupied with our past times in the drawing room (I writing correspondence to Mrs Gardiner, Kitty finishing some needle point and Mary once again making a terrible noise with her attempts to sing with the piano), three young gentlemen from the regiment came to ask my daughters out on a walk. No doubt the only wanted to see Kitty, for Mary is very plain, and will not, no matter how much I encourage her, endeavour to make the most of her features. Still was good of them to include Mary on their outing, even if she was only a glorified chaperone.
You must think me very remiss as I have not mentioned our young suitors’ names and prospects yet. I do so get caught up in a story, that I often forget the most important details!
Mr Charles Finch, Mr Henry Thomas and Mr Edmund Bronlow were all in their regimental uniform, when they called upon us. I must say the sight of them sent my heart a flutter, for the looked glorious! I ran into Mr Bennet (for Kitty and I had spotted them from the drawing room window) and told him that I had been right the night before, Kitty had caught many an eye, and three were about to knock on our door, that very moment. Mr Bennet of course, spoil sport that he is, told me not to count my chickens before they were hatched, and that we had no way of knowing what the young officers want.
Just then our maid announced the three gentlemen Mr Finch, Mr Thomas and Mr Bronlow. I ran directly back into the drawing room, and arrived just before they made their admittance. Thankfully, Kitty had the good sense to remove Mary from the piano, as her infernal singing would sour any romantic mood.
Mr Finch was the first to speak,
“Mrs Bennett, Miss Bennet and Miss Bennet. Thank you for receiving us. I am Mr Charles Finch of Northamptonshire originally. And this Mr Thomas....”
“How do you do?” I said.
“…..and Mr Bronlow.”
“Pleased, to meet you.” I said.
Mr Thomas was the next to speak, “ We were all at the Netherfield ball last night and decided as it was such a fine day to act upon your kind invitation to call upon you any time while we are stationed in Meryton.”
I knew that it was prudent to extent that invitation at the time! “I am very glad that you felt comfortable enough to visit us here at Longbourn! The days here can be so very long and trying for my girls. I wonder since it is such a glorious day. Would you like to take Kitty and Mary of course, out for a walk?”
It was at this point that I noticed Mr Bronlow who was nervously fiddling with his pocket watch throughout the conversation. He was exceedingly nervous, but he had no need to be. Bronlow is a highly thought of soldier within the regiment and may even make to general someday I have already been told. He is also very well off. Mr Bronlow eventually realised that most of the eyes of our company were upon him.
“I am so sorry. I feel very nervous being in the company of such beautiful women…”
Kitty and I could not contain our giggles at this point.
“….I suggest both the young ladies, collect their bonnets and shawls. Then we shall start our walk and return within the hour.”
Kitty and Mary both said thank you and ran to collect their bonnets and shawls. I have always taught my children to remember their manners. I may have been mistaken but I do believe that I saw Kitty’s eyes fixed upon Mr Bronlow.
Upstairs Kitty and Mary search for their belongings. “Good grief he may be handsome, but that Mr Bronlow is almost as severely polite as our cousin Mr Collins! What do you think Mary?”
Mary is lost in thought so Kitty has to repeat, “Mary, what do you think of Mr Bronlow?”
“I think that he is very polite and attentive” With that Mary grabs her shawl and bonnet, leaving Kitty smiling as she collects herself and follows her sister downstairs.
My daughters made haste and returned to us in no time at all. “Off you go now, enjoy yourselves!” I said as they walked down the drive. My husband joined me to watch them leave.
“I believe one of those fellows is indeed Kitty’s husband.” I told him.
Of course Mr Bennet would have none of it, “What did I tell you about jumping to conclusions? One of them could just as easily marry Mary.”
“Don’t be silly! Mary will marry a boring vicar with no money and no prospects, and be perfectly happy with that because she is so pious!”
“My love, do you not think that perhaps your opinion of Mary’s prospects is a little too harsh?”
Honestly, does he not realise that all I ever think of are my daughter’s prospects!
“Not at all Mr Bennet. I have had five daughters. If only we could have had a son as well. That wretched entailment has been the bane of this family throughout all their lives! A son would have secured Longbourn for them, and provided them with something to offer a prospective husband! However, we had no sons and so since the day and hour each of our daughters was born, I have worried about how we were to marry them off!
Mary is the plainest by far off our daughters. I have never had any illusions about that, and as a result have never been under an illusion that she would marry well. Mary will marry into tolerable poverty, you mark my words.”
“Mrs Bennet, do you not see the virtues of Mary’s character and realise that they could be attractive to many a young man?”
“Oh Mr Bennet, how silly you are! Young men marry what they like the look of and they do not care for personality at all!”
“Mrs Bennet, you know I do believe you are right. I believe I myself was guilty of marrying what I liked the look of. Perhaps if I had looked at your beauty less and listened to what you said more, we might not have been married. My love, however trying marriage has been with you, I still love you though, and love you more for the five daughters you produced.”
Watching the ripples on the lake, Kitty and Mr Finch make conversation.
“So Mr Finch, do you like Meryton?”
“Very much so, the people here have been very welcoming. Coming here has almost been like coming home. My family had a large farm and as a lad I often helped my father in the fields. My father owns the estate but he likes to be hands on. He was never one for books and learning. When his father died the state manager was very kind to my father and took him out to learn about his land. Ever since, my father has been a very hands' on gentleman. He doesn’t do all the farming. The estate is too large for that, so we still have an estate manager. Who is my father’s best friend, and son of the old estate manager.”
Kitty is apprehensive at hearing of the level of Mr Finch’s involvement, “So, you work on the farm, all the time in Northamptonshire?”
“No, not at all, my mother insisted that I had an education worthy of my status as a gentleman, and learned the pursuits a cultured man should know. My father thinks all you need is the land, but my mother still cherishes the old ways of the gentry. I myself believe that there is room for both in life.”
Kitty is relieved by this, “So, do you have any other siblings? We have three other sisters who are married.”
“I have two younger sisters, both married too.”
“Mr Finch, may I ask why you are not home on your estate working the farm with your father? Why did you join the army?”
“Ah, confession time I finished my education some years ago, but I have never seen any more of England, than my own little borough. My mother suggested that a years' commission in the army would be the perfect opportunity to see the country and find myself a wife.”
Kitty laughs, “She was concerned, you needed a wife?”
“Yes, the only women I had come into contact with were farm hands. Although very nice, they do not have the qualities would look for in a wife. And certainly not the qualities my mother wishes of a daughter-in-law.”
Kitty smiles and her face colours, “So, how many months are you into your commission?”
“This is my ninth month. It has been a very enriching experience, 26 years in one place is far too long.”
Kitty’s face once again displays alarm, for she is still only 17. “You are 26 years old?”
“Yes, I will be twenty-seven next month.”
Kitty studies his face, “You don’t seem to be as old as that in my eyes.”
“Well, that’s due to the good exercise that farming vegetables on our estate. Harvest must be collected in all weather. The army provides me with a good deal of exercise too.”
Kitty has remember there are other people within the group and turns her attention to Mr Thomas. “Mr Thomas, tell us where you are from.”
“I am from Brighton originally. My father is a fisherman. I joined up because I too wanted to see more of life, and because I knew the army would give me a steady income.”
Kitty’s interest has never been more acute. Mary continues the conversation and asks, “Mr Thomas, how many siblings do you have?”
“There are six of us in all, three girls and three boys. I used my inheritance to purchase my commission. My mother was sad to see me go, but she knew it was the right thing to do. Five mouths are easier to feed than six. I am the eldest you see. When I turned 21, I inherited a small amount from my grandparents. Just enough, to purchase a commission, giving me a living.”
“A very sensible course of action, do you miss your family?” enquires Mary.
“Yes, a lot more than I anticipated. We correspond regularly though. My sister Lucy recently got engaged to a man who works for my father. When they set a date I shall ask for a few days leave to visit my family in Brighton and attend her wedding. It is a great relief to me that one of my sisters is on the road to marriage. It will lighten the load on my old father.”
Kitty asks, “Mr Bronlow, pray tell us where you are from?”
“Southampton” says Mr Bronlow with a frosty look.
Kitty, never one to be scared of by a look “Another seaside town! Why, are you the son of a fisherman too?”
Both Thomas and Finch laugh, and Finch volunteers “Bronlow, is no fisherman.” Bronlow looks aggressively at both men, a look that once again does not go unnoticed by Kitty.
“Does Mr Bronlow not wish us to know his profession?”
Finch continues to laugh whilst telling the girls “Mr Bronlow does not need a profession. He is wealthy enough not to need to work.”
Bronlow’s face remains quite serious and unimpressed by his friends’ lack of tact. “I felt I hadn’t seen enough of real life, so I joined the army. I never had any brothers so I enjoy the company immensely.”
Kitty is unimpressed with Mr Bronlow and once again turns her attention to Mr Finch, practically ignoring Mr Thomas. Mary sees clouds roll in on the horizon and suggests “I think we should head back to the house. It looks as if it may rain.”
Mr Thomas jokes, “Yes we must be getting back to our regiment or they will think we have disserted.”
Kitty and Mr Finch walk ahead of the others, arm in arm, to the house.
Mr Bronlow observes “I do believe Mr Finch is quite taken with you sister’s beauty. She is a beautiful girl. She would be more pleasing though, if she adopted some of your personality Miss Mary.”
Mary blushes, and Mr Thomas remarks “Yes, your sister has a flaw common in a lot of young women. She cares too much for money and not enough about people.”
Mr Bronlow asks “Do you agree, Mary?”
“I am afraid my face betrays I agree with your assessment of Kitty’s personality. I feel ashamed for Kitty, that one afternoon spent in her company would betray her whole personality. But it is the way Kitty is, and she is my sister and because I love her, I forgive her.”
Mr Bronlow and Mr Thomas take an arm each of Mary’s. Mr Thomas compliments Mary, “I do believe Mary, you are truly the most beautiful sister. What do you think Mr Bronlow?”
“I do believe you are right, Mr Thomas. Mary is quite the most beautiful.”
The party return to the house and the soldiers bid the sisters farewell. The parting between Kitty and Mr Finch is particularly affectionate. They all promise fervently to visit again soon and Kitty can hardly contain her happiness and expectation as she re-enters the house.
Mrs Bennet anxiously greets them, and puts her arm around Kitty. “Well my dears! How did it go? Come Kitty you must tell me everything. Every detail! Do not leave a thing out!”
“Oh Mama, Mr Finch is so wonderful! He told me at first he was a farmer, and my hopes were nearly dashed! He went on to explain though that his family own the state outright, and that he is the eldest and the only male heir!”
“Oh Kitty, this is splendid! Didn’t I tell you Mr Bennet that one of these men would marry Kitty?” Mrs Bennett’s elation is so obvious one would think she might begin to float!
Mr Bennett surveys his wife and then in a tone that conveys both bewilderment and amusement replies “Mrs Bennet! Calm yourself! We do not even know for sure if Mr Finch reciprocates Kitty’s affections. All we know for sure is that he possesses property and farms.” With some visible scorn Mr Bennet continues “Go on Kitty what other information have you managed to extract from our Mr Finch this afternoon?”
“Mr Finch is not just a farmer, he is a gentleman too! Mr Finch’s mother insisted that he had the education of a gentleman too. It seems that his mother is old gentry. He has two younger sisters, both of whom are already married.” Mrs Bennet’s jubilant state seems to have taken somewhat of a descent, “Kitty my dear, what age is Mr Finch?”
“Mr Finch will be twenty-seven next month. I know its old Mama, but he looks younger. Don’t forget how much older Mr Wickham is than Lydia.”
Mr Bennet becomes usually very jovial face becomes more serious now “Yes my dear, Mr Finch looks younger. It does not do your cause any good though to compare him to Mr Wickham. Wickham and Lydia’s marriage was hasty and I feel sure your sister will regret it, if she does not already. I will not let our experience with Mr Wickham spoil your happiness though, although I would be a fool if I did not urge some caution. Mr Finch has his own land and his own trade, and the age gap between you, were you to become romantically involved, become a good thing. Lord knows you could use some maturity Kitty!”
Mrs Bennet laughs at her husband undermining all the advice he has just given Kitty “Oh you are too serious Mr Bennet. Our daughter has found a man she likes and who may indeed like her!”
Kitty shrieks with delight “Mr Finch does like me Mama! He bid me a most tender goodbye and promised to visit soon.”
Mr Bennet laughs and smiles, shaking his head in a fashion that conveys how used he is, to these displays “My dears, please remember, no declarations or proposals have been made! So, let’s not get ahead of ourselves!”
Kitty and Mrs Bennet look at one another and roll their eyes in their own naïve disbelief.
“Of course, Father, I promise you I will not get carried away! Mama and I will just go and put the bonnets and shawls away upstairs.” Kitty and Mrs Bennet rush of giggling and whispering in co-conspiracy.
Mr Bennet turns to his middle daughter “Why can’t your mother and sister be more settled like you Mary?”
“I don’t know, father.”
Mr Bennet looks closely at his daughter as if he has noticed something “Mary, are you blushing?”
“No.”
“Kitty didn’t mention anything about Mr Bronlow or Mr Thomas. Did you find out anything about them Mary? Did they not have enough money to hold Kitty’s interest?” Mr Bennet laughs and mops his brow with his handkerchief.
Mary laughs too “Yes, Mr Thomas didn’t have enough money to hold Kitty’s attention. Mr Thomas is from Brighton and his father is a fisherman. He is a decent responsible fellow, who has used what little was left to him in trust, to secure a commission in the army. He joined the army because he is the eldest of six and he feels he can no longer burden his parents. I do so admire him.”
“It appears that your heart may too have been stolen today Mary. But what of Mr Bronlow, who is he?” Mr Bennet smiles and reclines back in his arm chair.
“Mr Bronlow is very quiet but amiable. Kitty does not like him at all though. When we asked of Mr Bronlows’ background, he was cagey. At first he would only say he was from Southampton. Eventually, Mr Finch told us that Mr Bronlow is very wealthy. Mr Bronlow joined the army in order to see more of life. Kitty has totally destroyed all chances of him. Mr Bronlow says he admires her beauty but not her personality. He believes she is too interested in money.”
“Does he now? It appears Mr Bronlow is very perceptive. Kitty is like your mother, in that money and status easily impress her.”
“It is a pity Kitty doesn’t get on with Mr Bronlow. She would be overjoyed if she knew…”
“If Kitty knew what, Mary?” Mr Bennett asked with an arched eyebrow.
“Mr Bronlow is not only wealthy, he is an only child! How disappointed will Kitty be, when she realises what she lost through her own personality.” Mary and Mr Bennet laugh.
“Mary, it is unlike you to gloat!” Mr Bennet chortles.
“Sorry Father, I will not Lord it over her. I just found it amusing and wanted to share it with you.”
“I am glad I have you now Lizzie is gone. You always take the time to talk to your poor old Papa.”
“I will always talk to you Papa!” laughs Kitty.
Mr Bennet shakes his head and with a wry smile replies “If you marry, your husband will take you away. Just like my Lizzie! And I will be heartbroken again.”
“Oh father, there is no danger of that just yet!” giggles Mary.
Looking over his spectacles Mr Bennet asks “Did Mr Thomas and Mr Bronlow promise to visit again?”
“Yes.”
“Well, do not tell your mother, for I will never hear the end of it, but I believe you may too leave us soon Mary.” Mr Bennet’s face saddens a little.
“Oh father, how you can say such a thing, on the basis of one afternoon! You are beginning to sound like Mama!” Mary’s laughter at a liking to her mama fills the room.
“And that is why you shall never tell her what I just said!” said Mr Bennet laughing until he cries. Although, he may have been crying at his apparent shared personality traits, with his wife.
CHAPTER 2
I hope this letter finds my brother and you both well. We have had the most wonderful days’ weather here in Meryton and the most unexpected events!
There is a new regiment stationed once again at Meryton and Mr Bingley was kind enough to throw them a ball at Netherfield as a welcome! Kitty caught the attention of a few straight away, spent the whole night dancing! Anyway I had the foresight to invite the soldiers to visit us at Longbourn at any time and well, Mrs Gardiner, Kitty has found her husband today, I am sure of it! Mr Bennett of course had to put a dampener on the whole thing! But I saw Mr Finch walk her up the drive. Arm in arm they were, and talking most animatedly! I was reminded at once of my younger courting days! And he has promised to visit again!
Kitty is very impressed with him, and talks of nothing else. Mrs Finch is a farmer and a gentleman. I know Mrs Gardiner what you are thinking now as you read, that a farmer is not much of a marriage prospect. But apparently Mr Finch’s family own the estate. It appears that his father made him farm, under the silly notion that seems to be more and more common these days, that a gentleman should know how his money is produced and not just leave it to the estate manager. I ask you what, is an estate manager for, except to manage your affairs for you, so you need not be involved! Thankfully Mr Finch’s mother saw fit to make sure his education and to make sure that his manners did not become too common.
Mr Finch is very pleasing to the eye, tall, with dark brown hair, hazel eyes, and of a strong build. The only thing Kitty finds disagreeable about him is his age. He is almost 27 and Kitty as you know is only just 17. I don’t think Mr Finch shows his age in his appearance though, and he doesn’t seem the type to make a mission to trifle with a young girl. Lord knows I have had my fair share of that after Mr Wickham’s treatment of my poor Lydia!
Mr Bennet advises caution. He says that like Lydia Kitty is very easily influenced, and that we would be fools to let what happened between Lydia and Wickham, happen to Kitty. Mr Bennett is right of course, we should be cautious, but not overly so! Not every man is as conniving as Wickham!
Even so I will not repeat the mistake I did with Lydia. Kitty will not go too far out of my sight and I will make sure Mr Finch talks to Mr Bennet.
Could you imagine the embarrassment of two daughters rushed into imprudent marriage! The family would never live that down and the effect on my poor nerves, I dare not imagine!
So far though we cannot apart from the age difference find fault with him. And he is the only son of his family, and his sisters are all married. So, I doubt we will find much fault at all!
Love
Mrs Bennet
Dear Mama,
My darling Wickham and I have been following the regiment around for over a year now and I never tire of it. We meet so many friendly faces in each town, it is wonderful, and with each new town they throw ball for the regiment! We have no end of amusement at the balls, although I see little of Wickham at them, he is always so very absorbed in playing cards, as if our lives depended on it almost! How silly is that Mama?
I have made a great friend in the wife of another member of the regiment, her name is Beryl Owen. She is four years older than me and gives me great advice. Beryl has one child by Mr Owen already who is just three years old. Beryl and Mr Owen are only married three and a half years. I’m sure you can guess the reason they got married Mama! Beryl says she doesn’t care because she loves Mr Owen. I’d care! I wouldn’t want people to gossip about me! I don’t have to worry though because I married my darling Wickham out of love and not out of necessity. If Beryl was honest with herself she would say it was necessity too, but she will not admit it.
Wickham spends a lot of time with the other soldiers even when he’s not on duty. I find myself pinning for him and am extremely glad of Beryl as company at these times. I suppose you cannot expect a man to endure a woman’s company all the time.
I hope that you are all well and send Kitty my love.
Your dearest,
Lydia
****
I do worry so about my Lydia. This Beryl, she has befriended, does not seem the type of acquaintance that is ever a good influence. I know Lydia’s marriage was rushed, but at least it was not rushed to stop a child being born of out of wedlock!
However, Lydia does sound very found of her and she needs some stability. The milita are constantly on the move and Lydia needs a female companion. I would go mad if I did not have another woman to chat to, occasionally and swap news with.
Lydia’s marriage seems to be going well enough. I am apprehensive about Wickham spending so much time away from her though. I shouldn’t concern myself over it too much. Mr Bennett does after all spend half his days hauled up in the library, head forever in his books! I do believe all men need their space!
Darcy and I have the most wonderful news! I am pregnant! We are overjoyed and cannot contain our excitement. Georgiana is over the moon too, at the prospect of becoming an Aunt. We have all decided, we must visit you all at Longbourn before I become too fatigued with pregnancy to travel. Darcy has suggested that we stay at Netherfield with Jane and Mr Bingley, as they have plenty of room for guests and it would mean less work for you Mama. Georgiana is very much looking forward, to seeing you all again, as are Darcy and I.
We shall see you in two weeks. Tell Kitty and Mary, I miss dearly. And tell Papa that I look forward to having a talk with him, so he must not hide away in his library during my visit!
Love Lizzie
That is why I am writing to you. It is ages since we have all been together as a family. And I do so long to see you again. Elizabeth wild be delighted if you would come and stay in Meryton while she visits. Sometimes I think Lizzie is closer to you than to me. I never could understand her headstrong temper, but Mrs Gardiner you seemed to always understand her so well! Please come, it will be a pleasure to see you and my brother again!
Remember if you cannot afford to stay at the inn in Meryton, Mr Bingley would gladly have you to stay. He is so kind-hearted and generous, just like Jane! They truly were made for one another! Mr Bingley certainly has enough room for you at Netherfield, endless bedrooms! You know Mrs Gardiner when I think of it, I suppose Jane and Mr Bingley will soon begin to fill all those rooms with children, too!
I know I joked I was too young to be a grandmother, but I do believe Mr Bennet and myself will quite enjoy being grandparents.
Darcy, Georgiana and Elizabeth come in two weeks to visit so write back post haste to tell me if you can make it in time for their visit.
Love
Mrs Bennet
Dearest Lizzie,
I am so happy for you! Mr Bingley and I hope to expect an addition of our own soon too! Do not tell Mama just yet because we want to keep it secret between ourselves for a little longer. It is truly the best feeling ever is it not Lizzie? Just imagine this time next April we will both be Mothers and Aunts!
Mr Bingley sends his love to you, Darcy and Georgiana. He is even more attentive than usual since I have told him about the baby. He showers me with affection and talks constantly of the child’s nursery, whether we should employ a nanny or a nurse, he even talks of the child’s education and it is not even born.
Oh Lizzie, I feel so loved. Last night before we went to sleep, he held my hand and said that I had given him the most precious gifts a man can be given, love and a child! I was so touched I started to cry, then he cried too, and then we both laughed and smiled again.
It is so special and it being a secret between us, has made it even more so. I am almost sad that we have to tell Mama!
I have told the housekeeper to air you and Darcy the largest guest bedroom, and to air the pretty little one for Georgiana. I cannot wait to see you all. Has mama told you that the gardeners will be staying with us too? Mama is very excited about us all being together. She is only saddened that Lydia cannot be there too. Wickham has spent all his leave and Lydia will not leave him to come home. Mama tries to hide it but she misses Lydia terribly. Mama and Lydia did get on so well. It is a shame that Wickham’s regiment cannot be permanently stationed nearer to Meryton. Lydia could visit Mama more often then.
Did Mama tell you that Kitty has a suitor? His name is Mr Charles Finch. He is somewhat older than Kitty, soon to be twenty-eight apparently. But Kitty is enamoured with him and talks of nothing else.
Papa asked Mr Bingley to find out what he could. Papa lives in constant fear of Kitty repeating Lydia’s mistakes. He has confided often to Mr Bingley that Kitty is very like Lydia in her personality and it causes him great concern. Mr Bingley wrote a few letters to friends and it seems that Mr Finch is indeed a good sort of gentleman. Papa was greatly relieved to hear this. I suppose you will get to meet Mr Finch yourself during your visit!
I really cannot wait to see you my darling sister,
Love Jane
Dear Lydia,
I have met the most marvellous man! A new regiment has been stationed in Meryton, and to welcome them Mr Bingley held a ball at Netherfield. It was a wonderful night and my card was completely full, I never had a moment to sit at peace! Almost every man from the regiment introduced himself and I was quite struck by three of them. The next day, on Mamas invitation they came to visit us at Longbourn. They asked Mary to join in on our walk too, but I know they were just being polite, for she is very plain!
Their names are Mr Charles Finch, Mr Henry Thomas and Mr Edmund Bronlow. I did try to be attentive to all three but from the moment we left the house I found myself fonder of Mr Finch, and almost completely lost interest in Thomas and Bronlow.
Thank goodness for Mary! She somehow kept them both entertained while Mr Finch and I enjoyed some private conversation ahead of them. Although I cannot see how they were entertained I find Mary so very boring.
Mr Finch is a farmer. I know Lydia I was alarmed by that myself. I could not imagine myself living in a farm cottage waiting for my husband to come home all dirty and tired from the fields! But it turns out that he is not just a farmer, he is a gentleman too. The family own the estate and Mr Finch’s father is of the opinion that his son should know his tenants and his land. That is why he always helped out on the farm. Mr Finch even says he loves it! I cannot see why! Can you imagine having to endure all that hard labour, when you have enough money that you need not do? It is crazy in my view. I do not tell Mr Finch that though. I tell him I deeply admire him for his efforts to get to know the people of his estate.
Mr Finch’s mother sounds like a sensible woman. She insisted that her son was given an education that befitted his social status. He is very intelligent and cultured. Mr Finch joined the regiment on a years commission at his mother’s suggestion, so he could see more of England and perhaps find himself a wife!
Mr Finch only has three more months of his commission left and the regiment will be staying in Meryton for them. Oh Lydia, I am so excited, perhaps I too may be married like you soon!
What is married like Lydia? Do you and Wickham always get on? It is a shame you do not have a house of your own yet. When I marry I cannot wait to be mistress of my own home. I shall take great delight in furnishing it! I also cannot wait to have my own housekeeper to do my biding! It will be such fun to set up a new home!
Mama says that I must not let Mr Finch slip through my fingers. The whole of Meryton knows he is a good marriage prospect and I must watch out that other pretty girls do not catch his eye.
I do so wish you could come and visit us Lydia. I am just dying to introduce you to Mr Finch, but I know Wickham has used all his leave and you would not leave him on his own.
Send Wickham my love and write soon. I long to hear of your adventures with the regiment.
Love Kitty
There is a new regiment stationed once again at Meryton and Mr Bingley was kind enough to throw them a ball at Netherfield as a welcome! Kitty caught the attention of a few straight away, spent the whole night dancing! Anyway I had the foresight to invite the soldiers to visit us at Longbourn at any time and well, Mrs Gardiner, Kitty has found her husband today, I am sure of it! Mr Bennett of course had to put a dampener on the whole thing! But I saw Mr Finch walk her up the drive. Arm in arm they were, and talking most animatedly! I was reminded at once of my younger courting days! And he has promised to visit again!
Kitty is very impressed with him, and talks of nothing else. Mrs Finch is a farmer and a gentleman. I know Mrs Gardiner what you are thinking now as you read, that a farmer is not much of a marriage prospect. But apparently Mr Finch’s family own the estate. It appears that his father made him farm, under the silly notion that seems to be more and more common these days, that a gentleman should know how his money is produced and not just leave it to the estate manager. I ask you what, is an estate manager for, except to manage your affairs for you, so you need not be involved! Thankfully Mr Finch’s mother saw fit to make sure his education and to make sure that his manners did not become too common.
Mr Finch is very pleasing to the eye, tall, with dark brown hair, hazel eyes, and of a strong build. The only thing Kitty finds disagreeable about him is his age. He is almost 27 and Kitty as you know is only just 17. I don’t think Mr Finch shows his age in his appearance though, and he doesn’t seem the type to make a mission to trifle with a young girl. Lord knows I have had my fair share of that after Mr Wickham’s treatment of my poor Lydia!
Mr Bennet advises caution. He says that like Lydia Kitty is very easily influenced, and that we would be fools to let what happened between Lydia and Wickham, happen to Kitty. Mr Bennett is right of course, we should be cautious, but not overly so! Not every man is as conniving as Wickham!
Even so I will not repeat the mistake I did with Lydia. Kitty will not go too far out of my sight and I will make sure Mr Finch talks to Mr Bennet.
Could you imagine the embarrassment of two daughters rushed into imprudent marriage! The family would never live that down and the effect on my poor nerves, I dare not imagine!
So far though we cannot apart from the age difference find fault with him. And he is the only son of his family, and his sisters are all married. So, I doubt we will find much fault at all!
Love
Mrs Bennet
Dear Mama,
My darling Wickham and I have been following the regiment around for over a year now and I never tire of it. We meet so many friendly faces in each town, it is wonderful, and with each new town they throw ball for the regiment! We have no end of amusement at the balls, although I see little of Wickham at them, he is always so very absorbed in playing cards, as if our lives depended on it almost! How silly is that Mama?
I have made a great friend in the wife of another member of the regiment, her name is Beryl Owen. She is four years older than me and gives me great advice. Beryl has one child by Mr Owen already who is just three years old. Beryl and Mr Owen are only married three and a half years. I’m sure you can guess the reason they got married Mama! Beryl says she doesn’t care because she loves Mr Owen. I’d care! I wouldn’t want people to gossip about me! I don’t have to worry though because I married my darling Wickham out of love and not out of necessity. If Beryl was honest with herself she would say it was necessity too, but she will not admit it.
Wickham spends a lot of time with the other soldiers even when he’s not on duty. I find myself pinning for him and am extremely glad of Beryl as company at these times. I suppose you cannot expect a man to endure a woman’s company all the time.
I hope that you are all well and send Kitty my love.
Your dearest,
Lydia
I do worry so about my Lydia. This Beryl, she has befriended, does not seem the type of acquaintance that is ever a good influence. I know Lydia’s marriage was rushed, but at least it was not rushed to stop a child being born of out of wedlock!
However, Lydia does sound very found of her and she needs some stability. The milita are constantly on the move and Lydia needs a female companion. I would go mad if I did not have another woman to chat to, occasionally and swap news with.
Lydia’s marriage seems to be going well enough. I am apprehensive about Wickham spending so much time away from her though. I shouldn’t concern myself over it too much. Mr Bennett does after all spend half his days hauled up in the library, head forever in his books! I do believe all men need their space!
Dear Mama,
Darcy and I have the most wonderful news! I am pregnant! We are overjoyed and cannot contain our excitement. Georgiana is over the moon too, at the prospect of becoming an Aunt. We have all decided, we must visit you all at Longbourn before I become too fatigued with pregnancy to travel. Darcy has suggested that we stay at Netherfield with Jane and Mr Bingley, as they have plenty of room for guests and it would mean less work for you Mama. Georgiana is very much looking forward, to seeing you all again, as are Darcy and I.
We shall see you in two weeks. Tell Kitty and Mary, I miss dearly. And tell Papa that I look forward to having a talk with him, so he must not hide away in his library during my visit!
Love Lizzie
Mrs Gardiner,
You will not be surprised when you hear, for I know Lizzie will have already written to tell you! She is with child! I cannot believe how happy I am for her, but surely I am too young to be a grandmother. Mr Bennet was very quiet when I told him, but he soon cheered up when I told him Lizzie was coming to stay at Netherfield.
That is why I am writing to you. It is ages since we have all been together as a family. And I do so long to see you again. Elizabeth wild be delighted if you would come and stay in Meryton while she visits. Sometimes I think Lizzie is closer to you than to me. I never could understand her headstrong temper, but Mrs Gardiner you seemed to always understand her so well! Please come, it will be a pleasure to see you and my brother again!
Remember if you cannot afford to stay at the inn in Meryton, Mr Bingley would gladly have you to stay. He is so kind-hearted and generous, just like Jane! They truly were made for one another! Mr Bingley certainly has enough room for you at Netherfield, endless bedrooms! You know Mrs Gardiner when I think of it, I suppose Jane and Mr Bingley will soon begin to fill all those rooms with children, too!
I know I joked I was too young to be a grandmother, but I do believe Mr Bennet and myself will quite enjoy being grandparents.
Darcy, Georgiana and Elizabeth come in two weeks to visit so write back post haste to tell me if you can make it in time for their visit.
Love
Mrs Bennet
Dearest Lizzie,
I am so happy for you! Mr Bingley and I hope to expect an addition of our own soon too! Do not tell Mama just yet because we want to keep it secret between ourselves for a little longer. It is truly the best feeling ever is it not Lizzie? Just imagine this time next April we will both be Mothers and Aunts!
Mr Bingley sends his love to you, Darcy and Georgiana. He is even more attentive than usual since I have told him about the baby. He showers me with affection and talks constantly of the child’s nursery, whether we should employ a nanny or a nurse, he even talks of the child’s education and it is not even born.
Oh Lizzie, I feel so loved. Last night before we went to sleep, he held my hand and said that I had given him the most precious gifts a man can be given, love and a child! I was so touched I started to cry, then he cried too, and then we both laughed and smiled again.
It is so special and it being a secret between us, has made it even more so. I am almost sad that we have to tell Mama!
I have told the housekeeper to air you and Darcy the largest guest bedroom, and to air the pretty little one for Georgiana. I cannot wait to see you all. Has mama told you that the gardeners will be staying with us too? Mama is very excited about us all being together. She is only saddened that Lydia cannot be there too. Wickham has spent all his leave and Lydia will not leave him to come home. Mama tries to hide it but she misses Lydia terribly. Mama and Lydia did get on so well. It is a shame that Wickham’s regiment cannot be permanently stationed nearer to Meryton. Lydia could visit Mama more often then.
Did Mama tell you that Kitty has a suitor? His name is Mr Charles Finch. He is somewhat older than Kitty, soon to be twenty-eight apparently. But Kitty is enamoured with him and talks of nothing else.
Papa asked Mr Bingley to find out what he could. Papa lives in constant fear of Kitty repeating Lydia’s mistakes. He has confided often to Mr Bingley that Kitty is very like Lydia in her personality and it causes him great concern. Mr Bingley wrote a few letters to friends and it seems that Mr Finch is indeed a good sort of gentleman. Papa was greatly relieved to hear this. I suppose you will get to meet Mr Finch yourself during your visit!
I really cannot wait to see you my darling sister,
Love Jane
Dear Lydia,
I have met the most marvellous man! A new regiment has been stationed in Meryton, and to welcome them Mr Bingley held a ball at Netherfield. It was a wonderful night and my card was completely full, I never had a moment to sit at peace! Almost every man from the regiment introduced himself and I was quite struck by three of them. The next day, on Mamas invitation they came to visit us at Longbourn. They asked Mary to join in on our walk too, but I know they were just being polite, for she is very plain!
Their names are Mr Charles Finch, Mr Henry Thomas and Mr Edmund Bronlow. I did try to be attentive to all three but from the moment we left the house I found myself fonder of Mr Finch, and almost completely lost interest in Thomas and Bronlow.
Thank goodness for Mary! She somehow kept them both entertained while Mr Finch and I enjoyed some private conversation ahead of them. Although I cannot see how they were entertained I find Mary so very boring.
Mr Finch is a farmer. I know Lydia I was alarmed by that myself. I could not imagine myself living in a farm cottage waiting for my husband to come home all dirty and tired from the fields! But it turns out that he is not just a farmer, he is a gentleman too. The family own the estate and Mr Finch’s father is of the opinion that his son should know his tenants and his land. That is why he always helped out on the farm. Mr Finch even says he loves it! I cannot see why! Can you imagine having to endure all that hard labour, when you have enough money that you need not do? It is crazy in my view. I do not tell Mr Finch that though. I tell him I deeply admire him for his efforts to get to know the people of his estate.
Mr Finch’s mother sounds like a sensible woman. She insisted that her son was given an education that befitted his social status. He is very intelligent and cultured. Mr Finch joined the regiment on a years commission at his mother’s suggestion, so he could see more of England and perhaps find himself a wife!
Mr Finch only has three more months of his commission left and the regiment will be staying in Meryton for them. Oh Lydia, I am so excited, perhaps I too may be married like you soon!
What is married like Lydia? Do you and Wickham always get on? It is a shame you do not have a house of your own yet. When I marry I cannot wait to be mistress of my own home. I shall take great delight in furnishing it! I also cannot wait to have my own housekeeper to do my biding! It will be such fun to set up a new home!
Mama says that I must not let Mr Finch slip through my fingers. The whole of Meryton knows he is a good marriage prospect and I must watch out that other pretty girls do not catch his eye.
Mama has particularly cautioned me about the Lucas girls. They are not as pretty as me, but their financial situation is dire and they all need to be married. Mama says to be wary as Charlotte Lucas stole Mr Collins from Lizzie, even though she was supposedly Lizzie’s best friend. I do not think Charlotte stole Mr Collins. None of us could stand him, let alone consent to marry him! I do however believe there is merit to Mamas concerns about the Lucas’. A good marriage prospect is hard to come by, and a young woman must fight for it. I have decided to be more vigilant concerning the Lucas girls. I do not think I have to worry too much though for Mr Finch has already promised to call on me again tomorrow! I do believe he is already quite enamoured with me!
I do so wish you could come and visit us Lydia. I am just dying to introduce you to Mr Finch, but I know Wickham has used all his leave and you would not leave him on his own.
Send Wickham my love and write soon. I long to hear of your adventures with the regiment.
Love Kitty
Chapter Three
Lizzie and Darcy are sitting in the drawing room at Pemberley. Darcy turns smiling “Lizzie, I cannot tell you how relieved I am that we will be staying at Netherfield. Your mother and I do seem to rub one another up the wrong way. I am not sure I could live under the same roof as her for any length of time at all.”
“Oh Darcy, I do believe you are right. Mama is not as fond of you as I would like. But I do believe that given time, she will see your kindness and care for others, and then she too will fall in love with you just as I did.” Lizzie smiles as she remembers their first meetings.
“Yes, when we met, we did not see to eye at all, you captured my heart. I have never been as happy as I am in our marriage, and now you are pregnant, I feel even happier. I had never believed this sense of fulfilment possible.”
“ I do believe we are both becoming very sentimental as a result of our good news. It is not just our good news either Darcy. Jane is pregnant too! She has told not told Mama yet or anyone except myself and Bingley. I believe she wants to keep it a secret until our visit.” Lizzie glows with happiness.
“Bingley and I were the best of friends, and now our children will not be just friends but cousins. This is wonderful Bingley will make such a good father. He is so caring and attentive to everyone. You must send them my congratulations.”
“It is already done. Jane told me something else in her letter too. Apparently, Kitty supposes herself to be in love with a Mr Charles Finch. Papa has been very cautious regarding the courtship. He still feels to blame for what happened with Wickham.” Lizzie looks sad and regretful when she thinks of her fathers worry.
“Wickham was and still is an absolute scoundrel. I am glad your father has learned to be cautious of suitors, something needs to be learnt from that incident.” Darcy’s face becomes more serious as he remembers Wickham.
“I agree with you my parents afforded Lydia and Kitty too much freedom in the past, and were often too trusting of others. Lydia’s experience was a painful lesson for Mama and Papa, but they have learned from it.”
“I expect your father has begun enquiries into Mr Finch’s character?”
“Yes, he through Mr Bingley, who has written several letters and found Mr Finch to be a good sort of fellow.”
Darcy looks thoughtful “Lizzie, I hope you don’t mind but I feel I should double check this gentleman’s character. Mr Bingley can be quite naïve and easily led. I just want to make sure your family are caused no more upset. Both you and Jane do not need to be upset at this time. It is not good for pregnant women to worry. Let me make enquiries. I am sure Bingley is right, but just in case.” Darcy sits down at his desk and begins writing.
“Once again you remind me why I love you. You care for so many people, and go out of your way to help them.” Lizzie smiles and looks lovingly at her husband.
Dear Mrs Bennet,
Mr Gardiner and I, will indeed come to visit you at Longbourn. Mr Gardiner feels it would be prudent for us to stay at Netherfield and has written to Mr Bingley to ask him if he will accommodate us for our visit. I am sure he will as he is a very caring and kind man.
I cannot believe Lizzie is having her first child. It seems like only yesterday, that she was a little girl and I was meeting her for the first time before she ran off to play hoop. I always felt especially fond of Elizabeth as she was the first person I meet when I was introduced to the family and I felt uncommonly nervous that day. We are both so happy for her!
I look forward to seeing you soon,
Mrs Gardiner
“Oh Darcy, I do believe you are right. Mama is not as fond of you as I would like. But I do believe that given time, she will see your kindness and care for others, and then she too will fall in love with you just as I did.” Lizzie smiles as she remembers their first meetings.
“Yes, when we met, we did not see to eye at all, you captured my heart. I have never been as happy as I am in our marriage, and now you are pregnant, I feel even happier. I had never believed this sense of fulfilment possible.”
“ I do believe we are both becoming very sentimental as a result of our good news. It is not just our good news either Darcy. Jane is pregnant too! She has told not told Mama yet or anyone except myself and Bingley. I believe she wants to keep it a secret until our visit.” Lizzie glows with happiness.
“Bingley and I were the best of friends, and now our children will not be just friends but cousins. This is wonderful Bingley will make such a good father. He is so caring and attentive to everyone. You must send them my congratulations.”
“It is already done. Jane told me something else in her letter too. Apparently, Kitty supposes herself to be in love with a Mr Charles Finch. Papa has been very cautious regarding the courtship. He still feels to blame for what happened with Wickham.” Lizzie looks sad and regretful when she thinks of her fathers worry.
“Wickham was and still is an absolute scoundrel. I am glad your father has learned to be cautious of suitors, something needs to be learnt from that incident.” Darcy’s face becomes more serious as he remembers Wickham.
“I agree with you my parents afforded Lydia and Kitty too much freedom in the past, and were often too trusting of others. Lydia’s experience was a painful lesson for Mama and Papa, but they have learned from it.”
“I expect your father has begun enquiries into Mr Finch’s character?”
“Yes, he through Mr Bingley, who has written several letters and found Mr Finch to be a good sort of fellow.”
Darcy looks thoughtful “Lizzie, I hope you don’t mind but I feel I should double check this gentleman’s character. Mr Bingley can be quite naïve and easily led. I just want to make sure your family are caused no more upset. Both you and Jane do not need to be upset at this time. It is not good for pregnant women to worry. Let me make enquiries. I am sure Bingley is right, but just in case.” Darcy sits down at his desk and begins writing.
“Once again you remind me why I love you. You care for so many people, and go out of your way to help them.” Lizzie smiles and looks lovingly at her husband.
Dear Mrs Bennet,
Mr Gardiner and I, will indeed come to visit you at Longbourn. Mr Gardiner feels it would be prudent for us to stay at Netherfield and has written to Mr Bingley to ask him if he will accommodate us for our visit. I am sure he will as he is a very caring and kind man.
I cannot believe Lizzie is having her first child. It seems like only yesterday, that she was a little girl and I was meeting her for the first time before she ran off to play hoop. I always felt especially fond of Elizabeth as she was the first person I meet when I was introduced to the family and I felt uncommonly nervous that day. We are both so happy for her!
I look forward to seeing you soon,
Mrs Gardiner
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