Jane Austen’s Jewel Box – Elizabeth Darcy’s Ring – Part Two – Jane Odiwe

JA-JewelBox-5Here’s Part Two of Elizabeth Darcy’s Ring – the first of a new collection of tales from Jane Austen’s Jewel Box. If you missed Part One you can read it here. I’m very grateful for all your suggestions and have edited the last part with some of them in mind! I hope you enjoy this week’s episode!

Hurrying down the staircase, Lizzy patted her hair and smoothed down her gown, quickly checking her appearance in the glass on the landing before meeting Lady Catherine. She did want to make a good impression. Pausing to tuck a wayward curl behind her ear, she hardly recognised her reflection, she’d become such a grand lady in the few short weeks she’d been married. Her expensive clothes were elegant and stylish, and even her coiffure, styled so expertly by her new lady’s maid, seemed to lend her an air of distinction. But despite these outward embellishments, Elizabeth felt no more self-assured than when she’d first arrived at Pemberley. Not that she suffered any real crisis of confidence, she’d always had a sense of her own self-worth, but it was just that she longed to be a credit to the great man she had married. She knew she was out of her depth when it came to the task of running a great house like the one she was now mistress of, but with the help of Mrs Reynolds, the housekeeper, she was trying to learn all that she could. Knowing that Mr Darcy’s aunt was always very critical did nothing to improve her feelings, and it was with some trepidation that she rushed along the corridor. It simply would not do to be late!

When she walked into the saloon, Lady Catherine was already seated in a chair by the window, looking out over the landscape.

‘Good morning, Lady Catherine,’ Elizabeth said on entering, dropping a curtsey.liz

Lady Catherine continued to gaze through the window and for a moment Elizabeth wondered if she’d been heard. Fitzwilliam’s aunt had assumed a regal attitude and now turned so imperiously to look down her long nose as if she’d been intruded upon that Lizzy felt quite intimidated, until she realised that the old lady was doing her very best to make her feel uncomfortable in her own home.

‘Sit down,’ Lady Catherine barked, gesturing to the seat opposite.

Undaunted, Elizabeth’s courage rose and sitting down, she took a deep breath to steady her nerves, choosing to ignore the old lady’s rude manner. ‘We are so delighted that you accepted our invitation and to see you here at Pemberley. We were so worried that you might not be able to attend the ball after you wrote about your late illness – I do hope you are very much recovered.’

‘Pemberley has been my home for more years than you’ve been alive, madam, and you need not think because you now consider yourself Châtelaine that your influence holds any sway. I have never been subject to an invitation here in my life before – I shudder to imagine what my dear sister would have thought at such impertinence.’

‘Mr Darcy was very particular with the arrangements, Lady Catherine. We wish you a most happy visit … I hope you’ve found everything to your satisfaction,’ Lizzy continued, aware that her patience was being tried beyond her limit.

LC‘As for my rooms, Reynolds has been so good as to move me to Lady Anne’s apartments.’

Elizabeth stared at the implacable woman before her. She could not imagine a worse beginning but she was determined not to let Lady Catherine get the better of her. ‘Forgive me, your ladyship, but we were led to understand that your preference was for the west wing, and that you did not usually wish to reside in your sister’s chambers because of the morning sun on that side of the house. As for the invitation, Mr Darcy considered it would be most fitting in light of the fact that we are newly married and the ball is a celebration of our union. It will be the first of many that he wishes to hold, and we hope you will bless us with your presence at every one.’

As she said the words, looking with steely determination into Lady Catherine’s eyes, Lizzy found herself crossing the fingers that were laced in her lap. She noted with some pleasure that Fitzwilliam’s formidable aunt looked at a loss for words, but knew it was only a matter of time before another barbed comment would be aimed in her direction.

‘A seasonal ball is held annually at Pemberley – your marriage and its timing is a mere coincidence. One can only hope that you have taken Reynolds’ advice in every matter. Of course, in my sister’s day the balls were unsurpassed in the country. How this great house has fallen in the wake of her demise – I fear for its future, I will not pretend.’

‘Lady Catherine, I assure you that I will do my very best to fulfil the role that is my honour to have been bestowed upon me by my dear husband.’

Lizzy felt Lady Catherine’s eyes upon her once more and was subject to such scrutiny that she felt herself redden and shift uncomfortably in her chair. The lady wore a frown, her eyes narrowing as she stared at Elizabeth’s fingers laced in her lap.

1‘Give me your hand. I believe that ring belongs to my sister!’

Instinctively, Lizzy covered the finger wearing her new diamond with the fingers of her right hand.

‘Put out your hand this instant and let me see. There has been a grave oversight, I am certain. This jewel, which you have no right to wear, is one of a suite that was given to my sister on her marriage. They were promised to my daughter on her marriage and until that day were to remain in the vault. How on earth did you come by it?’

Elizabeth opened her mouth to speak, but a knock at the door and the entrance of Mrs Reynolds prevented her from answering.

‘What is it, Reynolds?’ demanded Lady Catherine, crossly.

‘I am very sorry to intrude, your ladyship, but I have a message for Mrs Darcy. It’s from the home farm, madam – it’s urgent, I’m afraid. Mrs Fretwell said if you could spare the time, that she’d be ever so grateful. He’s near the end, you see, and she says he’s been calling for you.’

‘I’ll come straight away, Mrs Reynolds. Be so good as to tell Saxton to get the carriage ready – I’ll be there as soon as I can.’

‘Where are you going? I demand an explanation!’

Elizabeth ignored her and as she observed the old lady’s thunderous countenance, her jowls wobbling in indignation, she called out. ‘There is no time, Lady Catherine. Forgive me, but I have to go!’

1oo

Donning her cloak and bonnet, Elizabeth rushed to the carriage as fast as she could. The journey to the farm was just a short ride to the next village, one that she normally accomplished on foot, but speed was necessary today. Almost as soon as she’d arrived at Pemberley, Lizzy had started calling on the locals, especially those poorer families or those who had sick relatives to tend. The Fretwells had been farming the estate land for hundreds of years, and Elizabeth knew how much Mr Darcy respected this old yeoman family. There was nothing that Mr Fretwell didn’t know about his sheep and Mrs Fretwell was an exemplary farmer’s wife, who thought nothing of hand-rearing sickly lambs and seeing them into the world, as well as coping with a growing brood of her own offspring. It was the youngest, Neddy, that Elizabeth had taken to her heart and her arms when he’d become ill just three weeks ago. She’d grown to love him, as if he’d been a child of her own. Visiting him every day, providing the family with baskets of fruit and vegetables from the stores at Pemberley, and reading stories to little Neddy himself had been Elizabeth’s devoted occupation. The child had received the best care from Mr Morton, the doctor from Matlock, but they’d known very quickly that the outcome was not to be a good one. As they bowled down the lanes, Lizzy knew she must compose herself and prepare for the worst. She would have to be strong for the Fretwells’ sake and she knew she would have to draw on all her reserves of resilience and courage.

 

GeorgianaMrs Reynolds gave Miss Georgiana Darcy the message her mistress had left as the latter was crossing the hallway after her morning ride. A striking girl, and tall for her tender years, her appearance was of an assured young woman, belying her true timidity and shy character. Her deep blue riding habit made the perfect foil for her fair hair, which was now tumbling in unruly curls from the top of her head, a result of the fresh breezes and a gallop across the fields combined.

Mr Darcy’s sister felt unequal to the duty, but put on her bravest expression. If Elizabeth trusted her to be left in sole charge of Pemberley in her absence, then she would do her very best.

‘Most guests will be arriving this afternoon, Miss Darcy, so I would not worry too much,’ said Mrs Reynolds reassuringly. ‘Mr and Mrs Darcy will be back by then – they’ll be here to greet their guests, I am certain.’

‘Oh, thank you, Mrs Reynolds,’ Georgiana replied, her voice betraying her nerves. ‘I must admit, I do not relish the idea of meeting our guests completely on my own, and without Elizabeth, I am sure I should not know what to say to people to put them at their ease. My sister has such a way with people and although she is teaching me so much, I feel quite nervous at the prospect of introductions without her by my side. There are so many new people to be met with, and I shall be completely confused by so many names I have not heard before.’

‘Do not fret, Miss Darcy,’ said Mrs Reynolds, placing a hand on Georgiana’s arm. ‘I shall be there, and your aunt will, no doubt, offer her advice. Lady Catherine is in the saloon at this moment.’

Georgiana wanted to smile. She’d not missed Mrs Reynolds’ tone of voice when talking of her aunt, and although the stalwart retainer had uttered nothing untoward, Georgiana knew Mrs Reynolds disliked Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Reynolds was often on the receiving end of her ladyship’s ‘advice’ and despite Mrs Reynolds’ cheerful countenance on each occasion of having been scolded, it had not gone unnoticed by most of the family that the housekeeper enjoyed her own ways with words to soften the verbal blows.

‘Then I’d best join her,’ said Georgiana, ‘as soon as I have changed. Goodness, what a mess! My skirts are covered three inches in mud, but what fun I’ve had. I went the same way Elizabeth showed me yesterday. It’s a challenging ride, but once in my stride I felt I was flying. And I really must fix my hair or goodness knows what my aunt will have to say. It’s quite fallen down, but such freedom is pure joy!’

antoineJust at that moment, the butler, Bramwell, appeared at the top of the steps leading from the front doors. Behind him stood two of the most elegant people Georgiana thought she’d ever seen. There was an air about them and a celebration of fashion not usually seen in these parts. They exuded sophistication and more than a touch of the exotic. The dark-haired gentleman who was appraising Georgiana’s appearance with an expression of mild amusement wore a long cape over a navy coat, cut away to show his fine muscular legs in mustard breeches. He did not look like an Englishman with his olive complexion and black eyes that stared at Georgiana for so long and so searchingly, that she found she was soon studying the floor with great interest. His lady wore a pelisse of peacock blue, with gold fastenings, trimmed at the throat in black velvet, with a contrasting bonnet in white satin with a jaunty ostrich feather.

‘Monsieur and Mademoiselle de Valois, Miss Darcy,’ Bramwell announced.

Good heavens, thought Georgiana, they’re French, and I am certain my conversation in that language is severely limited.

‘Bonjour, Monsieur et Mademoiselle de Valois,’ Georgiana stuttered, remembering to curtsey.

‘Good morning, Miss Darcy,’ said the gentleman in reply. ‘I assure you; it is not necessary to speak in French. We never have unless with our papa and he is buried these last four years.’

Georgiana met the easy expression of the young man standing before her holding out his hand. She took it, not knowing whether she should also offer condolences.

‘We have never met before,’ he continued, ‘but I am your distant cousin, Antoine, and this is my sister, Louise. I am afraid we are rather early to be met by the family. Forgive me, but our journey here was rather shorter than we’d anticipated. We came to the north from London the day before yesterday, and have been travelling round the countryside, but I could not wait to see Pemberley nor meet my relations.’

louiseHis companion held out her hand. ‘My brother is so very eager in everything, Miss Darcy, and though I insisted we would be better leaving our inn later this afternoon, he would not listen. I am very pleased to meet you. We have heard so much about you from our mother who corresponds regularly with your aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Our mother and your aunt grew up together … they are cousins on their mother’s side.’

It was impossible to feel ill at ease with this brother and sister who were so open and friendly that she stopped worrying about her appearance. Georgiana could not think that she’d heard of these French cousins before, or ever heard her aunt mention their name, but she shook hands warmly.

‘I do apologise that my brother is not here to greet you, but he is out on business this morning. He is not expected to be long and I know he will be looking forward to making your acquaintance so much. Do come in and make yourselves at home.’

I hope you enjoyed the continuation – I’d love to know what you think!

67 comments

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    • Kathy on February 21, 2014 at 12:55 am
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    Really enjoyable! Thank you! Elizabeth showed such poise in talking with The Old Bat. I very much liked knowing about Elizabeth and her interaction with the farm families – it really seems like something that would suit her and contribute to how much the Darcys were admired in the area. (Although what you’re about to relay is going to be really sad.) The new cousins are intriguing!

      • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 4:44 am
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      Thank you, Kathy-I really appreciate your comments! I’m so pleased you enjoyed it!

    • Deborah on February 21, 2014 at 5:20 am
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    Wow! I’ve enjoyed this immensely so far. This is going to be interesting. Were the jewels to be Anne’s outright or only if she married Darcy? My guess is the latter. Georgiana and the de Valois’ are going to walk in on a very incensed Lady Catherine & my guess is she will see Georgiana and immediately rail about Elizabeth’s bad manners and about the ring and not noticethe de Valois having entered. And maybe Darcy can come along during this.

    And the situation with Neddie will definitely not end well. you have engage your emotions and we are waiting impatiently to read the outcome. Thank you for writing an intriguing story.

      • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 5:34 am
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      Deborah-good point about the jewels! Love your ideas-thanks so much for your comments!!

    • Anji on February 21, 2014 at 6:22 am
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    Jane, thanks for another instalment. Once again, I really enjoyed it. I also went back to the first chapter and re-read the end of that. Elizabeth’s reaction to the “seventeen children” was brilliant but at least Darcy was only joking! I think it’s marvellous the way you AV authors are willing to take on board what your readers think and make alterations if you think it works.

    Lady C’s behaviour was everything I expected it to be when she met with Elizabeth even down to her reaction to seeing the ring. Elizabeth showed that she was truly the better bred of the two by refusing to rise to the bait as Lady C was so obviously expecting her to do. Every put down was met by a perfectly polite but equal one and I’m sure Elizabeth will be met by more insults upon her return. I expect she might also be accused of corrupting Georgiana once Lady C notices the condition of her dress and the fact that she received visitors in such a state.

    Now, who are these mysterious French cousins? If they’ve been brought up in this country, calling at such an early hour is surely extremely bad manners (I’ve been reading The Regency Interpreter amongst other things on the customs of the day recently!). Are they expecting Lady C to be there or are they some kind of masquerading interlopers? Probably not, but that’s what crossed my mind when I read it, especially as there’s no mention of them having met this side of the family before or visiting Pemberley. I am intrigued to see where this will go.

    Please let us have some more!!

    • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 7:26 am
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    Anji-yes, Elizabeth is determined not to get cross with Darcy’s aunt, but I feel sure her patience will be sorely tried before much longer! The mysterious French cousins- I wanted to show that their characters do not necessarily abide by the rules of polite society-especially Antoine. Not that he means to be rude, just that he is refreshingly open, eager and can’t wait for the fun to start. I wonder how Georgiana will react to his refreshing ways- a young man who may appear rather different to some of their stuffy neighbours… hmmm….
    Thank you for stopping by with all your lovely comments!

      • Anji on February 21, 2014 at 10:18 am
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      That’s a relief regarding the French cousins! My mind was imagining all sorts of things, possibly a la Wickham and Georgiana.

      I also meant to comment on Elizabeth’s obvious commitment to supporting and working with the greater Pemberley community. My imagining expected nothing less of her and I’m so glad yours does as well. Poor little Neddy, I hope Lady C doesn’t give Elizabeth a hard time when she returns home extremely upset, or if she does, then that Darcy will be there and give his aunt a good dressing down.

      1. Anji, I’m so glad you’re thinking along the same lines-I imagine Elizabeth would be very hands-on in the Pemberley community, and with her common sense and good humour she would be welcome everywhere.
        I think Mr Darcy might have something to say to his aunt…

      • Beth G on February 21, 2014 at 2:32 pm
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      When I saw the French cousins I immediately jumped to various conclusions, but assumed they were from the D’Arcy side of the family. How fascinating to see that there are French relations on both sides of the family. Thanks for that (as well as the whole story, which is delightful).

        • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 3:23 pm
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        Thank you, Beth – yes, that would have been more logical, but a lot of English noble families are descended from Norman/French families and the reasons for the French cousins being on the mother’s side will be revealed…eventually. Thank you for your kind comments!

    • Carol hoyt on February 21, 2014 at 9:07 am
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    I like the way Lizzie handled lady c. I hope that neither dart air Elizabeth allow her( lady c) to get the upper hand . Lady c definitely needs to be out in her place.

    As for the new French cousins , interesting addition to what I imagine will be a full stage.

    Can’t wait to see where this flows !

      • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 9:32 am
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      Thank you so much for visiting and for your comments, Carol! I agree, we need to keep that Lady C in her place!

  1. “Her jowls wobbling in indignation”, indeed!! Loved that phrase.

    The confrontation with Lady Catherine was excellent. It must have been so hard for Lizzy to stand her ground.

    I’m dying to know more about the French cousins.

    • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 9:34 am
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    Thank you, Monica-you’re very kind! Yes, Lizzy had to bite her tongue once or twice… As for the French cousins – ooh la la!

    • Carole in Canada on February 21, 2014 at 9:54 am
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    I am so glad that LIzzie is standing her ground by being firm but polite (I expected no less) with Lady Catherine. I am also glad she did not put her hand out either when Lady C demanded it even though they were interrupted. Now Georgiana has to deal before getting changed! I too at first was wary of these new French cousins thinking Lady C had something up her sleeve but was reassured in your earlier comments. I’m thinking he will help distract Lady C from her cutting comments to Georgiana! Oh the fireworks when Elizabeth returns. She will not suffer Lady C’s rudeness long! Loving this story!

    1. Thank you Carole! There may be a little mystery about the French cousins which will unfold as the story goes along, but I feel their hearts are in the right place…unless I am mistaken!! Yes, let’s hope Lady C doesn’t spot Georgiana’s untidiness!!!

    • Angie W on February 21, 2014 at 10:04 am
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    It’s too short! LOL I want more, as soon as possible!
    The confrontation with Lady C was wonderful. I don’t think I could have been so poised. I would have taken the bait and railed at her like a fish wife!! I am certain that I see a battle coming, and I can’t wait to see how you write it!
    The French cousins seem suspicious to me. The first thing I thought when I realized that they had never visited before, is that somehow Wikham is involved in their sudden appearance. But that may be my propensity to to hold a grudge.
    I agree with Deborah, I would think the jewels would have been Anne’s if Darcy had married her, but not hers since he did not and that just gets under Lady C’s skin something fierce! (Love it!)
    I’m waiting with baited breath for the next installment.
    Thank you!!

    1. Angie-you’re very kind! Thank you for all your lovely comments. The French cousins are mysterious, but whether they know Mr Wickham, I cannot say…
      Lady C is not going to be placated easily, don’t you think?

        • Angie W on February 21, 2014 at 12:43 pm
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        Most welcome! & Yes, I think Lady C. is going to make things as hard as she possibly can.
        She want so bad to see Elizabeth falter!
        I think she will find a way to make even the caring for the farmers child seem like a low born thing to do.

          • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 3:18 pm
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          Angie-yes, I feel Lizzy is in for some strong criticism from Lady C, and she won’t approve of Elizabeth mixing with the ‘lower orders’!

    • Carol Settlage on February 21, 2014 at 10:20 am
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    Oh Jane, I’m loving your story! Your writing style and ideas are delightful! I never thought I cared too much about jewelry, but this may change my mind! As Deborah suggested, I figured the ring must have been left by Darcy’s Mother for his bride, which of course, Lady C. considered was to be Ann. Her ability to counter and yet remain courteous to Lady C. is well done, indeed. And I too love the active compassionate care Elizabeth shows toward the poor on the estate, and am sure it adds to Darcy’s appreciation of her! I can’t wait for his coming back to all that’s been going on with his aunt as well as these very interesting new cousins that have just arrived! Thank you for this lovely story… yes, please give us more!

    1. Thank you, Carol-so kind of you to say so! I think Darcy is going to show his appreciation of his darling wife when he comes home, and have something to say to his aunt…if he gets the chance. I wonder how he will react to his new cousins?

    • Lynn F on February 21, 2014 at 10:36 am
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    Jane I was drawn right into the story. The interaction between Lady Catherine and Elizabeth, the future between Georgiana and Antoine… Really looking forward to the continuation of your story. Thank you very much for sharing 🙂

    1. Thank you, Lynn-I’m so pleased you’re enjoying it-love your comments!

    • Cindy on February 21, 2014 at 11:03 am
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    Lovely. I know I am going to greatly enjoy even a distressing story that involves Lizzy interacting with the tenants. I always like new characters too, Antoine sounds quite charming!

    1. Thank you Cindy for your lovely comments!

  2. I’m hooked! Wonderful story so far and can’t wait to read more.

    1. Thank you, Sheila-so glad you like it!

  3. As always, Lady Catherine tries to make Elizabeth ill at ease even in her new home. Looks like the old lady is still keeping a grudge and wouldn’t let go. I wonder how Darcy will react if he learns his aunt tries to intimidate his beloved wife. I’m glad that Elizabeth’s courage does not falter with every attempt to rile her up.

    I would like to learn more about this brother and sister pair who are related to the Darcys. Are they really who they claim to be? If so could de Valois be Georgiana’s beau? Can’t wait to find out more about the French cousins. I love the writing style, Jane.

    1. Thank you, Luthien84- hmm, I wonder how Darcy will react? I’ve a feeling he is not going to be best pleased!
      The French cousins are going to be around for some time-their story will come out gradually.

    • Jo on February 21, 2014 at 11:32 am
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    Wouldn’t Lady Anne’s rooms now belong to Elizabeth/be connected to Darcy’s? Talk about a presumptuous and awkward request from Lady C! I look forward to her inevitable sit-down.

    1. Jo, I thought about that but decided that they might have too many sad memories for Mr Darcy and that he might prefer to make love to his wife in a room that did not remind him of his mother – LOL! Yes, Lady C has gone too far this time!!!

        • Theresa M on February 22, 2014 at 9:04 am
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        The idea that Darcy mother’s apartments would be part of the Master suite and therefore should be Elizabeth was my first thought also. I know Pemberly is large but I doubt it has 2 master suites….plus how would Catherine know Elizabeth wasnt using them when she told Mrs Reynolds to move her into them? Honestly, given the tradition of the times, I have a hard time buying the idea that Darcy and Elizabeth are not established in the Masters traditional quarters, after all Darcy woukd want only the best for Elizabeth.

        Having said that, I too am intrigued by the French “cousins”. I would guess you plan to have lots of fun writing about them!

          • Sheila L. M. on February 22, 2014 at 11:22 am
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          That was my first thought also, Theresa. How can Lady C. move into Lady Anne’s rooms when the Master Suite was for the Master and Mistress of the estate? The rooms adjoined with a sitting room between them seems to be my understanding of the layout. There would also be dressing rooms off each room.

    • Sheila L. M. on February 21, 2014 at 11:54 am
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    I found this chapter to be intriguing. Elizabeth acted every part the lady despite Lady C.’s attempts to bring her down to Lady C. level and verbally confront her in a negative, derogatory manner. I would have had her deliberately take a chair not indicated by Lady C. – just to show she is not going to take her dictations. (But that is my rebellion towards Lady C. – can’t stand her.) Then Georgina meeting the cousins and hearing, “We have heard so much about you from our mother who corresponds regularly with your aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Our mother and your aunt grew up together … they are cousins on their mother’s side.” These words make me suspicious about just what these cousins believe about this family, as everything they know up to this point comes from Lady C. through their mother. On the other hand Antoine may be just the personality to spark an interest on Georgina’s part and then to help her in blossoming. And then, again, on the other hand he and his sister may be another Henry Crawford and sister…only looking out for their own interests. (The latter came to mind immediately when I read about their entry.)

    Elizabeth tending to the dying child, Neddy! Oh, I am choked up…if Lady C. jumps in her face after tending to a dying child or after holding him or being present when he dies – wouldn’t you just want to slap her or ask her to leave. I do hope Darcy is there when she returns from that tragedy. She will need him.

    I agree with the others who opined that the ring would go to whomever Darcy married. Georgina and his wife would have inherited all the jewelry from the mother.

    Excellent continuation – waiting with bated breath for the next chapter as so much is up in the air!

    1. Sheila-intriguing was just what I was after-thank you. I love the idea of Lizzy taking another chair-I think that’s a definite edit. Yes, there is a whole story about Lady Catherine and her cousin that we know nothing about …
      Yes, poor Neddy-I’m not sure Elizabeth will find this easy to cope with even if she is our favourite heroine! Thank you for all your lovely comments!

    • Sheila L. M. on February 21, 2014 at 11:54 am
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    Baited not bated

  4. It’s those wretched spell-checkers, isn’t it? They’re always catching me out too!

  5. Oh, dear, Lady Catherine is in fine form, isn’t she? I hope the new cousins will help Georgiana when she has to face her aunt. This is going to be a very interesting ball. I love the last portrait!

      • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 3:05 pm
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      Thank you, Abigail- yes, Lady C is really ‘spoiling for a fight’! Yes, she’s lovely, isn’t she?

    • Eileen on February 21, 2014 at 1:33 pm
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    What a lovely treat to read this afternoon! I enjoyed all of it, but my favourite is the part where Elizabeth rushes off to visit the sick child…you could feel her compassion.

      • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 3:05 pm
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      Thank you, Eileen-I’m so pleased you enjoyed it!

  6. Jane,
    What a fabulous continuation from your part one!
    Enjoyed it all, but I especially LOVED that section with Lady Catherine…well done!! 🙂

      • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 3:06 pm
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      Thank you, Marilyn-that’s so kind of you!

    • Deborah on February 21, 2014 at 2:34 pm
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    I agree with Anji & Carol in Canada that Lady C needs a good dressing down & what is she doing changing her rooms. I don’t think Darcy would appreciate that. I can see Lady Catherine finding fault with Elizabeth for attending to a tenant in dire need….I can only imagine, as was stated before, the fireworks that will ensue upon her return….& if Darcy walked in during lady Catherine’s tirade, and his concern for his wife’s emotional state after being with the dying Neddy, it should be very interesting…..I also agree that Sheila L M that Elizabeth should not take the chair indicated by Lady Catherine as it is her house, not Lady C’s, she should take a chair of her own choice….

    I thinnk the French cousins may be shocked to learn what Lady Catherine’s behavior is and will support Georgiana when she is verbally attacked by Lady Catherine when she walks in. This will be very interesting.

    Do we have to wait until next Friday? I’m loving this story too much to wait….

      • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 3:13 pm
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      Deborah, I’m getting the feeling that we’re all wishing Lady C gets her comeuppence- I think we know what’s coming! : ) Yes, I agree about the chair-I shall have to change that. I’m so thrilled you’re enjoying it so much-I’ll try my best to get some more done soon!

    • Sheila L. M. on February 21, 2014 at 2:48 pm
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    I think Lady C. bit off her nose to spite her face in demanding Anne Darcy’s old suite of rooms…now she will have the morning sun waking her up and warming the room…you asked for it, so deal with it. So glad Elizabeth was able to make that rejoinder.

      • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 3:14 pm
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      Yes, Sheila-do you think she may asked to be moved again? I think she might-she really is a horror!!! Elizabeth may not stand for it.

    • Kay on February 21, 2014 at 3:12 pm
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    Swoon. If it’s possible to be in love with a story I do believe I’ve fallen. Your writing just leaps off the page (errr screen) and creates such realistic characters. Anxiously anticipating the mixing of the house guests, could you be planning a fiery scene between Lady C. and Mrs. B? I always fancied she might be a bit of a mother bear if provoked. Lady C. failing to acknowledge Elizabeth’s new position in the world and deigning to pronounce her daughter the owner of some of the Darcy family jewels (the nerve!) might just bring out the grizzly. Elizabeth’s behavior in the face of Lady C.’s rudeness is a testament to her love for Mr. Darcy (and good breeding), and her not feeling obliged to be at home to greet her guests a testament to her faith in his love. Very much looking forward to what’s coming – and I think Mrs. Bennet should go with the cut steel. 🙂

    • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 3:16 pm
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    I love the idea of a Lady C/Mrs B set-to – now Lizzy is Mrs Darcy, I don’t think Mrs B will hold back. Thank you, Kay for the lovely comments- quite right, the cut steel will be just right!

  7. Oh wow – Lady Catherine is a piece of work. She not only insulted Lizzy, but Darcy as well, saying that Pemberley has been on the decline since his mother passed, as if he has not been a good Master. If I was Lizzy, I could bite my tongue if someone was talking bad about me, but about my husband – that might be a different story. Hateful woman! lol I think she’s over reaching about the jewels – if they were given to Lady Anne, surely it’d be more logical for Lizzy or Georgiana to have them instead of Anne? I think LC just always liked that ring and is chafed because she can’t have it! lol

    I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen when Lizzy and Darcy get home, especially with these new cousins to meet, and the situation with poor little Neddy….

      • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 3:53 pm
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      Yes, Monica-Lady C is something, isn’t she?!!! I don’t think Mr Darcy will be too happy to hear what she’s been doing on his return-we shall have to see. I think Lady C still hasn’t got over the fact that Elizabeth won him and her jealous nature is in overdrive! How she must hate the fact that Lizzy has her sister’s ring…

  8. It really should be Darcy who puts Lady C in her place. She has given Elizabeth an outrageous series of insults – and got away with them. Lady C will continue her total lack of respect until set down by Darcy. Dinner could be a big showdown. I can see Lady C making some tacky comment about her new room and Elizabeth telling Darcy that apparently there may have been some mistake – could the ring belong to Anne as Lady C insists? Storm clouds brewing on the horizon! Behave or pack – simple choice for the old bat! Which will she choose? I would expect her to stay – easier to cause mischief if nearby. Am enjoying the story!

    • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 3:57 pm
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    Dave, I quite agree! Lizzy is in a very difficult situation-as much as she would love to be rude to Lady C and put her in her place, she wants to prove she is the better person in every way. If there’s to be a showdown, and I’m sure there’s one coming, it will be Darcy who weighs in. I love the idea of dinner being the place for a set-to-lots of lovely ideas-thank you for your comments-I’m so pleased you’re enjoying the story.

  9. You’re right in that LC would only take a set down seriously if delivered by Darcy, if then. What a creative challenge for Lizzy to let her know who’s Mistress and yet be the bigger person. Oy. And LC would never leave willingly – too much business to be in and she couldn’t stand to be out of the loop in HER home (I literally dropped my jaw open when she said that, as if Pemberley was ever her home. She wishes.) She’d just make more of effort to do her acting out while Darcy was out of the house.

    • Jane Odiwe on February 21, 2014 at 5:59 pm
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    Monica-I wish I’d seen your jaw drop-I’d have enjoyed seeing that! You’re right-Lady C will not countenance leaving Pemberley, especially as she considers it her rightful home. Thank you for stopping by again!

    • junewilliams7 on February 22, 2014 at 5:25 am
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    I don’t understand how Lady Cat can claim that Pemberley is *her* home – Mr Darcy didn’t leave it to her, and she has no right to her sister’s rooms. I think Lady Anne’s rooms are polluted by Lady Cat! XD

    I agree with Deborah that the jewels would belong to Fitzwilliam’s wife. Lady Anne would not leave her jewels to her niece, just as Lady Cat would not leave her own jewels to Georgiana. I’d like to see Darcy give his aunt a setdown on that.

    These French cousins seem very suspicious to me. They arrive unannounced and uninvited, as Darcy would have told his wife and sister about the “cousins” being invited to stay. The cousins and their mother have only heard about Lizzy from Lady Catherine – and where is their mother?? – so it sounds like they came to observe and mock Lizzy. Maybe this cousin should marry Anne, since their mothers are such good penpals. Nope, I do not like them at all. They could even be con artists.

    Thank you for the new post!

    • Jane Odiwe on February 22, 2014 at 6:27 am
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    June – yes, Lady C has such a cheek, doesn’t she? As for the French cousins, I shan’t say a word-we shall have to wait and see!

      • Jane Odiwe on February 22, 2014 at 6:28 am
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      Thank you, June for joining in and leaving your thoughtful comments!

    • Deborah on February 22, 2014 at 12:09 pm
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    I also agree with Jo. Theresa & Sheila as well as others who say thst by taking Anne’s rooms Lady C has gone too far
    Whether the rooms are used by the Darcys or not used Darcy wouldb very upset b very upset that Lady C usurped Elizabeth position as Mistress and moved her own rooms, is ordering his staff around andhow dare she move into the mistresses chambersas if the Darcys are not using them they have significant memories for Mr Darcy and perhaps many of Lady Anne’s personal items have been left there. not to mention the other things we’ve brought up throughout this interesting exchange of ideas

      • Jane Odiwe on February 23, 2014 at 10:33 am
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      Deborah, I quite agree-Lady C is the end! Well, what will Darcy have to say, I wonder? That’s a good point about the personal items-I do hope Lady C hasn’t taken any for ‘safekeeping’! Thank you so much for stopping by.

    • TLeighF on February 22, 2014 at 1:39 pm
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    Great chapter! LC made me so mad! Lizzy should get more than diamonds for putting up with her! It will be interesting to see this develop, and I hope to see LC get put in her place eventually. I agree with JuneWilliams that these cousins seems suspicious. I worry for Georgiana there by herself with the cousins and LC there. If anything happens to her, Lizzy will feel so guilty leaving her alone.

      • Jane Odiwe on February 23, 2014 at 10:36 am
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      TLeighF – yes, I wonder if Lizzy really knows what she’s taken on with this family- but then, she’s had quite a lot of practise with her own dysfunctional family – : )
      I think Georgiana will cope-she’s tougher than she appears…and the cousins may be delightful.

    • GraceR on February 22, 2014 at 5:09 pm
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    oh no no no no no! If I remember my French history right, the “Valois” were the couple that caused Marie Antoinette ‘s affair of the necklace affair! I think these people are jew thieves and Georgiana should stay far away from them!

      • Jane Odiwe on February 23, 2014 at 10:40 am
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      Grace- that is a fascinating piece of history, but whether these French cousins are related remains to be seen…
      Thanks so much for your comments-they’re really going to set the cat among the pigeons!

    • Sarah on February 23, 2014 at 5:05 am
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    Lady Catherine just doesn’t give up does she? Elizabeth’s response to her was what she deserved, but it’s a shame she was called away and had to leave Georgiana to manage. I’m worried there might repercussions. Really enjoying this story. Thank you for sharing.

    • Jane Odiwe on February 23, 2014 at 10:41 am
    • Reply

    Thank you, Sarah – like you, I think there will be repercussions – Lady C can’t help herself and is determined to make trouble between our beloved Darcys. Thank you for your kind comments!

  1. […] of and hope to include as I go. If you’ve missed the beginning, here are Part One and Part Two. Last week, we left the story just as the French cousins arrived – here’s Part Three […]

  2. […] – any feedback gratefully received. If you’d like to catch up, here are parts One, Two and […]

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