Third excerpt from my new book!

Welcome to the third excerpt from my Pride & Prejudice alternate history! My plan is to post the first quarter of the book in weekly segments. That’ll take you through the point which will answer some of your biggest questions.

If you missed the first two chapters, here they are: Chapter 1 and Chapter 2.

 

Chapter 3

 

Elizabeth continued to limp for the remainder of the evening, but in the morning she declared her ankle much improved. Otherwise her imaginary injury might interfere with her visits with Jane, and she did not want that.

Fortunately she was still in the house when Mr. Bingley called to inquire after her recovery. It was a remarkable civility on his part, given that he knew she had not been injured at all, but Elizabeth was not inclined to complain.

Mrs. Bennet could not contain her excitement at this apparent sign of interest in her least favorite daughter, so after the briefest possible conversation, she suggested that Elizabeth should show Mr. Bingley the gardens. He accepted with alacrity.

Once outside, Elizabeth said, “I apologize for my mother’s assumptions. Pray be assured I have no expectations of you or anyone else.” Would he realize she was referring to Mr. Darcy?

He laughed good-naturedly. “How could I have expectations when we established last night that Darcy has staked a claim to you?”

“Do not mention that! It is beyond embarrassing.” cried Elizabeth.

“He would have come with me today except that he dislikes leaving his sister alone in a place she does not know well. After going out last night, he felt he should stay with her today.”

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow. “He sounds like a most devoted brother.”

“He is. He keeps Georgiana with him wherever he travels. She feels safer that way.”

Elizabeth was in no mood to hear praise of Mr. Darcy, but Mr. Bingley’s words gave her an idea. “I have a sister to whom I am devoted as well. I wonder if I might take advantage of your amiability to impose upon you to meet my sister Jane. She is so very isolated, you see, and the sight of a new face would cheer her immensely. I daresay she is quite sick of Charlotte and me.”

“I cannot imagine that to be true, but if you think it would please her, I would be more than happy to provide whatever amusement I may.”

“I thank you! It will brighten her day. But I pray you, do not tell her about the events of last night. It would upset her greatly.”

“Of course not.”

When they reached the empty stables, Elizabeth told Bingley to wait at a distance before she knocked three times at the door.

Jane opened the door with a smile. “Good morning, Lizzy!” She stepped back to allow her sister to enter.

“Actually, Jane, I have a surprise for you. Would you like a visitor?”

Jane stiffened. “Is she someone you trust? Should I prepare?” She ran her fingertips down her cheek to indicate putting on makeup.

“No. He knows the truth, and yes, I do trust him.”

Her sister’s cheeks grew pink. “In that case, I would be delighted to meet him.”

Elizabeth signaled to Mr. Bingley. He came forward with his customary amiable smile, but then his face took on a stunned expression which gave Elizabeth great satisfaction. Jane’s hair had grown back enough to frame her face with golden curls. It suited her, and in a few months it would be long enough to pass for one of the fashionable cuts popular in London. And nothing could disguise the beauty of her face and form.

“Jane, dearest, may I present Mr. Bingley, who has recently let Netherfield Park? Mr. Bingley, this is my sister.”

He bowed. “It is a very great pleasure to meet you, Miss Bennet, and an honor as well. Your sister has told me of your courage.”

Elizabeth led the way into Jane’s sitting room. “Mr. Bingley and his friend, Mr. Darcy, were kind enough to escort Charlotte and me to last evening’s assembly. I had the presence of mind to turn my ankle rather than dance with a particularly unpleasant partner, and as a result I learned that Mr. Bingley has a great deal of sympathy for ladies whom the French attempt to misuse. I am most obliged to him and to his friend for their assistance.”

Jane’s eyes took on a warm glow. “Then I am also in your debt, Mr. Bingley. I thank you for helping my sister.”

Mr. Bingley looked down at his feet. “Darcy deserves more credit than I do. It was his quick thinking that saved the day.”

“Then I owe him my gratitude as well. Would you care to sit down? I am sorry I have nothing to offer you in the way of refreshment.”

“That is my fault,” said Elizabeth. “I should have gone back for a tea tray, but I did not wish to lose the opportunity to introduce you.”

“And I am glad you did!” declared Mr. Bingley.

It was long past the half hour typical of the morning call when Elizabeth finally escorted a reluctant Mr. Bingley outside. With a hint of mischief, she said, “It was very kind of you to give so much of your time to Jane’s entertainment.”

He shook his head bemusedly. “It was far from a sacrifice. Your sister is an angel. That she should be forced into hiding and still retain such essential sweetness! I would not have believed it possible.”

“Jane has always possessed the talent to see the best in any person or situation. It has served her well of late. I fear I am more angry about her position than she is.”

“You may be certain I am angry about it as well!” Bingley frowned. “Is there no other choice for her?”

“None that Jane would consider. If she were to leave Meryton for any reason, Captain Renard would punish my father, so she chooses to stay.”

“Would it…” He hesitated, his cheeks reddening. “Would it be possible for me to visit her again? Only if she would like it, of course.”

“I think she would like it very much. I would be happy to accompany you there whenever you choose.”

“You are very kind.”

“You may ascribe that virtue to me if you like, but in truth I am thinking more of Jane. The days are long and tedious, and I could see how much having a new visitor today improved her spirits.”

Mr. Bingley’s pace slowed. “If having visitors is helpful to her, I know someone who might equally benefit from making her acquaintance.”

Not Mr. Darcy, please! “You do?”

“Darcy’s sister. She is also limited in her acquaintance.”

Did he truly think Mr. Darcy’s half-witted sister would be good company for Jane? Carefully she asked, “Would she have much in common with my sister?”

“I imagine quite a bit.” He must have seen something in her expression, for he added, “Oh! You have heard she is half-witted?”

Elizabeth looked away. “Someone mentioned it, I believe.”

“Miss Darcy’s half-wittedness is very much like your sister’s consumption.”

“But how…? Oh, I see. Yes, I imagine she and Jane would have a great deal in common.” It also might explain why Mr. Darcy seems to hover over his sister so much. What was he protecting her from? Was it a situation like Jane’s? “I am sorry to hear she has faced similar difficulties.”

“I do not know the details, but she had an unfortunate experience during the invasion which has left her quite fearful. The sight of a French uniform sends her into a fit of terror, so she never goes out without Darcy. He is the only one who can calm her. I am one of the few people outside their family who has even met her. Darcy hopes visiting me at Netherfield will be good for her. She has never stayed in someone else’s home this long.”

“Poor girl. Perhaps Jane would be a good influence on her.”

“I will speak to Darcy about it. If he does not object, I would be happy to introduce them.” Mr. Bingley beamed at the thought.

Elizabeth suspected Mr. Bingley would seize any excuse to come back to see her sister.

***

Darcy knew he was going to regret this. He had brought it on himself with his actions at the assembly, and now he had to follow through with the appearance of interest in Miss Elizabeth Bennet. Even if Bingley had not been so insistent about taking Georgiana to meet his new angel, Darcy would have had to make this journey to Longbourn.

But he could have traveled alone then, and that was half the problem. Elizabeth Bennet disturbed his peace of mind, yet he found himself craving her presence. He could not afford this sort of emotional turmoil. And he wanted to be alone with Elizabeth, not observed by Georgiana.

He had dreamed of her last night, of his Titania in the bluebell wood, but in his dream she had no pistol. Instead she held her hand out to him, beckoning him with that impish smile of hers. And he was all too ready to be beckoned.

Best not to think of the rest of that dream, though, not when he was about to be face-to-face with her. If Elizabeth ever discovered the content of that dream, she would slap his face and refuse ever to see him again. But even then, he would not go, because she was his Titania. Good God, now he was confusing dreams with reality!

Georgiana was watching him already, her finely arched brows drawn together in puzzlement as she twisted a ringlet around her finger. It was no wonder; he was not behaving like himself.

But the coach was drawing up in front of Longbourn, and it was too late to say anything now. “Georgiana, I suggest you remain here while I invite Miss Bennet to join us on a walk. I would rather avoid her sharp-eyed father at the moment and her mother is not to be trusted.”

“Very well,” said Georgiana. “But if this makes you uncomfortable, perhaps we should not plan to repeat the visit.”

“Let us see how it goes.” The rational part of his mind – the small, overwhelmed rational part – considered the visit a good idea. Georgiana had been chafing at the bit this last year, longing for the company of other young people and frustrated by her isolation. An overly serious and solicitous elder brother who watched her every move was not the sort of companion any young girl would wish for. But what else could he do? He had to keep her safe.

Perhaps an acquaintance with the two eldest Bennet sisters was what she needed. What he needed did not matter. He had given up the right to consider his own needs.

After the carriage drew to a stop, a footman opened the door and flipped down the steps. Georgiana carefully rearranged her expression into her well-practiced one of placid, bovine stupidity.

It was wrong that a fifteen-year-old girl should have to learn so well how to wear a mask. But there was so little right in their world. Why should one more wrong matter? When he tried to remember his own carefree days before his father left, it was as if they had happened to someone else, a long, long time ago.

He jumped out and rapped the head of his walking stick on the door of Longbourn. Elizabeth had used that stick the night of her supposed injury, and now he could not forget she had touched it. When a manservant opened the door, Darcy handed him a card and said brusquely, “My sister and I wish to inquire if Miss Elizabeth Bennet would do us in honor of joining us on a walk.”

“I will ask, sir. Would you care to come inside?”

“I prefer the fresh air.” It was impolite but he did not care. He could not leave Georgiana alone in a place where she knew no one.

The sun seemed to shine more brightly when Miss Bennet appeared wearing a bonnet and spencer. Good; she must be planning to join them. But he must remember to call her Miss Elizabeth, not Miss Bennet, since her elder sister was the true Miss Bennet. Miss Elizabeth. He liked the sound of it. And he liked seeing her altogether too much. He must not let anyone guess how much her mere presence lightened his heart.

“Good morning, Mr. Darcy.” Her smile was cautious.

“Thank you for joining us. May I present my sister to your acquaintance? Georgiana, this is Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”

Georgiana descended from the carriage and curtsied clumsily. She spoke in the strange, flattened voice she employed when playing the half-wit. “It is a pleasure to meet you.”

Had he not made it clear to her that Bingley had already told Miss Elizabeth the truth? Then he looked back over his shoulder. The manservant stood in the doorway watching them. Georgiana was simply being careful, just as he had taught her.

Darcy turned back to Elizabeth. “Bingley told me you enjoy long walks but often lack the company to take them. We came to offer our services in that regard. May I hope you will consent to accompany us?”

“I would be very glad to do so. I am indeed a great walker when I have the opportunity, which is not as often as I would like.” An odd wistfulness within her voice.

Why could she not take walks? “It is my special pleasure, then, to share one of those rare occasions. Since I am new to the area, I do not know the best walks hereabouts. Perhaps you could recommend a route?”

“I would be happy to. One of my favorite walks begins this way.” She gestured towards an old track which disappeared behind a row of trees. As they set off together she added in a low voice, “If Mr. Bingley sent you, I assume you must be here to meet my sister. Is that correct?”

“We hope to meet her, but she is far from the only attraction here.” Despite Bingley’s praise of the mysterious sister’s beauty, Darcy could not help thinking he would prefer his own Titania.

Miss Elizabeth looked past him towards Georgiana, who had dropped her half-wit role. “Tell me, Miss Darcy, does your brother always flirt with the ladies he meets?”

Georgiana’s quick shake of her head showed her disbelief. “William? He never flirts. Ever.”

“Truly? How interesting. What say you, Mr. Darcy?” The teasing glint in her eyes was a challenge.

His lips twitched. “It would depend upon the lady. I am quite selective.”

“And thus you answer my question! Now, if you will come this way, Jane’s rooms are at the back.”

He followed her past a series of empty stalls. Had they built a new stable or were all their horses taken by the French? Most likely the latter.

A golden haired woman opened the door that Miss Elizabeth knocked at. For once Bingley had been correct about Miss Bennet’s beauty, although Darcy preferred more liveliness in a woman’s expression. He fought the urge to rest his eyes on Miss Elizabeth. He should be focusing his attention on Georgiana.

As Elizabeth made the introductions, his sister seemed to manage well in the conversation despite her limited experience with strangers. Until the last year or so, she could not be trusted not to blurt out something inappropriate or dangerous.

Miss Bennet seemed a safe sort of acquaintance, especially as she was not in a position to spread gossip. She was almost maternal in her behavior towards Georgiana, gently drawing the girl out. If Georgiana liked her, this could indeed be a step forward.

After a short time, Elizabeth said, “Mr. Darcy, you are very quiet. I hope we are not boring you.” It was a challenge, no doubt about it.

“Not at all. I simply prefer to admire the conversation rather than to participate in it.”

Georgiana bounced in her chair. “He means he is too busy watching over me. Do go away, William! I do not need to be hovered over every moment.”

He did not know if he was more annoyed by her presumption or pleased to see her show some liveliness. He gave a slight bow. “If you wish.”

Miss Bennet said hurriedly, “I have hardly had a chance to exchange a few words with your brother. If he is to leave now, I hope we will have another chance to meet soon.”

Georgiana bit her lip, a stricken look in her eyes. No doubt she was worrying as she always did that someone would be angry at her for any slight mistake.

Elizabeth rose from her chair with a laugh. “Whereas I thank you, Miss Darcy, for sending your brother away, for now I can insist on his taking me on that long walk he promised earlier.”

“It would be my very great pleasure,” said Darcy. How neatly she had turned that situation around! “Georgiana, if it is acceptable to Miss Bennet, I will return later for you.”

He followed Elizabeth out of the stable. “Is there anywhere in particular you would like to walk, Miss Elizabeth?”

She studied him assessingly. “We should not be gone for too long, so it cannot be a lengthy walk. Might we visit the puppies? I have not had the opportunity to check on them for several days.”

The air around him seemed to lighten. “Queen Titania, your humble servant would be delighted to escort you to your bower.”

***

Elizabeth stroked Rose’s furry head as the bluebells danced around them. “You have been doing an excellent job,” she told the dog.

Darcy looked up from the puppy who had engaged him in a ferocious game of tug-of-war over a stick. “Is this her first litter?”

“Yes, and it cannot be easy to manage with so many puppies.” She picked up a particularly tiny puppy and put it to nurse on its mother. “But not, I imagine, as hard as caring for a girl at the most difficult age. Have you been responsible for your sister for long?”

“Almost six years, ever since my father left. He had planned for Georgiana to live with my aunt and uncle, but when my uncle suffered an apoplexy, I had to take over. And she is right; I do hover over her.”

Six years ago? He must have been little more than twenty himself. Then his words struck her. “Your father left?”

Mr. Darcy gave her a long serious look. “Yes. He went to Canada in ’05.”

A large landowner moving to Canada? It made no sense. Unless… “With her?”

The corner of his mouth twitched down. “It is not illegal to say her name. Yes, he accompanied Princess Charlotte when she was spirited away to Canada for safety, poor girl.”

“I have wondered who went with her. At such a young age, it must have been very hard for her to leave her family and country.”

“Yes, and now the family she left behind no longer exists. Her grandfather, King George, is a madman imprisoned in France, ruling in name only. The princess would have been executed like her father, the Prince Regent, had she remained here. But she still has lost her place in the succession, with Napoleon’s brother declared heir to the throne in her place and married to King George’s youngest daughter as a sop to English pride.” Darcy’s upper lip curled.

“I do not accept that, nor does anyone I know. According to English law, Princess Charlotte is still heir to the throne.”

“But there is no English law now, only a scared little girl half a world away, with the entire country waiting for her to save them when neither the king nor the military and naval might of England could do so. Perhaps they think she will bring the French to their knees by throwing her dolls at them.” Bitterness edged his words.

Was that his true opinion, or was he repeating his father’s words about the princess? She supposed Darcy had a right to be bitter, having been left to raise his young sister alone and to care for the family estates in face of an invasion. “Is your father still in Canada?”

“He died last year.” He sounded indifferent, but she had already learned he had hidden depths. “I should not have told you any of that. As far as the world knows, my father died in the invasion.”

“You may be certain I will say nothing, but I am sorry for your loss.” She understood his desire for secrecy. If his father’s actions were known to the French, both Darcy and his sister would have been in grave danger. Others had been guillotined for less. Still, it was baffling. His father had been loyal enough to go into exile rather than live under French rule, but his son had become a turncoat. It did not make sense.

“It is better if everyone believes he died long ago. It is simpler that way.” He wrestled the stick away from Puck, who immediately sent up loud yapping.

There was something missing in this puzzle, but Elizabeth had already pried far more than was polite. “I cannot believe how these puppies have grown in just a few days! I wish I could see them every day to watch how they change.”

“But you cannot?”

She picked up a puppy and kissed its head. “I do not travel this far from Longbourn without the pistol, but often it is not available to me.”

It was just a fact of life. So why did it make him frown so ferociously?

***

Darcy minded his tongue as he and Elizabeth returned to the stable. He had told her too much, and it had to stop. No matter how well-meaning Elizabeth might be, she was not in the habit of disguising her feelings or considering what she said before it left her mouth. But she was far too easy to confide in.

When had he started thinking of her as Elizabeth?

It was hard to see anything at first when they entered the dim stables from the bright sunshine. Elizabeth halted beside him with a sharp indrawn breath.

“Is something the matter?” he asked.

She put a finger to her lips and gestured towards one of the stalls, now occupied by a large bay. “Someone has been here.”

In this at least he could reassure her. “That is Bingley’s horse.”

Her shoulders lost some of their stiffness. “I see.” But her voice still trembled. She had been well and truly frightened. A rush of anger filled him. She should not have to worry so much.

Bingley, of course, was in Miss Bennet’s tiny sitting room and looking as enamored as Darcy had ever seen him. Georgiana appeared to be at ease. A good sign.

Elizabeth halted in the doorway. “How lovely to see you with so much company! I will fetch your tea tray.”

Was she displeased to find Bingley there? He could think of no other reason why she would try to leave the moment she had arrived. Then he noticed there were only three chairs available in the room. Perhaps she was being tactful.

“Might I accompany you?” asked Darcy.

She paused in the process of leaving. “If you wish.” But she sounded puzzled.

“Yes, I wish,” he said firmly.

Once outside, she turned to face him. “This is a perfectly safe walk. I do it twice a day.”

“I do not doubt it. But neither Bingley nor Georgiana wish to divide your sister’s attention with me. This was a simple way to give them their wish.”

“Oh.” She sounded satisfied by his answer. “Is it your opinion Mr. Bingley might continue to call on my sister? Not as a suitor, of course but as a friend?”

Had she not seen Bingley’s besotted look? “I would be surprised if he did not.”

She hesitated. “Could you give him a message from me?”

“Certainly.”

She bit her lip. “It would not do for word to get out that Jane has regular visitors, and it will look suspicious if Mr. Bingley is seen regularly traveling past Longbourn. Could you tell him that if he continues down the track by the stables it will rejoin the road without passing the house? I do not intend to suggest he should visit her illicitly, just without fanfare.”

“I will tell him so and assure him this is not an attempt at entrapment.”

Now she looked shocked. “How could it be? Jane cannot marry. That would be tantamount to refusing Captain Renard. We would all suffer for it.”

“Are you still worried about Captain Renard on your own behalf as well?”

She hesitated. “I have heard nothing further from him.”

That was not the question he had asked. “If Georgiana wishes to visit your sister again, is the route you mentioned passable by carriage?”

“I would have to check. Parts of it are somewhat overgrown.”

“What if she and I called to invite you for a walk as we did today?”

“That would not be a problem, but it might take up a great deal of your time.”

“You forget I will be calling on you in any case to keep up appearances.” He tried to say it lightly.

She frowned and said nothing, but perhaps that was because they had reached the kitchen door of Longbourn. When she reemerged with the tea tray, he took it from her. Watching her do a servant’s work was intolerable.

***

After the visitors had left Elizabeth said to Jane, “I hope you found your visitors diverting.”

“Oh, very much so! I cannot think of when the day has gone so quickly. I am grateful to you for finding my new friends.”

“I am glad. What did you think of Miss Darcy? I did not have much chance to observe her.”

Jane hesitated, and then smiled. “I like her very much. She seems to be a sweet girl, even if she is unaccustomed to speaking to someone she barely knows. It seemed to be shyness rather than pride. Did you know she fences? I have never known a woman who fenced before.”

Apparently Mr. Darcy had unusual ideas for women’s education! “It is a rather shocking idea, but not without its appeal. Her brother told me she practices shooting, too.”

“She has ladylike accomplishments as well. She talked so enthusiastically about her love for Mozart and Haydn and how much she enjoys playing the pianoforte. Mr. Bingley said she has had little opportunity to spend time with ladies and he thought it would help her to know me. He is such a kind, thoughtful gentlemen.”

“I thought you would like him.” Elizabeth tried not to sound smug.

“Oh, very much! If only I had met him before all this, I think I might be falling in love with him.”

“After only two meetings?” Elizabeth teased.

Jane’s expression grew dreamy. “Sometimes you just know.”

***

Go to Chapter 4

So, the plot thickens, we have met Georgiana and Jane, and Darcy is finding it too easy to confide in Elizabeth. I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Now all I need is a title – any ideas? I have a couple of possibilities, but none are just right yet. In the meantime, come back next Tuesday for the fourth part of the story!

 

 

57 comments

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    • Glynis on December 20, 2016 at 4:03 am
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    I am really enjoying this Abigail and hoping that Elizabeth’s opinion of Darcy continues to improve. I would love to see them as a team defeating the French. As for title, well I can’t think of anything at the moment but will let you know in the unlikely event that I do 😊

    1. Thanks! They will definitely work as a team once Elizabeth learns all of the truth. 🙂

    • Katherine Schmitt on December 20, 2016 at 5:53 am
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    Will we see the French thrown out or curtailed in some significant way, for example no more hanging or guillotine threats? I know that sounds fanciful, but as the saying goes, “There will always be an England”. Or are you saving this idea for a separate, more fanciful book? I’m not sure I could work this in but I would like to see a nice, quiet rebellion. Ha! In any event, I’m looking forward to more.

    1. I’m not going to give away the ending, but I agree there will always be an Engand. 🙂 One of the problems with this book is that it could be four different books and I’ve had to keep it in line to avoid ending up with far too much!

      • Ann Garland on January 3, 2017 at 2:28 am
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      How about a Regency Rebellion?

    • Nicola on December 20, 2016 at 6:52 am
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    I’m lying in bed with a cold and what happened in Berlin gives me the chills, too… and then I get to read your wonderful post – Thanks for that bright spot in my day!

    It’s so wonderful to see how our two lovebirds react to one another when they have to focus on other things than their pride.

    Well the first title that jumped at me was “The French Disease” … But I’m not sure, how many people would buy a book by that name 😉
    I’m mulling over some other titles, but…well…they might not be the right thing for the rest of the plot we don’t yet know. Here’s a selection…:
    Darcy’s war,
    Darcy’s Disguise (reveals too much?),
    Hidden,
    A Thistle’s Prickles (perhaps too much of a double entendre?)
    Something with Titania perhaps? Titania’s Task? Telling Titania?
    The essence of things (…because all the danger and problems cause them to focus on the essence of things..on what is really important in life…family, love, respect, loyalty, trust, …)

    I’m looking forward to next Thursday! Merry Christmas to all of you!

    1. I’m sorry you’re sick, and even sorrier about what happened in Berlin. It is a great tragedy for all of us, but especially for those of you in Germany.

      You did make me laugh with The French Disease! I like your other ones, too. Darcy’s Disguise is on my shortlist of titles already, but I’m going to add these! Thanks!

    • Jeannineinsd on December 20, 2016 at 10:30 am
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    I am enjoying these excerpts and look forward to buying the book.

    1. Thanks for letting me know, Jeannine! When comments go down dramatically from chapter to chapter, it’s hard for me to know whether people are just happily reading or whether half of the readers have lost interest, so I appreciate your taking time to comment!

    • Agnes on December 20, 2016 at 10:38 am
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    This is such an interesting variation. As I come from a country where being dominated by another invading nation and having to bear the malevolence of the oppressors aas well as to deal with the collaborant issue has been a historical reality many times, the Soviet army being the last recent one, I am intrigued to see how Darcy and Elizabeth deal with these problems in this story. I think Elizabeth’s tendency to form snap judgments on people’s patriotism and her way of seeing everything in black and white is very much in character, as well as Darcy’s efforts to protect everyone and to find a way to serve the good of the country and the people between conflicting moral and political issues. Poor man, to feel he has sacrificed and lost so much!

    Darcy and Elizabeth’s meeting among the bluebells and puppies was such a beautiful and angst-relieving scene, as well as Jane and Bingley’s budding romance.

    Did people feel the contagious nature of tuberculosis so much back then as to isolate family members in a barn? Or was it seen as a somewhat exaggerated idea, to prevent people from visiting, enhancing the seriousness of Jane’s disease? After all, she might have been an invalid in the house as well, couldn’t she? Did other people also know that Jane lived there? Or was it mainly arranged so as to avoid Jane having to pretend all the time (because not all in the family could be trusted)?
    Another question: how could anyone go through a marriage ceremony with a French officer if he was known to be married at home? This brings to mind, what sort of marriage was legal in this AU? Was it a secular civil marriage? Surely even Napoleonic law didn’t condone bigamy? What happened to Church of England in this situation, btw?

    1. It’s challenging to try to write an occupation without getting too dark, but thinking about it has given me new appreciation for how it must change people.

      TB wasn’t thought to be contagious yet. Jane has to keep certain family members believing she is ill, so she claimed she needed quiet to recover. Longbourn isn’t good at quiet, so the tack rooms were a good solution.

      The marriage situation is an unholy mess which complicates the story later on. The French have imposed their civil code, so church weddings aren’t valid without the civil ceremony before. On the other hand, were English law to be reimposed, those civil ceremonies wouldn’t be valid… see, the complications are huge. Bigamy, of course, isn’t permitted, but if a French soldier insists he isn’t already married, Englishman is about to argue with him.

      Thanks for reading!

    • Sheila L. Majczan on December 20, 2016 at 11:07 am
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    Mr. Darcy’s Loyalties?

    Loving this story. Happy that (as expected) Bingley met Jane…and an added and unsurprising introduction between Georgiana and Jane. I keep having worries that someone might be watching the house – that Renard is just such a sly character!

    This is a story I already am prepared to buy – I read these WIP and then want the rest of the story. Punishing myself but they just draw me in and tease me.

    Thank you for this chapter. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year.

    1. Great title idea! (scribbling it down) I’m so happy you’re enjoying the story! Hopefully it won’t be too much longer before you can get the whole thing. 🙂

    • Hollis on December 20, 2016 at 11:11 am
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    My grandfather Croft died of TB in the 30s and his eldest daughter was sent to a sanitarium in Carlsbad TX for the “cure”. She lost the upper lobes (sp?)of her lungs to surgery; I presume she got TB from nursing her father.

    As to Lydia ‘marrying’ a French soldier who had a wife and family in France – most likely they are Catholic so that is his true family. When he is recalled to France, Lydia will A. be cast off to return to her family or B. go to France to be his mistress. This is, of course, just my opinion as to what might happen.

    1. I agree that Lydia won’t come out of this well unless someone rescues her. Poor Lydia never was very good at thinking ahead.

    • Sarah on December 20, 2016 at 12:16 pm
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    Maybe Mr. Darcy’s Dream if the Midsummer Night’s Dream theme continues. Or Mr. Darcy’s Queen.
    You could go a whole different direction with Under Mr. Darcy’s Care, or Conceit and Concealment. Good luck!

    1. Sarah, I have to say Conceit and Concealment is rather brilliant.

    • Mary on December 20, 2016 at 1:31 pm
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    Abigail,if your delightful book was available due purchase right now,I’d be in the very long queue waiting patiently to download and read it!

    I love it! To see the little flirtations between Darcy and Elizabeth brings a smile to my face,all the more as Darcy doesn’t seem tto be able to help himself!

    Can’t wait for the next chapter! I’m utterly fascinated by it! 😌

    1. Thank you! Poor Darcy really can’t help himself – he’s been deprived of someone like Elizabeth in his life for far too long. 🙂

    • Sarah on December 20, 2016 at 2:37 pm
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    Maybe Mr. Darcy’s Dream if the Midsummer Night’s Dream theme continues. Or Mr. Darcy’s Queen.
    You could go a whole different direction with Under Mr. Darcy’s Care, or Conceit and Concealment. Good luck! I can’t wait to read the 4th chapter!

    • Carole in Canada on December 20, 2016 at 4:44 pm
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    Captain Renard has not shown up! Let’s hope he doesn’t arrive with Wickham! Enjoyed this chapter and how Bingley gets to finally meet his angel. What about the title ‘Darcy’s Deception’?

    1. Ooh, Darcy’s Deception is very nice! Thanks for the idea. 🙂

      • Ann Garland on January 3, 2017 at 2:36 am
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      I wonder if Lydia’s “husband” will pass Lydia to Wickham as a new “husband”.

    • Kay on December 20, 2016 at 5:11 pm
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    I am really really liking this variation Abigail! I’m already hooked by this Darcy and Elizabeth. For me the enjoyment of a P&P variation can be immediately known if I take to the D & E, and I’m so enjoying them already. Your imagination is amazing and I can’t wait until Darcy and Elizabeth are together, I’m hoping it’s soon! Titles are so hard, will be anxiously awaiting your choice!

    1. I’m so glad you’re hooked by them! It’s a balance making Darcy both secretive and appealing, and if you’re hooked, maybe I’m doing okay at it. 😉

  1. What an excellent chapter, Abigail. Your glimpses into the backstory raise even more questions in my mind. I believe this Darcy to be a troubled soul and Miss Elizabeth will be the saving of him. I look forward to your next post. And the next. And the next…

    1. Thank you, Dawn! It means a lot that you like it. The amount of backstory in this is truly enormous, and it’s tempting to just give it all in info dumps in the text, but I’m really trying to work it in gradually and only what’s necessary. I’m also worried that I’ll leave out some important piece of it!

    • Molly Moon on December 20, 2016 at 6:39 pm
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    How about a title like “A Mid-summer’s Night Scheme”? Or perhaps depending on events in the timeline “A Mid-Winter’s Night Scheme” would work better… Or maybe I’m just projecting my own hopes on to your story and wishing that Bingley wisks Jane to Greta Green (because you KNOW the Scots are still rebelling!) after the Bennets fake her death…

    I am adoring this alternative history take on P&P and especially the ramifications that were revealed this chapter. It makes one wonder how things like the Luddite movement and even Scottish and Irish independence would be affected.

      • Nicola on December 21, 2016 at 3:02 pm
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      Yes, that was exactly my thought, too…off to Scotland with them 😉

    • Terri on December 20, 2016 at 6:43 pm
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    this is my first chapter read. I did not think I would like a version under oppression of the French how wrong was I.

    Very interesting take on a much loved story and I will go back to read to read the other chapters now.

    As for title Oppression & Obsession is my suggestion.

    Thanks looking forward to reading the whole

    1. Terri, thanks for taking a chance on the story even though it didn’t sound appealing. I think a lot of people are expecting the book to be about war or combat or lots of history, but it’s really just Elizabeth and Darcy against a different background. Opression and Obsession has a very nice ring to it!

    • Pam Hunter on December 20, 2016 at 7:26 pm
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    Loving every chapter, Abigail! Can’t wait to read the whole book. Your books have always been my favorites.

    1. Thanks, Pam! It means a lot to hear that.

    • michelle on December 20, 2016 at 9:38 pm
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    This is really interesting and I cannot wait to dig into the entire book!

    1. So glad you’re enjoying it!

    • Lisa Hatfield on December 20, 2016 at 9:58 pm
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    I LOVE the three chapters!!!! Truly unique plot….very intriguing! “Darcy’s Allegiance” is the title that comes to my mind. I love that Darcy and Elizabeth come to trust one another quickly and share a mutual loyalty, protection, and love of family. I am hooked and can’t wait to read the entire book!!!!

    1. Allegiance – an interesting way of looking at it. Hmm. So glad you like the plot!

    • Carol on December 20, 2016 at 10:07 pm
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    Abigail, this is wonderful. The chapters are exciting, and I’m looking forward to reading the entire book. “England’s Obstinance from French Oppression” would certainly be an underground movement. The British people are too proud of their Kingdom’s rule and history to take the French oppression with grace. I can see Darcy having a “private and secretly planned” meeting with Renard and Wickham. Has to have a HEA ending, right?

    1. I promise there’s a HEA! I wouldn’t write it otherwise. I agree that the British pride would lead to a lot of resistance.

    • Deborah on December 20, 2016 at 11:31 pm
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    I am enjoying this so much. Are the servants spies for the French? What is Darcy’s secret? All is not as it seems. Besides Bingley had someone else been in the stables? What will happen to this group of t friends? Will Jane be found out? So many more questions than answers. Thank you for sharing. Looking forward to the next chapter.

    1. Answers will come! Servants certainly can be spies – a little bribe goes a long way for when your income is low. As for the others – you’ll find out soon!

    • Wim Goossen on December 21, 2016 at 4:18 am
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    I wonder if Darcy senior was responsible for getting the princess to Canada. I could explain why he was declared “dead” so that the remaing family could stay alive.

    1. Another one who is hacking into my hard drive, I see!

        • Wim Goossen on December 22, 2016 at 3:41 am
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        No, but given the character and sense of duty of both Son and Father, its a good guess. Derbyshire is in the right direction if your escaping from London.

    • Julia M Traver on December 21, 2016 at 2:27 pm
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    I am really enjoying this “alternate” history. (Renard/Renyard the Fox just constantly goes through my mind. I loved his adventures when I was a little girl.) Alternate history is really difficult to do well and you are keeping your hand subtle, which is the way to go IMNSHO. My title suggestion: Titania’s Heroes

    1. Thank you! I really don’t want this book to be about the alternate history, but rather about the characters we know and how they react to the changed circumstances. Titania’s Heroes? I hadn’t thought about using TItania in the title, but now I’m wondering!

  2. Wow, I absolutely loved this chapter–and the unique premise for this story. Thank you so much for sharing it with us here, Abigail!! 🙂

    Tuesday seems like such a long time to wait for the next installment, but the holy days will make it go by quickly. 😉

    With warm Christmas regards,
    Susanne 🙂

    1. So glad you’re enjoying it! I hope your Christmas is joyous.

    • Anji on December 21, 2016 at 3:48 pm
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    Another fantastic chapter Abigail. Can all of the servants at Longbourn be trusted? Could Captain Renard have a mole installed there, to report on anything unusual? Would trays of tea for more than two people count as unusual, I wonder. They’re going to have to be sooo careful with Jane’s influx of visitors.

    And Darcy’s now having shall we say, “racy” dreams about his Titania. Yes, he’s definitely fallen overboard!

    As to a title, I’m really rubbish at that sort of thing but I’m glad to see that my fellow commenters aren’t. The best I can come up with is “Disguise is my Abhorrence” as a paraphrase of Darcy’s comment from canon.

    1. Thank you, Anji. In occupied Meryton, it’s hard to trust anybody. Could the servants be bribed, threatened or blackmailed into betraying the family? It’s a real possibility.

      I keep coming back to that comment as well. Usually I have a terrible time coming up with a tag line for a book, but this time it was easy – “Once disguise of every sort had been his abhorrence. Now Darcy could hardly recall when he had not worn a disguise.”

    • MeriLyn on December 22, 2016 at 12:45 am
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    VERY interesting chapter! The first thing that came to mind was Mr Darcy’s Treason, but I’m liking the alliterative theme others have come up with to echo Pride and Prejudice….hmm….something to think about…Subversion and Treachery? Mm, maybe not that one, but the words are great by themselves. Duplicity and Deception? Ok, I’m stopping now, I promise!

      • MeriLyn on December 22, 2016 at 12:48 am
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      PS- I like sedition, too. Especially given Elizabeth’s inclinations.

    • Intrepid on December 22, 2016 at 7:34 am
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    Such an engaging story. Possible titles:
    Occupied
    The Occupation of Mr. Darcy
    Mr. Darcy’s Rebellion

    • Intrepid on December 22, 2016 at 7:36 am
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    p.s. Adding my vote to Darcy’s Deception!

  3. Enjoying this book, Abigail. How about “Mr. Darcy’s French Connection.”

    • Jennifer Redlarczyk on December 25, 2016 at 7:23 pm
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    Very exciting! So Jane and Bingley have met and Miss Darcy fences. How fun! I am curious to know more of Darcy’s story, but I know that will come out. Gosh, I’m not sure I like this AU where the French rule. I only hope you have a plan to defeat them. Yes???

    • Ann Garland on January 3, 2017 at 2:45 am
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    How about the “Napoleon’s Mistake”?

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