10. Chapter Ten
The next few days taught Elizabeth the value of intellectual conversation and good manners, none of which Mr. Collins possessed in great measure. Things came to a head when Mrs. Bennet asked her daughters to show Mr. Collins one of Longbourn’s treasures.
“I think he will be pleased with the hermitage,” Mamma said, knowing Lydia loved nothing more than exploring the quaint little cottage at the back of their property.
“You have a hermitage?” Mr. Collins asked.
“Oh, yes!” Lydia declared. “It has long been abandoned, and I have no idea how anyone could have lived in such a tiny house.”
“Lady Catherine herself has a folly on her grounds,” Mr. Collins said, puffing up his chest. “These great houses always seem to have some magnificent edifice which makes the grounds look so very grand.”
“I am certain our poor hermitage could never compare with Lady Catherine’s folly.” Elizabeth tried to hide her smile. “However, it is all we can manage and it is unique.”
Soon, all had on their appropriate outerwear and gathered near the west door. The two youngest skipped ahead, followed more sedately by Mary. To Elizabeth’s chagrin, Mr. Collins chose to escort her and Jane and made a few awkward attempts to take her sister’s arm. When they reached the portion of the park that ran parallel to the graveled drive, Jane stopped walking and removed his hand from her arm.
“Mr. Collins, please desist from touching me. I am perfectly capable of walking on my own.”
“I am only trying to escort you properly, Cousin Jane.”
“I will ask you again to call me Miss Hamilton. I am not your cousin. Lizzy and I are not Mr. Bennet’s daughters.”
“It is evident you both hold my cousin Bennet in some affection. As my future wife, you would also become his cousin by marriage.”
Jane’s eyes narrowed at his pompous declaration of a pending marriage. If it were any of their younger sisters being importuned by the bumbling parson, Elizabeth would have stepped in and taken a strip off of his smarmy hide, but she stayed quiet, knowing Jane was well able to defend herself and leave him writhing in the dust, metaphorically speaking.
“There is no understanding between us, Mr. Collins.”
“That may be so, but I like to flatter myself your dear mother would wish nothing better than to have one of her daughters secured in a most fortuitous marriage. When Mr. Bennet passes, God willing not for many years, you will be mistress of Longbourn.”
Jane opened her mouth to speak, but he blundered on, oblivious to her reaction.
“Miss Elizabeth, would you please give Miss Hamilton and me some privacy?”
“Lizzy will remain, Mr. Collins.”
Mr. Collins pursed his lips, plainly aggravated with Jane’s unwillingness to speak to him privately.
“Very well, I shall proceed, but trust me when I say that Lady Catherine will hear about this behavior.”
He then straightened his posture, clasped his hands behind his back, and rocked on his heels.
“You can hardly doubt the purpose of my attentions, they have been too marked to be mistaken. As soon as I entered the house, I singled you out as the companion of my future life. To fortune, I am perfectly indifferent as the living I have been so graciously awarded brings in almost five hundred pounds a year and if you prove yourself industrious in other matters, extra income can be found with selling of eggs and preserves. Therefore, I shall make no demand of that nature on your stepfather, since I understand it could not be complied with as your mother’s portion is so pitiably small and, by necessity, spread amongst five daughters. On that head, therefore, I shall be uniformly silent; and you may assure yourself that no ungenerous reproach of your near poverty shall ever pass my lips when we are married.”
Elizabeth shuddered as Mr. Collins’ words, when we are married, washed over her like dirty laundry water and looked at Jane, to gauge her reaction. Even her serene sister could not stop a ripple of revulsion from crossing over her face. Before either of them could speak, he continued.
“Marriage to me would raise your status from an orphaned ward to a gentleman’s wife. Lady Catherine de Bourgh, who is very conscious of the distinction of rank, would approve most heartily.”
Jane held up her hand when he paused to take a breath.
“Mr. Collins, if this disgusting diatribe is a marriage proposal, I decline your offer.”
He gasped audibly, his face paling before morphing into a mottled red.
“You are rejecting me?”
“I am and I urge you to look elsewhere for your future happiness.”
“You must give me leave to flatter myself that the idea of you refusing my addresses is nothing but the insincere protestations of an elegant female. My situation in life, my connections with the family of de Bourgh, and my relationship with your adopted family are circumstances highly in its favor. Also, your portion is so pitifully small, that any man would be hard-pressed to look past your loveliness and amiable qualifications. I must therefore conclude you are not serious in your rejection of my future proposal.”
Elizabeth could not stay silent any longer.
“You have importuned my sister in this manner far too long, sir. Please leave us in peace or we will be forced to take this matter to our step-father.”
“I do not know why you are still here, interfering in a private matter.”
“My sister remained at my request, Mr. Collins,” Jane began in a firm voice. “Furthermore, I shall not marry you, and care not what your esteemed patroness has to say on the matter as she will never meet me in person.”
“Do not think I will allow you to remain at Longbourn when I become master.”
“Regardless of what you have heard, or what you believe, my sister and I are not destitute.” Jane cut a glance at Elizabeth who gave her a slight nod, inherently knowing what her sister was about to impart to the arrogant fool who stood blustering before them. “Come the new year, Elizabeth and I shall move to our brother’s estate.”
“You have a brother?”
Mr. Collins’ eyes widened and his mouth gaped open in astonishment, confirming Elizabeth’s belief their step-father’s cousin had not listened to a word any of them had spoken in the past twenty-four hours, having been too busy giving all glory and praise to his esteemed patroness.
“As we told you the first night you dined with us, our brother is at Cambridge…. Oh!” Jane’s attention was captured by a carriage passing through Longbourn’s gates. “The party from Netherfield has come.”
They hurried through the gap in the hedge, which separated the park from the drive, and stopped to wait for their guests.
“Miss Hamilton, Miss Elizabeth, how delightful to find you both outside,” Mr. Bingley said as he helped his sister down from the carriage. The viscount and Mr. Darcy emerged from the other door. “My sister and I wanted to personally invite you to the ball I am hosting on the twenty-sixth of November.”
“Thank you, Mr. Bingley,” Jane replied upon taking the elegant card from the young man, pausing when Mr. Collins brought the attention of everyone gathered to himself with a little cough. “Mr. Collins, allow me to introduce our neighbors from Netherfield Park, Mr. Bingley and his sister Miss Bingley.”
The rector gave a funny little nod of his head in the direction of the siblings and Jane continued the introductions with, “Mr. and Miss Bingley, may I present to you the Reverend William Collins. He is our step-father’s cousin, visiting from Kent.”
Mr. Collins acknowledged their polite greetings with a nod of his head, then turned his attention towards the viscount and Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth was aware that Jane would not initiate introductions as both gentlemen held a higher social status than Mr. Collins, leaving it up to them to decide if they wanted to establish an acquaintance. However, Mr. Collins, consumed by his self-importance, took matters into his own hands.
“I do not know why my lovely cousin does not wish to facilitate an introduction between us. You are gentlemen of distinction, so permit me to say that I consider the clerical office as equal in point of dignity with the highest rank in the kingdom, provided that a proper humility of behavior is at the same time maintained.” Having said that, he finished with a wave of his hand toward the manor house. “Welcome to Longbourn, I am Mr. Collins, the heir.”
The viscount looked at his cousin, his eyes filled with mirth.
“I say, Darcy?”
A loud gasp was heard from Mr. Collins.
“Mr. Darcy from Pemberley?”
Mr. Darcy merely nodded in reply.
“Mr. Darcy,” Mr. Collins said again with a solemn bow. “It is such an honor to meet you, sir. Your lady aunt has spoken of you often. She and her daughter were in good health when I last saw them…” He raised his eyes as though searching his memory, and his mouth plainly showed him counting silently. “…four days past. When next I write my patroness, I shall be delighted to inform her that her exalted nephew was in the pink of health.”
Mr. Darcy’s expression had gone from one of astonishment to mild abhorrence.
“Who, exactly, is your patroness?”
“Pardon me for presuming you know who I am! My patroness is your esteemed aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. I have been greatly honored to have been given the living at Hunsford.”
“You are my aunt’s latest rector?”
“I am, sir.”
“There is no need for you to write to my aunt. I received a letter from her this morning.”
“We were about to view Longbourn’s hermitage. Would you care to join us?” Jane asked the Netherfield party
“I would love to join you, Miss Hamilton,” Viscount Ashton offered in a cheery voice and stepped closer to Jane.
“And you are, sir?” Mr. Collins demanded, his eyes narrowing at the easy friendship between the couple.
“Edmund Fitzwilliam,” the viscount offered before anyone could introduce him properly. “I am Darcy’s cousin.”
Because Mr. Collins did not fawn over the viscount, Elizabeth assumed her stepfather’s cousin did not recognize the name and believed the viscount was not of any importance. She broke the awkward silence by reminding them of the purpose of their being in the park.
“There is no guarantee the weather will not turn to rain. We cannot tarry any longer and must make our way to the hermitage. I will let Hill know our party has grown in number and to have tea at the ready when we return.”
“I would hate to leave you behind, Lizzy.”
“I will not be long, Jane. Besides, I walk faster than you and shall catch up in no time. Now shoo!”
Jane graciously accepted the proffered arm of Viscount Ashton, leaving a flummoxed Mr. Collins and a disgruntled Mr. Bingley no choice other than to follow them. Elizabeth hurried in the direction of Longbourn, assuming Miss Bingley would latch onto Mr. Darcy’s arm. A few minutes later upon exiting the west terrace doors, her errand with Mrs. Hill complete, she came to a complete halt at the sight of that gentleman waiting for her, leaning against the arbor’s barren frame.
“I thought you would have escorted Miss Bingley to the hermitage.”
He pushed off the frame and approached her.
“I would much rather be in your company.”
“Even though you have an ardent admirer who desires your company whilst traipsing about our park?”
“I would like to think I have an almost ardent admirer with me at this very moment.”
“Whoever could that be?” Elizabeth teased and pretended to look around in search of someone.
“You,” he said simply, then stepped closer. “Miss Elizabeth, may I be so bold as to request the opening set of Mr. Bingley’s ball?”
She paused for only a brief moment before replying in the affirmative, emitting a soft gasp when Mr. Darcy took her hand in his and brought her fingers to his lips.
“May I further my boldness by asking for your company during the supper set?”
“You may,” she said slowly, delighted in the fact he curled his fingers, effectively twining their hands together.
“And, may I press my good luck to request your hand for the final set?”
Her eyes widened. Not only because Mr. Darcy had requested three dances – tantamount to an undeclared proposal – but he also refused to release her hand, even though she tried to withdraw from his surprisingly firm grip.
“Are you aware what these particular three sets at one ball signifies?” she demanded, feeling her cheeks pinken and unsuccessfully attempting to tug her fingers once again from his hold. “Tongues will loosen and gossip will flow, possibly all the way to London.”
“I am very aware and if you are amendable, I would humbly ask you to entertain the idea of a courtship.”
“With you?”
“Is there another man who claimed three sets and your undivided attention today?”
Almost against her will, she grinned.
“No sir. No other gentleman can lay claim to that.” She tilted her head and assessed the tall, handsome man who stood before her. “I will say yes to all of your requests, with the proviso you speak with Papa and ask his permission.”
“I do not believe Mr. Bennet wishes to dance with a gentleman, but if that is what it takes to reach an agreement for a courtship…”
Surprised and delighted, she laughed out loud.
“I never knew you had such a wicked sense of humor, Mr. Darcy.”
“I am a man who must keep such vagaries hidden beneath a bushel barrel. I have a reputation of being taciturn to uphold, as you well know.”
“Indeed, I do.” She glanced down at their hands, still locked together. “Shall we join everyone at the hermitage?”
“Of course.” He turned and carefully placed her hand on his forearm, covering her gloved fingers with his large hand. “You have made me very happy, Elizabeth.”
“I join you in your happiness, but I must tell you that while you are the only gentleman to request a courtship, you are not the only one who hinted at a desire for a more permanent acquaintance.”
They came to a complete halt.
“What are you saying?” he practically growled out. “Did that buffoon dare propose marriage to you?”
“He did not.” She hastened to soothe his ruffled feathers. “Before your arrival, Mr. Collins enumerated the many reasons Jane should align her life with his. Chief among them, the beneficent patronage of Lady Catherine.”
“He has been here less than two days!” Darcy glared down the path Mr. Collins had trod on his way to the hermitage. “I will make certain he knows to leave both of you alone.”
Emboldened by his desire to protect, Elizabeth cupped his cheek and drew his attention back to her.
“Already taken care of. Jane plucked the cocky bird’s plumage and set him straight. You may put away your shining armor and climb down off your high horse.”
He turned his face slightly and kissed the palm of her hand that cupped his cheek. A jolt of pleasure shot straight from her hand to her belly and a strange warmth spread throughout her entire body. Was this what love felt like? He took her hand in his and clutched it to his chest.
“Before we go further, there is something I should confess.”
“You are already promised to another woman?”
She laughed at his quick frown.
“I have never promised myself to any woman, other than you.”
He kept his gaze firmly fixed on her and she knew her cheeks had warmed to a blushing pink.
“Then, tell me.”
It is something quite juvenile and you will likely laugh. It is about a wager and my horse.”
“Would that be the high horse I alluded to earlier?”
“You are such a tease,” he said with a grin, fully displaying his dimples.
He began to speak further when a heavy hand grabbed hold of her free arm and tugged her backward.
“Miss Elizabeth, remove your hands from Miss de Bourgh’s betrothed this instance!”
“Cousin Bennet, I know not what to do!”
Bennet looked up from his ledgers, startled by the abrupt and uninvited entrance of his cousin who came to a quivering halt in front of his desk. At first, he was concerned that something might have happened to one of his daughters, but when not a sound escaped Mr. Collins, other than rapid breathing, he relaxed somewhat. Although the gentleman had only been with them a few days, Bennet had already learned his cousin became easily excitable and easily distracted. He reminded him of an improperly trained puppy.
“Calm, Mr. Collins. Sit down and tell me what has you so upset.”
“It is your daughter. She is throwing herself at Mr. Darcy!”
“Which daughter? I have five, as you know.”
“Miss Elizabeth.” Collins lowered himself onto the chair directly opposite the desk, brought out a large handkerchief, and wiped his glistening face. “She has shamelessly thrown herself in the path of Mr. Darcy, using her arts and allurements to make him forget his yet unspoken promise.”
Bennet’s brow furrowed upon hearing the mangled accusation.
“Let me understand you correctly. You say my daughter is flirting with Mr. Darcy.” Mr. Collins’s head bobbed up and down in agreement. “And making him forget an unspoken promise.”
“Exactly!”
“How can one make a promise without speaking?” Bennet asked. Mr. Collins’ mouth opened and closed a few times as he sought an answer.
“I even heard Mr. Darcy say she was a tease! Lady Catherine will be seriously displeased.” Mr. Collins sucked in a large breath of air, releasing it with one whoosh with his next sentence. “She must be stopped.”
“Who? Lady Catherine?”
Bennet knew it was wrong to mock the poor man, yet it did not stop him. His cousin had no horse in this race and was getting upset over something that was, quite frankly, none of his business.
“No, your second eldest daughter!”
“Kitty has been hanging off Mr. Darcy’s arm? She has just turned seventeen and has no thoughts toward matrimony. Plus, she is not yet out in society.”
“Not Miss Catherine, Miss Elizabeth,” Mr. Collins nearly shouted. “She must be made to leave Mr. Darcy alone. She is not of his sphere.”
“For once, you are correct.”
“Thank you, Cousin Bennet. I knew you could be reasoned with.” Collins huffed out a heavy breath of satisfaction. “I had thought to offer for one of your stepdaughters. Either lady would look upon my suit as being quite advantageous. Their portions are likely too small to entice a gentleman of means, despite their manifold attractions.”
“I hoped to avoid this kind of discussion, but you have left me no choice.” Bennet leaned back in his chair and laced his fingers over a trim stomach. “You will find no bride at Longbourn. I will not discuss the situation of my step-daughters other than to say their late grandfather left them an adequate portion and they will always have a home with their brother on his estate. Have I made myself clear? Please nod if you understand.”
Mr. Collins nodded, then looked out the window, his gaze pensive.
“Lady Catherine expects me to bring home a wife or the expectation of one.”
“Then, you had better find another garden that needs tending.”
Bennet recalled a conversation with Lizzy, where she had regaled him about some instruction Charlotte Lucas had given concerning hopeful suitors. He carefully assessed his cousin and wondered if the lady would hold to her advice, that it was better to know as little about your future spouse as possible if the opportunity presented itself.
Decision made, he closed his ledger book and replaced the cover on his ink well.
“Let us go for a ride. I shall show you the boundaries of Longbourn and while out, if Sir William Lucas is at home, I will introduce you to my closest friend.”
“One of your neighbors is knighted?”
“Indeed. No one else in Meryton can lay claim to that honor. I am certain Sir William would love to tell you all about his investiture, and with luck, Miss Charlotte Lucas – his eldest daughter – will have made one of her delicious cakes to have with tea.”
“His daughters have some skill in the kitchen?”
“Lucas Lodge is not as solvent as Longbourn, but what they lack monetary-wise, they more than make up with good cheer and loyalty. You will find no better man than Sir William Lucas.”