AN UNEXPECTED OCCURRENCE

––––––––

Breakfast was prepared for eight that morning, as Mr. Gardiner wished to be on the road as early as possible.  Only Mr. Bennet, Elizabeth, and Jane were present to see the Gardiners off on their return trip to London.  The children had to hug and kiss Elizabeth and Jane several times before they could settle enough to depart.  As Jane assisted them into the carriage, Elizabeth spoke with her uncle. 

“I cannot thank you enough for taking me on this trip with you.  My presence in Derbyshire allowed me to make amends with Mr. Darcy and for us to reach an understanding after a series of events that seemed destined to cause confusion and dissent between us.  If I searched the world over, I could not have found a more wonderful husband or someone better suited to me.”

“You know it was our pleasure to have you with us, Lizzy.  Traveling with you is always an exciting adventure, as your enthusiasm is contagious.  Helen and I are both very happy for you and Mr. Darcy.  I hope we shall be invited to Pemberley again when we can stay longer.”  Mr. Gardiner laughed at his words, as did Elizabeth. 

“I am sure you will be, Uncle Edward.  Do you think you could get away for Christmas?”

“We will see, Lizzy, we will see.”

Mr. Gardiner kissed Elizabeth and joined his children in the carriage, stopping only long enough to thank Jane and kiss her as well.  The children called their farewells as the vehicle moved forward.  The sisters remained on the porch, waving until the carriage was out of sight.

After breaking their fast, Elizabeth and Jane returned to their room to continue discussing the events that had occurred during their separation.  When they had retired the previous evening, Jane had told Elizabeth all that had happened since the arrival of Colonel Forster’s letter.  She spoke of their father’s illness and the fits of nerves to which her mother had been subjected.  She also praised both of her younger sisters for helping with the care of their parents.

Then she spoke of Mr. Bingley’s return and all that had passed between them. 

“Oh, Lizzy, he went down on his knees before a bench in the garden and proposed on his third day back.  He apologized yet again for not seeing me while I was in London and begged my forgiveness before promising he would cherish me for all the days of our life together if only I would give him a second chance and agree to marry him!  When I said yes, he kissed my hands and my palms.  The sensations this created are beyond description.  I felt as though thousands of butterflies were tickling my insides.  Then Charles pulled me up into his arms and gently kissed my lips.”  Jane’s expression was blissful.  “It was so romantic!  Everything a girl could want a proposal to be!”

Elizabeth could not help but laugh at the dreamy look on her sister’s face.  “I am truly happy for you, Jane.  I know how heartbroken you were when he left and I am delighted that things have worked out so perfectly for you!”

Today it was Elizabeth’s turn.  She gave Jane a detailed account of their travels up to their arrival at Lambton.  She spoke of agreeing to see Pemberley because Mr. Darcy was away, only to have him return two days earlier than planned.  Elizabeth talked about his kindness to her and the Gardiners and his unexpected request to introduce her to Miss Darcy.  Then she told Jane about tea at the inn and Mr. Bingley joining them.  Elizabeth went on to describe the house and grounds and spoke of the day they had spent at the magnificent estate. 

Elizabeth could not help but relay the ridiculous words of Miss Bingley and told Jane of the row which had occurred when Mr. Bingley confronted his sister about not informing him that Jane had been in town during the winter.  (On the way to Longbourn, Mr. Darcy had quietly told her of the event, including Miss Bingley’s attempt to enter the family wing the night before they departed for London.)

Then Elizabeth went on to speak of the engagement and her reading of Jane’s letters.  She talked in detail about Lydia’s recovery and of Lydia’s feelings following her return to the Gardiners’. 

“I will speak to Mary and Kitty.  We will do all we can to help Lydia recover,” said the eldest Miss Bennet.

When they had shared all the happenings that had occurred during their separation, the sisters sat in the window seat and watched for the arrival of their beaus.  Upon hearing the carriage wheels coming up the drive, Elizabeth and Jane checked their appearances and descended the stairs to greet their guests.

The occupants of Netherfield arrived at Longbourn the next morning as early as politeness would allow.  They opened the front door and stepped outside to await the gentlemen’s exit from the carriage.  Darcy stepped down first and smiled at Elizabeth while reaching back to help his sister from the carriage.  Following Georgiana was Bingley, who rushed to the side of his angel.  He offered her his arm, and they moved in the direction of the gardens.  With a lady on each arm, Darcy followed. 

“How is your father feeling this morning, Elizabeth?” Darcy asked his betrothed.

“I am really not sure.  Papa's behavior is very different from what it was before I went away.  His sense of humor seems to have vanished.  I questioned whether we should have Mr. Jones return to check on him, but Jane assures me his symptoms have all disappeared.”

“Do you think I should speak with him today or wait a bit longer?”

“If we wish to have the banns read this Sunday, I believe you will have to talk to him today.  Why do we not return inside, and I will take you to see him.  Georgiana, would you mind waiting with Mary for a bit?  I shall join you soon.”

“Of course not, Lizzy.  I am as eager for your father’s approval as the two of you are.  After all, when you and William marry I will gain a wonderful sister.  I have wanted a sister for a very long time!”  The three of them laughed as they turned back towards the front of the house.

Darcy turned back to face his beloved’s father and took the seat Mr. Bennet indicated.  “Good morning, Mr. Bennet.  I hope you are well, sir.”

Mr. Bennet said nothing, only continued to study the face of the young man before him.  Darcy returned the scrutiny, trying to determine what the gentleman was thinking.

Finally, Mr. Bennet spoke.  “What was it you wished to discuss with me, Mr. Darcy?”  The words were devoid of emotion as the older gentleman continued to stare at the younger man.

“Mr. Bennet, I was very fortunate to meet Miss Elizabeth and Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner when they toured my estate several weeks ago.  Our reunion was extremely pleasant, and over the course of the three days we were in company, Miss Elizabeth and I came to understand that we each had feelings for the other.  I asked Miss Elizabeth to be my wife, and she agreed.  I have come to ask for your permission to wed and for your blessing,” said Darcy humbly.

Mr. Bennet spoke not a word but continued his unrelenting stare at Darcy.  Several minutes passed before Mr. Bennet deigned to answer.  “Why on earth would I grant you permission to marry my favorite daughter?  Even before making her acquaintance, you grievously insulted my daughter in full hearing of many of the attendees at the assembly.”

“Miss Elizabeth and I have worked through that, sir.  I had a great deal on my mind that evening and was not in a proper mood to attend an assembly.  I am also uncomfortable in large crowds where I do not know many people.  I did not even look at Miss Elizabeth before replying.  I merely wished to discourage Bingley from his efforts to make me dance.”

“You seem to have an excuse for everything, do you not?”  A sneer showed on Mr. Bennet’s face, and his tone was spiteful.  “How, then, can you explain that you visited in this community for almost two months, but when a dangerous rake and thief joined the neighborhood, you did not see fit to protect the community?  Many of the merchants lost large sums of money when Mr. Wickham ran out without paying his bills.  He also managed to abuse several of the merchants’ daughters as well as one of my own.  But did you see fit to warn anyone of his true nature?”  Mr. Bennet did not pause long enough for Darcy to answer.  “No, you did not!  Instead, you allowed everyone to believe his charm showed his real personality.”

“Mr. Bennet, I am aware that I failed to make his behavior generally known, though I had a good reason for not doing so.  I am also conscious that my natural reserve did not endear me to the neighborhood.  However, I did relate to Miss Elizabeth the truth of my history with Mr. Wickham, believing it would be best coming from a respected member of the community rather than from myself.”

“Why did you choose my daughter for this? Why not myself or Sir William Lucas?”

“I spoke with Miss Elizabeth because it came to my attention that Mr. Wickham had shown an interest in your family, and I did not wish your daughters to be at risk.  Miss Elizabeth said she spoke with you about it before Miss Lydia departed for Brighton.”  Darcy regretted the words as soon as he said them, for it could appear as though he were criticizing Mr. Bennet.

At Darcy’s words, annoyance and guilt flashed across the older man’s face.  Mr. Bennet recalled Elizabeth begging him to not allow Lydia to go to Brighton.  She was concerned about just such an event happening.

“It was inappropriate for you to speak of Wickham’s dissolute behavior with a young lady.  How was she to relate it to those who would be able to deal with a man of Wickham’s ilk?”

“I can only say that Miss Elizabeth demanded to know why I had treated Mr. Wickham with such contempt.  I felt it necessary to defend myself against his slander.  Miss Elizabeth assured me that she would share what she had learned regarding his habits.”

“Irrespective of the Wickham situation, I will not give you permission to marry my daughter.  Now, please leave me to my book.”

Darcy looked at the older gentleman across from him.  “Are you denying Elizabeth her chance at love and happiness?”

“I am protecting my daughter from a cold relationship in which she will not be respected and valued for the treasure she is.”

“There you are wrong.  I have loved Elizabeth almost from our first meeting.  We have had our ups and downs, and it has brought us to a deep and abiding love.  I respect her intelligence and delight in her witty conversation.  I love her!  She is as necessary to me as breathing, and I would defend her with my life if need be.”

“Rich men like you do not know how to love. You know only how to own.  Elizabeth would be miserable in such circumstances.  Now, I asked you to leave.  Do so, or I shall call Mr. Hill to escort you out of my house.  Do not return!”

The door burst open and Elizabeth entered the room, closing the door behind her.  “Papa, how can you say such cruel things to Mr. Darcy?  He has apologized for his part in the situation, and he is responsible for rescuing Lydia.  I love him, Papa, and it is my greatest wish to be his wife as soon as possible.”

Mr. Bennet jumped up, placing his hands on his desk and leaning towards Elizabeth.  His face was an unhealthy shade of red as he bellowed, “Are you out of your senses, Lizzy?  This man is not worthy of you.”

In the face of her father’s anger, Elizabeth’s response was calm and controlled. “He is the best man I know, Papa.  All of us, especially me, were wrong in our opinions of both Mr. Darcy and Mr. Wickham.”

Mr. Bennet opened his mouth as if to speak again, but his face suddenly drained of all color as he grabbed his head in his hands and fell to the floor.  Elizabeth and Darcy rushed to his side.  Darcy shouted for help as Lizzy cradled her father’s head in her lap.  She stroked his forehead as Darcy chaffed his hands, first one and then the other. 

The study door crashed open to reveal Jane and Bingley, who spoke at almost the same moment.

“Lizzy, whatever is the matter?”

“What happened, Darcy?” 

“Jane, send for Mr. Jones immediately,” Elizabeth said.  “We were speaking to Papa when he just collapsed.”

“Bingley, send an express to Dr. Munroe and ask him to bring Dr. Lennox, the surgeon, with him.  Tell him the patient possibly sustained a head injury that did not show any external signs.”  Both Jane and Bingley rushed from the room to attend to their assigned duties.

Elizabeth looked at Darcy in confusion.  “How could you possibly know that?”

“Are we not both great readers?”  Darcy smiled, trying to calm Elizabeth and ease the tension.  “A tenant sustained an injury similar to your father’s, and this happened.  After speaking with the doctor, I read up on head injuries to learn more.”

“What can be done for Papa?”

“The doctor will speak to Mr. Jones and learn exactly where the small bump on your father’s head occurred.  Instead of the injury swelling to the outside, which is most common, it may have swelled on the inside.  If this is the case, the surgeon will likely drill in your father’s skull and drain the blood or fluid that is building up.  It probably created pressure on your father’s brain and caused him to lose consciousness.  Once the pressure is relieved, he should begin to recover.”

“I am sorry for the way Papa spoke to you.”  Elizabeth’s words were a mere whisper, and she would not meet his eyes.

Darcy released Mr. Bennet’s hand and placed a finger under Elizabeth’s chin, raising it so that he could see her eyes.  “There is nothing for which to be sorry.  It was more than likely that the pressure to his brain caused his ill humor and harsh words.  What do you wish to do about having the banns read?”

“Will Papa recover in time for us to marry on September sixth?”

“I am not sure.  However, it is early enough that the doctors should arrive by tonight.  We can wait to make a decision until we have spoken to him.  In the meantime, we should move your father off the floor.  We could place him on the sofa here and then move him to his bed if Mr. Jones grants permission to do so.”

“I will fetch Mr. Hill to help you.”

Elizabeth made a hasty exit and returned a short time later with the long-time family retainer.  Darcy looked the man over.  Mr. Hill was as tall and thin as his wife was short and plump.  “Mr. Hill, if you will take Mr. Bennet’s feet, I will lift his shoulders.  We will move him only as far as the sofa there.”  Darcy pointed to the designated piece of furniture.  Elizabeth stood out of the way but hovered nearby.  She removed the blanket from the back of the sofa and clutched it to her chest. 

With a grunt, the gentlemen lifted Mr. Bennet from the floor and carried him the short distance, gently setting him down.  Mr. Hill began removing his master’s boots, while Darcy untied his neckcloth and loosened the top of his shirt to allow Mr. Bennet to breathe easier.  Elizabeth had just finished placing the cover over him when Mr. Jones knocked at the door.  While it was open, she could hear her mother moaning and crying in the background. 

Mr. Jones insisted that Elizabeth leave while he examined her father.  Though hesitant to do so, she agreed when Darcy promised to tell her everything that took place.  Elizabeth made her way to the parlor, where the others were waiting.  The younger girls, even Georgiana, showed signs of tears in their eyes.  Mrs. Bennet continued her wailing, which did not help the situation.  Elizabeth whispered something to Bingley, who nodded in agreement and departed the sitting room to attend to her request.

“Jane, allow me to help you get Mama to her room.  It would be best for everyone if she quietly rested until we know more about Papa’s condition,” Elizabeth said.  She and Jane each took one of their mother’s arms. 

“Oh, what is to become of us?” wailed Mrs. Bennet.  “I know that your father will die and Mr. Collins will throw us to the hedgerows.” 

Elizabeth had no patience with her mother when she behaved like this.  However, the ever calm and kind Jane patted her mother’s hand.  “Do not fret so, Mama, or you will make yourself unwell.  I am sure Papa will be fine.  Mr. Darcy sent for his personal physicians from town to attend to Father.”

As soon as they reached her mother’s room, Elizabeth departed, leaving Jane to care for Mrs. Bennet.  Elizabeth returned downstairs and sought out Mrs. Hill.  “I believe we could all use some tea and refreshments if you please, Mrs. Hill.”

“Of course, Miss Lizzy.  Cook has been making biscuits this morning.  As soon as the water is ready, I will bring everything to the drawing room.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Hill.  It is reassuring that we can always count on your help in a crisis.”

Elizabeth returned to the parlor.  She stopped in the doorway and surveyed the young ladies.  Just before entering the room, Jane descended the stairs. 

“How is Mama?” Elizabeth asked.

“I gave her something for her nerves.  She was sleeping when I left,” replied Jane. 

“I requested that Mr. Bingley send for Mrs. Annesley.  I believe she will be a big help in finding something for the girls to do while we wait for news of Father.  I have also asked Mrs. Hill for refreshments.  Shall we visit with our sisters until then?”

“That sounds like a good idea.”  The two eldest Bennet daughters pasted smiles on their faces as they prepared to enter the parlor and alleviate some of the stress their younger sisters faced.

Before they could move, the door to the study opened. 

“You join our sisters and guest,” Elizabeth said to Jane.  “I will learn what I can about Father’s condition.”  With a nod, Jane entered the parlor and Elizabeth moved towards her father’s study.

William reached out his hand to Elizabeth as she approached.  “How is my father, Mr. Jones?  What can I do for him?”

Mr. Jones responded to Elizabeth’s inquiry in a quiet tone.  For now, your father is as comfortable as we can make him.  I believe Mr. Darcy to be correct about his condition and am glad that he has already sent for his doctor and surgeon.”

“So, you believe there is swelling on father’s brain?”

“I do,” replied the apothecary.  “While you wait for the physicians to arrive, someone should sit with your father at all times.  If there are any changes in his breathing, color, or heart rate, send for me.  I must see little Robby Smith, who fell from a hayloft and broke his arm, but I will return to check on Mr. Bennet as soon as I finish there.  Provided there are no other emergencies, I will remain with your father until the physicians arrive.”

“I thank you, Mr. Jones.  Is it safe to move Father to his bed?”

“I believe so.  When moving and changing him into his nightclothes, try to jostle Mr. Bennet as little as possible.  I would also recommend that you use an invalid feeder to give him broth and tea.  It is important that he retain his strength in preparation for the operation.”

“Mr. Hill has gone to get two of the stable hands.  The more of us involved in moving him, the better able we will be to keep him as still as possible.”  Darcy gave Elizabeth’s hand a squeeze as he explained things to her.  “All will be well, my love, do not worry.”  He added a reassuring smile to his words.

Elizabeth smiled in return.  “Thank you, William.  I do not know that I would have managed had you not been here.”

“I will remain with your father for the time being if you will watch over Georgiana for me.”

“Of course, William.  I hope you do not mind, but I had Mr. Bingley send the carriage to retrieve Mrs. Annesley.  I believe she will be a tremendous help with my sisters and Georgiana during this trying time.”

“That was an excellent idea, Elizabeth.”

At that moment, Mr. Hill entered the room, followed by two others.  Elizabeth stood in the hallway and watched as they lifted her father and carried him from the room.  She held her breath as the group ascended the stairs.  Elizabeth was relieved to see that her father’s body did, indeed, remain quite still as they traversed the staircase.

As the group turned towards Mr. Bennet’s room once they had reached the top of the stairs, Elizabeth moved to join the others in the parlor.  When she arrived at the door, Mrs. Hill was exiting the room after having delivered the tea things.  Hearing a knock at the front door, Elizabeth paused while waiting for Mrs. Hill to answer it.  She was very relieved to see Mrs. Annesley arriving.  Pausing in the doorway, Elizabeth waited to speak to the new arrival before entering the room. 

“Might I speak with you a moment, Mrs. Annesley?” 

The woman nodded and followed Elizabeth into the empty dining room. 

“Thank you so much for coming.  During a meeting with Mr. Darcy and myself, my father fell into an unconscious state.  The occurrence seems to have deeply unsettled Miss Darcy and my sisters.  I am hoping you can be of assistance in keeping them calm and occupied as we await the arrival of Mr. Darcy’s physician and a surgeon from town.”

“I will be happy to help, Miss Elizabeth.”

Looking around to ensure no one was close enough to overhear her next words, Elizabeth continued.  “I know you are aware of what occurred with Miss Darcy in Ramsgate.  I would like you to know that the reason for our rush to town was because the same miscreant made off with my youngest sister, Lydia.  With Mr. Darcy’s help, we were able to recover her with relative speed and secrecy.”  Elizabeth explained to Mrs. Annesley how they had protected her sister’s reputation.  “Unfortunately, Lydia is very distraught about what occurred.”  Elizabeth paused and looked Mrs. Annesley directly in the eye.  “I hope you will not judge me too harshly for my next words and that I can count on your discretion.  Lydia’s primary distress arises from the fact that she had done everything my mother instructed her to do to gain a husband.  However, she overheard Mr. Wickham’s real opinion of her and her behavior, and it has left her devastated.  She cannot understand why my mother would have her behave in such a fashion if it led gentlemen to such an opinion of her.

“Before marrying my father, my mother was the daughter of the local attorney.  And though I love Mama, she is of weak understanding and is very concerned for our futures, as well as her own.  You see, there is an entailment on Longbourn away from the female line.  We will all be homeless upon the death of my father.  Though my elder sister is engaged to Mr. Bingley, when Mother's nerves come upon her, she does not seem capable of rational thought.  We have sedated her to keep her calm until we know more about Father’s condition.

“Mrs. Annesley, I am hoping you will be able to use my sister’s situation to help my younger sisters learn to think about more than officers and dancing, to learn and grow from Lydia’s experience.  All three of my younger sisters could use improvement in their manners and their understanding.  Would you be willing to take this matter upon yourself, to help them during this rather trying time?”

“As you will soon be Mrs. Darcy, I am more than happy to assist you.  I did notice Miss Lydia’s downcast spirits during our journey.  Though I did not spend much time with your other sisters, I would guess that Miss Kitty is a follower and that Miss Mary is of a serious nature.”

“You are very observant, Mrs. Annesley, and correct in both your assumptions.”

“Do you think they might be interested in a group reading assignment and discussion to keep their minds occupied?”

“Lydia and Kitty rarely read anything more than the latest fashion magazines when they make their way to our neighborhood.  Mary’s taste in literature leans towards religious and moralistic texts.”

“I will bear that in mind as I decide on our literary selection.”  Mrs. Annesley gave Elizabeth an encouraging smile.  I believe I know of a few pieces that will work for our purposes.  Some would make good comparisons to your sister’s situation.”

“Might I suggest you use my father’s study for your endeavors?  There is a small table, a large supply of books, and several seats.  It would also be quieter and allow you to keep their attention with greater ease.  Now, will you please join us?”

“A cup of tea would be lovely, Miss Elizabeth.”

The two ladies crossed the hall and joined the others.  Jane poured tea for them, and Elizabeth took a moment to explain to everyone what Mr. Jones had said about their father’s condition.

When everyone had completed their refreshments, Elizabeth turned to Mr. Bingley.  “Sir, would you be so kind as to carry a cup of tea up to Mr. Darcy?  He said he would remain with my father until Mr. Jones can return.  I must speak with my sisters and Miss Darcy for a moment in private.”

“Certainly, Miss Elizabeth.  I shall take this tray to the kitchen and ask Mrs. Hill to prepare a fresh pot for Darcy.  I will join him for a time until I am needed elsewhere.”

“Thank you, Charles,” Jane replied with a blush.  “I will fetch you soon, and perhaps we could take a walk in the garden.”

Bingley rose and bowed to the ladies.  He kissed Jane’s hand, saying, “I will look forward to our walk.”  He exited the room, closing the door behind him.