47. Chapter 44: By their fruit you will know

Ch 44: By their fruit you will recognize them *

"Tell me you are joking, Charles, Please!" Louisa pleaded. "The roads are washed out?"

Charles sighed and laid his hand on his sister's shoulder. "Fitzwilliam can vouch for me. I did everything in my power, but it is just not possible."

"I simply cannot believe this. It does not seem fair." She turned and wept into his shoulder. "It feels like some kind of sick joke."

"I know… I said the very same thing. But we have little choice." He sighed, stroking Louisa's back as she cried softly. I knew you would be upset, but I had no idea just how severely. "Miss Kitty told me that your trip into town was pleasant though." He fumbled in his pocket for a handkerchief.

Louisa took it gratefully and mopped her face, her tears quieted. "I still cannot believe it. I did not want to go, not after hearing that tales of Caroline's actions in London had reached here."

"Oh no! I had no idea that gossip about Caroline was circulating." He grimaced. "I fail to understand then why Miss Kitty would insist you go into town under such circumstances." His brow creased at the thought. "But you do not seem taxed by it. Why is that?"

"When Mary announced that she had heard tales from Maria Lucas I was devastated. I knew that I could never show my face in town again." Sadness suffused her eyes. "So naturally, Kitty insisted that I must do exactly that." She shook her head, remembering. "You can imagine, dear brother, that I thought her quite out of her mind and had no intention on following her suggestions."

Bingley rolled his eyes. She is so bold; I wonder that she and Louisa can be such good friends. But perhaps that is exactly what Louisa needs in a friend. I certainly find it invigorating. How fortunate we are to have met the Bennets and how fortunate am I to have obtained her regard. "So naturally you went to town."

"Naturally." Louisa laughed at the irony. Under Kitty's influence, I find I hardly know myself these days. But I am not sure it is such a bad thing. "Mary and Jane agreed that it was a good idea, so we all went." Louisa sighed heavily and sat down in the soft chair near the window. "It was indeed the oddest thing, Charles. I do not know what to make of it. The entire experience was so different than what happened in London."

His brows shot up. "Go on."

"I think we stopped in nearly every shoppe in town. We had confections and tea, talking to everyone who would stop long enough for a greeting. I do not believe I have ever socialized so much in my life!" She laughed softly. "But it was remarkable. Everyone we spoke to was kind and gracious, even those I encountered without one of my friends. There were none of the looks or cuts that I encountered in town. There were even a few who discretely offered their sympathies regarding Caroline."

"That is noteworthy. I suppose what we have heard is true, the country is quite different than the city." Apparently more different than I could have hoped.

"It must be." She looked out the window wistfully. "I had many ladies who inquired after Mrs. Black and her family, the tenant here who has been struggling with illness. She has fallen ill again, you know. The Bennets had been visiting her before we arrived and they took me to meet her. I have continued to look after her since we have been here. I suppose that has become known in town. It seems that is looked upon well here."

"Of course it is. You have become all that an estate's mistress should be, Louisa, do not doubt that. I am proud of you." Charles laughed. And Hurst will be delighted for you too. He had hoped you coming here would give you ease about becoming mistress over his estate. I look forward to writing him soon. "I am sure our friendship to the Bennets, especially in light of the fire has not hurt our standing either. Though none of this was done for show by any means, it is good to know that something can count in our favor. The society here is very different than in London." And much more agreeable to the likes of you and I.

"Despite the house in town, I am glad that Mr. Hurst does not prefer to spend his time there. His estate is near a small town much like this one. I had been worried that I would not fit in there when the time came, but I am of quite a different mind now. Thank you for bringing me here. I know I was uncertain at first, but I am grateful for the time here."

"As am I Louisa."

The next several days flew by in a flurry of busyness for all the residents of Netherfield. An epidemic of summer colds swept through the neighborhood leaving the ladies in a whirlwind of visits and packing baskets of comforts for the families of the two estates. Mr. Pierce asked their help, along with the ladies of Lucas Lodge, in visiting sick parishioners as well. Lizzy divided her time between these calls and meeting with her father and Mr. Darcy to work on planning restorations at Longbourn.

The day before the assembly, she sat in Netherfield's dining room nibbling at lunch and pouring over papers and plans spread out over the large mahogany table. With her were her father, Uncle Gardiner, Mr. Darcy, Col. Fitzwilliam and Mr. Bradley. Bingley, Louisa and her sisters were calling upon the Lucases.

"It appears that you will need a considerable amount of finish carpentry done on the second floor," Darcy began, indicating several lists on the table.

"Yes, I believe so. The expense concerns me though. Have you any ideas?" Bennet drummed his fingers on the table. Fanny is made so uneasy with strange men about, having one in the house may be intolerable to her. I may have to continue imposing upon Edward's hospitality for the duration of these repairs.

"I have considered this issue, sir and have a possibility for you to think about." He turned to Bradley, "I would welcome your opinion on this as well."

"Now I am intrigued, what do you have in mind?" Bradley leaned forward, elbows on the table.

"Do you recall young Lewis?"

Bradley thought for a moment. "Yes, I had not thought of that…but I do believe it might be a most advantageous situation for everyone." He chewed his lip, nodding.

Turning to Mr. Bennet, Darcy explained, "Young Lewis is the son of one of my tenants. He had some difficulties getting along with his father and brothers so, with Mr. Bradley's assistance, we put him to work with a carpenter on the estate. It has been a most advantageous situation for everyone, but he is of an age now that he wishes to marry. I noticed that you have a cottage that is not currently occupied on the estate."

Bennet nodded thoughtfully. "It is a small one, but it is in good repair. The last cottagers were an older couple who recently moved to be with their oldest daughter. What are you suggesting?"

"If you are willing to allow him use of the cottage for the next six months, perhaps longer, in exchange he can do the carpentry at Longbourn. In his spare time, he can seek other jobs around the neighborhood. She can work the garden and perhaps pick up other work around town. Washing or mending, those are the things she currently does in Lambton. If all goes well, by the time he is finished with his work for you, he will be known and trusted in the community and have sufficient work to sustain him and his family. He can begin to pay rent and he and his family can make a new start here in Meryton."

"It sounds as though there has been some trouble with this young man. That does concern me." Gardiner glanced back at his brother-in-law. I cannot imagine my sister being easy with this at all. "What do you say of this Bradley?"

"I cannot pretend that he has not been a challenging situation, but Lewis has certainly proven himself in recent months. The girl he wishes to marry is a gentle, kindly young woman who has brought out the best in him. Sadly, his past haunts him in Derbyshire. People have long memories I am afraid. He would do well to have a second chance in another place and I believe he would rise to the occasion." He pursed his lips thoughtfully. "While there is no way to completely predict a man, I would be willing to support this scheme."

"Still, with so many young ladies in the neighborhood," and in my home "I cannot agree without meeting him first. Would it be possible for him to come for a trial, perhaps a fortnight so that we may see how agreeable this arrangement might be to everyone?" Bennet pressed his lips tensely. "It is possible he might not find Meryton to his liking."

Lizzy watched the concern on her father's face. There is something I do not know, I am sure of it. He never looks so troubled without a reason. I do not believe he will tell me though. But if Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bradley will vouch for this young man's character, then I think this a wonderful solution to several problems.

"That is a reasonable offer. With your permission, I will write my steward and make the arrangements straight away." Darcy made a quick note in his journal.

Mrs. Lance appeared in the doorway. "Beggin' your pardon sirs and madam, but Mr. Phillips and a guest have just arrived for you."

"Phillips has returned? So soon?" Bennet gasped, struggling to rise. "Take them to the drawing room if you please. We will meet them there directly." Oh no! He never send word from Bristol. Something has happened and he has not even made it there! What could possibly have gone wrong?

Mrs. Lance bobbed and scurried away.

"Who do you think Uncle Phillips has brought?" Lizzy asked, hurrying to her father's side.

"As quickly as he has returned from Bristol, I would think he has brought Jacobson back with him, but that hardly seems reasonable. Why would he travel here so quickly?" Gardiner frowned, considering the situation.

Brought Jacobson here? That hardly seems likely. He would have had to have left the same afternoon Phillips arrived. No, that cannot possibly be. "Well, we shall soon see. Would you care to join us Darcy, Bradley?" I have no idea what he is going to present me with. I feel so ill-equipped to the task. I could use the wisdom and insight both of you have right now. He gratefully leaned on his daughter's arm.

"Thank you, I would be happy to." Darcy glanced at Bradley, who nodded as well. He helped the vicar out of his chair and gave Bradley his arm. The group slowly made their way to the drawing room.

As they stepped inside, Phillips greeted them enthusiastically, "It is wonderful to see you up and about brother! And Mr. Bradley too! I had thought it would be some time yet before you were able to be on your feet."

"Dr. Abbot has determined that perhaps it was not broken after all, just severely sprained. Your niece's ministrations have been so effective that I find I am able to get around, if only a little and very slowly. It is certainly better than keeping to my bed." Mr. Bradley smiled warmly. The dear girl has been a most dutiful nurse and I owe her my sanity right now. I was not meant for lying about.

A very tall, thin young man with a serious expression cleared his throat behind Phillips.

"Ah yes, I have forgotten my manners," Phillips gestured toward the stranger.

Suddenly Caroline rushed in. "Our housekeeper only just made me aware of your arrival!" She panted, smoothing her gown. Darcy and Fitzwilliam exchanged surprised glances while Lizzy struggled not to roll her eyes. "I am so sorry, my brother is out of the house right now. He has some business in town. I am sure he will be here directly." Caroline pressed forward into the room.

"Do not trouble yourself on our account, Miss Caroline," Phillips said smoothly, "I have brought Mr. Jacobson to see Mr. Bennet. There is no need to further impose upon your brother. Mr. Jacobson, this is the sister of our generous host, Miss Caroline Bingley."

He took her hand and bowed over it. "Charmed I am sure, madam."

Phillips shot Caroline a sour look. "Introductions are in order…"

"Please, do not stand on ceremony, sir. We are family and friends here." Though his words were warm, Jacobson's formal tone spoke of restraint and ill-ease.

"Well said, sir. Then let me present my brothers-in-law, Mr. Edward Gardiner and Mr. Thomas Bennet of Longbourn, your cousin. Gentlemen, Mr. Luke Jacobson." The gentlemen shook hands. "This is my niece, Mr. Bennet's second daughter, Miss Elizabeth Bennet, and our friends The Honourable Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr. Darcy of Pemberley, and Mr. Bradley, vicar of Pemberley church." Jacobson greeted them all.

"I will call for tea," Caroline announced, and was out of the room before anyone could protest.

Lizzy sighed and caught Darcy's eye. He lifted his brow with a small frown and shrug. Fitzwilliam ground his teeth, glaring at her departing form. The party seated themselves in the room, an awkward tension in the air.

Finally Mr. Bennet said, "I must admit that while I am most pleased to have you back Phillips, I am surprised to see you so soon."

"That is my fault, Mr. Bennet." Jacobson bowed his head, his voice soft. "We returned at my insistence." He folded his hands in his lap.

Bennet watched the new heir of Longbourn critically. He seems as unlike Collins as a man can possibly be, at least at first blush. Given his current load of debt I would have thought him much different. "I must ask then, why the hurry, sir?"

"You are not a man who acts in haste then, sir?" Jacobson stared at Bennet, lifting a quizzical brow. "I see that you believe I am and wonder what to make of it." He enjoyed the startled look on Bennet's face. "You seem surprised. Are you surprised by my question or perhaps by me. Is it then that I am not what you expected, sir?" he asked, hands extended.

Lizzy laughed softly with a wry smile to her father. Bennet blinked and shook his head. "I am sorry to have been so obvious, Mr. Jacobson, but yes, I confess to being somewhat surprised." He blushed slightly. He is more forward than I expected as well. Interesting.

"I imagine you expected a man much more rakish perhaps?" Jacobson shrugged self-deprecatingly.

Bennet stammered while Gardiner coughed uneasily, shifting in his seat. Darcy's eyes bulged at the man's audacity. Beside him Fitzwilliam choked back laughter. I can only imagine the bets the members of your club place on you!

"I know you are aware of my situation, probably all of you?" His audience nodded uncomfortably. "Do not be bothered." He shrugged with self-effacement. "Word of such things gets around and I am quite accustomed to it by now."

Lizzy clasped her hands together tightly and looked out the window. Papa, I do believe you have met your match. I do not believe I have ever seen a bolder man. His forthrightness defies all manner of social graces. I dare say he is as notable a character as Mr. Collins, though in an entirely different fashion.

"Indeed," Bennet murmured. While I confess I do enjoy an odd fellow, this man may be too much even for me. "So then, do indulge my curiosity, what has brought you to our door in such haste."

"A man in my circumstances will often pray for some miraculous deliverance form his situation. However, when it appears unbidden at his doorstep he cannot help but be a little suspicious." He crossed his long arms over his chest. "I wish to settle this matter directly as there are those who would take their amusement over my situation entirely at my expense. I no longer have the luxury of time to waste on such frivolity."

Bradley chuckled heartily. "I have known quite a number who wish they would have had your prudence sir." Peculiar though he may be, there is a ring of honesty about this chap that I find refreshing.

Caroline suddenly appeared, Mrs. Lance in her wake. Immediately she positioned herself to serve tea. Conversation ceased as she fluttered about. Finally she sat down. "So what has brought you to Meryton, Mr. Jacobson?" She smiled widely.

If only he could see what lies behind that smile. Lizzy gritted her teeth. One look at the cut of his fashionable suit and she is on the prowl like a cat after a mouse.

"Matters of business, Miss Caroline," he said curtly, annoyance curling his lip. She is clearly not aware of my situation given the mercenary expression in her eyes. But I will not inform one more person than necessary. A man does have some pride!

"I see," she replied, somewhat taken aback. What abominable manners!

"I fear, Miss Caroline," Phillips said, "there is little left of the day and these business matters are indeed pressing. Would you afford us the use of your brother's study?" Without waiting for an answer, he rose. He looked insistently at Bennet, Gardiner and Darcy.

Darcy jumped to his feet and helped Bennet up. Gardiner followed hurriedly. The gentlemen excused themselves, leaving an awkward silence in their wake. Fitzwilliam squirmed. Lizzy picked unseen crumbs from her lap.

Finally Bradley asked, "So Miss Caroline, will you be attending the assembly tomorrow?" He reached for his teacup.

Caroline blinked several times before she composed herself to answer. "Initially I had not planned to but Charles simply insisted I must." Besides, I shall go mad with boredom with no better entertainments than these Bennets.

Fitzwilliam fought not to smirk. I can imagine he was most insistent.

"I understand it may not be the caliber of entertainment that you are accustomed to in London." Lizzy tried hard to ignore the colonel. "But many of our London visitors attend, so they are usually not as countrified as you might expect."

Oh Miss Lizzy, you are trying so hard not to make Miss Caroline the victim of your sharp wit. You could so easily cut your adversary to ribbons with your razor tongue and she would never stand a chance. Poor girl has no concept of the grace you are extending her. Bradley glanced from one woman to the other, suppressing a chuckle. I watched Anne Darcy struggle the same way with her sister. I believe that you would have approved of this young woman, Anne. She is cut from your cloth.

"That is what Charles told me. I hope that is so. I brought several new gowns that are the latest fashions in London this season. I plan on wearing one of them tonight. But I am pleased to hear that there will be others there with access to the newest styles. I would hate for my gown to stand out too much. I hate to be the cause of discomfort for others." She smiled blandly.

Lizzy bit her tongue painfully while Fitzwilliam choked on his tea. He coughed so hard that Bradley reached to slap his back, a mite harder than actually necessary.

"I was privileged to attend the previous assembly, Miss Caroline, and I shall be sorry to miss this one. It was a delightful diversion to spend such an agreeable evening." Bradley nodded slightly. "I quite love a country dance, though the quadrille still has me a bit perplexed."

"Surely you did not dance sir!" Caroline gasped. At your age I can hardly consider that proper.

"Well, at the time I did have quite a bit more spring in my step." He laughed ruefully, lifting a walking stick. "Each of the Miss Bennets graced me with a dance that evening. I hardly remember when I had a more enjoyable time."

"Dancing with you was indeed a rare privilege. After my toes had been so heavily trod upon, a partner who knew his steps was indeed a blessing." Lizzy beamed at Bradley.

Another thick silence fell, broken only by the soft clink of teacups on saucers.

"So, Miss Eliza, the guest your uncle brought…" Caroline finally asked.

Lizzy cringed at the appellation. "Mr. Jacobson?"

"Yes. Is he known to you?" A predatory fire lit her narrow eyes.

"I have not met him before today, but I know of him. He is a distant cousin." Lizzy paused with a sidelong, mischievous glace at Fitzwilliam.

"What do you know of him? Is he a gentleman?" Caroline demanded impatiently. Is he perhaps the new heir of Longbourn?[i/]

"He is from Bristol." Lizzy paused to sip her tea while Caroline ground her teeth peevishly. "I am told he has an estate there of perhaps twice the size of Longbourn." Since he may or may not actually be the next heir of Longbourn, there is no need to bring that up. I fear that would make you insufferable.

Caroline's eyes widened with interest. "And do you know his business here?"

"It seemed to me that he did not wish it to be known," Fitzwilliam rebuked, his voice sharp. "If Miss Elizabeth was aware of his business, it would be in most indecorous of her to discuss it."

"Well!" she snapped, offended. How dare you lecture me on manners, Colonel. Yours have been insufferable. "Surely there is no harm in asking."

Fitzwilliam snorted and looked out the window.

"Colonel, I just remembered," Lizzy turned to him, a conspiratorial look in her eyes, "my father requested you assist me in returning all those papers and journals to the sitting room upstairs before dinner tonight. I doubt very much that Mrs. Lance should appreciate attempting to serve dinner on the table in the state we left it in."

"That is right, I had forgotten. I have no desire to trespass upon Mrs. Lance's good graces. I learned long ago that it does not do to incur the housekeeper's wrath. If you will excuse us Miss Caroline, Mr. Bradley." I am sorry, sir, to leave you with that dragon, but if there is a man who can manage her, it is you. He nodded smartly and offered Lizzy his arm as they quit the room.

Caroline and Bradley eyed each other over their teacups.

"So, how was your stay in London after you left Derbyshire?" he asked mildly.

She glared at him sourly. "It was quite pleasant, thank you. My visit with Mrs. Cooperton convinced me I have little taste for the country so I found it quite pleasant to return to town."

"So Pemberley, " and its master "was not as agreeable as you expected?"

"No, I fear it was not." She tossed her head. You turned him against me, I am certain of it.

"And how do you find Meryton?"

"I find that the more refined environment of London to be more to my liking," she replied curtly.

"I see," he considered her thoughtfully. "So, I imagine that you will be returning there soon?"

She turned a scathing gaze upon him. "Mr. Bradley, I would ask you to refrain from speculating about me and my affairs so casually. I do not need to explain myself to you and I have no desire to do so." She rose and shook out her skirts. "The others here at Netherfield may find your presence soothing and your pithy advice worthy of their attentions. I, however, have little interest in such things. Do not waste your efforts upon me."

Bradley smiled at her, a little sadly. "I quite understand, Miss Caroline. Do not fear. I will not trouble you with anything you do not wish to hear. I have no desire to force myself upon anyone."

"I am sure there are plenty here who find you…" Caroline paused, blushing as she suddenly realized her abruptness.

Bradley held up his hand to stop her. "I take no offense, madam. Be not troubled. I have been found trivial by far more accomplished members of society than yourself." He struggled to his feet. "If you will excuse me. My presence here is clearly a trial to you and I do not wish to trouble you any further." With his walking sticks tapping on the polished wood floor, he slowly left the room, leaving Caroline alone, a quizzical expression on her face.

* Mt. 7:16