Beginning, Section II

Part 16

Posted on Friday, 19 June 1998

oming out of her room, Eponine saw Georgiana going into hers. She cried out,

"Miss Darcy!"

Georgiana turned around. Eponine saw she was crying.

"What's the matter?" she asked.

"Nothing. You wouldn't understand."

Eponine led her into her own room.

"Tell me, anyway. Maybe I can help."

Georgiana hesitated for a moment, not knowing whether to trust Eponine or not. Finally, she said,

"It's Monsieur Enjolras." Eponine's eyebrows shot up. "Madamoiselle, I love him! I know I do. But he won't tell me anything. I met him just now. Oh, Eponine, I mean, Mademoiselle, he was so pale."

"Perhaps he is just feeling poorly from his ... illness."

"No, it's not that, I know it. Just yesterday, he was so well, he was laughing and talking. But just now, it looked as if somebody had threatened to kill him or something."

"To kill him?"

"I don't know. He said he had had a visitor."

"A visitor?" Eponine thought she finally understood. But what would her father want with Enjolras? Quickly, she asked Georgiana,

"Did he say anything else?"

"No, nothing."

"Hm."

"What's the matter?"

"Oh, nothing," she said quickly. Then, "Well, you calm down. I'll see what I can do."

"You?!" Georgiana exclaimed in surprise.

"Never mind," said Eponine. "Just dry your eyes. You wouldn't want him to see you like this."

"He already has."

"Oh... Well, I need to think for a while, so, if you don't mind..."

"Oh, of course. I'm sorry," said Georgiana, finally taking the hint.

Part 16b

Posted on Friday, 19 June 1998

Later that night, Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, Miss Bingley, Miss Darcy, Enjolras, and Eponine were sitting in the parlor when a Monsieur Fabantou was announced. Eponine recognized the name, even though it wasn't his real one. In their days in Paris, Thenardier had gone by many assumed names. He was shone in. He bowed clumsily to the party,and, addressing Enjolras, said,

"Monsieur, I have some business to conduct with you."

Enjolras got up stiffly, and, with a glance at Georgiana, left the room. A few minutes later, Eponine followed.

After the meeting, Thenardier came out, straightned his cravat and walked with the air of a man who had been angered. He spotted Eponine. Not recognizing her, he said,

"Bonjour, Madamoiselle. I do not believe we have had the pleasure of meeting."

Eponine looked at him warily. She said,

"Come with me for a minute."

He gladly followed her. When they were completely alone, Thenardier said,

"I am glad to have a minute alone with a pretty little thing like you."

Not believing her ears, Eponine said,

"Father?!"

He started. He squinted at her.

"Pardon?"

"You do not recognize me. I don't blame you. I must really be changed. I recognized you the minute I saw you."

Thenardier scrutinzed his outfit, his confidence in it obviously shaken.

Eponine continued.

"What are you doing here?"

"I am to collect funds for a trip with your sister," he replied, collecting his wits together.

Eponine understood now. He knew something about Enjolras he thought he wouldn't want anybody else to know. She hoped Enjolras had set him right.

She tried to engage him in pleasant conversation.

"How is Azelma?"

"She's alright. Stupid as ever she was."

Eponine bristled at the attack on her sister.

"How did you get the money to come here?"

Anxious to bring his prized member back to the gang, Thenardier tried to make his adventures sound as pleasing as possible.

"Well, I was looking through some old police files, and I noticed something odd about a man named Jean Valjean. SoI did some investigating."

"Spying, you mean." Eponine said dryly.

"Investigating. I found out some really bad things about this Valjean character, so I went to his son-in-law, Baron Marius Pontmercy .." Here, Eponine started. "I was hoping he'd be appalled by the story, but he seemed pleased. But that's beside the point. The point is, he gave me the money." He paused for a moment, then went on. "You know, 'Ponine, he seemed to know an awful lot about me. He even knew all my names!"

"And he still gave you the money?"

Ignoring her, he went on.

"He yelled something about a colonel and Waterloo, then he shoved a wad of money in my face and told me to high-tail it out of there." Then, changing the subject, he said, "Eponine, why don't you come with me?"

"Come with you!" she shouted incredulously. "Father, I'm having a marvelous time here."

"And you can have a marvelous time there," he cajoled.

"No, Father."

"Well, then, I'll just stay here until you change your mind." He started out of the room. Eponine ran out after him.

"But, Father, you can't just stay here uninvited!"

"Why not?"

"Because, because .... because Mr. Darcy would have you thrown out!"

"No, I'm sure he wouldn't." He left her alone. Eponine felt like screaming. Her father, of all people! sleeping under the same roof as Mr. Darcy!

"Well, then, my fiance will!"

He stopped short in his tracks. To her dismay, she noticed Mrs. Darcy watching from the parlor.

"Fiance! Not Monsieur Enjolras?"

"No! He's a colonel."

"A colonel," he muttered, his eyes becoming like huge franc signs. "Congratulations, my dear," he said, attempting to kiss her on the forehead.

"Don't `my dear' me. Just get out of this house," she said, pointing to the door.

"Well, all the luck in the world to you, 'Ponine." He started to leave the room again, but turned around.

"Could you please show me to my room?"

Eponine looked pleadingly at Elizabeth, who looked questioningly back. Elizabeth stepped forward and said,

"Monsieur Fabantou, it will be our pleasure to have you here for the night, as you will be leaving soon....?" She looked at Eponine, who shrugged her shoulders helplessly.

"Who is this man and what is he doing here?" demanded Darcy.

"I don't know, dear," replied Elizabeth calmly. "It's obvious that both Enjolras and Eponine have a strong distaste for him..."

"As do I," interrupted Darcy.

"But he would not go peaceably, and I did not want any embarrassment. I don't think he will stay long."

"I hope not. He is most obviously a thief."

"But of course," remarked Elizabeth, surprising her husband yet again.

"You're agreeing with me?" he asked.

"Well, you said so yourself. It's obvious."

"What are we going to do?"

Elizabeth sighed.

"I honestly don't know.

Eponine knew exactly what to do. She sat down at her desk and began writing a letter. The next day, that letter and another like it were dispatched to Paris and Kent.

Part 17

Posted on Friday, 19 June 1998

Early one morning, Marius Pontmercy walked downstairs after having a very pleasant night with his wife. He was surprised when Basque handed him a letter. He asked,

"Basque, when did this come?"

"Late last night, Monsieur," said the fat butler. "I thought it best not to wake you."

Marius nodded. He put the letter in his pocket, waiting to read it until after breakfast when he could share its contents with Cosette.

After breakfast, Marius trotted up to Cosette's chambers. He knocked on her door.

"Come in," she said pleasantly.

"Darling, I have had a letter," he began.

"What does it say?" she asked.

"Well, I don't know yet. I was waiting to read it until I could see you."

"That's sweet, darling, but, by all means, read the letter."

Marius grinned and obeyed. When he opened the letter, though, he was shocked to find what it said.

Dear Monsieur the Baron le Pontmercy.

I am sorry to bother you, Monsieur, but it cannot be helped. We are in great trouble. Let me start at the beginning. I am most obviously alive, but unless you are already aware of it, I'm sure you will be very surprised when you learn that your friend, Monsieur Enjolras, is also alive. Rest assured, we are well. However, my abominable father has showed up and is threatening Enjolras with something. I do not know what it is. I was hoping, Monsieur, that you would be so kind as to come to our rescue, for I know you know about my father and his crooked dealings. If you do not want to bother with me, please, at least do it for Enjolras.

Yours ever, Eponine Thenardier

Cosette asked blithely,

"Who are these people?"

"People I knew before we were married, dear."

"Are you going to help them?"

"Do you think I should?"

"I think you should do what you think is right."

Marius looked at her over his shoulder. Cosette turned demurely away and added,

"But of course you realize, I will have to go with you."

Marius grinned again and nodded. He immediately recalled Basque and told him to pack his bags.

Colonel Fitzwilliam was positive he could not stand another of his aunt's tirades against Darcy. He stood up and said,

"Forgive me, Aunt Catherine, but I fear I must leave you for a moment."

"But of course," she replied. "I hope you will be able to return soon, for your sake."

He smiled tightly, bowed curtly, and left. On his way out the door, he was accosted by Lady Catherine's obese butler. He could not remember his name, so he said,

"What do you want?"

"You have had a letter, sir," began the said butler.

"Well, where is it?" Fitzwilliam asked impatiently.

"Here, sir."

"Thank you." He read the letter as he walked hastily to his room.

My dear Richard,

"Ah! A love letter," he thought.

I'm sorry, but this is not a love letter.

"Drat!"

I must request your immediate return. An emergency has arisen. A man has arrived at Pemberley who claims to be my father. I need you to come and help me be rid of him.

Your loving soon-to-be-bride, Eponine Marie Thenardier

The colonel immediately rushed downstairs to bid adieu to his aunt and attend to his French fiancee.

Lady Catherine pronounced her pity for her nephew, but he was determined to be off. He galloped away as fast as he could. When he arrived at Pemberley, Darcy greeted him in the foyer.

"Fitzwilliam! What are you doing back so soon? Did Aunt Catherine tire of you?"

"No. I tired of her."

Darcy nodded knowingly. They followed each other into the parlor. Fitzwilliam said,

"So, where is your new visitor?"

"You mean Monsieur Fabantou?"

Fitzwilliam was quite put off by the what odd name, but realized that the man had probably only claimed parenthood over Eponine to the said lady herself.

"Yes."

Darcy was about to answer, but just then, Eponine entered the room. She looked at Fitzwilliam, then at Darcy. Darcy took the hint and left. She held out her hand to Fitzwilliam and said,

"Come. I will introduce you to Monsieur Fabantou."

"Do I really want to?" he asked pitifully.

She grimaced.

"Probably not, but it is absolutely necessary."

He followed her out to the garden, where they met Fabantou, bending over and sniffing the roses. Fitzwilliam was appalled by the man's ghastly appearance, but he forced himself to be polite. Eponine said,

"Monsieur, this is Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. Colonel, this is Monsieur Fabantou."

Thenardier's eyes lit up in recognition of the rank. He exclaimed,

"Oh! You must be my daughter's fiance, the dashing colonel, yes?"

Fitzwilliam looked a trifle embarrassed.

"Uh, I suppose so."

"Well, I am pleased to make your acquaintance, sir," said Thenardier, trying to be gallant. Eponine smiled, although she was not sure why. She said,

"Monsieur Fabantou, I am expecting another guest whom I should like you to meet."

"Oh, really? Who is it, may I ask?"

Eponine smiled again.

"Ah! You must allow me a surprise on this one. Now, if you'll excuse me, Richard and I need some privacy. Come along, dear."

When they were alone again, Fitzwilliam asked,

"Who is this other guest you're expecting?"

Eponine shrugged.

"A man, Baron Marius Pontmercy, and, perhaps, his wife, who I hope will be able to get rid of Monsieur Fabantou."

"How?"

"Monsieur Fabantou told me that he had gone to the Baron's house and tried to blackmail him, but Marius, I mean, the Baron Pontmercy, kicked him out, screaming that he knew a lot about him, too. I was hoping he could counter-blackmail him."

Fitzwilliam didn't look as if he quite understood, for Eponine had been talking rather quickly, so Eponine just smiled and said,

"Trust me. I know what I'm doing."

"Did you know this Baron Pontmercy personally?" asked Fitzwilliam with a twinge of jealousy.

"In a way. I delivered messages for him and found addresses. Little things like that." Eponine's demeanour seemed calm, but her voice was a little nervous.

Part 18

Posted on Thursday, 2 July 1998

Gavroche was driving Marius absolutely insane. He was fond of the child, whom he adopted out of kindness to his father, but this was too much! They were in very close surroundings, and every time Marius turned around, Gavroche's hand was in his pocket, digging for gold. Not to mention the fact that Gavroche had insisted on adopting Grantaire as an uncle. The poor idiot had wandered about aimlessly for a few days before Gavroche found him. Then Marius had found Gavroche, etc. etc., until everyone was living at the Rue des Filles du Calvaire No. 6 in the Marais. Cosette adored Marius and tolerated the other two for his sake. Now they were nearing Pemberley and Marius could not wait to get out of the carriage. When the carriage stopped, he saw a man and a young lady standing on the front porch. The girl looked familiar, but he could not place her face. He helped Cosette out of they carriage and they proceeded arm in arm up to the porch.

"Monsieur Marius!" the girl greeted him, and he recognized with a start the young waif, Eponine.

"Eponine!" he exclaimed. Cosette smiled. Eponine said,

"This is Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam. Colonel Fitzwilliam, Monsieur le Baron Pontmercy."

The two men shook hands and Cosette curtsied. They went inside the house.

Eponine summoned Mrs. Reynolds and told her to tell Monsieur Enjolras that he had guests.

Enjolras had been watching Georgiana play the piano-forte when he had been most unpleasantly joined by Miss Bingley. When Mrs. Reynolds fetched him, he was very relieved to leave her company. However, he was even more relieved by the sight he saw in the foyer.

"Marius!"

"Enjolras!"

The two friends shook hands. Marius introduced him to Cosette, who blushed prettily. Then he saw Grantaire.

"Well, Enjolras, what do you think of me now?" the latter asked, puffing himself up.

"I think you are the most welcome sight I ever beheld."

Grantaire was shocked into speechlessness. Enjolras took him by the arm into the billiard room where he proceeded to tell him all about Miss Bingley.

"So, you say this Miss Bingley is fair?"

Enjolras paused.

"That is for you to say, I believe."

"She's ugly, isn't she?"

"I didn't say that."

"Alright. Describe her to me."

"She's tall, she has a wide mouth, good posture, black hair, and pointy nose that sticks out this far, and her skin is darker than most."

"Enjolras, this description pleases me. I would like to meet this Miss Bingley."

Enjolras scrutinized him.

"What?" asked Grantaire, feeling uncomfortable all of a sudden.

"I think you should change your clothes first."

"Why?"

"Because I told her you were wealthy."

"Ah! I'm wealthy."

"You may use my clothes. Do you think you would fit into them? You're bigger than I am."

"I can fit into anything. Give me cloth and I'll wear it."

Enjolras had a deep urge to slip Grantaire a corset and petticoat, but overcame that desire with the image of Miss Bingley. After a huge transformation, Grantaire looked as if he could have been Enjolras's older brother. Enjolras felt a bit guilty for putting Caroline on Grantaire's shoulders, but he felt Grantaire could handle her. Besides, since neither spoke the other's language, they would probably get along famously.

That night, as Eponine and Marius awaited Thenardier's arrival, the scene in the parlor was very amusing to look at. Grantaire and Caroline were giggling to each other while Enjolras watched and interpreted for them. Georgiana watched, highly amused. She knew by their reactions that Enjolras wasn't being entirely truthful to the interpretations of what Grantaire said. Elizabeth and Darcy watched with wonder as their house filled with French persons, and, watching Colonel Fitzwilliam and Eponine together, Elizabeth had an idea.

"Mr. Darcy," she began.

"Yes?" he asked.

"Do you think the Colonel and Eponine have an understanding?"

"What do you mean?"

"Do you think they are engaged, sir?"

Upon closer inspection, Mr. Darcy had to agree.

"They do look quite fond of each other, dear."

"When they announce their engagement, darling, I think we should hold a ball for them."

"Of course. We already have everybody here who Eponine would invite, anyway."

"By the way, don't you think Madame Pontmercy charming?"

"Absolutely charming in every respect."

"More charming than I?"

"I never admired you for your charm, Elizabeth. I admired you for your lack of charm."

"Thank you, sir. I shall take that as a compliment."

"That is how I meant it, anyhow."

They went on in this manner for some time until Thenardier arrived.

Part 19

Posted on Wednesday, 29-Jul-98

Thenardier looked around the room, somewhat pleased by the crowd of people who all seemed to be waiting for him. Eponine looked at Marius, who grinned and nodded slightly. Eponine had appraised him of the whole situation. Cosette and Georgiana were playing a duet on the piano, each taking turns singing a few bars. Caroline was sitting between Enjolras and Grantaire, not sure which one she wanted. Grantaire was big and muscular, while Enjolras was certainly the more handsome of the two. But then, Grantaire was more amiable, while Enjolras was distant and aloof.

Poor Grantaire was at his wits end. He couldn't keep his eyes off of Miss Bingley, but he couldn't make her pay attention to his broken English for more than a few minutes. He had taken great care with his clothing, and Mr. Darcy had been kind enough to loan his jacket and boots, which almost fit him.

Gavroche was standing next to the piano, occasionally setting up a howl that nearly threw the young ladies off key.

As for Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, they were seated in a pair of matching chairs just across from the sofa where Enjolras, Caroline, and Grantaire were sitting, carefully watching everything that went on in that setion of the room.

"Darling," began Darcy, wanting to make up for his denseness concerning the relationship of Fitzwilliam and Eponine.

"Yes?" replied Elizabeth.

"Do you think that Enjolras is wanting his friend Grantaire and Miss Bingley to form an attachment?"

"Of course. I wouldn't want to force Caroline on anybody, but I think she and Monsieur Grantaire would make a perfect couple."

"They don't even speak the same language."

"That's even better for them, Mr. Darcy. If they can't communicate, how will they annoy each other?"

Darcy thought for a moment, then nodded.

"You have a point. And in this case, I think they would both be better off not knowing what the other is saying."

Meanwhile, Thenardier squeezed in most impolitely next to Enjolras and said in French, of course,

"Have you finally decided to pay me yet?"

Enjolras ignored that question, and glanced at Marius, who noticed immediately came over to them.

"Monsieur Thenardier, do you know Monseiur the Baron Pontmercy?"

Thenardier blanched. How did this upstart know his name? And why was the Baron here? He said, scarcely able to control his voice,

"I do not believe I have had the pleasure ..."

Marius interrupted him coldly,

"I believe you have, Monsieur Thenardier."

Thenardier stared at him and stammered,

"Why, yes, now that you mention it, I believe I have. I cannot recall how, though, as I have not been so fortunate as to have been in the company of ..."

Marius interrupted again.

"Spare me you ridiculous jargon, Thenardier."

Turning back to Enjolras, Thenardier said,

"Well, if you prefer not to give you my fee, I suppose ..."

"What?" asked Enjolras, raising an eyebrow with a half grin.

"Well, I suppose I'll have to leave." He stood up. Marius stood up, also, as did Enjolras. Marius said,

"Thenardier, if I ever have the misfortune of seeing your disproportioned face again inside Europe, I believe I shall have to forego the promise to my father and beat your body black and blue. Either that or turn you over to the police; I haven't quite decided yet."

"And I think you should consider one more thing: which would be the lesser punishment: death by our hands, or death by the executioner's axe?" stated Enjolras dryly.

Thenardier raised a hand to his throat, as if that were protection enough, and calmly said,

"Well, then, Monsieurs, I strongly regret having to leave your ... pleasant company, but business is business, and I have business in America."

Marius grinned at Enjolras as Thenardier clumsily scrambled to the door. Enjolras smiled back at him as a thank you, and sat back down to de-impress Miss Bingley.

Cosette glanced up from the piano long enough to share a triumphant grin with Marius. Georgiana, sitting in confusion, just furrowed her brow and bit her lip. Her playing, however, did not falter.

Darcys and the Republic Part 20

Posted on Saturday, 01-Aug-98

Elizabeth noticed during the next few days that the mood of her various French guests was somewhat lightned. With satisfaction,she noticed, for it had been her intent for bringing Eponine to England in the first place, the increased affections between Fitzwilliam and Eponine. One day, at breakfast, Fitzwilliam stood up and, taking Eponine's hand, announced:

"Darcy, Mrs. Darcy, Miss Bingley, M. Enjolras, M. Pontmercy, Mme. Pontmercy, Miss Darcy, Gavroche, M. Grantaire, we have an announcment to make."

All faces turned to them expectantly, even though three of the people present could not speak English. Simultaneously, one in French, the other in English, Colonel Fitzwilliam and Mlle. Thenardier said,

"We have decided to marry each other." Although perhaps not in that wording, that sentence captures the essence of what they actually said.

For once in her life, Caroline actually smiled at the prospect of a wedding. Gavroche threw his fork in the air in delight, and it came down promptly in Grantaire's lap. Grantaire gave him a slight slap on the head, to which Gavroche grinned and threw his knife up as well. Darcy ignored the impending chaos and stood up to congratulate his cousing and cousin-to-be. Elizabeth said,

"This is woderful. Now we can have an engagement ball. What do you say, Colonel?"

Fitzwilliam looked at Eponine, who grinned.

"That would be delightful, Mrs. Darcy. But, if you don't mind, I think we would like to wait a while."

"Of course. It's just that Mlle. Thenardier's friends and family are here, and we need only invite a few more friends and aquaintances. It will take a month at least, anyhow, so rest assured, Colonel. You will have your little while to rest."

Gavroche whispered something in Enjolras's ear. Enjolras rolled his eyes and cleared his throat.

"Mrs. Darcy, my little ... ahem, friend ... would like to tell you something."

Elizabeth raised her eyebrows at the boy, who said in broken English which he picked up with that amazing speed which children have, "My friend Grantaire like to come to your party."

Elizabeth chuckled at Gavroche's lack of propriety, but nodded anyway. Once Grantaire was made aware that he was invited to a party, he was moved to exclaim something which, loosely translated meant, "Miss Bingley, would you be so kind as to save the first two dances for me?"

Caroline seemed to understand, even without Mr. Darcy's help, for she readily agreed, nodded her head to make Grantaire understand.

Georiana was highly amused by the `romance' of Grantaire and Caroline. She knew Enjolras wanted to make Caroline leave him alone, but she hadn't thought he would actually pawn her off on the next person who walked by. She had her own hopes on that subject, however, so she was glad Caroline was no longer interested ... much.

Part 21

Posted on Tuesday, 04-Aug-98

Everybody at Pemberley was happy.

Grantaire was delighted with his luck in getting a wealthy lady to be `in love' with him. And he thought Enjolras didn't like him! Enjolras had left him entirely alone with Miss Bingley that day, and it was clear that she was just as infatuated with him as he with her. Now if only Enjolras had someone just as nice as Caroline.

Enjolras, for his part, couldn't have been more pleased. He had gotten rid of the tiresome Miss Bingley without having to succumb to marriage or murder, and it seemed that he had gotten rid of Grantaire in the process. But now, it seemed, he was going to have to attend this ball that was being thrown in honor of Colonel Fitzwilliam and Eponine's engagement. He rolled his eyes. That girl just couldn't decide who she wanted. Or maybe she had just given up on Marius. And speaking of Marius, that puppy was driving him insane with his constant cooing over Madame Pontmercy. Enjolras was thoroughly disgusted every time he looked in that gentleman's direction. What made men behave in that manner? He wanted to know.

Georgiana was happy that Caroline had stopped swarming over Enjolras, so now she didn't have to worry about him being snatched away from her.

Mr. and Mrs. Darcy were happily choosing names for their baby. They couldn't decide between Andrew, or Bennet, or Thomas, or Joshua for a boy. And then, if it was a girl, would it be Angela, or Jane, or Priscilla? Well, they still had eight months to decide.

Eponine was happy because she was to be married to Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, and her father had left just in time to not be able to give her away.

Cosette was ecstatic to be attending a ball in England, away from all of Marius's relatives. She was fond of Monsieur Gillenormand, but Aunt Gillenormand drove her crazy with all of her nagging about housework and the proper way to embroider a cushion. She had seen Aunt Gillenormand's cushions, and they were not at all nice.

Marius was happy because Cosette was happy. Also because he had descovered that he and Grantaire were not the sole survivors of the barricade.

Shortly put, the only person at Pemberley who was not happy was Gavroche. There were absolutely no children for him to play with, nothing to steal (for everything was given to him), and his only pal, Grantaire, had gone off mooning over the intolerable Miss Bingley. So, in the midst of his `misery', Gavroche set about figuring out what everybody was thinking. Here's what he had so far: Mr. and Mrs. Darcy were elated at the thought of having a ball, and were sorf of not paying attention to everybody around them. Especially since Mrs. Darcy was expecting a child. His sister, Eponine, though extremely happy about her engagement, was still a little nervous around Marius. Here's the one that puzzled him most - Miss Darcy. Poor Miss Darcy was deeply in love with Enjolras, but there was no real way of making him notice that. So Gavroche made it his chief reason to stay at Pemberley to have Enjolras finally notice a girl.

Part 22

Posted on Friday, 11-Sep-98

Georgiana couldn't understand why she was so down. She had her brother and sister at home, and Elizabeth was expecting a baby, they had a house full of guests that under normal circumstances she would be overjoyed to have staying over.

Elizabeth had sent an invitation to Netherfield, inviting Mr. and Mrs. Bingley to the ball. Charles and Jane would be arriving within the next few days.

Lady Catherine had met the news with some indignation that her nephew was marrying without her consent. And who had ever heard of the Thenardiers? Georgiana was not disappointed that Lady Catherine and Anne de Bourgh were not coming, even though she and Anne had not seen each other in over two years, since the Christmas when the De Bourghs had given Mr. Darcy their "permission" to marry Anne. Georgiana sighed.

"This could be a very pleasant ball. I should be happy."

As Georgiana was busy sighing out the window, she did not notice Gavroche was in the room until he exclaimed,

"Hola, Mademoiselle Darcy. What are you doing here?"

She smiled drearily and said,

"Hello, Gavroche. I'm only admiring the garden."

Gavroche nodded and looked around the room. He went over to the table in the corner.

"Morbleu! This is the awfullest thing I ever see!"

Georgiana grinned at him.

"Yes. My Aunt gave it to my brother for his birthday last year."

Gavroche peered up at her.

"Are you all right, Mademoiselle?"

"Yes, thank you, I am fine."

"No, you are not," declared Gavroche defiantly. "You are sad about something."

Georgiana started.

"You see?" exclaimed Gavroche. "I knew it was." When Georgiana remained silent, he went on. "You are in love, yes?"

Georgiana stood up and started going through her desk, trying to ignore him. Gavroche was not put out.

"He is a very ... intriguing man, is he not?"

Georgiana looked at him out of the corner of her eye. He tugged at his starched collar. Then he grinned and said,

"Do you know, Mademoiselle Darcy, I see many people in love. Grantaire been in love so many times, I cannot count. But I never see Enjolras in love." He shook his head. "Bah! He loves his Patria."

Georgiana's brow furrowed. Her curiosity was aroused.

"Who is Patria, Gavroche?"

Gavroche laughed.

"Patria is France, for Enjolras. Mother country, I believe it is in your language. Enjolras loves France."

Georgiana relaxed. Gavroche kept talking.

"Yes. A much intriguing man. I can see why you love him," he said, then ran out of the room. He did not want to embarrass her any further than was absolutely necessary.

Part 23

Posted on Wednesday, 30-Sep-98

The day of the ball finally arrived. As Mr. and Mrs. Darcy greeted the guests that had not arrived yesterday, Miss Darcy sat next to the dance floor, demurely waiting to be asked to dance. She had taken into account everything Gavroche had told her, and she had come to the conclusion that there was absolutely nothing she could do. Yet she was determined to enjoy herself tonight.

Gavroche was sitting between Enjolras and Grantaire. He looked across the room at Georgiana and nudged Enjolras in the side.

"What?"

He pointed at Georgiana, just as the music started.

"I believe she would like to dance."

"So dance with her. I'm not holding you back."

Gavroche rolled his eyes.

"Not me, Blockhead. You!"

"Me?!" Enjolras looked startled.

"Of course, you. Who else? Grantaire?"

"No."

"Of course not. You must dance with her."

"I meant, no, I will not ask her to dance."

"Pish posh! Of course you will ask her to dance. What's stopping you?"

Enjolras blushed and started inspecting his fingernails.

"I don't know how," he whispered.

Gavroche laughed heartily.

"So, what? Neither do half of the men here! Believe me, you will not stand out."

Enjolras sat up straighter.

"I do not intend to make a idiot of myself because you want me to dance, little one."

"Little yourself," he muttered. Then he went over to talk to Georgiana.

"Mademoiselle Darcy," he whispered in her ear, She was not expecting this. She jumped. "Forgive me," he said, "But I think my friend wants to dance."

"Then why doesn't he ask somebody to dance with him?" Georgiana asked.

Gavroche thought for a minute. This was just the kind of mischief he enjoyed.

"You see, he is unaccustomed to English ways. In France, the women always ask the men."

Georgiana blinked.

"Oh." was all she could say.

Gavroche grinned to himself. He was finally making progress.

"Yes," he said, his tone somber. "So, you see, he will make himself miserable because he isso set in his ways, he cannot bring himself to ask."

Georgiana sat there for a few minutes longer. Presently, she was asked to dance by a man of about twenty-two with long whiskers and who stepped on her toes. After the dance, she somehow found herself sitting next to Enjolras.

Gavroche saw them sitting together and gave himselfa mental pat-on-the-back. He winked at Enjolras, who looked away. Then he tried to catch Georgiana's glance, and motioned to her to ask him.

Georgiana took notice of Gavroche. It embarrassed her. She sat still for a few moments, staring at her hands, and suddenly her shoes held a remarkable fascination for her.

Finally, she mustered up all her courage and asked,

"Monsieur Enjolras?"

Enjolras jumped, then looked at her inquisitively.

Georgiana faltered and said,

"Umm ... isn't it a lovely party?"

Gavroche heard this and rolled his eyes heavenward. Georgiana blushed.

"That is, I mean, my sister-in-law has gone to so much trouble. I wonder how she was able to gather so many people in such a short amount of time."

Enjolras shrugged.

"Friends are numerous when one has money."

Georgiana blinked. She had not expected such a serious turn to the conversation.

"Y - yes, they are. I have often wondered if people like me just for me, or just because I happen to be a Darcy."

"It often happens that people don't care about you, just for your money, land, or title."

Georgiana nodded.

Oh, I agree. But there isn't really anything I can do about it, except be as agreeable as possible." She felt herself embolden, and her stomach did a little flutter on giving such a reply without stammering once. On receiving no answer, she went on, rather uncharacteristically, "Even that is difficult sometimes."

Enjolras grimaced and nodded.

"When you know somebody is after you for your money, it is difficult to be agreeable"

Georgiana giggled, thinking about Caroline.

"Yes, some people are much too obvious."

Enjolras grinned at her, knowing of whom she was thinking.

After a lull in the conversation, Georgiana gave a quick sigh, gathered up all her remaining courage (and all that she had received from her recent conversation), and asked,

"Would you care to dance with me?"

He started, and Georgiana was afraid she had offended him. She went on, rather quickly.

"Just because, you know, there doesn't seem to be much to do, and it might liven up our spirits. And besides, it might give me occasion to get to know you better. And vice versa." She tilted her head a little and smiled nervously.

Enjolras seemed on the verge of refusing, but for some reason, changed his mind.

"Why, I had not ... I mean," then he smiled graciously. "I thank you. Yes." Then his countenance changed color, and he seemed to remember something. "Oh!"

"What's the matter?" asked Georgiana. "Are you unwell?"

He sat back down slowly.

"I am fine. It is just ... Well, you see, Miss Darcy, I never learned how to dance." He cleared his throat. "So, you see..." he shrugged again.

"Oh, that is perfectly fine, Monsieur. I can teach you."

Enjolras began to protest, but Gavroche cut in again and said,

"Yes, yes, that is a good idea. There is a little room over there that nobody is using. You can learn there." He nodded his head vigorously.

Georgiana raised her eyebrows at Enjolras. Enjolras shrugged yet again, stood up, offered his hand to Miss Darcy, and lead her to the room Gavroche had indicated.

Part 24

Posted on Thursday, 08-Oct-98

"Now, Monsieur, we will proceed with the lessons. First, take my hand in yours. Yes. Now, put your other hand ... here. Now. One, two, three, one, two, three, one, two, three. No, this leg. No, this way. Now, twirl me. Well, you can't do everything right the first time," Georgiana said as she spun into a potted plant.

"I beg your pardon," said Enjolras most gallantly as he helped her back to her feet.

"Perfectly all right," she said, taking his hand again and blushing. "Why don't we try another? Now, you bow, and I curtsy."

He did so.

"Very good. Now. Turn, step, step, turn, bow, step, turn."

Author's Note: I don't think this is a real dance. In fact, I am quite certain it is not a real dance. It just looks fancy all typed out, and it is the best I can do, considering the fact that I cannot dance.

"You are an excellent student, Monsieur!"

"Thank you. You must allow me to say I have a good teacher."

Georgiana blushed.

Back in the ballroom....

"William, my love, are you ready to lead your dearest, loveliest Elizabeth to the dance floor?"

Mr. Darcy stared at her.

"Are you certain you are in good condition to dance?"

"Perfectly." On seeing his crestfallen face, she laughed and said, "You aren't going to get rid of me that easily."

As Mr. and Mrs. Darcy danced, Elizabeth was doing her usual routine, remarking on the number of couples.

"Why! My dear Mr. Darcy! Where is your sister? Why is she not dancing?"

"I trust, darling, she has found an excuse not to, which is more than I can say for myself."

"Well, there are Monsieur Grantaire and Miss Bingley, although how he is standing up, I do not know."

"Yes," rejoined her husband. "And there are the Baron and Baroness Pontmercy."

"I see the Colonel has found a happier pastime than dancing," said Elizabeth, indicating with a nod of her head, Colonel Fitzwilliam talking with Eponine.

Mr. Darcy looked, and suddenly started.

"What is the matter?" teased Elizabeth. "Don't you think her suitable?"

"There's my sister."

"Where?" asked Elizabeth, craning her neck to see.

"In the little room behind the orchestra."

"Oh, my! It does seem like she has found a more amusing pastime than dancing." She said this because what Georgiana and Enjolras were doing could not rightly be called dancing.

"Hm," replied Mr. Darcy.

Noting his worried expression, Elizabeth said,

"Don't worry. She'll be fine. I believe she has matured very much since the unfortunate incident I can see running through your head right now."

Darcy rolled his eyes and smiled.

"Elizabeth, I am serious. We don't really know anything about him."

"No, we don't," she conceded. "But I think it is safe to say he is a respectable man. And as long as he has no qualms with the British government, it will most likely be an uneventful marriage, should a marriage occur."

"Marriage!" Mr. Darcy started. "She is only sixteen!"

"Yes, my dear. She is every bit of sixteen. And soon she will be seventeen. How old do you think Madame Pontmercy is?"

"I do not know. Twenty-two?"

Elizabeth smiled.

"Seventeen."

Darcy raised his eyebrows.

"Really? How do you know?"

"I had a little chat with her this evening, with Eponine's help. She is a very charming young woman."

"Yes, she is. Uniformly charming, and very young."

"Beautiful, too."

"Yes."

"Intelligent?"

Perhaps. I have not had the pleasure of conversing with her."

"Believe me, William. She is a very amiable young woman, in every respect."

"I was not worried about Madame Pontmercy. I am only wondering ... innocently, mind you ... about Enjolras's..."

"Family tree?" suggested Elizabeth.

"Virtues," answered her husband. "Claims to respectability."

"Oh," nodded Elizabeth, as if humoring him.

"All right, Elizabeth. I will not interfere, unless it is absolutely necessary."

"Thank you, William."

Part 25

Posted on Thursday, 08-Oct-98

"Oh, dear!" cried Georgiana as her lessons seemed to be failing.

"I must apologize ...I think I can do it this time," said Enjolras.

"No, no. I ... I'm feeling rather warm. Would you mind if we stopped?"

Enjolras smiled ruefully.

"Not at all."

Georgiana let out a breath she had not been aware she was holding. When he held out his and to escort her back to the ballroom, she drew it back in sharply, and smiled graciously at him.

After he saw her seated, he nodded at her, and left. As she watched him leave, she saw Gavroche come up to him, and they started talking.

Gavroche walked up behind Enjolras, tapped him on the elbow, and said,

"I think you like her."

"Who?" asked Enjolras, looking around.

"Miss Darcy."

"Well, of course. She is bright, not simpering like other women."

Gavroche shook his head.

"No, no, no. She is not only bright - she is beautiful, charming, she had a good character, she is sensitive, she is shy... And she loves you."

Enjolras blushed.

"Gavroche, I don't think..."

"And you love her." He raised his eyebrows at Enjolras. "Don't you?" A sly smile was on his lips.

Enjolras looked about helplessly.

"Well ... Gavroche, little gamin, go stick your nose back in your food where it belongs."

Gavroche did a very ungentlemanly thing just then: he stuck his tongue out at Enjolras, then scampered off. He had not realized how much fun a ball could be.

Watching Gavroche go, Enjolras wondered if he could be right. Could Miss Darcy really be in love with him? It would explain so much. He had not thought for a second that he could actually be in love with her, and he did not think of it now. But the thought of her being in love with him was rather flattering, even though he would not admit it. He decided the best thing to do would be to not cause her anymore pain, as he assumed he had done, from ignoring her so much lately.

He went back to her, sat down, and they spent the rest of the ball in conversation.

Gavroche kept a close watch on everybody at dinner. Some of them, it was a beautiful sight to behold - like Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, Mr. and Mrs. Bingley, the Pontmercys, and the Colonel and Eponine. Others, it was hilarious, like Grantaire and Miss Bingley. With Enjolras and Georgiana, however, it was painful. They were getting nowhere in their relationship ... if you could call it a relationship. Gavroche was just about to give up.

Colonel Fitzwilliam and Eponine were to be married next month, and after that, Enjolras was going back to France. He said there was much work to be done there, and Gavroche was certain he would go about getting himself killed as soon as possible. If he had a young wife, however, there might be some hesitation on his part. Suddenly, it hit Gavroche that maybe this was reason he did not pursue any kind of friendship with Georgiana. Perhaps he was afraid of having somebody depending on him. If this was the case, it was hopeless to wish for any romance from these two. At that moment, Gavroche washed his hands of the whole affair.

Part 26

Posted on Wednesday, 14-Oct-98

The next day, Georgiana found her brother in the library reading a book he had recently bought in London. She went to the shelf and started carefully scanning each book.

"What are you looking for, Georgiana?" Mr. Darcy asked her.

"I am looking for a book about France, brother," came the candid reply.

He raised an eyebrow at her.

"France?"

"Yes," she said matter-of-factly. "France. You know, the country?"

"Ah, yes. France. I remember it well... Why do you want to read about France?"

She shrugged stubbornly.

"I am only interested in finding out more about it."

He closed his book and stood up.

"All right, then," he came and stood behind her. "Here is a good one," he said, handing her a large volume to her. "And now, I shall leave you to your reading."

He left.

A few minutes later, there was a rap on the door, and Enjolras peeked in.

"Oh, excuse me. I thought Mar ... I mean, Monsieur Pontmercy, was here."

Georgiana hastily stood up and made her courtesies.

"Perfectly all right, I assure you."

He closed the door behind him, and started peering at the many books. She sat down with her volume. She watched him out of the corner of her eye as he picked up a book, turned a few of the pages, chuckled a little, and put it back.

"May I ask what you find so amusing, sir?" asked Georgiana.

"Oh, it is nothing. I was only looking at a picture of King Louis XVI."

"Was he really such a funny creature to look at?"

"Yes," he said seriously. "Very funny."

Georgiana smiled, and went back to reading her book.

After a while, Enjolras asked, "What are you reading, if I may ask?"

"It is a volume of French history, and customs."

"Really?"

"Yes. And do you know, I cannot find anything about the women asking the men to dance."

Enjolras did not understand this comment, so he said, "Have you been interested in my country's affairs long?"

"Actually, yes. I have been asking my brother to take me there for a vacation, but he has not yet found the opportunity."

"It is not a very good place for a vacation these days," said Enjolras quietly as he played with the pattern on the chair.

"Perhaps not, but I was not talking solely of Paris. I would simply love to see the beautiful landscapes."

"Does not England have beautiful landscapes?"

"Oh! certainly. But it is an entirely different matter, seeing landscapes in a country foreign to yourself."

"True," he said, and once more began pacing the room.

Why is he acting so strangely? thought Georgiana, then, Has that awful man come back, the strange one with the purple shoes?

Enjolras noticed her apparent distress.

"Is something the matter, Miss Darcy?" he asked.

"I do not know," said she. "Is there?" She peered at him, and he looked at her strangely, then shrugged.

"I suppose not."

There was an awkward pause. Finally, Enjolras came and sat down beside her - she thought it was rather close, anyhow - and he said, "Do you very much wish to go to France?"

"What is that?"

"You mentioned earlier that you would like to go to France..."

"Oh! Yes, I remember now. Yes, I would very much like to go to France, but as of yet, my brother cannot take me. He is very busy here."

He gave her an odd smile, which unnerved her.

"How would you like to go with me, when I return next month?"

She thought for a moment, then said, "I do not think it would be very proper. We would need a chaperone, or it would be most scandalous."

"Scandalous? How?"

"Well, me, an unmarried woman, going to France with you, an unmarried man ... People would talk."

"Oh, yes, of course they would, if we were unmarried. I suppose what I meant to ask was .... would you marry me?" After she did not answer immediately, he added, "To be able to go to France...you know."

Georgiana was speechless. This was the last thing in the world that she expected. He was unnerved by her silence, and hastily said,

"I am sorry I mentioned it," and he went, and stood by the fireplace. She got up, her stomach in a whirl, and said,

"Would you be marrying me, just to fulfill my wishes, or do you wish for your own happiness?"

"Pardon me?" he asked, confused.

"What I mean to say is ... did little Gavroche have anything to do with this sudden ... proposal?"

"What? Gavroche?" he asked, incredulous, "No! ... Well, maybe a small portion, but I assure you, Miss Darcy, that I was not trying to... I truly wish to marry you." He felt he was not being passionate enough. "I love you," he added quietly.

"You do?" she asked, her eyes in danger of drowning.

"Yes," he smiled. "I do." He thought for a moment. "I really do."

She sat back down, and looked at her hands for a moment. She looked back up at his expectant face.

"Yes, Monsieur Enjolras. I will marry you."

Epilogue

Posted on Wednesday, 14-Oct-98

A month later, two more men were joined with two more women in what was yet another double wedding ceremony. Granted, this particular ceremony was different in the fact that half the parties were French and the other half English.

Gavroche was supposed to be the ring-bearer, but he was nowhere to be found. They presently discovered him sneaking a look at the wedding cake. He congratulated himself on bringing both couples together, forgetting that he had almost given up altogether.

Grantaire and Miss Bingley were also nowhere to be seen, but for different reasons. Caroline was determined to be married before Mr. Darcy's younger sister, and as soon as Enjolras and Georgiana had announced their engagement, they had run off to Gretna Green. Enjolras was just grateful that he would not have to endure Miss Bingley's constant chatter and simpering remarks, nor Grantaire's long-winded and inebriated speeches, at his wedding.

The day was perfect for a wedding, which was wonderful, since the brides had agreed to share the lawn for the ceremony. The sun shone over the trees, illuminating Eponine and Georgiana's faces as they walked down the aisle together.

After the wedding, the Bingleys, Pontmercys, Fitzwilliams, Darcys, and everybody else who deemed fit to attend the wedding, dispersed to their natural habitats. Everything around Pemberley returned to normal. Until five months later....

Monsieur and Madame Enjolras pulled up in their carriage, and hastily made their way up the steps.

"What is it?" Georgiana cried. "Is it a boy or a girl? What will you name it?"

Colonel Fitzwilliam had a quizzical look on his face.

"I don't know," he said. "First the doctor said it was a girl, then a boy, and now it's a girl again."

"What kind of imbecile doctors do you have here?" demanded Enjolras.

Just then, Mr. Darcy himself joined them, and they all asked,

"Well? How is Mrs. Darcy? ... And the baby?"

He chuckled a little and said,

"Well, now, that's a funny story." When he saw their expressions, he added, "Don't worry. Elizabeth is fine. It's the babies that make the story funny."

"Babies?" they repeated.

"Yes," said Darcy, rather stunned, "My Elizabeth has given me triplets."

"What?!"

"Triplets?"

"Are you sure she's all right?"

"Congratulations, Darcy!" said Fitzwilliam, with a pat on the back. "Who would've thought you would be the father of triplets?" He looked at Darcy for a while, unnerving him somewhat.

"Please don't stare at me like that, Fitzwilliam. It's a little embarrassing."

"Oh, so sorry... Triplets! How many of them are boys?"

"One. One fine boy, and two beautiful daughters," said Darcy, proudly. "And Elizabeth has already thought of the names for them."

"The girls?"

"All of them."

And so it was, that the first daughter was named Christiana Jane, after Monsieur and Madame Enjolras, and Elizabeth's most beloved sister. The second daughter was christened Bethany Anne, after her mother and grandmother. The son was named Charles William, after Mr. Darcy himself, and his closest friend, Charles Bingley.

At first, Colonel Fitzwilliam was a little hurt that none of the three babies was named after himself or his wife, but, after a little bit of thinking, he decided that is was best this way, for it left something for his own children.

THE END