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Story: A New Beginning
Beatrice White was the daughter of an influential banker.
Although her husband was a prominent gentleman, she did not have many friends within the pretentious and exclusive circles of London society.
No one dared to slight her openly, however—they knew they might one day require her father's financial favour.
Thus, when she accompanied her husband to a dinner at the home of the new Baroness Norton, she immediately recognised in Jane the potential for genuine friendship.
Beatrice had met the Countess of Matlock through Mr. Darcy, a close friend of her husband's, and decided to support Jane in her new social role.
For that reason, she offered to accompany her friend on a courtesy call.
Jane wished to meet the Countess to discuss an important matter in person.
"Thank you very much for receiving us, my lady," said Beatrice warmly.
"My dear Beatrice, you are always welcome," replied the Countess.
"And I am delighted to have the opportunity to meet the new Baroness Norton.
You have done me a great favour in bringing her to my home.
" "It is a pleasure to meet you, my lady," Jane said, a touch nervously.
Several elegantly dressed ladies in the drawing room turned their gazes toward her with polite curiosity.
"The pleasure is all mine, my dear. But please, call me Margaret—you are a lady now as well.
I cannot understand why Lord Norton kept you hidden away.
You are so beautiful that I have no doubt you will be the sensation of the season.
" The Countess was quite pleased with Jane's visit.
She eagerly introduced her to the other ladies and was already imagining herself as Jane's sponsor.
That social season had been particularly dull, and she was in desperate need of something—or someone—entertaining.
Besides, the Countess greatly enjoyed attention, and Jane seemed the ideal companion to help her command it.
Jane remained gracious and attentive, answering the ladies' questions as best she could.
Thankfully, Beatrice remained alert, stepping in whenever any inquiries grew too impertinent or intrusive.
Yet Jane had come to the Countess's home with a specific purpose.
She was content with the life she was building and held sincere hope that her husband would come to feel for her what she already felt for him.
For that reason, she longed to help her beloved sister Elizabeth find a good man—one who would love her, honour her, and give her the happiness she deserved.
When the opportunity arose to speak privately with the Countess, Jane decided it was time to reveal her true purpose.
"Lady Margaret," she began gently, "I must confess that I asked Beatrice to introduce us.
I wished to meet you to ask a favour—something of great importance to me.
" "Please, Jane, speak freely. How can I be of service?
" the Countess asked, clearly intrigued.
"I hope you might assist my sister Elizabeth.
" "Elizabeth?" "Elizabeth Bennet—she was serving as Miss Darcy's companion.
" "I see," said the Countess, slightly surprised.
"I had not realised Lizzy was your sister, but I cannot say I am shocked.
You are both so charming and lovely. I saw her just yesterday—you must know she had to travel to Kent?
" "Yes," Jane said with a nod. "My husband and I asked her to stop working, but she refuses to leave your niece until someone else is found to take her place.
Lizzy cares for Miss Darcy deeply and feels responsible for her well-being.
" "I know," said the Countess, her tone softening.
"And you cannot imagine how grateful we are for everything she has done for Georgie.
But tell me—how can I help?" "My husband intends to speak with Mr. Darcy on the matter, and we hope he will agree.
We would like it to be said that Miss Darcy invited Elizabeth to Pemberley as a guest. Lady Margaret, my husband and I would prefer that it not be widely known that my sister had been employed.
That detail could diminish her chances of being well accepted in society.
" "I agree, my dear," said the Countess, clearly moved.
"And I am more than happy to help. In fact, I shall say that I was the one who introduced Georgiana to Elizabeth and encouraged their friendship.
Do not worry—I am quite persuasive, and very few dare contradict me.
Now, since that is settled, let us speak about what we might do together to help Elizabeth.
" "Thank you, my Lady." Lady Margaret smiled, visibly pleased at the prospect of having not one, but two charming young ladies under her wing—and of playing a central role in their success in society.
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Table of Contents
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- Page 38 (Reading here)
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