Continuation 7

Eliza returned home, having thought and wondered every bit of the ride. She did allow herself many moments simply to love the wilderness. She was in a bright mood, having had a lovely little conversation and time in town in addition to her long and friendly visit with Rachel. But she awaited a letter from Memsie, even on the same day she sent it. She wondered if there was a way to visit Bath at some point. She knew she would be able to in a fortnight, so she made some plans accordingly. Eliza was glad of a book and the opportunity to keep her journal close at hand. There were many thoughts and many feelings to catalog, and she was needing some employment for her mind this season. She wished to visit different places, but there were not funds for such at Kellerfield for the moment. Her father, a merchant by trade, was heavily dependent on markets, and as the time was difficult, the luxuries of luxurious travel were not available. Oh, how Eliza longed to see wonders of the world! But what of it? The time was not now, and Eliza decided that she must wait on God's time, because who can rush things?

The next few days, Eliza spent out of doors near Kellerfield and its land. She did many things - reading and writing were amongst the chief of these. Though without current trivial luxuries, the Northwoods possessed a wonderful piano forte where Eliza often sought refuge. She loved the classic melodies as well as toying with the music. Her mother was from home in town with her father, so Eliza was left to care for the household and do as she pleased. The servants had little to worry about since Eliza was generally pleased with everyone and was seldom called on by visitors. It was on a Thursday, a glorious Thursday, when Eliza received a letter from Memsie - exactly on time from the date that Eliza had mailed her.

Dear Liza,

Sometimes I find the "E" in your name too droll, or not droll enough, and so I decided to leave it out. I think it not at all strange that such a young man should talk to you or take interest in you. I rather find it hard that you should find anyone truly worthy of you in Kingsbury, speck of a town that it is. But, I trust your judgment. This Wickham character seems very interesting. The type to stir up undesirous, obnoxious trouble, as opposed to the delightfully, wonderful trouble that we might be known to be caught pursuing. Though I will, of course, need to know more of him before I decide to dislike him completely. Mr. Wentworth having two domiciles seems sufficient for what I deem appropriate. What does he do, though, Eliza? Certainly you are no fool, and I can't think why you failed to mention his profession - you did not say that he was a gentleman, so I assume he has some useful employment. You well know I could never abide you finding interest with someone below your education, breeding, or usefulness. Certainly the useless men of this country provide excellent entertainment, but you needn't be attached, permananently, to the entertainment. There is no harm in talking or dancing. That being said, if he has a mind like me - and you know, I write men very well, I shouldn't dwell too much on it because it is harmless. Therefore, it might mean little -a simple friendship. Now, truth be told, I have met with two publishers, but neither strike my fancy. I think to make them beg for my work - knowing that it is excellent - and I think one has a mind to beg because he is needing to increase his female readership. Ha, I shall have the upper hand in this pitiful society where women can have no profession and make no income. So brilliant, I love it! I have started writing something new, yes. I'll be sure to send a manuscript of the first five chapters once I have them. Simply to entertain you, of course. I must tell you, though, perhaps your best investment, rather than a husband at present, is a cat. They are tidier than a man, more pleasing, and quite as nonchalant. I'm sure you could procure yourself one off of a tenant or some such. For now, I await your news.

Yours &tc.

Eliza read the letter swiftly, savoring every precious word and wishing there were more. But succinct was Memsie, and Eliza would have it no other way. She well knew that Memsie was also excellent at perceiving the intentions of men, having more acquaintances of the opposite sex than she herself had, and so, must be consulted. Memsie was of a dry mind, and Eliza could not really shrink her emotions to the same effect (nor did she want to). But she was glad of another perspective. She felt it was wise to seek advice from those who knew her best. It was exciting and difficult at the same time. A new novel was definitely something to be excited about! She was determined to schedule a trip to Bath and visit Memsie. And, as she set to writing to tell Memsie of her plan to travel, she told of the day that she sent the letter, relating her chance meeting with Mr. Wentworth at the shop. There was so much to relate, but Eliza did not tell everything. There were the spiritual elements that Eliza withheld. All those details Rachel knew - and truly, Rachel knew all of everything. Yet, still Eliza was a trifle unsettled.

But, there would come a point where the only person with the whole truth would be Eliza, the only solution (or lack thereof) would come from her prayers and study, and the only answer would be simply outside of the women that she knew.

Continuation 6

Riding was a great pleasure for Eliza - the wind in her hair, the exhilaration of the speed of the horse, and the delight of viewing the fine woods of Kingsbury were enough to wash the cares, worries, sorrows, and pressures of life away. And it was only to be met by even greater enjoyment in Kellerton.

Kellerton was a small township on this side, the south, of Kingsbury. It had any number of small shops and boutiques, as well as an inn, to serve guests and residents alike. Should any young lady grow dull in sitting in her drawing room, where, presumably she is waiting for some beau to arrive, she could make the short journey to Kellerton to cheer herself up, after his failure to arrive, with a bonnet or somesuch other trinket which has no similar value to people, but is nonetheless, rather pleasing. Eliza enjoyed watching people in town as she took her time looking through the little general store there. She saw all sorts of books and interesting trinkets, though at the moment, she did not want to spend any pocket money. As she was studying the new arrivals to the store, she was interrupted.

"Miss Norwood, how does this day find you?" Eliza turned and much to her surprise, it was Mr. Wentworth. She immediately felt a shock that could, by no means, be called small. She was hoping he could not see her shock and nervous demeanor on her face.

"Very well, indeed, sir. It is a lovely day."

"Yes it is. Are you often in Kellerton?"

"I come here when I am driven to a slight madness by the solitude of home. There are times the life of a young lady gets rather dull when just sitting at home having read the books there." Eliza realized she was acting rather foolish and a little too dry. She really didn't enjoy the type of connection with Mr. Wentworth where she could talk so unreservedly about herself. But Mr. Wentworth laughed and his manner was very disarming.

"Miss Northwood, I know exactly of what you speak, though I have the luxury of a house in town where books abound like the grace of God. Rather those books are a grace of God in and of themselves. I heard talk that you are good friends with the Parson Chelsey. How is it that you have come to know him so well?"

"Ah, yes. Parson Chelsey is a dear friend and near uncle to me. You see, my desire to learn more about the Bible as well as philosophy brought me to him with questions. I feared that he would feel bothered by my constant questions, but when I did go to him, he seemed glad of some challenge. Though I know not by what measure my questions were all that challenging." She laughed at her own zeal for understanding, and thought herself to be rather empassioned and youthful for it.

"These things truly do interest you?"

"Why, yes, of course. Or rather, I say 'of course,' but I am fully aware that I am perhaps uncommon for my age and sex to be studying such things."

"Perhaps uncommon? Indeed, I think you a rarity, Miss Northwood." He looked pensive rather than pleasant, so Eliza knew not exactly how to interpret his declaration.

"Well, Mr. Wentworth, I certainly hope it is a good thing to be rare." She smiled and laughed a little, though still a bit perplexed.

"Miss Northwood, I think there is a great deficiency in the world of people such as yourself."

"You mean to say women."

"No, I do mean people. Such is my experience regarding policy in London that few have strong convictions. I think it a right and proper thing for you to be concerned and growing in a knowledge of deeper matters."

"Well, thank you, sir. At that, I shall be sure to continue pursuing education and understanding, though at times it comes slowly. I hope I am not keeping you too long."

"Oh, yes, I should be going. I told Woodfield that I would return shortly. But, he is a good-natured fellow and rarely put out by a little tardiness. I bid you adieu, Miss Northwood. Pleasure speaking with you on such a lovely day."

"I, I feel the same. Good day to you, tell Mr. Woodfield I send my greetings."

"I'll do that for certain. Good day."

And out he walked, having purchased something before he had spoken with Eliza. Eliza felt good, as if the day had gained some greater brightness. It was wonderful to be pursued for conversation, and by a handsome man at that. She laughed for her girlish fancy, but went back to her investigation of the new items in the store. She did find one gem - a book on the efficacy of prayer . Rather than exhausting any willpower, she decided she must buy it. And, having purchased it, decided to return home for her thoughts over powered her. It was times like these, when notions, ideas, perceptions, analysis, and desire for further research, made it impossible to be around people. It was time for her to be by herself, left to her thoughts and feelings.

Continuation 5

Dearest friend,

I cannot think why I should not have told you all of my happenings in the past few weeks. Perhaps it was that such a dull thing had occurred and yet so very cautious was I that I did not want to mention too much when there was nothing passing but mere new acquaintances. But I think perhaps it could be more. As of late, two men have arrived in our neighborhood, a Mr. Wickham Woodfield of Hallowwood Park here in Kingsbury and a Mr. Horatio Wentworth of Allenhelm Park in Surrey. It seems Mr. Wentworth oft stays with Mr. Woodfield because their business of late requires their mutual cooperation. I understand Mr. Wentworth to have a house in town as well. He is talkative for a man of seven and twenty, though I only know from my own experiences with him. Curious thing this - I am not very flirtatious or, in the way of these current young ladies, very forward. So it is a wonder that things should change so suddenly. Mr. Woodfield is rather too observant for his own good. He is impetuous, to be sure, but he is friendly at least. I feel that I am under examination in his presence - he seems to be trying to discern hidden ways in me. Imagine that! I, the inventor of disguising my study of people and observation, is now the observed! My particular interest does fall on Mr. Wentworth though. Mr. Woodfield is handsome, certainly, but I find my fancy is satisfied with Mr. Wentworth. Not to mention, he has a similar interest in religion. I wonder what God means by all this. It was only in the fall of last year that I thought to myself I might like a young man to wonder about. Indeed, I never thought such an idle inclination would be met with a very lively reality. Are there young men who fancy women that are more interested in philosophy and religion? For heavens sake, I prefer the study of Greek to neighborhood gossip, new fashions, or new acqaintainces! I should think men very interested in those women so very ladylike and delicate. When I think of myself, I must admit that I am not very delicate and enjoy laughing and talking a great deal. And what of your writings, Memsie? Have you written very much? Have you found a publisher for your first novel? After having read it, I find no suggestion needed, only that it needs to be published faster. With the fortune that you build for yourself, no doubt when you wed, you will need to find a man of the highest consequence for your successes! I laugh to myself that you will have an income greater than many of the wealthy men here in Kingsbury. But will you ever marry? For surely, you are fastidious - I should think there might be at least one man in all England to be worthy of your notice! We shall see yet. Please send me your first chapters if you have any. I should delight in a diversion from this rather petty nonsense of new acquaintances. But then he and I did dance twice this past evening - and he came directly to find me, when I incorrectly perceived that he had already departed. Oh, what does all this mean? Dear, write back to me when you get the chance. I have not the capacity of what to make of these things. It is a life entirely new, somewhat exciting, and ready to be poked at with some wit and laughter.

Adieu - I await your words and sense.
Yours &tc.

Having penned her note, Eliza immediately bound it and wrote the address. That a woman of such dry sense and good taste as Memsie Jane Bradfield should live in such a place as Bath was beyond the understanding of Eliza. But then, Eliza contended that it was, perhaps, the best place in the world to study all types of people, and as a writer, Memsie's understanding was highly dependent upon the study of characters. Surely Memsie lived there for diverting entertainment despite her annoyance with silliness and frivolity. In either case, Eliza was content to consult her, if not for her thoughts and perceptions, for her wry and humorous take on all of these events. Between her and Memsie, she could allow herself the raptures of wit and humor over such a trivial thing as a man's fancy.

Eliza woke just as early after little sleep and she was in a touch ill humor if simply it meant she was less talkative for exhaustion. But her excitement did not wan long. She remembered the pleasant evening and remembered to give the page her letter to Miss Bradfield to the post. It was a beautiful morning. She dressed herself in one of her fine gowns to visit Mrs. Worthington and discuss the past evenings events. Mrs. Worthington happened to be at the Weathersbys the night before, however, she did not speak with Eliza for she was occupied with her own friends. Eliza was content to visit in private as it was so that she could be unreserved. After dressing and a very rushed breakfast, she took her small diary with her so as to tell Mrs. Worthington, more concisely, how she felt and what she thought.

Eliza all but ran to the stable to mount her horse, Winchester, and promptly rode the five miles it was to Mrs. Worthington's estate.

Mrs. Worthington lived in a smaller estate, but the gardens were the envy of all the neighborhood. Rachel Worthington was a keen gardener and liked to have the outdoors look romantic. It was her opinion that if God was characterized by love, should not His creation reflect it? Well, she supposed, as much as it could reflect it. In either case, Southerton Abbey was beautiful, romantic, and idyllic in its setting. As lovely as the grounds were at Eliza's own home Kellerfield, she could find no peace to think there. And she was in need of immediate consolation and discussion.

She dismounted Winchester, haphazardly throwing the reigns at a servant, who managed to miss them altogether for Eliza's haste. She half walked ladylike to the great entrance and ran when she felt no one to be watching. At the door, she was met by the housekeeper Mrs. Ellis and escorted to the drawing room where Mrs. Worthington sat painting. Eliza was relieved, though she was concerned that she looked like a helpless four-year-old girl who couldn't find her doll. Being that they were very close, though Mrs. Worthington was five years Eliza's senior, Eliza enjoyed life unreserved with her.

"Well my love, what brings you here this day?" Mrs. Worthington's friendly face looked at the rather unsettled but happy Eliza.

"Oh, Rachel. I have danced with a man, talked with him much, and know not what to make of these things. He is handsome and we talk for an age, seeing as we study similar subjects and topics. I just think of what I said in the fall - and almost bless and curse my idle wishing and thinking."

"Eliza, you are a dear, and I must tell you that everything will be fine. This has only just begun, has it not?" She was chuckling, which made Eliza feel very good - she knew things would be quite alright, but it was reassuring to hear it from someone else. Eliza was once again confronted with her self-doubting nature, when really she knew exactly how to feel. Why must she have reassurance so often?

"It has, I apologize. It's simply uncharted, new, and wonderous territory for me. I suppose it's very unexpected."

"My friend, why should you be so surprised? I should think many would fancy you for your sense and intelligence, and your good humor. You are pretty, too."

"Thank you, Rachel. But understand that it's because I guess, I gave little thought to the reality of anything happening - rather, I didn't expect things to change this soon."

"You said that you danced? Was this at the Weathersbys' last evening?"

"Yes. And I was glad of the company. He's so charming. But I know so little. Time will tell."

"Yes, love, it will. Would you like to take tea with me?"

"Please, let's."

Eliza was always comforted and calmed in the presence of wise women such as Rachel who listened and talked, laughed and chastized with grace and love. She passed tea and lunch with Rachel (though Rachel did take tea rather early), and had a mind to ride to Kellerton proper and walk around town, which she did after leaving Southerton Abbey at a quarter past one.

Continuation 4

Time came for the next party at the Weathersbys, and Eliza knew herself to be excited. Although she enjoyed these evenings, they became ever more interesting with two young men to speak with. She was keenly curious about both Mr. Wentworth and Mr. Woodfield. For young men, they seemed very talkative and amiable. This was a good thing - being a woman of sense, Eliza found talking to her own sex somewhat exhausting. The reason for this was due to her lack of emotionality and outward display of her deeper feelings, something rare for a young lady of one and twenty. It was a pleasure to have people to talk to, however much she loved her regular friends.

The ball this evening was particularly lovely. The fire was a fine addition to a cold evening. As the snow was falling, the guests arrived in all their grandeur. Eliza arrived, deciding to be a guest this evening, as opposed to an addition to the host. She found she was able to be more comfortable. She talked and chatted with many of her friends as the night wore on. She knew, though, that the real enjoyment came nearing the end, when only the closest friends remained and there was time to retire to more intimate quarters. She thought it would be one such night.

Time came, and though she hoped to talk to her new friends, she thought they had left. She contented herself to sitting, admiring the paintings that she had always seen and yet had rarely seen. Looking forward to a nice chat with the Weathersbys, she partook of some more wine and simply loved the last of the public evening.

"Miss Northwood." A voice Eliza did not recognize said her name. She looked to her left and Mr. Wentworth was approaching.

"Hello, sir, how does this evening find you?" Eliza immediately became rather nervous, having thought the men to be absent or that they had already departed. His warm manners were very different from the other young men she knew.

"Very well, ma'am, thank you. Do you mind if I join you?"

"Not at all, not at all." Eliza was so curious she had a hard time thinking clearly.

"Thank you. Now, I have not seen you dance, but I have seen you talk. Am I to assume that you do not dance?" He smiled and Eliza had to wonder if this was an invitation or an actual conversation about her lack of dancing.

"Oh, sir, I do dance, but I am rarely asked. There are few young men in the neighborhood for such a priviledge, and I am not as young as some of these other fine ladies. I assume that their preference is for them. It bothers me not. I enjoy watching the festivities as well as partaking in them."

"Hmm, well then, I wonder if you would do me the honor of a dance then, or prefer you to continue in observation?" He smiled again, fully expecting a reply to affirm a dance.

"I...yes, certainly. I mean to say, rather, I would like very much to dance." Eliza put down the wine glass, from which she had taken barely a sip. Mr. Wentworth took her hand, and they danced the last two songs. She knew better than to talk too much, as these young men enjoyed very much to talk of themselves. Mr. Wentworth was no exception to this rule, but he did inquire after her interests and was most attentive. After the dance, both were in an excellent mood and continued to talk for a few more moments before Mr. Wentworth had to depart.

Eliza was cheerful, and began to wonder if such an interaction signified anything. She dared not mention anything to anyone of what she felt or suspicion, but she new that she needed to talk to Mrs. Worthington. A thought occurred to her to write to her particular friend, a Miss Memsie Bradfield. She thought, perhaps, Memsie might have some better insight into this matter.

The night continued to the point where the remaining guests retired to a drawing room to visit more. The difficulty, however, was the Eliza was no longer to sit at ease, and rather wished to get home to begin her letter to Memsie. After departing the Weathersbys', she stayed up into the lightening hours of the morning, writing to Memsie at length the goings on of the past few weeks.

Continuation 3

The holiday passed without much event, something quite alright with Eliza. She seldom thought of either men, but that their presence was curious. She went about life as usual. And as the Christmas season came and went, life was back to its normal ebb.

The Weathersbys threw yet another party, being that they did have the grandest hall in the neighborhood. Eliza made herself ready, wondering, of course, but her mind fully doubtful. She attended guests and sweet friends that she saw only at these such parties. She was full of life and fancied herself pleased. Contented with much, she thought to sit down for a spell and take in the reunions from a distance. Watching the people gave her much ease. Although she did love her friends, she felt most comforted when away from their company. The deeper struggles of her nature brewed underneath her couth exterior. Something was not right, and this time she was not going to let it go unexamined and unstudied.

For months, Eliza knew of a growing problem in her friendships. An awareness of her deficiency to care for them properly was combined with an awareness of their lack of true care for and connection to her. This had been exposed through much conversation with a genteel lady to whom Eliza had been introduced by the parson. In an effort to learn and better her understanding of the world, Eliza had developed a great friendship with the old parson of the neighborhood. His wife, though a great consolation, was busy many days with the dozen or so grandchildren that they had. For this reason, he introduced Eliza to Mrs. Rachel Worthington, a stately lady on the younger side of life and marriage whose husband was to be away some months for training in the militia. And as she was attending to her sick mother, Mrs. Worthington did not accompany her husband out. For Mrs. Worthington, she was glad to have the company of another young lady.

During the course of their friendship, Eliza had discovered that she really did not maintain a full honesty with any of her friends. Even with Mrs. Worthington, though Mrs. Worthington knew much as any about her, there was still a subtle distance that was between the two women. Eliza was not content to dwell on the difficulty, but she knew it to be a difficulty that must be resolved eventually. So silently, she watched the people dance and enjoy themselves while trying to search out the depths of her mind for a greater understanding of these troubles. But her reverie was to be interrupted.

"Miss Northwood, how do you do this evening?"

"Quite well, Mr. Woodfield. I was merely taking in the sites of this evening."

"Much to be seen, indeed. Now, Miss Northwood, I noticed that you took a keen interest in my business affairs the last time we met. I would like you to see the current pamphlet we have in town regarding the new ideals that I and some of my fellow barristers have for England. It is our desire to increase the awareness of such ideals amongst those who have influence in key neighborhoods around town."

Eliza looked at Mr. Woodfield and Mr. Wentworth who was with him, again, and looked at them with a certain curiosity.

"My good sirs, you cannot suppose that someone such as myself has influence in this region. I know the parson, Mrs. Worthington, and the Weathersbys very well, but I have not any influence."

"My lady, yes you do. I have observed you from afar through this party, and the younger ladies speak with you at length, laughing and attentive. You seem to be a person who has insight, a rarity in the world we live in."

Eliza was flattered, but found Mr. Woodfield to have overestimated her capabilities. In truth, the young ladies probably enjoyed her company because she broke certain social rules for the purpose of mockery and jest. The whole of her goal was to put them at ease with the party spirit. She was also rather alarmed at Mr. Woodfield's study of her. She became more suspicious of his character even as she was becoming more comfortable with it.

"Very well, Mr Woodfield. I'm interested all the same in what you have to share."

Eliza caught a glance and smirk that Mr. Wentworth made in Mr. Woodfield's direction, while Mr. Woodfield was not looking. She smirked herself, looking at him, but she hadn't expected him to turn to look at her and smile properly. Immediately, she was a bit unsettled, though her quick smile back betrayed none of that feeling.

"Miss Northwood, you are good friends with the parson, are you?" Mr. Wentworth began talking.

"Yes, I am. He is a great friend - he has so much wisdom and an excellent sense of humor."

Mr. Wentworth laughed. "How does such a young lady come to be such great friends with an old clergyman?"

"Oh, sir, I am very passionate about true religion and desire to learn more about practical application of principles relevant to it. I enjoy the study of the Bible. I suppose that makes me rather dull."

"No, indeed. I have a strong interest in it myself, though I am a barrister. My favorite uncle is a member of the clergy, a man I greatly admire and respect. I confess that I find it peculiar since many young women with your years are not concerned with such things."

"There you have it, Mr. Wentworth. I defy explanation and label, but is that not what we are called to be, if following God's Will? I suppose by virtue of being different, I'm not quite so dull as I think."

"To both of those notions, you do and you are. I am glad of your passion. May your young counterparts take note, whatever influence you have."

Eliza laughed at this, but noticed Mr. Woodfield getting impatient.

"Mr. Woodfield, please continue with what you delight in showing me."

"Here, Miss Northwood. Read this and tell me what you think come the next party. I believe we have already received an invitation."

"Oh, have you then? I shall see you in fortnight then. I believe the time is coming for me to retire. I bid you both farewell."

"Good evening, Miss Northwood. Pleasure speaking with you as usual." Mr. Woodfield was ready to leave, for sure, having been cut out of some of the conversation. Mr. Wentworth lingered a few moments longer.

"Miss Northwood, please let us know what you think of our pamphlet - well, rather, Mr. Woodfield's pamphlet, since it is predominantly his responsibility to translate the committee's ideas into formal writing through this medium. Your opinion would be greatly appreciated. I have enjoyed talking to you this evening. We should discuss this "practical application" matter further - I find myself pondering similar things as of late. It would be great to scout another opinion on the subject. Good evening - until we meet again."

"Certainly, sir. I shall tell you my opinions, regarding both topics. Enjoy the rest of your evening. Goodbye."

"Goodbye."

Mr. Wentworth then took a short bow and left. Eliza found herself insatiably curious about Mr. Wentworth. Though he was taciturn at the last party, Mr. Wentworth had no problems engaging her this evening. And his patient, attentive nature was pleasant and settling rather than his friend's extreme attentions and observations. Eliza knew herself to be more drawn, but what it signified, she could not decide. She only knew that it must be the inklings of something that could begin to run deeper. It was alarming in both an exciting and frightening way. She wondered what the next meeting would bring.

Continuation 2

It so happened that the Weathersbys threw another party in a fortnight in the interests of inviting still new guests who were visiting other families in the area. Eliza was invited and she rather looked forward to the party, wondering if she would hide from or encounter her new acquaintances. As before, she encountered them at the end of the evening, having spied them a little earlier. She waited to see if they would approach; she was not the type to approach young men of her acquaintance, no matter how great they were known to her.

Again, Mr. Wickham began talking, this time mentioning the nature of his business as a barrister and his collaborations with colleagues in town. This information Eliza did find interesting. Having been interested in the study of philosophy, she found anything to do with England's court system and laws very compelling. She soon realized, however, that Mr. Wickham's whole reason for mentioning his business was for her to spread his notions around, bringing about support from amongst those who might influence the neighborhood. Though she presumed to have no authority, she did have a modicum of influence in the lives of her friends and family, which she took care to guard heavily. Mr. Wentworth was with him, though was rather quiet for this evenining, only interjecting his opinions or remarks on matters. He seemed interested when Eliza expressed a particular viewpoint not held by women in general, but on the whole, he seemed rather tired and put out by Mr. Wickham.

"It was good to see you again, Miss Northwood. I imagine we shan't see you for a while since the Christmas season is upon us, and we shall be removing to our relations for four weeks hence. Both Mr. Wentworth and I shall return, though. I know I speak for both of us when I wish you a Happy Christmas! We shall see you in the new year!"

"Miss Northwood, a pleasure as usual. I hope that Mr. Wickham hasn't bored you, but you have seemed rather interested."

"Indeed, Mr. Wentworth, I consider myself a student of many things, the principals of which at religion, philosophy, and practicality. I find the state of our great country of particular interest to myself."

"I am glad to hear it. We shall have to continue this conversation when we are returned. Until then, peace unto you and yours for this joyous season."

"Likewise to you, good sirs. All the best for the holiday."

After bidding farewell, Eliza realized that she had a keen interest in Mr. Wentworth, if only it were his good manners and good looks. It was refreshing to have an interest, though small. She was rather hesitant to decide for certain that she might allow herself the chance to develop a little affection. It was very fascinating, having had no serious interest, to all of a sudden find herself in the midst of something. He was, perhaps, the first young man with a good character who could mean something to her. Still, she was hesitant, desirous to know more of him before deciding on anything. How very different this all seemed. Her mother had mentioned to her, several times at least, of her coming of age to be of use to some man and his household rather than remaining indefinitely at Kellerfield. Her mother loved her, to be sure, but she desired that her daughter should enjoy a normal, healthy attachment. For Eliza, though, this was only to be satisfied through marriage to a man of excellent character, value, and intellect. She would not abide by foolish choices or idleness, mere wealth or respectability. It would have to be someone of an kind nature, who had some sense, who enjoyed good conversation, and who also wanted to grow in an understanding of life's deeper issues.

Over the holiday, Eliza all-together forgot her acquaintances but for a few days before New Year's Day. It was on this day that she began to think further on Mr. Horatio Wentworth. Certainly he had some form of pleasant conversation. She wondered if she might not even see him again, being that he was so tired at their last meeting and that he had a sort of disinterested attention. Ah, well, she supposed it was for the best. But, if asked, she should tell people that the three of them were getting acquainted and that she knew of the two men come to the neighborhood and of their occupations.

Continuation 1

Life for Eliza was very basic, not at all terribly eventful, but joyful nonetheless. She was enjoying growing as a young lady in the appreciation of philosophy, religion, and practical matters of running a household. Her friends found her to be a wonderful companion, having both the ability to play and give sensible advice. But Eliza was aware of a certain loneliness that had begun to make itself known in her simple life.

Eliza was not like her peers. Given to study, reading, and learning new things, she had neglected any romantic entanglements that might have progressed into an attachments. Though not completely deprived of any interest, Eliza had not been acquainted with any young man who had any serious potential for such an enlightened and sprightly a girl as herself. And so, she went about life, determining that whatever would happen, it would be up to God, because after all, a young lady is not to be finding but she is to be found.

It so happened that once again, the Weathersbys had a dance at their grand hall. And being one of many friends of that great family, Eliza was, of course, invited. She hadn't anticipated anything new. The same friendly faces and the same strange faces were to be there, and so she simply made herself an addition to the hosting family so that she could greet people.

The evening was pleasurable; it was always a delight to Eliza to see the new fashions of the season, though she wasn't that sort of creature herself. The room was lovely, large with great curtains in the windows that were pulled back to illuminate the room by means of moonlight and the torches outside. It was lovely, and Eliza felt comforted. But only for a moment did it last.

At a Weathersby party, there were any number of new guests and friends to be met. However, Eliza was not of the disposition to meet and form attachments at such events in such great halls. She usually met new friends through existing bonds or through her family. For this reason, it was very strange for a young man to approach her, having no connection to her friends or family.

"Beg your pardon, my lady. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Wickham Woodfield of Hallowwood Park. How does this evening find you?"

Immediately, Eliza was suspicious. Such boldness without any particular draw made her believe there was motive outside of simply forming an acquaintance. He was handsome, to be sure, but not of the appeal to make her watch her words. There was something of his air that was unsettling.

"This evening finds me very well and perhaps a little droll, good sir. Mr. Woodfield of Hallowwood Park, then? You must be its new owner. I am Eliza Northwood of Kellerfield Park. It is a pleasure."

"My lady, the pleasure is surely mine. Have you always been at Kellerfield Park?"

Eliza was rather taken aback by the immediate question about her home, rather than exchanging normal, socially excepted discourse for a first meeting. But she answered his question despite her hesitation and wariness.

"We have been there five years this winter. My father decided that he preferred to be closer to town, though he does not like town very much. But it did make my mother happy-"

"Good, good, then you know the area well, but are not dulled by it just yet. Do you have siblings?"

Suspicions began to arise in Eliza's mind - what was this man about? She would like to ask him a few questions, but she simply answered his questions making little, mouthy remarks here and there.

"Indeed, like most, God has blessed me with the company of two siblings, an elder brother and a younger sister. Both of which are currently with my aunt for two seasons, delighting themselves in town."

"And you prefer to be out in the country, away from the tastes and the delights of town?"

"Yes, I rather like the quiet, dull life of the country where I haven't need to entertain and play to society."

At this, Eliza knew she had been too bold, but Mr. Wickham was not put off. He simply became more impertinent. And thus a game, an unpleasant and pleasant game began.

"Well then, Miss Northwood, I wouldn't think you would be such a lady to enjoy a provincial life, being that I hear you are accomplished and rather brilliant."

Oh the foolish flattery began! Eliza was growing impatient and uncomfortable. How presumptutous! She was ready to end the conversation, until Mr. Wickham was joined by another young man, who began to speak, keeping her from doing so.

"Miss, please pardon the impertinence of my friend. He enjoys meeting new people, and seldom realizes his actions may alarm new acquaintences. I am Horatio Wentworth of Allenhelm Park. Pleased to make your acquaintance."

Eliza was put somewhat at ease with his greeting. His warm manner and evident suspicion of his own friend made her feel more comfortable. Being handsome did not hinder him either, and his style of handsomeness suited her taste more than Mr. Wickham.

"A pleasure it is, good sir. I am Eliza Northwood of Kellerfield Park. Mr. Wickham was just asking me about my siblings."

"Indeed, I was not. I was remarking on how an accomplished young lady can be found in a grand hall in the countryside."

At this, despite having two handsome men to talk to, Eliza was finished with any little curiosity she may have had in the beginning. She decided that she was done.

"Good sir, you are too kind, even having known me so shortly. Mr. Wentworth, Allenhelm is not in this neighborhood. Am I to assume that you are staying with Mr. Wickham?"

"You have perceived correctly. I shall be in his company for quite sometime as I am finishing some business here. I suppose I shall see you more often now I am come to Hallowwood."

"Certainly you shall, if the Weathersbys have anything to do with the matter."

"Very well then. I think we should be getting along, Wickham. We have bored this fine lady long enough."

"I think you are right. Good evening to you, Miss Northwood. We shall continue this conversation another time!"

"Good evening to you both!"

Finally, Eliza was released. Both suspicious and charmed she mused that life would be back to normal regardless. It was nice, however, to have made new friends of sorts, both handsome men of more intelligence, and one in particular with pleasing manners and features. Only time would tell if the acquaintance wtih them would be more than mere greetings at parties and gatherings. She was content to have had a reasonably pleasant conversation and content that it had ended. She returned home that evening in a light mood, happy to have had something pleasing to look at, if anything. Perhaps the Weathersbys would throw another party in a fortnight.