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.