The Knowledge of His Being There is not so much a story as it is a series of vignettes that begin with the Evening Party at Camden Place, and progress on to Anne and Frederick's wedding, culminating with the arrival at their honeymoon hideaway.

I think most of us, were we to be honest, are happier than we deserve. Perhaps it would be best if we were to forget about all those years. Lamenting them will neither bring them back nor make us any happier. I think we have not a moment's joy to lose over regret; let us keep it all for ourselves. " She looked at him with such love that to waste his time in mourning the past would have been to allow the blissful present to slip by.

The occasion was the much promoted evening party at Camden Place. Before the tables came the polite chatter, and the newly plighted couple had taken advantage of the confusion which accompanied the incoming stream of guests, they smiled, they blushed and conversed. While admiring a display of green-house plants, she had declared the rightness of her breaking their engagement years ago and he had found that six years of suffering was his to own; neither of these revelations had any power to dampen the joy they felt at their reunion.

After all the guests had arrived and the obligatory evening party small talk had been dispensed and received, the tables were placed and partners chosen for the first set. Sophy Croft had found herself conversing with the Wallises when the tables were chosen and so imposed upon her brother for a fourth, as the Admiral had been taken up with the Charles Musgroves. At any other time, he would have found cards to be an enjoyable diversion, but this particular evening, Captain Frederick Wentworth was rather preoccupied with thoughts of pleasanter things. Not the least of which was keeping an account of his love's whereabouts. Not being a card player, Anne Elliot walked among the tables and, and though no one took any notice, she always seemed to drift back to the Captain's table.

"Frederick! Frederick! if you do not attend, we will be quite sunk in this hand. I desired a partner who was accustomed to playing nap, not whist," said Sophy. She and Frederick were usually a most formidable pair when it came to cards, but this evening, with his attentions elsewhere, they were being routed. The worst part of it had nothing to do with cards, but with the fact that Col Wallis was of the Army; it was a mortification that Mrs Croft was not bearing well. Laying out her last card, she held her breath, but to no use, they were shut out again.

"I am sorry, my dear Sophia. My mind is just not on the game at this moment and would beg the indulgence of you and the Wallises. Colonel, my sister is quite a challenger at Van John, perhaps you and she could go a few rounds. I shall endeavor to collect myself and return as soon as possible," said the Captain, rising to leave the table. He saw that Anne had made her way to the green-house plants. He joined her there.

"They are lovely," he said.

"Yes, they certainly are. They are mostly Elizabeth's. She takes prodigious care of them." To be standing next him, so close she felt warmth through his suit coat on her arm. As she stood thinking how a few days makes a difference in everything a person thinks and feels, she felt him reach for her hand. Placing hers in his, they stood quietly for a moment. "If anyone sees this, we shall be done for, you know that?" he said in a low voice.

"Mm . . . mm. I did not realise that you were so interested in tropicals. Is this a new avocation?"

A contemplative look came to his face. "I am not actually drawn to plants at'll. They were merely what my eyes came to rest upon as I was thinking other . . . more intriguing thoughts." He did not look at her, but he smiled in that way that made her think she might have something to do with the Îintriguing thoughts'. This exchange was nearly too wonderful. In the midst of a deadly dull card party, under the very noses of those who would be the most shocked, she and Frederick were trading looks and even now, holding hands.

Anne cast a glance to the drawing-room, looking to see if they were missed or that anyone was watching. All seemed to be engaged in the games; she turned back to him, "So, you are not contemplating the plants? May I enquire as to what does hold such a fascination for you?"

He thought for a moment and then he turned to her, "I was actually thinking that perhaps we should look at these plants over here," pointing to a group further round the corner. "I think these may have some merit which is quite overlooked because of their locale." Giving her another smile, he kept hold of her hand and they passed around the corner.

"I think you have a purpose in mind, other than admiration of the flora, Captain." Anne's eyes danced.

"I most certainly do. Do you wish to know the exact nature of my Îintriguing thoughts'?" he asked with a tone calculated to raise her interest.

"I am all curiosity. What might it be that is going on in that agile mind of yours?"

"Well . . . I was reveling in the fact that, of all the people in this room, you and I are the only ones who know that we have declared ourselves once again and are planning to marry. I dare say that the shock might very well cause half the room to faint, dead away," said he. Though unsaid, both came to think it a very interesting sight to see.

Anne chuckled. "I think you may be right. Though I feel it only fair to point out something."

"And what would this something be?" he asked.

She turned to him and lowered her voice, "Since you seem to take a great amount of pleasure in the secret itself, for your reverie to continue long, you must deny us the pleasure of a marriage."

He smiled. She had out thought him on this count. "I see the truth in what you say, Madam. To enjoy this secret is to doom us to our present, unwed state. Suppose we revel, together in this for say . . . one more day? Then I shall come to your father in a morning call on Monday and ask his leave?"

"I think that would be proper. So, how might we entertain ourselves in the meantime, without allowing anyone else the secret?" she asked curiously.

As he thought of some entertainment they could allow themselves on a Sunday, his thoughts were interrupted by the voice of his sister. "Frederick? There you are! The Wallises and I are quite done with Van John and are prepared to continue with Napoleon. Please excuse me, Miss Anne, for I must force Frederick back to the table, he is our only hope for defeating that simpering lobster," Sophy said, having spotted them around the corner. By that time, the couple had separated and were quite innocent looking.

"Hush, Sophia! It would not due to cause a row with the Colonel. Cards are not sufficient grounds for that. Though I agree with your assessment of his character. I shall come to your aid and the Navy will be done proudly." Giving a bow to Anne, he offered his arm and he and his sister walked back to the table

Anne walked the tables again, but found herself accosted by Mr Elliot when she ambled back to the plants.

"Miss Anne, I have wished to speak with you since our evening at the concert. I wanted you to know how much I enjoyed myself and that most of the joy came from your exquisite company. My curiosity also demands that I ask whether you had given any thought to my fondest wish?" He looked at her intently, for he was certain that she had heard him and had surely been contemplating the veiled proposal.

Anne had indeed contemplated the proposal. She had barely heard when he had said it at the concert, but was as put off by the thought now as she had been when it was rendered. Not wishing to reveal anything of her present felicity, she thought a moment and then said, "I am sorry, I must ask you to remind me of this wish; I was rather distracted that evening and I am certain I did not attend well."

Mr Elliot arched his brow and observed her with a look of dissatisfaction. He was sure that she had heard the proposal, but had chosen, at that time not to respond. He wondered why she would not do so now. "I revealed that what I had known of you charmed me long before our meeting and that my fondest wish was that your name would never change; now do you recall?" He was irritated that she was not as attentive as in the past and seemed to be distracted even now.

To create the sense of inattention, she had purposely looked away from him, hoping that this would give an impression he could not misunderstand. "I must ask that you would tell me precisely what you mean about my name not changing. Why should that be a wish of yours? My name would only change if I were to marry and I do not see why you would want to deny me that pleasure" She toned the question as innocently as possible. Mr Elliot was a schemer, but he was also a gentleman who, while still in mourning, was not free to speak of marriage, except in the broadest of terms. If she did not take up his meaning, he would not, for propriety's sake do so himself--she hoped.

"What I meant was that . . . I wished that you . . . surely you understand my meaning? I find you to be a terribly clever young woman and I cannot imagine that you can miss my intentions!" He was beginning to give into a growing displeasure with the conversation.

"I assure you, Mr Elliot, that I am endeavoring to know your mind in this, but I really must insist that you explain your meaning to me." Had his true self not been shown so glaringly to her, she might have felt badly because of her subterfuge, but as things stood she thought he would not be materially damaged by her ploy and this was the only way to keep him at bay until arrangements for a published announcement could be made.

The tables again began to change and Anne looked in hopes of Frederick slipping away. Mr Elliot stood trying to craft for himself a way to propose without mentioning marriage. He determined it could not be done in these surroundings and so was about to excuse himself. Anne saw that her sister, Elizabeth had taken the Captain by the arm and was leading him to her table. Throughout the evening his face had been light and relaxed, now it was dark and stiff. She smiled to herself and thought, It will be interesting to see how quickly he can extricate himself from her table.

"Miss Anne, I see that the Viscountess requires a fourth for her table and I feel that I should oblige her. You and I shall take up this conversation in the near future, I assure you." He bowed prettily and sat himself with Lady Dalrymple. I am certain we shall do no such thing, cousin, she thought. Looking to Elizabeth's table, she could see by her sister's demeanor that the game was not progressing well. Her sister may have wanted Frederick as a partner, but she also wanted to win whatever game she played and if Anne knew him, he would not be playing at his best in hopes of being exchanged when the rotation came.

"Well, Anne. What do you have to say about that?"

Anne started and turned to see who had crept up upon her. It was Mary. She had excused herself for this round and was enjoying a plate of rout-cake with a cup of posset. As she took another bite of the rich cake, she reiterated, "Well? What have you to say?"

"I have not an idea in my mind what you are talking of, Mary. What have I to say of what?" Mary's tendency to think that the only thoughts in the room were hers could be a frustration at times.

"About that." As she took another bite, Mary indicated her sister Elizabeth's table; the table where Captain Wentworth was seated. Swallowing, she went on, "Surely you noticed her attentions to him yesterday? And now this. I must say that if he would not have any of the Misses Musgrove, it is just as well to have him allied by my family. They will certainly look well together, both are tall and that is always an advantage." Mary continued to consume her cake with great pleasure.

As she stood looking at the table, Anne pondered why being tall might be such an advantage in Mary's mind and just exactly how many of the room might faint if they knew how things actually stood. When Frederick had teazed about it earlier, she had thought him to be exaggerating, but as the evening progressed she was struck with just how many might actually succumb if they were to know the truth. Watching the Captain, she saw him lay down his last card and the tables begin to change again.

"Oh! Anne. Take these, please," Mary said through her last bite of cake. "I have not sat with Miss Carteret and I am determined to see that ring she is wearing." Pressing her plate and cup and crumbs onto her sister, Mary hurried to her desired table. Anne stood endeavoring to keep the posset from her dress when a hand rescued the cup and her gown.

"I had thought I would be gallant and bring you some refreshment, but I see you have taken that quite upon yourself." Frederick stood with a glass of wine in one hand and the offending posset in the other. He smiled for he had seen how she came to have the dishes. "Your sister seemed in an immense hurry. I shall trade your one used plate for a glass of wine." The exchange having been made and the soiled dishes back to the refreshment table. In the process, Frederick had noticed that his sister and the Admiral had come together as partners opposing the Wallises, and by the look upon their faces, the Navy was ruining the lubbers. Since Sophia was the only person, other than Miss Elliot, having any desire for Frederick's card skills, he was certain that he and Anne could be undisturbed for a time.

They had taken up a place near the large windows overlooking the street. Standing quietly, watching the scarce foot traffic, Anne asked, "On Friday last, did you see me with Lady Russell? I tried to wave but she has very keen sight and I was much afraid I would be caught." She smiled as she thought about the conversation she would be having with her friend very soon.

"I most certainly did! Though, I was not sure until just now that it was an actual wave. There had been no other indication of your seeing me and so I only hoped. I can understand not wishing to raise the ire of Lady Russell, the glare I received was very constraining," he said, shaking his head in remembrance. I cannot imagine how I am going to be reconciled to the Lady, if that is an indication of her feeling towards me, he thought.

Anne began to laugh. "She was not looking at you! I thought, most assuredly that she had seen you just as I had. I was in a full panic awaiting her reproach upon seeing you, but none came." She looked at him and lowered her voice, "I was surprised and at the same moment relieved, to hear that she had been searching out a particular set of drawing-room window-curtains and had taken no notice of you at all! All that apprehension for no reason more than curtains."

Frederick smiled as he shook his head. "So, we both endured all that agitation for no more than a few lengths of fabric. Well, it is no more ridiculous than some of the other capers of this past ten days. But I am glad to know that you did see me and waved; I was nearly convinced you had not and that my eyes were playing me a trick." Looking out the windows again, he saw a couple strolling slowly along Camden Place. To be alone and quiet with Anne . . . He knew that the closest he could come to alone tonight was the secluded corner by the plants. Offering her his arm, he said, "Shall we move back to our Îorangery'?"

Laying her hand, they began a slow, leisurely walk to the plants. "There are no oranges, you know," she said, teasingly.

With a look of shock, he cried, "Truly? Well, no matter. We are fortunate then that I make my living as a sailor and not a botanist!"

Arriving at the corner, there was more conversation of the past few days and some conjecturing on different reactions when their engagement was made public. A time of quiet settled upon them and Frederick took both her hands in his. Drawing her close, he said, "I hope you do not think me too forward, but I have awaited this for quite some time." As he leaned towards her, with every intention of kissing her, and as she did the same, with every intention of allowing the kiss, someone called his name. "Frederick! Captain where are you? I saw you go this way . . . Oh! there you are!" It was Harville. Dropping Anne's hands, he turned to his friend.

"Yes, here I am, Harville. Just where you saw me go. And may I ask what brings you here?" While the Captain was not very angry, he was annoyed at his friend's detestable sense of timing.

"You have not noticed? The party is quite over! Several have left already. The Admiral and Mrs Croft have invited me to have coffee with them at home and I have been sent to fetch you. They are anxious to be off." Harville's look of innocence kept Frederick from uttering anything but a polite, "Thank you, tell them I shall be there directly."

Upon Harville's departure, he turned to Anne and said, "It looks as though I waited too long for my last manoeuvre."

Taking his arm as they walked towards the door, she said, "We have waited several years, I do not think that several hours will signify. Anywise, anticipation of something makes it a double pleasure."

"Or in this instance, it may just make it a double frustration. With all the antics that have passed over these last days, I am not certain that we will not be married a good long time before I am able to execute such a feat," he said as they came to the head of the stairs.

"Frederick, the Admiral has a chaise waiting and Captain Harville is already down," Sophy said. Extending her hand to Miss Elizabeth, she said, "Miss Elliot, thank you again for such a lovely time. Miss Anne, it was lovely to see you also. The Admiral and I enjoyed it exceedingly. Frederick, I am going down, please come presently, it is rather cold tonight. " Sophy left the room just as Sir Walter came from seeing Lady Dalrymple and Miss Carteret to their coach.

"Captain Wentworth, thank you for giving us your evening. I am certain that the gathering would not have been half so enjoyable had you not come," Sir Walter said with energy. He was pleased to see that the Captain was standing so comfortably with his daughter. Perhaps his observations were correct after all.

The footman had brought his greatcoat and helped him with it. As he prepared to leave, he tried to maintain a semblance of conversation with the Baronet and still gaze at Anne occasionally. Extending his hand to Sir Walter, he said, "Thank you, sir. The evening was the best in my memory." As he turned, he caught Anne's eye. Seating his hat, he quickly touched its brim in a salute to her and he was gone.

Sir Walter

Shrugging on his waistcoat and fastening the buttons, he ruminated about the differences between his station now as opposed to nine years earlier. The very clothing he wore was enough to point up the vast improvement in his circumstances. In the first interview, he had worn his one dress uniform, minus the sword. The Baronet had not been impressed. He had, in fact, made a rather rude comment upon noticing that the newly made Commander Wentworth was somewhat slipshod in his care of that uniform, for he had been negligent in replacing a missing epaulette. The Commander had not elaborated upon the fact that a man of his rank, master and commander, wore only one epaulette--on the left shoulder. But things were quite different now. He wore an epaulette on each shoulder designating him as a full captain with more than three years at that rank. Not that any of those particulars would matter to Anne's father. He would merely see it as an improvement in the care of the Captain's clothing.

Frederick chuckled a bit to himself, "We shall save the regalia of the full dress for a time when I need to impress the old Turk." Or in the words of Patrick McGillvary, ÎPut the fear of God and country in him.' Smoothing the lapels of his coat, he tugged his cuffs straight and observed the finished aspect. Knowing Anne's father to be more impressible by look than essence, he carefully judged the effect of the suit. Not bad for an overreaching, non-connected stiver with no prospects for the future, he thought, echoing back some of the words used to describe him in the year six.

Giving a final brush to his hair, he deemed himself armed and prepared for battle. Entering the dining room, he found Sophia and the Admiral dawdling through breakfast. The Admiral had finished eating, but lingered over his coffee. Sophy was going over with him all the errands she found obliging her. Frederick seated himself, hoping that his being so smartly dressed early in the day would not arouse too much attention. Alas, his hope was foundered on the rocks of familial curiosity.

"My, my, Frederick. You look to be going either to a marryin' or a buryin'. Which might it be?" the Admiral asked, draining his cup as he awaited the answer.

"Neither, sir. Just a very important appointment. I must make a good impression on the man I am to see and I determined that being well turned-out was vital. No deaths nor joinings to report." Having poured coffee, he buried himself in the cup, hoping to keep any further questions at bay. As he continued drinking the brew, he noticed that Sophy was watching him with a rather intense eye. He had seen this expression before; when things were not to her liking or there was something that puzzled her, this was the look which made itself known. Keeping the cup to his lips, he grew uneasy; when Sophia wanted to know something, it was only a heroic effort which could keep her from the answer.

Taking her eyes from her brother, Sophy turned her attention to the Admiral. "My dear, Admiral. Have you noticed that our brother seems to be in better spirits since Thursday last, but most especially since Saturday?" Mrs Croft was in the mood to bait her brother, just a little, and she knew that the Admiral would come right alongside as this had already been a topic of their discussion the previous evening.

"Well, when a man is able to go for a day of shooting and then, quite unexpectedly, meet up with an old mate, that is more than enough to bring his spirits to the full. Besides," he said pouring another cup of coffee, "Sir Walter's rout the other evening was much pleasanter than I could have ever imagined, why would he not be in fine humour?" The Admiral looked to his wife with a significant gaze. Your turn, my dear, he thought with amusement.

"While these are indeed things which I think may contribute to his . . . upturn, I thought I noticed a great change on Saturday--before the party." Turning to eye her brother, who by now was finished with the coffee and preparing to make a hasty exit, she said, "Well, my dear. Am I mistaken or has something of consequence happened which is the source of this changed demeanor?" Sophy sat patiently; over the years she had learned the value of silence. Frederick had also learned the value of silence and while perfectly willing to wait out his sister on most occasions, he was in a rush to call at Camden Place. He knew that there were times when one must throw the dog a bone; while he did not think of his sister as a dog, the analogy fit quite well. To keep Sophy off his trail, he must give her something else to be occupied with.

"Actually, yes. I was able to gain some information on Saturday which will, in fact, change my life markedly. After my meeting today, I am hoping to have very good news for you both." This interesting bit of intelligence, taken correctly, should keep his sister busy for a time. Frederick rose from the table, signaling an end to the discussion.

Sophia was not to be daunted by this obvious ploy, "Might this have to do with a certain young woman?"

Frederick had already started out of the room when his sister had aimed this shot directly into his path. He stopped and turned. Looking at his sister and brother, he said, "There is a good possibility that this, indeed, has to do with a certain young woman." He smiled faintly and continued, "But then again, it could have to do with finding a new manager who promises me eight and three-quarters, per annum." Coming back to his sister, leaning to buss her upon the cheek, he looked into her eyes and said, "I leave you to decide which has raised my spirits, dear." Straightening, he touched his forehead in salute to the Admiral and left them to ponder what he had said.

At Camden Place, Anne busied herself around the drawing-room. With each chime of the clock, another quarter-hour passed and Captain Wentworth had yet to arrive. The evening party of Saturday had been splendid; they had met outside Molland's late the previous afternoon and walked for some time, parting only because of evenings onset. He had said that he would call on her father this morning, as soon as would be proper. But here it was, nearly eleven o'clock, the morning almost gone and still no Frederick.

Taking up a piece of embroidery, she began to work a chain stitch, for it took no concentration and allowed her to listen for the door. After another quarter of an hour she heard the knocker and the Captain was announced. Upon entering the room, he smiled to her as much was possible with a room full of servants and her father.

"Captain Wentworth! I am so happy to see you. This is quite an unexpected pleasure. Come, come and have a chair," Sir Walter said expansively. Having discussed with the Lady Dalrymple his being such a well-looking man and his favorable contribution to the evening party on Saturday, it was being revolved in the Baronet's mind that the Captain was well worth his cultivating as a close connexion. He seemed to have quite forgotten his opinion of years ago. Who could say, perhaps a more permanent alliance could be formed? Sir Walter called for fresh tea and settled in to converse with his guest.

Anne sat to the side of her father while Frederick was seated across from them. She knew that her cheeks were flushed and that needlework would be impossible because her hands shook from nerves. When she looked up and was met with his smile, she felt that the scene had a rather dreamlike quality. He was actually in her home, to ask her father for permission to marry. A fortnight ago, she could not have dared to hope, but now . . .

The Captain accepted a cup of tea and looking to Sir Walter, began to speak, "Sir, I wish you to know that I enjoyed myself exceedingly the other evening. I want to thank you again for the invitation." Quickly taking a drink, he continued before the Baronet had an opportunity to reply, "After being so warmly invited into your home, I determined that you were the man to whom I must petition; you sir are the only one who could render me a particularly great service. A service for which I would be most in your debt." As he took another drink from his cup, he watched Anne over the rim. By her quizzical expression, he knew her to be a bit mystified. He winked, hoping she did not think him too unctuous in his beginning of the negotiations.

Sir Walter had heard the words, "great service," and was wary, but when they had been affiliated with the notion of the Captain being in his debt, he wished to hear more. "Captain Wentworth, I am quite at your disposal. Whatever service I might render would be my pleasure." Glancing towards Anne, he said, "Perhaps we should retire to the library for any further discussion."

The gentlemen stood and Frederick motioned for the Baronet to lead on. As Sir Walter passed by him, he took the two steps between him and Anne; leaning to her, he whispered, "Very soon, now. You look lovely today." He hurriedly turned and followed Sir Walter to the library.

As the Baronet closed the door behind them, the Captain looked about and could see that the term library was applied, very loosely, to the small room. There were few books, though there were many shelves. The shelves did hold collections of various types of enamelware, porcelain and marble pieces. A small writing desk and a highback chair were the only furnishings. The Captain took the highback and the Baronet seated himself behind the desk. A small fan shaped window allowed the sun free access to the room and Captain Wentworth noticed that Sir Walter was peering at him with a rather studied eye. It then occurred to him, the Baronet was scrutinizing his being! Now I know how a horse run through the ring at Tattersall's feels. I wonder that I should give him a show of my teeth, Frederick mused.

The Captain rose and walked to the window. This should give him a fair assessment of the whole man. He decided to take the first turn in the interview. "Sir, I am sure that you are wondering what this service is that I am in need of. I think I may have engaged in a bit of embellishment, but nonetheless, you are the only one who can give me any satisfaction in this matter."

Yes, he would do nicely in the Baronetage. Not unlike myself at that age, Sir Walter thought as he took stock of Captain Wentworth. The Baronet roused himself, realising that the Captain had been speaking to him, "Quite so, quite so. Gentlemen must always endeavour to assist one another. And what might this service entail?" While aiding Captain Wentworth would be a laudable act, Sir Walter was more intrigued with the notion of this man being indebted to the Elliots. To his way of thinking, it was always good, whenever possible, to strengthen connexions with little acts of service.

Turning to face Sir Walter, he said, "Sir, this service is actually your consent. You see, I find that I am very much attached to your daughter and upon proposing, have been accepted. I wish for your permission to marry her."

Now anyone, objectively looking at that petition, could see the flaw. The Baronet having two daughters, one being the near center of his existence and the other not so much, would naturally think that a man of the Captain's look, position and hope for the future, desirous of the favorite. After all, the rumours flying about had Mr Elliot marrying Anne the moment it would be proper. Had Frederick been a bit less anxious he too would have seen the wisdom in stating which daughter he sought, but as it was, he continued on, unaware that he and the Baronet were thinking widely divergent thoughts.

The Baronet's eyes widened. It had only been a few days since he had begun to entertain any notions of such an alliance. He had overheard Elizabeth telling Penelope . . . eh, Mrs Clay that she was in hopes of seeing the Captain so that an invitation to the evening party could be issued personally. He had watched her issue that same invitation on Friday morning at the White Hart. He had also watched as the Captain so graciously made a fourth with her at the evening party and, if he was not mistaken, there had been a small gesture of Îgood bye' to Elizabeth when he had departed for the night. No, there was no misreading the attachment! All the tokens were there for anyone caring to look.

Rising from the desk, Sir Walter came to the Captain with an extended hand. "I would be most honoured to have our families allied by such a match, Captain. I must say that this comes as no shock to me. I have seen the looks and heard the telltale bits of conversation about such a thing. But I am certain that it is not generally known, I fancy that I am rather more acute than the average man when coming to things of . . .amour," he said with a knowing tone and significant expression. The Baronet shook hands with the Captain and even made an attempt at patting him on the back. Both were rather weak and brought to the Captain's mind visions of small girls in pretty sprigged frocks.

Frederick stood for a moment as the Baronet shook his hand and prated on. There was something not quite right, but he was confounded as to what it might be. He smiled and endeavored to attend to the Baronet. Then it came to him; Sir Walter said that he had heard bits of conversation about Anne and himself. There was no way to have heard what did not take place, he thought with some confusion. Anne and he had kept their privity concerning the engagement. More to the point, all of Bath still laboured under the impression that Mr Elliot was to marry Anne. The Baronet may have fancied himself acute in the ways of amour, but in matters of fact, he was under a gross misapprehension.

"Captain, I must tell you that I know your taking Elizabeth as a wife will prove to be not only a charming choice but an advantageous one as well. She has been mistress of Kellynch all these years, since the passing of her mother and I dare say will do you proud as your position and rank require more of you in society. Yes, she will do you quite proud in... "

As the Baronet clacked on, Frederick thought not how well Miss Elliot could entertain his society, but how she might react when taken into it. The idea of Elizabeth Elliot joining the Harville's for a homey, family dinner in their crowded little house under the dock in Lyme nearly brought a loud guffaw to his lips. If there were no Anne... that would nearly be worth--no, nothing could be worth marriage to Miss Elliot!

"Sir Walter, I am sorry, but I believe that you and I have crossed our signals dreadfully. I have indeed proposed to your daughter, but it is Anne that I have asked to marry me, not Miss Elliot." He stood and watched as his words penetrated the Baronet's felicity. Had Sir Walter been less silly and conceited, the Captain might have felt pity for him as the truth burst in, but as that was not the case, there was no such sentiment.

"But surely, Captain, . . . I am surprised that you would endeavour to renew your . . . Anne!? You have asked Anne to marry you? I must say, I am amazed." He had made his way back to the desk and sat in punctuation of Îamazed.'

"Yes sir, I have asked Anne to be my wife and, happily she has accepted. That is why I have come, to ask your leave for us to marry." As he continued to watch the Baronet, Frederick could actually see the tide turning. The open look which had been his all this time was steadily dimming, the eyes were losing their glow and Sir Walter's jaw was tightening at an alarming rate. He could see that the old, imperious man was reasserting himself. No matter. I have faced worse than you for mere money, not anything as valuable as Anne, he thought.

The Baronet sat, still stunned that not only did the Captain not wish to marry Elizabeth, but that he did wish to marry Anne. Anne of all people! What of Mr Elliot, his interest seemed to be returned. Well, if those are the Captain's tastes, then he should be left to them, I suppose. But a woman which refused him all those years ago... The Baronet, of course, spent no time pondering his own part to play in the sad performance so long ago. "If you are determined in marrying Anne, I suppose we have some business to discuss, Captain." Sir Walter's tone was contemplation tinged with wonder.

"Yes, sir. I suppose we do." Captain Wentworth moved to the chair, seated himself and prepared to discuss as much business as was necessary to gain the Baronet's approval.

Before they began, Sir Walter looked at the time and determined that elevenses was in order. As things were being prepared, both men sat and pondered the coming discussion. The Baronet had some rather delicate situations which must be considered in speaking with the Captain, but was determined that with a good bit of artful handling there should be no difficulty bringing things to a satisfactory result.

Perceiving it would no good for him to strategise and try to determine a course of action with the Baronet, knowing the type of man he was and that his exaggerated vanity must always be honoured made this meeting rather simple, though not effortless. So, rather than fret over the next hours, Frederick sat quietly and thought of Anne.

The tea was brought and passed. All the proper complements to the small sandwiches and fruit and sweet biscuits were paid. Now that the body had been fed, it was time for the meeting of the minds.

The Baronet stood and began to walk to the window. He seemed to be smiling to himself, he said suddenly, "When Charles Musgrove came to ask for Mary, I am certain that he had partaken of the Dutch courage, if you understand my meaning. But I can see that that is not the case with you. I dare say that the notion of taking such a young woman as a wife was rather daunting; Mary passed her nineteenth year just before the wedding, but there was really no one more suited to him, I am sure. Our families being so prominent in Somerset and all, it was inevitable that there would be a match there. No matter, you did not come to speak to me about Musgrove, now did you? Certainly not. We must speak of you and my daughter . . . Anne. I am surprised that you have renewed the acquaintance, sir. As I recall, there was a rather unfortunate ending the last time." Sir Walter turned and looked at the Captain.

To himself, Frederick wondered why the first engagement was being raised, surely he did not have Anne's best interest at his heart and wished to look out for her. "Yes sir that was a very unfortunate time for both of us, but we have discussed things and are in agreement about the past and, more importantly, about our future together. I hope you will not think me impertinent in saying so, but I fail to see what our past engagement has to do with our present desire to marry."

Sir Walter returned to his desk and arranged himself in the chair. Settling in, he said, "Well, I was just remembering how there was nothing I could do for my daughter in the way of her settlement at that time; I always wondered if that was possibly the reason you decided to leave so suddenly?"

Fie! you old bugger! So that is the way you will play me, eh? "Could do nothing for your daughter,"--try, ÎI refuse to do a thing for Anne if she insists on marrying a common sailor.' Keep your head, Frederick. It will not do well to murder him so early on, get his consent first. Coughing to cover his anger, the Captain said, "No sir. I left because Anne made it clear she would not marry me. I assure you, Anne's settlement money had nothing to do with my leaving. And may I say that money has nothing to do with my regaining her favor now. I have worked hard and been blessed with a good fortune; anything of Anne's portion shall remain hers, even after we are wed. I have found, that for myself, the having of money makes it less important to me." He said this firstly to nettle the Baronet and to make it clear that the settlement, or most likely, the lack thereof would not stop his marrying Anne.

Ah! a noble man who is marrying for love! I suppose those possessing an independent fortune are able to indulge in such gracious sentiments. Well then Captain, you should not mind this--much. "Captain, I am so happy to know that money is of no consequence to you, for you see, I have invested both the girls' portions and am receiving a very good return, but the terms of the contract are such that I will have no access to the funds for either of the next two quarters or possibly the next after that if certain terms are being met. So, you see, unless I am willing to pay a very large penalty, with their monies being encumbered, if you were in need of it, there would be quite a wait. There is a possibility that a small part could be got up, but it would be a very small part indeed. That is why I am so glad to hear you say that it is not needed, I would hate to see Anne disappointed--again," said the Baronet with a condescending tone.

Frederick could feel the colour rising to his face, he rose and walked over to a shelf and studied a Chinese jar. Anne disappointed again has nothing to do with any of this! And I dare say that wearing kerseymere when plain wool will serve and silk brocade instead of broadcloth has more to do with not being able to fulfill your obligation to Anne than any investment. Get hold, man! You cannot allow this popinjay to work on you, find a way to bear his jibes. Taking a deep breath, the Captain turned and took his seat again. "Sir, I know that Anne's feelings are important to both of us and I wish you to know that she will have no disappointment for my part. As for the settlement, please consider yourself at leisure in giving it. We shall have no need of it to marry or set up a home and so I would not wish you to feel burdened because of it. As you said, it would be a pity if Anne were disappointed--again." As he said this, he hoped that Anne's only disappointment in all of this would end when they were married and she was no longer subject to a man who held her in so low a regard as to jeopardize her future by squandering the settlement money.

"That is certainly generous of you, Captain Wentworth. And I shall not feel the least ashamed to take you up on the kindness; when one is earning well, it is best to stay with it. Oh! by the way, have you and my daughter discussed any dates as yet?" After asking, Sir Walter began to fill his tea and fuss with some orange slices which were left on the tray. "The reason I ask is that Elizabeth and I have some plans which will take us out of the city for nearly four months and with travel being so abominably expensive, it would be rather tedious to be coming back and forth for your wedding and all."

At this terse and thoughtless statement, Frederick had no reaction. It became clear that the best way to deal with Anne's father was to ignore as much of what he said as possible and all of how he said it. There was rarely any thoughtlessness involved for there was rarely any thought used. As Frederick refilled his cup, he said, "Ah . . . no. Anne and I thought it was best to have your blessing before we began speaking in such definite terms as dates and such." Stirring in the milk, he waited for whatever the Baronet had on his mind, because surely he had something on his mind.

"Well, since there is no date that you and Anne are partial to, perhaps you would consider March twenty-fifth, that being Lady Day, it would always be simple to recall." Sir Walter leaned a bit toward to Frederick and said, "And women are so pleased when these little things are remembered, you know." Leaning back, he continued, " Yes, as I was saying, Miss Elliot and I shall be travelling to Devon to the Wallises' country home; his daughter by his late wife is being married in the midst of April and we will be there for four to six weeks and then we shall travel on to London for a few weeks. We intend to leave on the Monday following the twenty-fifth, which is a Saturday if you were not aware, and so, were the two of you to marry before we depart, our minds will be clear of all obligations here in Bath."

Chewing the last of the last sandwich on the plate, Frederick took in all that the Baronet had to tell him. He thought about inquiring as to the date of Miss Wallis' wedding and claiming that he and Anne had actually decided upon that day. He thought about how Devon was all of 100 miles distance and the fact that it would be too tedious a ride for them to complete if the wedding were to take place while they were away. And finally, he thought about the date itself. Lady Day! Lovely day to be wed, so simple to remember; simple to remember because most people panic at their quarterly payments due and whether or not the rents will increase. Fine day to be married on! He was about to come out with a tart rejoinder when some other thoughts came to him, But this being three weeks into February, that would leave only six weeks to the twenty-fifth. The Baronet and Miss Elliot will be leaving the following Monday. In a mere six weeks we could be wed and our own masters. There is some merit in this. It is rather galling though to give him what he obviously wants. Now I am being as petty as he. If this is a benefit to Anne and I, no matter that he is appeased. Mmm . . .

"Captain Wentworth! Are you all right?" The Baronet was not used to those he spoke with losing themselves in thought, it was alarming to him when he encountered it.

Frederick roused from his thoughts. "Sir, I find that your suggestion of the twenty-fifth to be an excellent one. And you are perfectly right, coming back from Devon would be a chore that need not be done if Anne and I step lively and wed before you are off. Thank you for giving me your thoughts on the matter."

"Well, I am always glad to help family. Family is so important you know. Do you think that Anne will see the wisdom in marrying so quickly? Women become so caught up in all the preparations and they seem to need an inordinate amount of time, I wonder that Anne might not go that way on you."

"I think that I can assure you, Anne will not only see the wisdom in our marrying quickly she will understand why you and her sister must be given consideration in all of this. She is a clever girl, she will see the sense in all of it," said the Captain with a touch of wickedness. Ye gods! I think I am beginning to enjoy this. I swear, it is as cricket, a complete mystery until you begin to play and then the logic of it is beautiful to behold.

The Baronet, fresh from his perceived victories on the first two fronts was prepared to broach a third. "And of course Captain Wentworth, the matter of the wedding itself must be addressed. I have in mind a very lovely, very formal reception in the assembly rooms at the . . . Barton perhaps. I know, sir that you and my daughter would quite appreciate the services that they would provide. Their kitchens are some of the finest in Bath and I dare say that they are one of the few establishments to provide such suitable accommodations and fare at the same time.

The Captain sat listening to Sir Walter wax eloquent about the Barton and their kitchens. He had not been in Bath all that long, but he did know that the Barton was expensive and that the assembly rooms were immense. This could only mean that he anticipated a wedding of monstrous proportions, a regular Guy Fawkes Night. Frederick knew Anne by nature would not wish such a show, but he also knew by her words as much. She had off-handedly commented upon weddings the previous evening when they had walked together. While he was not disturbed in the least by Anne's settlement not being paid directly and he could see the advantage in marrying before the Baronet and Miss Elliot left for Devon, but this...

This is where you and I shall cross swords Sir Walter, I'll not subject her to this lunacy. Besides, there would be no way to prepare such a celebration by the end of March. That would mean summer . . . No, I am not that long-suffering, he thought.

As with most of the conversation, he listened patiently as the Baronet prated, certain that a way to circumvent the gentleman's plans could be found. While Frederick had certainly misjudged Anne's character over the past months, he credited that to the love for her that he refused to admit; with the Baronet there was no such feeling to put his judgement in a tumult. No, he could approach Sir Walter with all the calculation that came when determining how to take an enemy ship. All the possibilities and stratagems must be plotted. Watch and listen.

" . . . so I am certain you and Anne will agree that this plan will be worth any expense and time needed to bring it about. Also, I must tell you, having such a lavish affair will, in many respects do me some personal good as well." The Baronet took a drink of his tea and with great care nibbled at a sweet biscuit. Brushing the crumbs from his fine kerseymere coat, he smiled to the Captain and continued, "I am sure that a man such as yourself, while not yet experiencing the crushing weight of social obligations, can sympathise with me in that the time comes to repay certain ones for their . . . generosity shown. Surely you can see the wisdom in using the occasion of my daughter marrying to do a bit of quid pro quo shall we say?" he gave Frederick a significant look.

So that is what you are about, you old jackeen. Using our wedding to payoff all those simpering nabobs of the first set who pet and preen. Well, what is fit for one gander is just as fit for the next, he thought with an indecent amount of delight. He had chosen his strategy and was prepared to fire the first broadside.

Coming forward in his chair, Frederick placed his cup on the desk and began what he hoped would be a convincing accolade. "Sir, I am gratified to see that you are indeed a thinking man. I too feel that to waste such a gala would be very nearly a sin!" The look of exaltation on Sir Walter's face told Frederick that he had plucked the right cord in the gent's bosom and to continue with the tune. "Sir Walter, while I am certainly not as experienced in weighty social matters as you obviously are, I do find that what little rank I have attained does oblige me, on occasion to also recompense those who have been generous towards me. So, I am certain that you will have no objection if I, most modestly of course, do likewise in using the wedding to clear up . . . a few social debts?"

The Baronet had not expected such a petition. What social obligations could a sailor possibly have? Perhaps a few fellows such as Croft would not be so bad, he thought. "I suppose that if you are very judicious as to whom you invite, there should be no harm in taking advantage of the opportunity, after all, it is your wedding!" he said with a smile and a sweeping gesture.

My wedding indeed, you . . . "Thank you, Sir Walter. I knew you would see how this would help me. And allow me to assure you that the gentlemen I invite will be those of whom I am certain are well versed in good social behavior. And that those having both legs will be wearing shoes and stockings!" Frederick saw the panic coming to the Baronet's eyes and determined that it was time to move in and fire the final broadside. Moving closer to the edge of his seat, he continued, "Also, sir. On my honour, I will strongly admonish them that they should be sober when they enter the premises and stay that way for as long as possible--out of respect for the good name of Elliot."

It took a heroic effort to keep his facial expression as serious as possible. Frederick had called upon the worst of the idiotic sailoring clich»s he could think of. They had certainly hit the mark with the Baronet. The look on his face was positively horrified. Now, move to the trap. Come on Walter, you can find a way out of this! Oh God, please forgive me this perverse pleasure.

As he sat, staring at the Captain, the Baronet was imagining all sorts of things, some of them physically impossible if one has only half his legs and others perfectly possible, but certainly nothing before seen by the first set. His real dilemma came in how to refuse the Captain when he had already given such a polite allowance. It would not due to have the Captain angry, he may take back his generous abeyance of the settlement or even decide to marry elsewhere. As the interview had been conducted, the Baronet was ever more persuaded that it was a very equal pairing. To his way of thinking, her rank and his fortune and looks were balancing more evenly every moment. It was much too good and prosperous a match to lose over this, but he did have quite a lot of social credit outstanding and must have some satisfaction there as well.

"Captain, I fear that there was some misunderstanding about my meaning. We would not wish the celebration to take on proportions which would subtract from the enjoyment of the occasion. Perhaps if you were to limit your guests to those of a certain rank and above, that would keep the festivities to a manageable degree," said the Baronet with as much appeasement as his pretensions would allow.

Very good, Sir Walter! I congratulate you. Keep out the low and undeserving, but yet keep me happy. Good shot, sir. But perhaps I have a better one. "I see the wisdom in what you say, Sir Walter. There are times that the officers of the lower ranks can become a bit . . . disruptive shall we say. Even those who have been schooled in deportment," said the Captain. Now, we shall see if this is the one which brings you to a surrender, he thought hopefully. "Sir, I realise that you and I are of completely differing ranks and that our hope of mixing the two is rather ill-fated." At this, he could see the Baronet relax and knew he was thinking that the wedding and the first set were saved.

"But sir, the Navy is no less conscience of propriety, in some ways I dare say that we are more so. To have a good ship, one must always be considering the rightful due of everyone aboard. So, you see, I cannot afford to offend those above me, but I cannot afford to offend those beneath me either. As my rank rises, these are the men who will carry out my orders and if I have given them reason to despise me, well sir, you know how jealousy can undermine one's ability to function properly. And I dare say that my being allied with the Elliot family, if not handled carefully, will cause a great deal of jealousy." The Captain could see that the Baronet had not apprehended much of his utterance, except that of him being allied with the Elliot's and it bringing about jealousy. He knew that would warm the gentleman's heart. He continued, "So what I am proposing is that you should, as a favor to me, personally host a fete for these good fellows. Something small, nothing pretentious. I do not imagine there are more than thirty or so in Bath; most do not have wives so the number would be well below fifty I would say. Surely you could host that many right here, in Camden Place! That way, these gentlemen would see that they have not been snubbed and that the alliance of our families is quite welcome on both sides." As Frederick sat awaiting the Baronet's reply, he mused, "Thank Heavens that this man is not proficient in rhetoric, that winding, disjointed argument would not fool most well-trained ten-year-olds. But it may be enough to bring the Baronet to my way of thinking.

The Baronet was most definitely not a proficient in rhetoric and therefore was not concerned with the Captain's argumentation, but his choice of certain words and phrases. "Propriety, rank, jealousy, snubbed and alliance," were the only ideas that he was able to glean from what had been said. Those things and the notion of his hosting thirty to fifty persons of inferior birth and position, hosting them in his own home yet! The idea was preposterous. But he again ran up against the risk of making the Captain angry. That could not be done. The only alternative was to find another way to repay his social obligations and keep the wedding small. But how to do that without being too obvious . . . mm?

"While your thought of having a private fete for your acquaintances' is excellent, I must say that I think you and I have been a bit hasty in our planning. Now you know that Anne is rather mild and not given to show at all. Do you think that she, perhaps, might not be more comfortable with something less . . . overdone? I think that you and I have allowed our notions of propriety and social convention to take precedence over the solemnity and deep spiritual joy that the occasion warrants. So for the sake of what must truly take precedence, we should consider a quiet, home gathering after the ceremony." The Baronet congratulated himself on the cleverness of the argument. How could he argue with Îsolemnity and deep spiritual joy?

Bravo, you old Turk! It only took a half an hour of manoeuvring to get you here. Now, one last bit of truckling. "Sir, we are fortunate that you were not blinded by all these machinations. Of course you are right, Anne would be most discomfited by the plans that we were formulating. I thank you for bringing us back to our senses! There will be time enough to repay our obligations in the future, and for now we will take comfort in the fact that our alliance is only made stronger for our better understanding one another," said the Captain with as much genuine humility as he could imitate.

Both men sat, drinking their tea and congratulating themselves on winning their point.

If Edward could have heard all this deliberate equivocation, he would have me on my knees begging forgiveness. At least we are free of the Barton and all that would entail, Frederick thought as he finished his cup.

How has a man so easily led risen to a position of authority? There must not be much to being a naval captain, I dare say. Well, at least we are free of a party for the Navy and all that would entail, Sir Walter thought smugly.

The gentlemen smiled at one another and continued in their private reveries, knowing that in any future encounters, they each knew precisely how to work on the other.

The Lady Russell

Two days previous, Anne had come for her customary morning visit. The morning had flown by as her goddaughter had many new and interesting things to relate. Their first topic of conversation had been that of Mr Elliot and his guile. Both pronounced him devious and manipulative in ensconcing himself with the family. They speculated to what end he had hoped his tacit paying suit would bring. Though she did not express it, the young man's faithlessness had been a severe blow to Lady Russell.

A great deal in the way of her expectations had been placed upon the future Baronet. His manners and correct opinions had pleased her exceedingly. And the fact that he had shown a great deal of interest in Anne had placed him in favoured position. His recognising Anne Elliot's value as a woman of superior intelligence had confirmed him as a man of discernment and taste. As Lady Russell had pondered her misapprehensions of Mr Elliot, Anne had casually informed her that Frederick Wentworth had again proposed marriage. Without hesitation she had continued, saying quite firmly that she had again accepted him.

“Ma'am, I have accepted Captain Wentworth’s proposal and do hope that you may wish us happy. I know your feelings concerning him eight years ago, but the circumstances are so different now. His consequence is much more than hoped for and is likely to grow as his career rises. With that objection gone, all I hope is that the two of you grow to care for one another. Could that be possible, Ma’am?”

The Lady's dislike of the Captain placed her in a quandary. His proposal proved that he too valued Anne. It was obvious that his attentions were more to the liking of the girl; and they were apparently more genuine than those of Mr Elliot. In the past, because the Captain's manners did not suit, Lady Russell had deemed his character suspect. But now, she reasoned, having grossly misjudged the one, the only possibility was that she had done the same with the other.

Could she grow to care for him indeed? It was a question that she had revolved in her mind for the last two days. While she had pondered the dilemma, Lady Russell had also been practical enough to consider the financial condition of the Elliot family and what plans could be made for a wedding under such circumstances. These thoughts had prompted a visit to Sir Walter the afternoon before.

Lady Russell tended to excuse the Baronet of his faults, always owing to his rank and consequence. After her interview with him concerning Anne’s wedding, other than spite and pettishness, there were few excuses that she could offer up in his defense.

The Baronet had been livid. He spared no details in relating how Captain Wentworth had inasmuch promised to foul a proper wedding by threatening to invite common sailors and humiliate the Elliot family; only by shrewd management had they been saved from such a crisis. He had gone on to complain that the Captain was determined to bankrupt him completely and that his finances being what they were precluded an appropriate wedding. Since this was a fact which Anne knew, and had blatantly disregarded in accepting the proposal, he did not feel himself to be under any obligation to provide more than a rudimentary celebration. Lady Russell had been mortified for the Baronet since he did not seem to have any shame of his own.

“Madam, I have brought your tea. Shall we go over the day now, or might I return later?” Longwell had been with the family long before her husband had died. She depended upon him to care for all of her household business. His loyalty was unquestionable and because of this, he was privy to many of her nearest concerns. Replacing all the implements, she closed and locked the escritoire. Rising, she took the cup he offered.

“Thank you, Longwell. Let us go over the day, it is not very full as I recall.”

“No Madam. Only Captain Wentworth to call in the early afternoon and then . . . at three, Mrs Ivers to discuss your order and have another fitting. Those are the only scheduled calls,” he closed the book he had been reading from. "Cook is preparing a lamb casserole for luncheon and cold beef with cabbage salad for supper." He stood and awaited comment.

“Thank you.” Lady Russell took a sip as she watched the street traffic from the window. Her meeting with Captain Wentworth was again revolving in her mind. Her man would have some helpful insights she knew, but she had no firm idea how she was to broach the subject with him. She decided that openness was the best approach. “Longwell, do you remember Captain Wentworth? He was engaged for a very short time to Miss Anne; nearly nine years ago. He was not a captain at the time, he was somewhat lower in rank; I do not recall it now. ”

“Yes. I recall him. A nice young man.” That very morning, Longwell had seen the announcement that Miss Anne Elliot and Captain Frederick Wentworth, late of the Laconia, were engaged to be married. Since he was very fond of Anne Elliot, and his remembrances of Wentworth were generally good, he thought it would do no harm to speak a good word for the young man; in the event his mistress still harboured any ill-will. Longwell was also quite aware that his mistress had been dogged in undermining Commander Frederick Wentworth all those years ago. He had no fear in saying a kind word as his mistress was also quite aware that her manservant was of his own mind about most things and that he would not evade simply to please her. After a few tussles, she announced that if, to keep her happy, he would not lie about his opinions the, most likely, he would be truthful in tending to her business.

“As I recall, he was merely a commander at the time. It is good to know he has risen in rank.”

“Yes, he has done exceedingly well for himself. Quite handsomely in fact.” Finishing her tea, she returned to the table. “I find that I need a bit of mannish wisdom, Longwell." He poured her another cup. If you had a subject of some delicacy, one which borders on impertinence even, how might you approach a man such as Captain Wentworth?”

Lady Russell was a woman who would have been shocked to find that there were those of her acquaintances who consulted the views of their household staff. Her good opinion of rank would have precluded the idea as ridiculous. Though, when it came to herself, all things were different. He had served her late husband and now herself, with loyalty and wisdom over the years. He was more an . . . advisor than a servant. This was a different matter all together.

Longwell stood for a moment considering. “I of course do not know the man, Madam, but considering his rise to prominence in the Navy, his apparent business acumen and speedy return to Miss Anne's good graces, I should not imagine him to be a man with whom one should dissemble. Placing the facts clearly and concisely before him would be the best. As the captain of a ship, he is wont to make his own decisions and not consult the good opinion of others. If he is a very good captain, matters of delicacy are known to him and discretion is most likely second-nature.”

Discretion was not second-nature to him all those years ago. Perhaps time has done some amending on that score. She returned to the window and again watched the busy street. “Present the facts and allow him to be persuaded by them. Thank you, Longwell. You may go.” Taking another sip of her tea, she continued to think on the matter.

Consulting his watch as he made his way down River Street, Frederick Wentworth pondered his soon meeting with Lady Russell. It was just a very few days since his engagement to Anne had been published and he was uneasy that, so soon, he was being summoned, to take tea with the Lady. Reading the lone invitation as he would the weather at sea, he predicted a squall.

Eight and a half years ago, her steadiness of opinion and gentle manner had persuaded Anne to let him go; he was not certain that she would not attempt the same now. But why apply to him? It occurred to him that she had all ready attempted to persuade Anne, but having no success was hoping to appeal to him--but how? Anne's feeling were certainly clear. Every action cried how much she loved him and wanted to be his wife. She even vouched that, had he been less prideful and asked, she would have accepted him many years earlier. No, Anne was not to be suspected, it was himself that the Lady hoped to turn. If she indeed had any ill-intent at all. Perhaps I look for evil where there is none. The female mind has always been suspect to me and Lady Russell is a female I prefer not to rouse.

The Captain had good reason to suspect the female mind. Once he had reached the rank of lieutenant, he had been marked as a potential husband for every admiral’s daughter in each squadron which he had served. He had found officer’s wives as relentless in the task of promoting their daughters in rank and standing as they were their husbands. Now and again, there had even been uninvited advances of certain of those wives. The social requirements of his career, most especially in the past few years, had been the bane of his existence. Entertaining other officers at his own table was not a stretch, but the infernal soirées when in port were more than he cared to manoeuvre. More than once he had made an appearance at some infernal gathering on shore, only to have his coxswain call him out after a predetermined period of time so that he might escape back to his cabin aboard the Laconia. While his shunting of society had gained him a reputation for being singular, his zeal in captures and bringing in prize money made up for it in the minds of his superiors and therefore had never done him harm in his career. But in Bath, he had no coxswain to call him away. He had no choice but to endure what would undoubtedly be an awkward meeting.

As he waited an answer to his ring, he considered how the Lady Russell and her home had much in common. Both were elegant and formidable. She was indeed formidable, but unlike his dealings with Sir Walter, she could not be played for a fool. His near heartless manipulation of the Baronet was amusing and necessary. To do the same with Lady Russell would be a mistake. Anne loved Lady Russell in a way that was evident; Anne’s desire that he come to love the woman and in time, to forgive her the paste, had a claim upon his actions. He must love the one enough to abide the other.

Upon entering, the footman took his hat and coat and showed him to the room where he was expected. Lady Russell was staring out a window which overlooked a small garden in the rear of the house. There were no flowers that time of year, but the greenery was trimmed and sculpted to give interest even on a grey February day.

“Captain Wentworth, madam,” the man intoned.

Lady Russell smiled and motioned for him to sit, “Please, be seated Captain Wentworth.” Turning to the footman, she said, “Please tell Mr. Longwell to bring tea.” Looking to the Captain, she said, “Unless you would prefer something else, sir?”

By something else he took her to mean stronger. The last thing I need do is to give her cause to think me a sot, Frederick mused. Aloud, he said, “No, tea will be quite fine, thank you, Ma'am”.

The man left with his orders and closed the double doors. Observing the room, Frederick thought it much less ornate than he had imagined her tastes would run. His impression was that the Lady Russell would be a fancier of Rococo or perhaps one the hermaphroditic Oriental styles that had become so popular. This room was elegant. The appointments tasteful. The furnishings and fabrics rich, but in no way ostentatious. While the room showed a definite woman's touch and sensibilities, it was not uninviting to the male sex. This was a room which offered comfort and ease to its occupants. It surprised him. He prayed there would be few more surprises.

“Captain, I must say that I was not terribly surprised by Anne's telling me that the two of you are engaged--again. I saw her look at the concert and knew that feelings of the past were still very much alive. When she came and told me I could see that she was very happy,” she said with an air of indifference. Before he could reply, she continued, “By your look, I can see that you are wondering why I have invited you this afternoon; especially invited you without Anne.”

He decided to take the offensive posture and make comment. He wished her to know that he would not be passive concerning whatever might be in her mind. “I did wonder what the two of us might have to speak about, especially without Anne, as you say.”

Her reply was interrupted by the entrance of Mr. Longwell bearing the tea. The tray was decidedly placed and the tea skillfully poured. When both had received their cups, they settled back to take up the conversation where it had been left off.

“Captain, I have always endeavoured to guide Anne in accordance with what I felt her mother would have wished for her daughter. Lady Elliot and I were the closest of friends and upon her death, I felt it my duty to step in and give support to the family. Of the girls, Anne is really the only one which showed any desire for my comfort. That has made her my favorite. This and she is my goddaughter and the only of the girls in whom I see so much of my dear friend.” She sat silently for a moment. She stirred her tea while staring at the window with a faraway look. Plating the spoon she took a sip then continued.

“Since that time, I have done the things I felt necessary to guide Anne through very trying circumstances,” she said. A little frown came to her brow and she again sipped her tea. Frederick watched her with a distracted air. Her attachment to Anne was admirable, but what had it to do with him? He noticed for the first time that the years had been visited upon the Lady as they had all the rest of them. She was paler than he had recalled and a might thinner which took from her a certain vivaciousness of earlier times. The hair was still dark and her eyes still perceptive, but the lines of her face were more pronounced. She had aged well enough, but she had still aged. He pulled himself back to the conversation, and was surprised to find that the lady had begun to speak in an entirely unexpected direction. A direction away from him and Anne and towards one which he was becoming all too familiar with, the Baronet.

“While I have the utmost respect for Sir Walter and his position in society, I know him to be too much unconcerned when it comes to his middle child. The partialities of the man are . . . glaring. As I know Anne to be a young woman of great sensitivity and value, and as you are the man she has chosen to be her husband, I wish to make certain you to know these qualities also.” She looked directly into the Captain’s eyes as she spoke. Her acknowledgment of Anne's chuzing him as a husband did him good; at the very least, she was not actively opposing him. He could see that the woman who had made the concert such a anguishing affair was not so much antagonistic towards him, as she was taking pains to make certain that he understood her love for Anne.

I behave well and she will be no bother to me. Neglect Anne and the woman will drop on me like a stone. It seemed to him more than reasonable. “I think you need not worry about my understanding Anne's value. I have made more than my share of mistakes in estimating her character, and while I am not terribly brilliant when it comes to evaluations of human nature, I am not slack in learning a lesson. I rarely repeat such a blunder twice,” he said. Draining his tea, he placed the cup on a small table next to his chair. Looking back to Lady Russell, he awaited her reply.

“Good! I am glad to hear you say that. There are many times in a marriage when making a mistake once is more than enough, but if you truly do learn, then there is a possibility the two of you will be very happy.” Lady Russell put down her cup and walked back to the window where she had been when he entered. “Captain, I wish to engage you in a very delicate matter." She glanced his way. "It is a matter which I raise with a great deal of reluctance as it reflects badly upon the part of Sir Walter." Her voice was flat with what he suspected was disappointment. "You must be aware of certain . . . conditions which made the Baronet's move to Bath necessary?” She looked towards him and studied him as he formed a reply.

The Captain did not wish to appear to have any confidential knowledge as the only sources would be from his brother the Admiral or the speculative gossip about Bath. And he did not wish to appear unfeeling about the elliot family's plight. He choze a course that steered down the middle of the two possibilities. “I am aware that the move to Bath was financially motivated and that is all. I try to not concern myself in other men's business affairs.” He hoped that this broad answer would do and satisfy her in whatever direction she was moving.

With a little smile, she showed her satisfaction with the answer. “Very admirable. Though I enter this reluctantly, I dare say that you will become acquainted with some of the particulars as a settlement is agreed upon. I wish you to understand, Captain, I am loath to discuss this. I will make myself clear in a moment as to why I broach such a private topic.” She turned back to the view from the window.

He was tempted to tell the Lady Russell that he was indeed acquainted with many things to do with the Elliot fortune, or rather, the lack thereof. He thought it best not to relate how the Baronet had nearly danced when Frederick had said it was not necessary to pay the settlement due Anne just now, that it could be at Sir Walter's leisure. No. This was best kept to himself.

Having returned to her seat, the Lady spoke again. “It is with great sadness that I say, Sir Walter is determined in depriving our Anne of the wedding which befits her station. He was, in fact, rather pointed in laying the blame with you, sir. Is it true that you thwarted him in his notion of a large and very social reception, one that would require the services of the Barton, in fact?”

So this is that reason I have been summoned, to explain myself about all this palaver of the Baronet's. “Yes, Ma'am. I took the liberty of turning Sir Walter from the notion of a large and grandiose reception. I knew that it would not be to Anne’s liking and rather than oppose him outright, I engaged in a bit of . . . fanciful . . . postulation.” Watching her for a response, he was not in the least prepared for her reaction.

“Ha, ha, ha, ha! Captain, such evasive language! From what I was told, you threatened the Baronet with a host of tattered fellows in striped trousers!” She took a long drink of her tea and looked at him over the edge of the cup. He was surprised that she laughed so heartily. Her eyes told that she enjoyed the subterfuge very much.

Lady Russell was not a woman who actually appreciated humour or had any by nature. After her interview with the Baronet, it had taken some time for her to realise that the Captain had finessed the Baronet to his way of thinking. She had laughed, in hopes of flattering him a bit. “To be honest, your wit has always alarmed me. But in this instance, it was very well used. That is why I am soliciting your aid, Captain. You are obviously able to think quickly.” She poured them each another cup of tea and continued, “You see, I was very dismayed by the Baronet's . . . contrary behaviour. His treatment of Anne has never been to my liking, but in this matter he is overstepping even himself and I was, myself, determined to do a bit of . . . fanciful postulation,” she smiled at the Captain. “But not being as quick witted as you are sir, I found that I had done myself harm in the whole scheme. I proposed to the Baronet that I would bear the cost of the reception, having it here in my home and arranging all the particulars. This would take it from his hands and then I could give Anne a lovely, proper reception and there could be no objection from any quarter. Sir Walter naturally accepted.”

“Pardon me, ma'am. But that does not sound as though you were harmed in any way. You are now able to do as you wish in this. And may I add, I am grateful that you have taken an interest. Anne would most likely say nothing, but I am certain that this has been upsetting to her,” said the Captain with a genuine gratitude.

“Well, my true intention was to see that Anne’s personal needs, her dress and trousseau and such were taken care of. I allowed my sensibilities to be quite taken over by his plans for the celebration and in doing so, I offered in the wrong area. Had I held my tongue, I would have found that he was not willing to do her justice in the way of a wardrobe either. After learning this, I made my offer directly to Anne. She has refused my offer. The girl can be stubborn at times.” Seeing the smile on the Captain’s face, she departed the topic a bit, “You smile now, Captain. Some morning, at your own breakfast table, I dare say that you too will meet with her inflexibility and then see whether you smile.”

She could see his surprise at her sly observation. Continuing, she said, “In Anne's opinion, it is quite enough that I am providing the reception, anything more will not be accepted. So, you see that I have put myself in a corner. The thing I wish to do, I am not allowed to do and the reception which holds little interest to me, is my only duty. I am hoping that . . . perhaps you could convince her that you wish to bear the cost of the other. I would be more than willing to repay you.”

“Lady Russell, I assure you that repayment is unnecessary, I can provide for Anne whatever it is she wants or needs to celebrate our nuptials. Her father's lack of means is nothing to me. I am well able to furnish what is needed and am more than willing. Though, I am certain she would be more reluctant to receive from me than from you. She will object on the grounds that it would be highly improper.” Placing his cup back on the table by his side, he came forward a bit. "And, might I add, rightly so."

“I think you underestimate the influence you have on my young friend. As for propriety, if this is done quietly, I can see nothing improper; once you are able to persuade her, send her back to me and I shall take care of the details. You are merely my agent as I believe that you may be able to use a lover’s charm to convince her that you wish these things for her; she has been very open that my influence in this matter is negligible. I suspect, the truth be known Captain Wentworth, that Anne is already making herself more subject to you than to me.” She put down the cup again. Looking directly at him for a second time, she said, “And that is just as a man and wife should be, sir.”

The Captain was a little glad that he had set down his cup. Otherwise this statement of Lady Russell’s would most likely have caused him to drop it to the fine Wilton beneath their feet. She had actually acknowledged his position as Anne’s husband and that it would outstrip her authority. Any animosity he felt towards her drained away. He saw a woman who wanted Anne’s best, no more.

“I hope you do not think me duplicitous, Sir.”

He smiled. “No, I do not. In my experience, duplicity is generally marked with a great loss of life. I doubt there will be much blood shed or many casualties in persuading Anne to be generous with herself.” He chided himself for all the dread of this woman he had harboured.

A cold look came over Lady Russell’s face. He had watched her face go from a placid amiability to rigid stoniness in an instant. He was not certain what he might have said to bring on this sudden change. Surely she is not offended by my sally!

“Certainly, there will be no casualties, as you termed it; but I must tell you, I find your jests concerning death and your impiety as disconcerting now as I did all those years ago. Perhaps I was wrong to compliment your wit, for this is more impudence than humour.” She took her eyes from him and poured herself more tea. Then busying herself with the sugar, she left him to contemplate his gaffe.

So this was it. His impertinent wit. He knew she had found him irritating so long ago; he had thought it to be their difference in station and disdain for overreaching himself with Anne. So it is my wit which does me in! There would not be another time to beard this particular lion in its finely appointed den, so Frederick spoke with a reasoning tone, “Madam, I am sorry if you took offense at my jest. I assure you that there was no irreverence meant to those who have risked and lost their lives in true battles.” He paused in preparation of his next point. “As a man who has ordered men into battle, and has stood in the blood of casualties, I must tell you, there are times when humour is the only saviour on which I might rely. I do not expect you to understand what that is like, and I am sorry if my frankness offends your sensibilities, but you must accept qualities about me for which you do not care and I shall endeavor to accord you the same. Can we agree upon this?”

The next volley would be hers. He had made his position clear. He was not a young man of three and twenty any longer; a young man cowed by the imperious nature of a woman who meant very little to him. He was now a man of two and thirty who loved Anne and did not wish to force a choice between him and this woman she counted as a mother. He would make what peace he could with her, without surrendering himself to her dominance.

Lady Russell sat and looked into the Captain’s eyes. In them she saw a man who would not bow to her carefully crafted ideal of good behavior. He was not directly challenging her, but neither would he allow her to command the situation. It struck her how like her late husband he was. She had loved him greatly and remembered that one of his compelling qualities had been a nature which did not allow her free reign over his thoughts.

There had been times in her married life that this penchant of his for encounter had brought about arguments of great intensity. This thought was quickly followed by remembrances of equally intense reconciliation. Pushing these thoughts aside, she clearly understood why Anne had remained single, rather than amend her expectations to something less. She had failed to see the Captain as a whole rather than a collection of qualities which she was not inclined to admire. Rousing herself from her musings, she saw him looking at her with a quizzical stare. She rose and went to him with her hand extended.

“Yes, Captain. I can agree upon this. I am sorry for that remark. If we both claim a love for Anne, you and I must forge a relationship which will not put her constantly between us. You will be her husband and I shall be her friend. I think this will place you where you belong in rank.” She shook his hand with a great deal more vigor than the Baronet ever had. It was a surprise to him that she would engage in such a common practice. “I know that this has been awkward for the both of us. Perhaps our next meeting will be a bit more . . . relaxed.”

“I hope that in time we will learn to be comfortable with one another. I also hope that we have proven to one another that Anne’s best is all either of us wishes. She will be dining with me to night, there may be an opportunity to bring up what you and I have discussed. Though I am still not certain how I will ever broach such a subject.”

Both knew that the meeting was over and began walking towards the doors.

Lady Russell smiled, “I am not sure either, but I leave that to you. You seem to be a clever man and I am confident that you will come up with some plan. You have not acquired all that prize money without cause, Captain.” As she walked by a table, she touched the bell and the doors opened to the footman bearing the gentleman's hat and coat. “Thank you for coming. I promise you that I shall include Anne the next time; I am sure that will make you more comfortable.” As she watched him prepare to leave, it came to her mind that, perhaps, Captain Wentworth would not be as difficult to get on with as she had feared, He is still terribly sanguine, but time has done some tempering . . . some. But, I mean to like him, if not for himself, at least for Anne.

Shrugging into his coat, he said, “I think, Ma'am, that you and I will eventually be comfortable. We must give ourselves a bit of time. Thank you for the tea. And telling me about Anne, I shall do my best.”

As he began to walk back down River Street for home, Frederick though about the meeting with Lady Russell. She had most certainly reached out an olive branch. Well, no squall. I must confess she has a great love for Anne. I must try getting on with her if for no other reason than Anne. Crossing the street, he continued on home.

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