Darcy and Elizabeth: Christmas 1811 — Maria Grace

Sweet, Austen-inspired treats, perfect with a cup of tea. Full of hope and ripe with possibility, Christmastide tales refresh the heart with optimism and anticipation. Darcy and Elizabeth: Christmas 1811 Jane Austen never wrote the details of Christmastide 1811. What might have happened during those intriguing months? Following the Netherfield ball, Darcy persuades Bingley to leave Netherfield Park in favor of London to avoid the match-making machinations of Mrs. Bennet. Surely, the distractions of town will help Bingley forget the attractions of Miss Jane Bennet. But Bingley is not the only one who needs to forget. All Darcy wants this Christmastide is to forget another Miss Bennet. Can the diversions of London help Darcy overcome memories of the fine eyes and pert opinions of a certain Hertfordshire miss? Without the Bingleys, the Bennets are left to the company of Mr. Collins and the militia officers -- entirely suitable company, according to Mrs. Bennet. Elizabeth disagrees, refusing an offer of marriage from the very eligible Mr. Collins. Mama's nerves suffer horridly until Elizabeth follows her advice to make the most of the officers' company. Even Mr. Bennet seems to agree. So, whilst Jane pines for Mr. Bingley, Elizabeth admits the attentions of one agreeable Lt. Wickham. What possible harm can it cause, especially when her parents are so pleased?