AN: Thanks for you comments and input. I really enjoyed them.
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Chapter 15
The morning after her arrival, Lady Rachel and Anne took Lady Rachel’s carriage to Monkford to introduce Lady Rachel and the Captain. Captain and Mr. Wentworth exited the building upon seeing the carriage draw up outside his home. Anne introduced everyone after the driver helped the women exit the carriage. After greetings were exchanged, Mr. Wentworth showed everyone into the house. Mr. Wentworth bowed then said, “I will be working in my study should you need me. I am sure the three of you have much to discuss.”
The rest sat themselves comfortably in the parlor. Lady Rachel had Anne sit next to her and took her hand in hers. The Captain sat in the chair facing the two women.
Lady Rachel began, “Captain, I am pleased to meet you. I hope Anne has shared my letter with you. You are probably surprised at the lack of support from Sir Walter, but I am not. You do not yet have sufficient rank for him to deign to notice you. If you were less good looking than you are, you would have received even more opposition.”
The Captain smiled at that. “I had noticed his tendency to judge everything by how it looks.”
Lady Rachel responded, “Looks are as important as rank, for him. And increased rank improves looks. In any case, I know you are probably surprised. Anne isn’t valued, but Sir Walter values the Eliot name. As you saw in my letter, I think it prudent to wait until Anne is of age for two reasons. One, we can then force him to provide her dowry. He can withhold it until then. But more important, it will give Anne time to learn new skills. I have had friends in her position. When you are in foreign parts together, she will need to have skills in homemaking and budgeting that are generally not taught to ladies of our rank. Let her learn them. If you have made your fortune by the time you marry, it will not have hurt her to acquire these new skills. If you are still climbing the ranks, it will make your life together more comfortable.”
Anne said, “We discussed this when I received your letter. You bring up some good points we had not considered. I believe you are correct that acquiring skills like cooking, learning to design and sew basic clothing, cleaning and such would be good for me to learn. Should we be stationed away from England, these will be excellent skills to have.”
Captain Wentworth added, “I do not like the idea of having to wait, but I can see the sense in it. Would you have us stay here until I get orders and then remove Anne to your home?”
Lady Rachel answered, “That is one option, if you wish to continue your visit to your brother. The other is for you to cut your visit short and come to South Park. You can stay in the main house with my son’s family while Anne returns with me to the dower house. You can continue your courting and engagement under the eye of her uncle, rather than her father, where it will not be viewed with so much resentment.”
He turned to look at Anne with a question on his face. She said, “I think our visits together will be far more pleasant there than they will be here. With both Father and Lady Russell opposed, I will be hearing negative things whenever anyone here speaks to me. The only place we have any joy in our engagement is here in Monkford. Would you be willing to cut the visit with your brother short?”
He said, “Of course I would, Anne. You are of far greater importance to me than an extra month with my brother. Let me go talk with Edward.” He immediately followed his brother into the study. He returned within a few moments and continued, “It is settled. When would you like to leave, Lady Rachel?”
“The imp in me would like to stay long enough for Sir Walter to be very uncomfortable, but that would require that Anne be unhappy. Let us leave the day after tomorrow.”
He answered, “I can follow a few days after that. Lady Rachel, you cannot know how much I appreciate your support for Anne. I fear that Lady Russell’s arguments about how it would be much better for me to move through the ranks unencumbered would have eventually convinced Anne to do the noble thing and give me up. That would make both of us very unhappy. This way, we have a goal in mind-two years from now-and can make plans for reaching that goal.”
Lady Rachel nodded, “Anne is so young, it is hard to withstand the persuasions of those who love her, or should love her, and stand firm against them. She had mentioned you in her earlier letters, so I know more about you than you may realize. After her second letter, I suspected her attraction. I had her uncle do a little investigating. I am more than pleased with what he learned.”
Anne was shocked and said, “Grandmother, whatever do you mean?”
“Hugh frequently hires private inquiry agents for his clients. I had him employ one to investigate the Captain. Everything he learned was very positive. He is an admirable young man. And a commander’s pay is sufficient for a very modest living.”
Anne replied, “Combined with investments from his most recent prize capture, we can be more than modestly comfortable.”
Captain Wentworth blushed at this praise. He was secretly relieved that someone in the family valued Anne highly enough to take steps to ensure he was suitable and said, “Actually, I am grateful. It is good to see that someone cares enough for Anne to be sure I would make an acceptable husband for her. ”
Lady Rachel laughed and replied, “You shall see. The rest of the family loves Anne. She is a valued family member in the Stevenson clan. My sons and daughter all enjoy her company. You will find us quite different from the Elliots. I am glad to hear that you have prize money investments. I will admit that it does ease my mind somewhat. I assume this just happened?”
“Yes. During the battle at Santo Domingo, our ship was heavily involved and our captain fatally injured. I took over command, and a battlefield promotion to commander was confirmed by the admiral at the end of the action. As the fighting continued, it was apparent that our damages were significant. I notified the admiral who commanded that we put in to shore and make repairs. Since a commander does not command a ship of the line, we were ordered to return to England once repairs were complete so that a new captain could be assigned. We completed the repairs over the course of about 2 weeks. Just as we left port, we chanced upon a French merchantman who had just collected cargo bound for France. We were able to capture her and bring her along as we returned to England. Since it was outbound with full cargo, we were lucky in the amount awarded. They made an unfortunate tack that allowed us to catch and board them. With full cargo, the prize money was more than expected. If it weren’t for Miss Anne, I would likely have spent a large portion. As it is, if I am prudent with it, we should be comfortable together although I will need to use some of it in my new command. I already know of one difference between the families. Anne says that her charity work is just following in your footsteps and those of her mother. I know her sister does not bother with it, and yet it fills many of her days. That says much for the heart of the Stevensons compared with that of the Elliots. Also, it seems from our conversations that the Stevensons enjoy keeping up with current events while the rest of the Elliots do not.”
Lady Rachel said, “I recall reading about that capture. How fortunate for all of us that you were there. I am glad you understand the importance of what Anne does. Elizabeth, her mother, was very like her. Elizabeth, her sister, could not be more different. I wish she had taken more after her mother, but there is nothing I can do there. She is her own woman and does as she pleases. I believe that those of us with means have a responsibility to help those who are struggling. And yes, we do follow the news. We shall be interested to read of your future exploits.”
During that dialogue, Edward returned from the study and joined the conversation at that point. “Miss Anne is an excellent example of the embodiment of the Good Samaritan. She provides the means, sometimes great, sometimes small, to alleviate the suffering of those around us. All of us who work with her enjoy her company. She never makes those she assists feel that they are unimportant or an imposition. She has been a great asset to our communities here and all will miss her.”
Lady Rachel replied with a smile, “Well, all except her family. They hardly notice her.”
Frederick added, “That is unfortunate but true.”
Anne blushed and shifted the talk to those most in need in Monkford so that Edward could tend to them after her departure. They visited for a while longer before Anne and Lady Rachel returned to Kellynch. After luncheon, Lady Rachel planned to tackle Sir Walter head on and wanted to rest and refresh herself before she did.
Chapter 16
Sir Walter and Elizabeth determined to visit friends so as to avoid Lady Rachel and were therefore gone when the other two returned to Kellynch. They enjoyed a quiet luncheon together, and then Anne went to her room to begin packing her things. Lady Rachel read in the parlor until she heard the carriage indicating the return of the other inhabitants. She went to the entry to greet them and corner Sir Walter.
“Elizabeth, Walter, did you have a nice visit? Walter, I would like a word with you, if you please.”
Both indicated that their visit had been pleasant. Elizabeth continued into the parlor, while Lady Rachel indicated a passageway that led to the study. Sir Walter reluctantly led the way. Since his mother-in-law was of higher rank, and was still quite good looking, he had always tended to feel somewhat ill-at-ease around her. He knew he had to defer to her, even with his wife dead, and he feared her outspokenness.
Lady Rachel sat in one of the arm chairs and Sir Walter took the seat opposite her. “What can I do for you?” he asked.
She sat quiet for almost a minute before replying. “Walter, I understand that Anne’s young man does not yet have sufficient wealth or position for you to notice him. I have offered Anne a home with me for the next two years so she can learn skills appropriate for his lifes. He is well thought of and I think he will manage to make himself quite well off, so they will be quite comfortable. In the meantime, Anne can live with me until she comes of age. However, I expect that when she turns twenty one, they will marry. And you will turn over her dowry as specified in Elizabeth’s marriage settlement. Once Anne is of age, if she chooses to marry, that money is hers. I hope you remembered that.”
“I think she can do much better. To ally herself with a common sailor is a denigration of the Elliot name.”
“I know you think that. You have stated as much every time you have seen the girl. But you did not answer my question. You do plan to turn over that money, don’t you? I do not want to have to take legal action to compel you, but I will if I must.”
Reluctantly, he replied, “Yes, I remember. I did not think Anne was aware of the terms of the settlement. I do not want her to make a mistake when she could do so much better.”
“Anne is very fortunate to have found an ambitious, honorable man who cares deeply for her. I know you loved Elizabeth, in your own way, but I do not think you appreciate how rare it is to find someone who appreciates one for who one is the way Captain Wentworth does Anne. So many society weddings are mergers of family or money. There is love and respect in their relationship which gives a greater chance of them being happy together through the rest of their lives.”
Ignoring that comment, he continued, “So you will take Anne with you? Do not expect me to provide for her when she is living in your home. If she wants to ignore the wishes of her father, I wash my hands of her.”
“You needn’t worry Walter. I love Anne and will care for her. You and Elizabeth are welcome to visit us if you wish. Since you have never bothered to visit since your wife’s passing, I shall be surprised if you do show up. However, I expect Mary to come during the holidays as usual. We will leave day after next. Anne needs time to pack her belongings and say her farewells.”
That said, Lady Rachel rose from the chair, took another look at Sir Walter, shook her head and left the room. She headed straight to Anne’s room. Elizabeth saw her leave and went to find out what had happened. When her father was done, she said, “Well, at least we are done with Anne’s disapproving comments and presence. I am sure our next shooting party will be much nicer with her gone.”
“You know it means no more background music, though. People seem to appreciate her playing.”
Elizabeth replied, “That will hardly matter. No one will notice her absence.”
In Anne’s room, Lady Rachel sat and watched as Anne continued to determine what to take and what to discard as Lady Rachel summarized the conversation. Lady Rachel finished with, “I am sure I have said nothing of which you were not aware.”
Anne sighed. “No. It is just that there are times I wish Father liked me more. I would like to be missed, but I suspect my absence will rather be appreciated by Elizabeth. She does not like my company.”
“The more fool she,” responded Lady Rachel. “In any case, at South Park, you are appreciated and we all enjoy your company. And visiting with the Captain there, rather than here, will be much more enjoyable.”
“Thank you Grandmother. You are certainly correct in that. Since the engagement, both Father and Lady Russell have been uncomfortable to be around. Elizabeth is far more critical too. Well, I think I have determined which dresses to leave behind,” she said indicating a pile in the corner.
“Do you agree?”
Lady Rachel looked over the pile and said, “I think she is jealous that you are engaged and she is not. I think you have chosen well. They will be hard to make over, as you learn those skills, and are not really in style any longer. These are from the end of your school days, are they not?”
“Yes. I no longer wear them. They were just taking up space. Perhaps one of the maids can make use of them or the fabric.”
Anne then rang for a maid to remove the discards and pack the remainder. She and Lady Rachel retired to the music room while the maid accomplished that. There, Anne looked through the music and selected some of her favorites to take with her. Since Elizabeth no longer played, and Mary was away at school, no one would miss the music. She did leave a few of the simpler, more popular pieces so that any visitors would have something to play. As they looked through the music, Anne played a few pieces for her grandmother.
Dinner was a rather strained affair. Sir Walter feared Lady Rachel would make her usual cutting comments on his accustomed topics of conversation and so was at a loss as to what they could talk of. Elizabeth ignored her grandmother and talked mainly of their plans for fall shooting parties. Lady Rachel contributed occasionally, so as usual, it was left to Anne to help carry the conversation forward. If she mentioned anything other than the shooting party, though, Elizabeth ignored the comment. Finally, dinner was over and Lady Rachel retired to her room as it had been a long day. Anne followed suit, not wanting to hear the criticisms from her father and sister.
The next day, Lady Rachel and Anne finished the packing by going through the library selecting some of her favorite volumes. No one else had ever read them, so they would not be missed. Then the wagon with her trunks left. Together, they paid calls on various friends, tenants, and others who had frequently benefitted from Anne’s visits to say her goodbyes. Last of all they stopped in Monkford to say farewell to Mr. Wentworth. He promised to see her again upon her marriage to his brother. They also stopped in at Uppercross to say farewell to the Musgroves.
They spent the remainder of the afternoon with Lady Russell. Lady Russell was at first surprised at Anne’s decision. As Lady Rachel outlined the proposed course of study to help Anne acquire skills that would enable her to be successful whatever the Captain’s station, Lady Russell began to thaw in her opposition.
“Do you really think he will make her happy? He is so far from successful at this stage.”
“Yes, I do. He has risen through the ranks quite successfully so far. With the various wars, the navy offers an excellent opportunity for wealth and advancement. However, if Anne were to journey with him away from England, she would find it difficult to make a comfortable home. I will help her acquire the skills that will enable her to do that no matter their situation. And he now has an incentive to be successful other than his own ambition. That will provide an extra drive for success.”
“All I have ever wanted for Anne was a happy situation where she is appreciated.”
“The Captain does appreciate her. I think they have every chance for happiness.”
“Anne, I hope you understand that my opposition was not due to the Captain himself. I just want what is best for you and for you to be happy.”
Anne replied, “I do understand that. I think my best chance for that will be with the Captain.”
“Well, please write and let me know how you get on. I imagine learning these new things will be quite different from when you were in school.”
“I will write regularly. In some ways, I am going back to school, but this time will learn practical skills instead of ‘accomplishments.’ I am looking forward to it.”
Soon it was time to return to Kellynch for one last dinner. The final dinner at Kellynch was bittersweet for Anne. She was happy to get away from an atmosphere that was almost toxic, but sad that she would be losing this part of her family. Little notice was taken that this was her final dinner. Conversation once again centered around the hunting party that was to start within a few days. Elizabeth was much more concerned with the prospective suitors than the loss of her irrelevant sister.
Anne spent a few moments after dinner mentally saying goodbye to favorite haunts as she wandered through Kellynch’s rooms. She was ready to move into a new life with her grandmother and plan for her future with the Captain.
Early the next morning, Anne and Lady Rachel had a hearty breakfast alone together. As they finished, both Sir Walter and Elizabeth finally entered the breakfast room to say their farewells. After a few moments, Anne and her grandmother went out to the carriage, joined Sally in it, and left Kellynch. Anne was relieved to leave the strained atmosphere behind. They enjoyed the carriage ride to South Park, settling happily into residence together at the dower house once again.
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Chapter 15
The morning after her arrival, Lady Rachel and Anne took Lady Rachel’s carriage to Monkford to introduce Lady Rachel and the Captain. Captain and Mr. Wentworth exited the building upon seeing the carriage draw up outside his home. Anne introduced everyone after the driver helped the women exit the carriage. After greetings were exchanged, Mr. Wentworth showed everyone into the house. Mr. Wentworth bowed then said, “I will be working in my study should you need me. I am sure the three of you have much to discuss.”
The rest sat themselves comfortably in the parlor. Lady Rachel had Anne sit next to her and took her hand in hers. The Captain sat in the chair facing the two women.
Lady Rachel began, “Captain, I am pleased to meet you. I hope Anne has shared my letter with you. You are probably surprised at the lack of support from Sir Walter, but I am not. You do not yet have sufficient rank for him to deign to notice you. If you were less good looking than you are, you would have received even more opposition.”
The Captain smiled at that. “I had noticed his tendency to judge everything by how it looks.”
Lady Rachel responded, “Looks are as important as rank, for him. And increased rank improves looks. In any case, I know you are probably surprised. Anne isn’t valued, but Sir Walter values the Eliot name. As you saw in my letter, I think it prudent to wait until Anne is of age for two reasons. One, we can then force him to provide her dowry. He can withhold it until then. But more important, it will give Anne time to learn new skills. I have had friends in her position. When you are in foreign parts together, she will need to have skills in homemaking and budgeting that are generally not taught to ladies of our rank. Let her learn them. If you have made your fortune by the time you marry, it will not have hurt her to acquire these new skills. If you are still climbing the ranks, it will make your life together more comfortable.”
Anne said, “We discussed this when I received your letter. You bring up some good points we had not considered. I believe you are correct that acquiring skills like cooking, learning to design and sew basic clothing, cleaning and such would be good for me to learn. Should we be stationed away from England, these will be excellent skills to have.”
Captain Wentworth added, “I do not like the idea of having to wait, but I can see the sense in it. Would you have us stay here until I get orders and then remove Anne to your home?”
Lady Rachel answered, “That is one option, if you wish to continue your visit to your brother. The other is for you to cut your visit short and come to South Park. You can stay in the main house with my son’s family while Anne returns with me to the dower house. You can continue your courting and engagement under the eye of her uncle, rather than her father, where it will not be viewed with so much resentment.”
He turned to look at Anne with a question on his face. She said, “I think our visits together will be far more pleasant there than they will be here. With both Father and Lady Russell opposed, I will be hearing negative things whenever anyone here speaks to me. The only place we have any joy in our engagement is here in Monkford. Would you be willing to cut the visit with your brother short?”
He said, “Of course I would, Anne. You are of far greater importance to me than an extra month with my brother. Let me go talk with Edward.” He immediately followed his brother into the study. He returned within a few moments and continued, “It is settled. When would you like to leave, Lady Rachel?”
“The imp in me would like to stay long enough for Sir Walter to be very uncomfortable, but that would require that Anne be unhappy. Let us leave the day after tomorrow.”
He answered, “I can follow a few days after that. Lady Rachel, you cannot know how much I appreciate your support for Anne. I fear that Lady Russell’s arguments about how it would be much better for me to move through the ranks unencumbered would have eventually convinced Anne to do the noble thing and give me up. That would make both of us very unhappy. This way, we have a goal in mind-two years from now-and can make plans for reaching that goal.”
Lady Rachel nodded, “Anne is so young, it is hard to withstand the persuasions of those who love her, or should love her, and stand firm against them. She had mentioned you in her earlier letters, so I know more about you than you may realize. After her second letter, I suspected her attraction. I had her uncle do a little investigating. I am more than pleased with what he learned.”
Anne was shocked and said, “Grandmother, whatever do you mean?”
“Hugh frequently hires private inquiry agents for his clients. I had him employ one to investigate the Captain. Everything he learned was very positive. He is an admirable young man. And a commander’s pay is sufficient for a very modest living.”
Anne replied, “Combined with investments from his most recent prize capture, we can be more than modestly comfortable.”
Captain Wentworth blushed at this praise. He was secretly relieved that someone in the family valued Anne highly enough to take steps to ensure he was suitable and said, “Actually, I am grateful. It is good to see that someone cares enough for Anne to be sure I would make an acceptable husband for her. ”
Lady Rachel laughed and replied, “You shall see. The rest of the family loves Anne. She is a valued family member in the Stevenson clan. My sons and daughter all enjoy her company. You will find us quite different from the Elliots. I am glad to hear that you have prize money investments. I will admit that it does ease my mind somewhat. I assume this just happened?”
“Yes. During the battle at Santo Domingo, our ship was heavily involved and our captain fatally injured. I took over command, and a battlefield promotion to commander was confirmed by the admiral at the end of the action. As the fighting continued, it was apparent that our damages were significant. I notified the admiral who commanded that we put in to shore and make repairs. Since a commander does not command a ship of the line, we were ordered to return to England once repairs were complete so that a new captain could be assigned. We completed the repairs over the course of about 2 weeks. Just as we left port, we chanced upon a French merchantman who had just collected cargo bound for France. We were able to capture her and bring her along as we returned to England. Since it was outbound with full cargo, we were lucky in the amount awarded. They made an unfortunate tack that allowed us to catch and board them. With full cargo, the prize money was more than expected. If it weren’t for Miss Anne, I would likely have spent a large portion. As it is, if I am prudent with it, we should be comfortable together although I will need to use some of it in my new command. I already know of one difference between the families. Anne says that her charity work is just following in your footsteps and those of her mother. I know her sister does not bother with it, and yet it fills many of her days. That says much for the heart of the Stevensons compared with that of the Elliots. Also, it seems from our conversations that the Stevensons enjoy keeping up with current events while the rest of the Elliots do not.”
Lady Rachel said, “I recall reading about that capture. How fortunate for all of us that you were there. I am glad you understand the importance of what Anne does. Elizabeth, her mother, was very like her. Elizabeth, her sister, could not be more different. I wish she had taken more after her mother, but there is nothing I can do there. She is her own woman and does as she pleases. I believe that those of us with means have a responsibility to help those who are struggling. And yes, we do follow the news. We shall be interested to read of your future exploits.”
During that dialogue, Edward returned from the study and joined the conversation at that point. “Miss Anne is an excellent example of the embodiment of the Good Samaritan. She provides the means, sometimes great, sometimes small, to alleviate the suffering of those around us. All of us who work with her enjoy her company. She never makes those she assists feel that they are unimportant or an imposition. She has been a great asset to our communities here and all will miss her.”
Lady Rachel replied with a smile, “Well, all except her family. They hardly notice her.”
Frederick added, “That is unfortunate but true.”
Anne blushed and shifted the talk to those most in need in Monkford so that Edward could tend to them after her departure. They visited for a while longer before Anne and Lady Rachel returned to Kellynch. After luncheon, Lady Rachel planned to tackle Sir Walter head on and wanted to rest and refresh herself before she did.
Chapter 16
Sir Walter and Elizabeth determined to visit friends so as to avoid Lady Rachel and were therefore gone when the other two returned to Kellynch. They enjoyed a quiet luncheon together, and then Anne went to her room to begin packing her things. Lady Rachel read in the parlor until she heard the carriage indicating the return of the other inhabitants. She went to the entry to greet them and corner Sir Walter.
“Elizabeth, Walter, did you have a nice visit? Walter, I would like a word with you, if you please.”
Both indicated that their visit had been pleasant. Elizabeth continued into the parlor, while Lady Rachel indicated a passageway that led to the study. Sir Walter reluctantly led the way. Since his mother-in-law was of higher rank, and was still quite good looking, he had always tended to feel somewhat ill-at-ease around her. He knew he had to defer to her, even with his wife dead, and he feared her outspokenness.
Lady Rachel sat in one of the arm chairs and Sir Walter took the seat opposite her. “What can I do for you?” he asked.
She sat quiet for almost a minute before replying. “Walter, I understand that Anne’s young man does not yet have sufficient wealth or position for you to notice him. I have offered Anne a home with me for the next two years so she can learn skills appropriate for his lifes. He is well thought of and I think he will manage to make himself quite well off, so they will be quite comfortable. In the meantime, Anne can live with me until she comes of age. However, I expect that when she turns twenty one, they will marry. And you will turn over her dowry as specified in Elizabeth’s marriage settlement. Once Anne is of age, if she chooses to marry, that money is hers. I hope you remembered that.”
“I think she can do much better. To ally herself with a common sailor is a denigration of the Elliot name.”
“I know you think that. You have stated as much every time you have seen the girl. But you did not answer my question. You do plan to turn over that money, don’t you? I do not want to have to take legal action to compel you, but I will if I must.”
Reluctantly, he replied, “Yes, I remember. I did not think Anne was aware of the terms of the settlement. I do not want her to make a mistake when she could do so much better.”
“Anne is very fortunate to have found an ambitious, honorable man who cares deeply for her. I know you loved Elizabeth, in your own way, but I do not think you appreciate how rare it is to find someone who appreciates one for who one is the way Captain Wentworth does Anne. So many society weddings are mergers of family or money. There is love and respect in their relationship which gives a greater chance of them being happy together through the rest of their lives.”
Ignoring that comment, he continued, “So you will take Anne with you? Do not expect me to provide for her when she is living in your home. If she wants to ignore the wishes of her father, I wash my hands of her.”
“You needn’t worry Walter. I love Anne and will care for her. You and Elizabeth are welcome to visit us if you wish. Since you have never bothered to visit since your wife’s passing, I shall be surprised if you do show up. However, I expect Mary to come during the holidays as usual. We will leave day after next. Anne needs time to pack her belongings and say her farewells.”
That said, Lady Rachel rose from the chair, took another look at Sir Walter, shook her head and left the room. She headed straight to Anne’s room. Elizabeth saw her leave and went to find out what had happened. When her father was done, she said, “Well, at least we are done with Anne’s disapproving comments and presence. I am sure our next shooting party will be much nicer with her gone.”
“You know it means no more background music, though. People seem to appreciate her playing.”
Elizabeth replied, “That will hardly matter. No one will notice her absence.”
In Anne’s room, Lady Rachel sat and watched as Anne continued to determine what to take and what to discard as Lady Rachel summarized the conversation. Lady Rachel finished with, “I am sure I have said nothing of which you were not aware.”
Anne sighed. “No. It is just that there are times I wish Father liked me more. I would like to be missed, but I suspect my absence will rather be appreciated by Elizabeth. She does not like my company.”
“The more fool she,” responded Lady Rachel. “In any case, at South Park, you are appreciated and we all enjoy your company. And visiting with the Captain there, rather than here, will be much more enjoyable.”
“Thank you Grandmother. You are certainly correct in that. Since the engagement, both Father and Lady Russell have been uncomfortable to be around. Elizabeth is far more critical too. Well, I think I have determined which dresses to leave behind,” she said indicating a pile in the corner.
“Do you agree?”
Lady Rachel looked over the pile and said, “I think she is jealous that you are engaged and she is not. I think you have chosen well. They will be hard to make over, as you learn those skills, and are not really in style any longer. These are from the end of your school days, are they not?”
“Yes. I no longer wear them. They were just taking up space. Perhaps one of the maids can make use of them or the fabric.”
Anne then rang for a maid to remove the discards and pack the remainder. She and Lady Rachel retired to the music room while the maid accomplished that. There, Anne looked through the music and selected some of her favorites to take with her. Since Elizabeth no longer played, and Mary was away at school, no one would miss the music. She did leave a few of the simpler, more popular pieces so that any visitors would have something to play. As they looked through the music, Anne played a few pieces for her grandmother.
Dinner was a rather strained affair. Sir Walter feared Lady Rachel would make her usual cutting comments on his accustomed topics of conversation and so was at a loss as to what they could talk of. Elizabeth ignored her grandmother and talked mainly of their plans for fall shooting parties. Lady Rachel contributed occasionally, so as usual, it was left to Anne to help carry the conversation forward. If she mentioned anything other than the shooting party, though, Elizabeth ignored the comment. Finally, dinner was over and Lady Rachel retired to her room as it had been a long day. Anne followed suit, not wanting to hear the criticisms from her father and sister.
The next day, Lady Rachel and Anne finished the packing by going through the library selecting some of her favorite volumes. No one else had ever read them, so they would not be missed. Then the wagon with her trunks left. Together, they paid calls on various friends, tenants, and others who had frequently benefitted from Anne’s visits to say her goodbyes. Last of all they stopped in Monkford to say farewell to Mr. Wentworth. He promised to see her again upon her marriage to his brother. They also stopped in at Uppercross to say farewell to the Musgroves.
They spent the remainder of the afternoon with Lady Russell. Lady Russell was at first surprised at Anne’s decision. As Lady Rachel outlined the proposed course of study to help Anne acquire skills that would enable her to be successful whatever the Captain’s station, Lady Russell began to thaw in her opposition.
“Do you really think he will make her happy? He is so far from successful at this stage.”
“Yes, I do. He has risen through the ranks quite successfully so far. With the various wars, the navy offers an excellent opportunity for wealth and advancement. However, if Anne were to journey with him away from England, she would find it difficult to make a comfortable home. I will help her acquire the skills that will enable her to do that no matter their situation. And he now has an incentive to be successful other than his own ambition. That will provide an extra drive for success.”
“All I have ever wanted for Anne was a happy situation where she is appreciated.”
“The Captain does appreciate her. I think they have every chance for happiness.”
“Anne, I hope you understand that my opposition was not due to the Captain himself. I just want what is best for you and for you to be happy.”
Anne replied, “I do understand that. I think my best chance for that will be with the Captain.”
“Well, please write and let me know how you get on. I imagine learning these new things will be quite different from when you were in school.”
“I will write regularly. In some ways, I am going back to school, but this time will learn practical skills instead of ‘accomplishments.’ I am looking forward to it.”
Soon it was time to return to Kellynch for one last dinner. The final dinner at Kellynch was bittersweet for Anne. She was happy to get away from an atmosphere that was almost toxic, but sad that she would be losing this part of her family. Little notice was taken that this was her final dinner. Conversation once again centered around the hunting party that was to start within a few days. Elizabeth was much more concerned with the prospective suitors than the loss of her irrelevant sister.
Anne spent a few moments after dinner mentally saying goodbye to favorite haunts as she wandered through Kellynch’s rooms. She was ready to move into a new life with her grandmother and plan for her future with the Captain.
Early the next morning, Anne and Lady Rachel had a hearty breakfast alone together. As they finished, both Sir Walter and Elizabeth finally entered the breakfast room to say their farewells. After a few moments, Anne and her grandmother went out to the carriage, joined Sally in it, and left Kellynch. Anne was relieved to leave the strained atmosphere behind. They enjoyed the carriage ride to South Park, settling happily into residence together at the dower house once again.