The Gypsy Blessing Read Free

waited until the housekeeper left the room to speak again. “Did you not just spend most of the day with your mother?”
    “Yes, but with the date of the assembly ball quickly approaching, upon our return home, we were to choose the ribbons and lace to be used to remake one of my gowns.”
    Her mother’s voice could be heard faintly through the study’s thick wooden door, screeching, “Lizzy! Lizzy? Where is that girl?”
    Mr. Bennet’s eyes widened. “Off with you now.”
    Elizabeth pocketed her letter and left her father to himself.
    ~%~
    Later that day, Elizabeth retreated to her room. After locking the door behind her, she leaned against it, and, closing her eyes, she sighed deeply. Between all of Mama’s fussing and criticizing, and Kitty and Lydia’s giggling and chattering, it would have been a miracle had I not developed a headache. At this moment, I think I am about as fond of lace as is my father.
    Her hand brushed against the pocket of her skirt whilst removing her work apron, and she heard the distinctive crinkle of paper, reminding her of the letter she had received. Opening her letter, she found another drawing and examined it. Her sister Lydia stood alone, her face crimson, her fury displayed in her eyes to perfection. The most likely cause to the outburst was what looked to be a large wine stain across the front of her favourite gown.
    Elizabeth shook her head. Why on Earth would Aunt Madeline send me this ?
    ~%~
    After the evening meal, Elizabeth sat down at the writing desk in the sitting room to add a postscript to the letter to her aunt:
     
    My mother has told me of your kindness in forwarding the recipe for the dessert I enjoyed during my last visit to London. Thank you, dear aunt—it was delicious and relished by all! I pray that you will understand that if you should repeat to Mama or Mrs. Hill what I am about to say, I will deny it with considerable enthusiasm. However, you do have my permission to pass on to your cook my compliments by telling her today’s treat was not quite so tasty as it was at your house in January. I look forward to sampling hers again the next time I visit.
    Now, Aunt, I must also thank you for the two drawings you have sent to me. From what I understand, this is a late-blooming accomplishment of yours, and I must say you have met with splendid success! These likenesses are so true to the originals, it is difficult to believe that you did not have them pose for you.
    Yours, etc.
    EB
    ~%~
    May 31, 1811
    The following day, as Elizabeth’s sister Kitty was speaking to the family with ample animation, an odd awareness overtook Elizabeth’s senses, and she became exceptionally aware of what was happening around her.
    Kitty’s speech sounded slurred, and Elizabeth looked up from her plate to find that all around her were moving rather slowly. Kitty’s arm extended, eventually striking Lydia’s wine glass and spilling the contents in the oddest manner. Lydia’s countenance changed gradually, and at the precise moment her face contorted into the exact expression depicted in the drawing, time seemed to stand still. After what felt like several heartbeats, all began to move slowly once again.
    In a sluggish manner, Lydia screeched, her mother seemed to scold Kitty, and Kitty began to cry. Jane unhurriedly rose from her seat and moved halfway around the table before she looked across at Elizabeth. Jane’s expression changed to one of increased distress. Elizabeth blinked several times, and all movement regained normal speed once again.
    Over the din, Jane’s voice was laced with considerable concern when she asked, “Lizzy? What is wrong? Are you well?”
    “I am not at all certain. I feel very strange.”
    “You do look pale, Elizabeth. Why do you not retire early this evening?” her father leaned in and suggested quietly.
    Elizabeth nodded and did as she was told.
    ~%~
    June 1, 1811
    After a sleepless night spent tossing and turning, Elizabeth left her bed before