Oh the angst again! But great chapter nonetheless, love it! Darcy will have to come to the rescue now!!

Thank you for the chapter, Ellen. I'm wondering--is the doctor going to try to help with the Wickham situation to make up for his Dr. Evillish behavior earlier? That's a twist on the story I'd like to see. :)

Thank you for this unusual story, Ellen

But don't you think you have given us enough angst without making Hampton the hero of Lydia's "rescue" as well? The doctor has been on centre stage far too long.

I am tired of seeing Darcy blind and helpless - over 22 chapters. Please let him do something for a change so that this would be an even more convincing D and E love story

Time for the Colonel and Georgie to be heroes!

I knew you weren't going to let Darcy see Lizzy when he woke up--you beast you! LOL

That Dr. H is very annoying. Perhaps he and Wickham can kill each other in a duel--bumping off Lydia at the same time? LOL I guess not. sigh.

Here's hoping Georgiana is able to calm Darcy with the correct interpretation of Lizzy's message. And that the quick carriage ride south doesn't impair his vision.

Thanks for posting. I'll be waiting impatiently for the next.

Poor poor Darcy...please let Georgiana explain all to him. I bet he will still think the worst of Dr. H even after he finds out what happened. Very exciting place to leave off. I do like thinking of Darcy as a fiersome pirate! Very good chapter! **** that Wickham!!

Wow, imagine Darcy riding along like some pirate in the Caribb.. sorry, another story, let's go for some Knight in shining armour instead. You're absolutely right, enough of Darcy- the helpless. Being helpless is not an apt description regarding his dealings with Elizabeth, he has rather been quite resourceful, don't you think?

Oh, the angst is back in full force!! E's parents don't know of the changes that took place at Pemberely, and they will still want Mr.Hampton to marry Lizzy! This is awful!! I still don't really trust Mr.Hampton, so I hope that Darcy can somehow find a way to get involved in finding Wickham. I just want it all to work out, but Lizzy is not sure that Darcy would want her. Please update soon, and relieve our suffering!!!

Depsite what everyone is saying, I like that you have Darcy helpless, it makes him seem more....real. In life it's not always a knight at fisrt. I would like to have seen Lizzy write a note for Darcy so everything doesn't get mixed up. I agree with everyone about Dr. H, I really think he's still up to no good. I don't know...maybe he can marry Mary. Who knows? Good job on the chapter, I can't wait for the next chapter. :)

Fearsome Darcy, indeed! Darcy to the rescue! I cannot wait til you have D&E meet again. Will Darcy know her before he hears her voice? Hurry, hurry -- write more! Love this story. Quite the twist!

This is a great story, and I keep checking for new chapters. I hope Darcy does not ruin his eyesight to be with the woman he loves, and that someone can bring him to reason... And then when his eyesight is all better (well, the one eye) you can bring them back together again...

This is a great story, and I keep checking for new chapters.

I couldn't agree more, Jeske, and I hope you'll check today, 'cause chapter 23 has been posted.

Enjoy, my dears!

My oh my, I trust that you won't add another Hampton twist to the plot, it would just be tiresome. Let's pray that Darcy is using Hampton as shield here. I'm confident that a crowd would join me cheering Darcy brought to the fore, why not on his beautiful stallion, to put it all to rest, black eye patch and all

I'm a little confused and upset about the involvement of Hampton. If Darcy needed a cover person, why not use Bingley and let him be the hero. HMMMMMMM, something, as usual, is not right. I, too, am tired of Hampton. I hope Darcy recovers quickly and can claim Elizabeth. This is just too confusing. Thanks for the post and I hope a new chapter will follow SOON! Cindy
*****An afterthought. Is it possible that Hampton has some past connection with Wickham and was able to find him. Naaaaa, that's too far fetched.

Another fabulous chapter. I do hope that it was Darcy and not Hampton that brought the wedding about. Poor Elizabeth is back to thinking that she must marry Hampton and he is deviuos enough to make her.
I look forward to reading more.
many Thanks
Jo

"I'm a little confused and upset about the involvement of Hampton. If Darcy needed a cover person, why not use Bingley and let him be the hero. HMMMMMMM, something, as usual, is not right. I, too, am tired of Hampton. I hope Darcy recovers quickly and can claim Elizabeth. This is just too confusing. Thanks for the post and I hope a new chapter will follow SOON! Cindy"

Ditto!

GAH!!! **** the devil to hell.

STEVIEB

Why am I not surprised? I am sure Darcy, not Hampton, brought about the marriage. But our writer could not resist asserting her power and teasing us one more time. She adopts the same approach throughout this story. Incomprehensible.

She adopts the same approach throughout this story. Incomprehensible.

Our dear Ellen knows how to keep our attention. All her stories unfold in a very clever way, but after all angst we are always rewarded in a most delightful way.

I'm so intrigued about Dr Hampton's role. I'm so certain he's sincerely remorseful, that I cannot but think that he's helping Mr Darcy... even though he offered to Lizzy again, but that was to save her from the censure of the entire Hertfordshire vicinity... Or am I too optimistic?

Grrrrrrrr! Fix this now! I HATE MR. HAMPTON!!!!

OK now that I have whined like a petulent child, I must tell you that Mr. Bennet is not on my good side either---why doesn't he marry Mr. Hampton and move to Nova Scotia--if he's so indebted. Ugh.

good chapter, I'll be anxiously awaiting your next.

So very clever of our author to weave in dialogue from P&P into this story, but often having other characters say the things that have become familiar to us all. I do like this story so very much - new characters blended nicely with the "old" and an entirely new twist with Darcy's vision.

Wonderful research on medical trends at the time as well. Ellen has gone above and beyond the call of duty to do this story right!

I totally agree with Annl, I hate Dr. Hampton! What business does he have taking Darcys role! To the devil with Dr. Hampton! Excellent chapter cant wait for more!!

But our writer could not resist asserting her power and teasing us one more time. She adopts the same approach throughout this story. Incomprehensible.

Au contraire, Bfly, it is perfectly comprehensible! If I simply wrote, "Darcy meets Elizabeth, Darcy falls in love with Elizabeth, Darcy loses Elizabeth, Darcy regains Elizabeth," everyone would know exactly where the story was headed and there would be no dramatic tension. I just like to cast a teeny bit of doubt into the mix. It keeps things interesting.

Thank you, Maura, for your kind words. They mean a lot, especially now, when the natives seem to be getting restless! But don't worry, y'all, the next chapter will explain everything.

Just wanted to let you know that your are doing a great job! I love this story and am always wanting more. Thanks!

I refuse to believe that Hampton has a major role in finding Wickham and Lydia. It must be Darcy's & Colonel's effort or a combined work of all the 3 men. But strangely why would Darcy want to place Hampton as the hero? The twist will be very interesting! And Mr Bennet, what was he thinking??? If he truly loves his favourite daughter, the last thing he wants to do is to hint that she should return his favour! Please don't keep us wait too looonnngggg for the next update Ellen

Am I the only one who isn't upset with Dr. Hampton saving or helping to save the day where Lydia is concerned? I see it as him doing penance for being such a Dr. Evil type earlier. I'm hoping Anne will find out, say "Oh, you're a gentleman after all!", and they go to Nova Scotia together. It gets her away from Lady Catherine, and him away from Lizzie. A win-win situation!

Now to try and be patient for the next chapter, and see how things work out. I only hope I can hold out that long!

Ellen,

Thank you.

Well, I have nothing against the idea Dr. Hampton helped to find Lydia. If he did - it is a good way to rehabilitate himself after what he has done in the past.

But I do understand all those readers who object to this idea. Of course I would prefer it’s our hero who rescues the world again. Perhaps wicked Ellen has something in her sleeve, but if it’s going to stay this way - so be it. But there is of course this huge difference – in PP Darcy saved Lydia, accepted Wickham as a potential member of his future family, but most of all – asked involved parties not to tell it was him. If Dr. Hampton truly helped here – he obviously wanted to redeem himself in Elizabeth’s eyes, he wanted to buy her gratitude. And this doesn’t seem so very honorable.

But where from Dr. Hampton had money to pay Wickham for his agreement for marriage?

And what’s going on with Mr. Bingley? It seems he run away. And this time without Darcy’s interference. Colonel seemed quite taken by Jane’s beauty – perhaps she could forget Bingley? Unless, of course, you sent Bingley in a secret mission to help Darcy.

And last but not least – I am so happy Darcy can see.

Basia

A couple of people have got it right, but I ain't sayin' who!

Dear Ellen, you're a tease, and a good one at that! We are all "in anticipation" (caroline-style-of speech)of your next next chapter. This is really adding to my Losec-habits. The tension is way too high!

"Do not leave, yet, Sutton, for there is one more task I would assign you."

I think this sentence is pretty crucial...

Can't wait to know the contents of this task.

Thank you for the update, Ellen. I am so looking forward to the next chapter where I sincerely hope that it will be resolved that Elizabeth need NOT marry Mr. Hampton! And it would specially warm my heart if finally Darcy sees Elizabeth (sigh!)

Because we all know Darcy to be the most honorable man, he let everyone to believe it was Dr. Hampton, who helped Lydia, as a way to reward him for the surgery and because Dr. Hampton told Darcy he won't marry Lizzy because she loves Darcy.

Yes I know, I'm such naive optimist

Wow! Your story is rocketing along Ellen. How will you tease us next? Does Mr. Bennet really mean what Elizabeth thinks he means regarding Mr. Hampton?? I'm not so sure. Did Darcy send an express to Bingley? It is so much fun to speculate but it's more fun to read and let you takes us along for the ride. Have I mentioned lately how much I love your writing? Oh..sorry to gush.... Well, not really...

I'd like to apologize for not reviewing your last several posts. My back decided to rearrange itself a month ago and I've been unable to sit for more than a few minutes at a time until just this week so I've been catching up on all my favorite fanfics like crazy. Thanks for sharing your labors with us!

I agree with Basia because Wickham only could be forced to marry Lydia for a lot of money.I think Darcy payed Wickham and set the marriage, then Mr Hampton came to convince him. Mr Hampton probably thinks he saved everybody.

No, no, no! Mr. Hampton can't be so unscrupulous as to agree to marry Elizabeth now. He knows he doesn't deserve her. Exciting chapter! I really hope some of the above speculations about Darcy's involvement were correct. Keep up the good work, Ellen.

Yes, keep up the good work, Ellen!

My favorite stories are the "out of the box" stories and the fact that everyone is eager for more should tell you that it is a hit!

I rarely read the WIP stories, preferring to wait until they are complete, but I happened upon this and started reading it and am now hooked.

I tried writing a little and failed miserably so all of the authors here have my utmost respect for the dedication and time that it takes to pull these stories together.

A little late to the party (I only started reading last night), but I just wanted to chime in that I'm enjoying this story very much and I can't wait to see what will happen next.

Dear Ellen,

Can we have an update soon? I waited to read until the resolution seemed near and I love the story so far. But then you left us with another cliffie. Another chapter, pretty please?

*Sigh* I wondered when someone was going to call me on my tardiness! Sorry, folks!

About 3/4 of the chapter is written, but I've become very busy (I've just completed my training as a tutor of "English for Speakers of Other Languages"!). I will try to get a chapter posted by week's end.

Looking forward to it, dear Ellen, and good luck with your future students.

"Hanging on your lips"... eagerly!!!!!!!!!! not patiently any longer. Lovely story that's the best I can do for a one-eyed Darcy

Here you go, Karin, and all other fans... chapter 24 is up. Enjoy!

Hmmmmm....I'm not sure I'd want Bingley if I were Jane. Who wants somebody that has to be bullied to offer for you?

I was happy that Mr. Hampton spilled the beans about Darcy's involvement in recovering Lydia and insuring that she was wed. Redemption, indeed...

I'd love to know what was in Darcy's head when he first caught sight of his Elizabeth. Will we get a little peek, Ellen, pretty please?

Ellen,
I love your story, very original and sweet.
I love the way they have been getting to know each other.
Thank you for writing this and sharing it with us.
Tere
Mexico

I'd love to know what was in Darcy's head when he first caught sight of his Elizabeth

Exactly my thoughts, Rita dear. Although we already know she didn't disappoint - of course not! -, I'd love to read about his inner (overwhelming) emotions!

This story really sucks you in, doesn't it, Tere?

Dear Ellen,

It was awesome chapter! I’m so happy it was Darcy – and when you described how he looked like when came to visit the Bennets. Sexy, very sexy.

I really liked that Dr. Hampton told the truth, but also that he willingly helped Darcy in finding Lydia. He deserves now my heartfelt gratitude. I have respect for people who, even if they made mistakes, learn from it and are ready to improve.

As to Bingley – I don’t want to see him again. One thing, and still revolting, is to leave like he did in original, before any promise was made. But to run away after the engagement… I’m quite sure sweet Jane would be able to forgive him, but I vote for the Colonel to win her heart.

I absolutely loved the way you putted Lady Catherine’s famous line into Mrs. Bennet’s mouth. I laughed aloud.

But my favorite part, and something’s telling me I’m not alone in this, is that Darcy had absolutely no difficulty in recognizing Elizabeth.

Thank you Ellen and good luck with teaching.

**Sigh**

Okay, so the doctor has redeemed himself a very little but enough to want him to b happy..just with someone other than Lizzy. Ah, how romantic that Darcy was able to pick Lizzy out immediately and that she was not disappointed with him! Wonderful story Ellen!

Nice twist on the Bingley angle...will Jane want him back?

Frances

WOW What a wonderful way to start my day. Another fabulous chapter. I love that Darcy knew Elizabeth immediately. I am soooooo looking forward to the next chapter.
Mant Thanks
Jo

I also liked the fact that Darcy recognized Elizabeth immediately and that he was so bold in approaching her. I'm not sure about Bingley either. We'll just have to wait and see how Ellen works all this out. I also like your description of Darcy. He does sound like a swashbuckler. Thanks for the new chapter and I hope we see another one very soon. Cindy

Ellen, I've loved every chapter of this story, even though I've fretted at times, especially over the threat of Mr Hampton. How nice that Lizzy is really no longer in any danger from him and that he has redeemed himself. I foresee him and Anne deBurgh sailing off into the sunset...

I too would love to know Darcy's thoughts when he first looked at the Bennets, and I have a feeling some of them were to do with recalling the shape of Lizzy's curves! LOL

Some favourite lines include:

QUOTE: "No, Elizabeth, it was not. It was your Mr. Darcy."

I loved that, especially as we had been led to believe along with Lizzy that it was Mr H.

QUOTE: Elizabeth nodded, her throat too tight for speech.

I just really liked how concise this statement was, yet how it totally evoked for me how she must have felt - I could almost feel my own throat tighten as I read. Great writing.

QUOTE: Though you had been visiting his sister, your father knew nothing of Mr. Darcy's existence.

I had forgotten that aspect - that no one else in Hertfordshire knew of the man at all! Again, well done on building that continuity.

I also, like others, enjoyed the clever use of Mr H in Mr Gardiner’s role, and also the references to Lady Catherine's dialogue given to Mrs Bennet. Very funny and inspired!

QUOTE: Mr. Darcy was so amused by this conceit, I think he is likely to give it to me after all."

LOL - how lovely it is to see Darcy's vastly improved spirits at this point in the story.

And, oh my goodness, how I have longed for THIS moment!

QUOTE: Mr. Darcy shocked the assembled by striding directly over to Elizabeth and, taking her hand, bowed and placed a warm kiss upon it.

"Miss Elizabeth Bennet, I presume?" he said in a low voice, his eye never leaving her face.

Swoon.... how I would love to 'see' that moment acted out! I loved her 'greedy' devouring of his features, and can only imagine him doing likewise. Sigh.

Lovely writing, a vastly entertaining and extremely rewarding chapter, Ellen. Thank you so much, what a great start to the weekend! :D

Sandra