Saving Anne De Bourgh: A Pride and Prejudice Variation

Mr. Darcy’s proposal to Elizabeth Bennet ends in acrimony, but when Elizabeth returns to Longbourn, it is with a changed perspective forced on her by Mr. Darcy’s letter. At Longbourn, Elizabeth cannot but acknowledge that the gentleman’s charges have some merit given the behavior of certain members of her family.

On the heels of her return, however, Elizabeth makes a shocking discovery, for one day, while visiting Meryton with her sisters, she comes across none other than Anne de Bourgh, daughter of the imposing Lady Catherine. Further investigation reveals the truth that Miss de Bourgh is there traveling with the very Mr. Wickham against whom Mr. Darcy had warned her.

Knowing she must do something, Elizabeth persuades Miss de Bourgh of the folly of eloping with the libertine, after which she must navigate the danger Mr. Wickham presents. For the man who has defrauded so many, who attempted to elope with Miss Darcy will not abandon his schemes without a fight.

Into this maelstrom comes Lady Catherine, pursuing her daughter to prevent her from making a huge mistake, and Mr. Darcy, summoned by his aunt to assist. The truth of the matter when revealed provides a much-needed measure of hope to Darcy, for with Elizabeth’s actions to assist his cousin, she may not be so lost to him as he once thought.