Young Writers Society

(Edited Version)

I wrote this piece when I was a junior in high school. I came back to edit and revise. It is very much like pride and prejudice, but I wrote this before I even read the book.

Kiss the Damsel

Chapter One

One very peaceful morning, Jane Dorsey found herself thinking about a gentleman she really didn’t care for, Marcus Daniel, the Marquess of Mayfair. There was no telling whether this man was concerned about anything or anyone, but himself. It seemed as though he preferred the life of solitude to which he kept to himself, often stayed in doors, and paid no attention whatsoever to the important matters set before him. Like marriage. Jane thought his life was indeed very dull with not a hint of adventure. Then again, he did pose a mystery and she could not understand why he popped into her thoughts so suddenly.

Though the marquess was a very quiet man, there was one day where Jane had the opportunity to hear him speak which was on the day of his cousin Victor’s funeral. After that day, he had not said a single word and if he did, he was whispering to where Jane could hardly hear. Why this bothered her, Jane didn’t seem to know why. But it did and it vexed her to no end.

His supposed fiancé was completely dead to him and so she left Marcus to himself. Not one person brought up the question of the year. Where was his betrothed? Everyone assumed they had a heated argument and might have killed her in act of rage. There were those who did not dare to inquire about what happened to his fiancé for they feared he would probably snap and kill them too. Well, if he had in fact killed his fiancé, it would seem like a logical reason for her disappearance and that was the subject Jane Dorsey decided to present to Pamela Westinburgh, her dear friend and cousin. At the moment, they were having tea and reading quietly.

“It could be true, you know.” Jane said, interrupting the silence in the room. “The Marquess of Mayfair might have gone off and killed the poor woman.”

Jane had chosen a topic regarding the Marquess of Mayfair since she was finding it sorely difficult to get him out of her mind. How it had become such an interesting topic among society, there was no telling why. Gossip had a way of spreading like wild fire and making a mess of everything; even one’s social life.

“It is awful of you to speak ill of Lord Mayfair, especially a man you don’t even know. Really, it is horrible for you to say such a thing when you know very well it’s just gossip.” Pamela shook her head in dismay. “He is not a killer, Jane.”

“All I am saying is that he could be.” Jane replied, setting her book aside. “We have seen his mistress out and about for months and oh so suddenly, she’s gone. Poof! What else are we decent people to think?”

“He is very reserved, out of sight and out of mind and I have to wonder how on earth we started discussing the likes of him. It must be this weather or maybe he caught your eye and you’re just smitten. Well, it seems that I have reached my conclusion.” She said cheerfully.

“And what, pray tell, is that?” Jane snapped, a tad bit annoyed by her statement.

“He caught your eye, didn’t he?” Pamela was all smiles.

“I beg your pardon!”

“All I’m saying is that, it isn’t common that an uncommon person is uncommonly talked about in doors with Jane Dorsey. Unless, you were attracted to the man.”

“We spoke profusely about a number of people. Why do you find it odd now?”

“Jane, Jane, Jane…if you admire the man, there’s no reason to hide it.”

“I beg your pardon!” She gasped. Jane was red in the face. Her cheeks reddened as she let out a sigh of frustration.

“If you were the bell of the ball, I am quite certain you could woo him into love and marriage.” She teased.

Pamela was right on that score. While other ladies possessed beautiful curled hair and splendid attire, Jane was a plain brunette without a single curl in sight. She refused to curl her hair and chose dresses unsuited for her complexion. She had a small chin and mouth, yet her eyes were wide and brown, which gave her a unique look. Jane was dull when it came to fashion, but not at all unattractive. She knew very well she was no beauty to behold, but she was simple and possessed an elegance about her that others deemed an amiable quality.

Jane continued on about the marquess.“Pamela, he is…is—a cold-blooded killer! I don’t fall in love with dangerous men.”

“Perhaps you do. You could have candidly denied the sudden accusation, but instead you acted like a mad hen.” Pamela chuckled as she tipped a spoon of sugar into her teacup and stirred it gently. Not one bit moved by Jane’s little outburst.

“I did no such thing.” She straightened up in her chair. “I am merely shocked that you would accuse me of such a childish thing. Besides, you never accuse me of anything so...so...” She didn’t finish her sentence and mumbled to herself.

Pamela eyed her with an all-knowing smile. Jane abruptly folded her arms in dismay. It was certainly rude of her to accuse Jane of being smitten with the marquess. How, she wondered, did she come to that ridiculous conclusion? Jane hated the feeling she received from Pamela. If anything, Marcus was just another gentleman among society who needed to be gossiped about. Where was the fun in hiding his secrets? Jane sighed and Pamela did as well.

“Am I to sit here and be mocked?” Jane stood.

“I am not mocking you. I am only thinking what a lovely match you two would make. I already see a wedding in your future.” Pamela said.

“Enough of this childish behavior. I am asking you…I am begging you to desist.”

“You’re absolutely right…I apologize. Though I must say, he is quite the catch. I am sure you noticed that he is a handsome gentleman.” Pamela stated.

Jane let out a sigh of frustration. She didn’t understand why Pamela’s statement infuriated her very being, but she couldn’t help feeling so vulnerable, especially when it came to the subject of men. Perhaps, she was eluding reality that one day she’d have to marry and that day was coming soon. Pamela sat calmly in her seat and continued to sip her tea. Evidently, Pamela was rather enjoying that Jane was ruffled and all out of sorts.

Jane and Pamela grew up together in Devonshire since they were children and lived in London to attend numerous seasons. Jane was the niece of the Viscount of Portman, Andrew Westinburgh and the Viscountess, Emery Westinburgh. While they were her benefactors, Jane lived a comfortable life along side their daughter Pamela since they were so close in age.

Jane and her mother lived in another estate which her uncle had provided so Jane could stay in London to find a suitable husband. It did not bother him one bit that it had been a year since Jane had been offered a marriage proposal. Pamela, on the other hand, had not one.They were both in the marriage mart and still had not found a husband. Truthfully, they had no intention of finding a husband at all. Jane and Pamela refused to carry on like other desperate women in need of a husband. Suffice it to say that they were constantly on the hunt for new gossip and opportunities to expose those who were high ranking in society. Fun as it was, it has caused many suitors to avoid them completely. Unfortunately, Jane did not realize this.

Jane Dorsey was not the beauty of the ball, Eliza Henry was. Now she was not a pleasant person. Jane and Pamela gossiped to a great extent but Eliza Henry was another story to be told. To be in her presence was like being hitched to a moving carriage whilst being dragged across town. She never had anything pleasant to say, especially to other handsome women. Jane, too, was not very pleasant, but at least she had the decency to keep it to herself.

Eliza, however, saw herself above others, which was hardly a good attribute to have. In truth, it was said throughout society that she had been found in a compromising position. It wasn’t a surprise, because anyone could see she possessed the will power to destroy her own reputation.

Now here was a subject of conversation.

“If it is of any comfort to you, I shall make inquiries upon whether Eliza Henry has been compromised.” Pamela said, easing out of her chair.

“Oh, I forgot about that rumor.” Jane said, still a bit uneasy. “I suppose it’d be a good idea to add her to our list.”

“Which brings one thing to mind. While I’m gathering information on Eliza Henry, do get the truth on the marquess. We could probably solve a murder mystery.” Pamela said.

“Absolutely not!” Jane said with a frown. “I can’t go snooping about in secret. We couldn’t ask—”

“I didn’t say to ask anyone.” Pamela winked. “Just pry it out of him.”

“No! I will not. What if he is dangerous, and I get caught? I could be next on his list.” Jane said. She picked up her tea that had gone cold and took a sip.

“I say, get to know him…enough to where he is comfortable with you and then pose some questions. Pry around.” Jane sat in thought and Pamela waited for her reply.

“It’s a silly idea, but I find it intriguing somehow. So I will do it, so long as you don’t tease me and accuse me of having a tendre’ for the brute.”

“Good, then it is settled. We shall attend this week’s ball…and then let the fun begin.” Pamela smiled cunningly and Jane could not help but oblige her.

***

It was a delightful evening on the night of the ball to which every person, notorious or not, attended. Jane was delaying the carriages when Pamela called to her.

“Jane, the carriages are waiting! Hurry!” Jane emerged from the house and greeted her cousin, Zachary, Pamela’s brother.

“Hello, dear cousin. Sorry I am running late.” Jane appeared before him in a shiny blue gown. Her brunette hair was pinned up in sparkling jewels. She almost looked like Cinderella herself.

“You look dashing; surely anyone would ask your hand in marriage.” Zachary said.

“Oh, you jest. You know that there are other things to worry about than a proposal.”

Zachary laughed and assisted Jane onto the carriage and she sat next to Pamela. They were indeed anxious for more gossip, more victims.

“Tonight is the night,” Pamela said excitedly as the carriage lurched forward. “But I must leave early…”

“Leave? Whatever for?” Jane asked.

“My mother wants me home to meet someone. She said he is a very important man.”

“That leaves me with no one to confide in.” Jane said in disappointment.

“You could always come to me for anything,” Zachary said.

Jane gave a wry smile, “Oh, that isn’t necessary. I wouldn’t want to bore you with my constant jabbering.”

“Nonsense, Jane. You are always intriguing to talk to.” Jane glanced at Pamela. “I assume you girls are going to dance the night away?”

They smiled and laughed. “No, we have other things in mind.”

“Well, then I expect you two to behave.” He said sternly but playfully.

“We are not children, Zachary. I do hope you remember that.” Pamela said.

“I know, Pamela. It’s only because I have always seen you and Jane as little girls. I was only eighteen when you two were running wild.” Zachary smiled that knowing smile and winked at them.

Zachary Westinburgh was a very mellow man and never did he treat Jane and Pamela cruelly. He was patient with them in everything, but the elements he lacked as a gentleman were authority and strictness. Because he lacked such important qualities, Jane and Pamela often got away with everything. The two, put together, were mischievous and sly. They even provoked a confession out of an innocent man, Jacob Matthews, and all society shunned him. Petty, it was. Was kissing a woman in the dark a huge sin? Jane and Pamela were extremely content with themselves and paid no attention to Mr. Jacob Matthews after that.

Upon entering the ballroom, Zachary left their side to tend to his usual social circle, which was not very good of him. He should have known better than to leave his sister and cousin unattended. After all, they always had something cunning on their minds, devious and unwarranted ruses.

“I’m glad your brother doesn’t watch us like a hawk.” Jane stated with a sigh of relief.

“My brother isn’t the best chaperon. That’s one reason I like attending the events he goes to.” Pamela said.

Pamela led Jane to the corner of the room, out of earshot. They did this to observe society and eavesdrop. Pamela then spotted Eliza Henry at the farthest side of the room. Almost every gentleman stood beside her, eager for a dance. She was wearing a white gown as if she were planning a getaway wedding.

“Oh look, there’s Eliza Henry, all pretty and looking utterly desirable. Look how all those mongrels adore her unorthodox self. She’s a devil in disguise if you asked me.”

“I agree, Pamela. She is a devil in disguise.” Jane said, watching Eliza intently.

“Now, who knows more about Eliza Henry than Clara May?”

“I hear Samantha Bakersworth is more inclined to tell us.” Pamela said.

“Samantha Bakersworth indeed.” Jane replied.

Pamela eyed her victim with devouring eyes. “Jane, I think this is going to be the best season yet.” Eliza Henry was laughing in front of a few gentleman.

They laughed, but Jane’s merriment was brought to a halt as soon as she saw her victim entering the room. Jane’s eyes focused upon the Marquess of Mayfair. He walked into the room very smoothly; slowly treading the ballroom floor. He didn't want to draw attention to himself. A few acquaintances had shaken his hand and his expression was solemn, but polite.

Soon enough he made his way to the refreshment table to have a drink. Jane watched as he poured himself a glass. Everything about him was eerie and yet Jane felt excitement shoot its way through her, making her heart beat faster. Pamela then noticed Jane’s sudden silence.

“Jane, are you all right? What are you staring at?” Pamela followed her gaze and smiled. “Oh, I see you’ve found the marquess. Doesn’t he look dashing?”

Jane looked away and frowned. “He may be handsome, but that will not change my view of him. Anyone could see that he is a dangerous man.”

“What a very bold statement. A little cold, don’t you think? Dangerous, I love how you view him. It is utterly scandalous as well as romantic.” Pamela said. She winked at the marquess. Apparently, he saw her because he nodded with a crooked smile. “Oh, he definitely has that rakish quality.”

“Not at all, ” Jane said as if she were unmoved. She was a little bit disturbed knowing he was looking their way momentarily.

“My, you haven’t even met him and already there is hostility toward the poor man.” Pamela said.

“Perhaps I sense the truth, that he is a murderer. I shall easily die if ever I were to be in his presence. There’s no telling whether I’ll be next on his list.” Jane said.

“Let us hope you don’t. I need you alive to tell me if the mysterious Marquess of Mayfair is a murderer or not.” Pamela winked.

Jane took a good look at him again. Indeed, he was handsome. He had pale white skin and wavy black hair. He was a fine tall gentleman, seemingly quiet and serious, as if the only thing on his mind was leaving. She would never know why she resented him so much. Just then, the marquess was heading toward a darkened hall. He took a few glances back and retrieved a cigar from his pocket. A bad habit, Jane thought.

Jane took a deep breath and politely excused herself from her usual social circle. It was not easy leaving for Anna Montworth was greatly interested in what Jane had to say about Jane’s interesting encounter with a newly established and wealthy aristocrat.

“Miss Montworth, I apologize, but I really must be leaving.” Jane said.

“Oh won’t you tell me what he said?” Anna pleaded.

“I promise to tell you another time, but I really have to be leaving.” Jane said as she hurried into the hall where she saw Lord Marcus enter. Really, she was in over her head! Jane knew she was being a little too curious. Heaven knew what would happen next if he found her. She had already decided what she would say if he caught her. The famous excuse often used, “I was just looking for the washroom.”

Jane silently walked into the hall. She passed a vacant washroom and noticed that the last door on the right was ajar. Maybe he was in there. Jane slowly pushed the door open, but she felt something warm behind her that vibrated all her senses.

“Why are you following me?”

His voice rung deep and Jane turned around, knowing exactly who stood behind her.

What do I do? What do I do? She thought.

She heard him light a match and he let it burn at the thread of the candle upon the wall. Jane immediately saw his expression as his sapphire eyes lit up by the blaze of the candle.

It was quite uninviting and yet it wasn’t as frightening as she thought. Jane knew he was indeed very attractive, but also intimidating to the core. Jane bit at her lower lip and the Marquess stood with arms crossed, waiting for an answer. Jane stared into his eyes. It was intense and unwavering.

“Well?” He said. He didn’t look at all dangerous and yet Jane wished she had somewhere to hide. He stood very close. She noticed how tall and lean he appeared which made her feel extremely small in comparison.

“I was--I was just looking for the washroom.” She lied just as planned.

“The washrooms are in the very well lit hall on the other side.” He said with brows raised.

“But I…” She couldn’t speak.

“You know, I don’t like you very much, Miss Jane Dorsey, but you’re pretty enough for someone to take advantage of…here...in the dark. Is that what you want?” He said.

Jane stared at him blankly and did not know whether to say yes or no. He was so very calm, but stern. But of course not!

“Well?” he demanded softly.

“Yes—I mean, no! Of course not.” She frowned.

“Good. I think it is best you go back to your party; I’m sure there are many who are curious of your whereabouts.” He said. “Goodness knows, I sure don’t want to be caught by the eyes of society in this very moment and be forced to marry the likes of you.”

Just as he said that, a servant emerged out of nowhere and walked passed them. He glanced their way curiously. Marcus cleared his throat. “Evening.”

“Evening, your lordship.” He said as he disappeared. He knew very well how to mind his own business and Marcus was thankful for that.

“Nobody ever pays attention to what I do.” She began.

“Oh, but you are wrong.” His eyes narrowed at her. “Miss Dorsey, gossip spreads like wild fire as you know and you are a flame starter; a dangerous arsonist. Soon enough, your meddling will cause your ruin and above all, you lack decorum and amiable qualities needed if you are going to marry any of these sensible half-witted blokes. Young ladies, such as yourself, should stay out of a person's business--especially mine!”

With that, he stormed right past her and disappeared into what looked like a servant’s entry way. Jane was left speechless. Who did this man think he was? Jane had no other choice, but to return to the ball in deep thought. In that truthful, but hurtful tongue thrashing, Jane was moreover filled with guilt and disdain than satisfaction. A lump formed in her throat and tears settled at the rim of her lids, but they did not burst over. She then felt angry and more than ever she wanted to scream. There was nothing more she wanted to do than to find him and slap him in the face. Jane was furious and she doubted she would ever speak that horrid man again.