Women of Pemberley by Rebecca Ann Collins Page A

chance to help Emily and her group of friends in the work they were doing for the victims of the Irish famine.
Back at the rectory in Kympton, Emily mentioned her cousin's enthusiasm to her husband, James Courtney.
He had, as usual, a simple and clear explanation. "I am not surprised, my dear. Often in great sorrow, we are faced with two choices: to turn inward in bitter recrimination, blaming the world for our misfortune or turn outward and do whatever we can to help others less fortunate than ourselves. Clearly, Mrs Wilson has chosen the latter path; it is far more likely to bring her satisfaction and peace."
Emily smiled as he added, "And I know you will help and inspire her."
His recognition of Emily's greatness of heart and her appreciation of his simple goodness had led to their unexpected but happy union. She had surprised her family when, after losing her beloved Paul and immersing herself in charitable work for years--during which she had showed no interest in marriage--she had suddenly accepted the popular Rector of Kympton. Since poverty posed no problem for Emily, who was very well provided for by her father and her first husband, it was clearly his sense of moral purpose that she appreciated.
On the journey home, as her parents and sisters chatted together, Emma was quiet, wrapped in her own thoughts. It seemed to Emma that her cousin Emily had never been as contented as she was now. Her mother, sensitive to her daughter's reflective mood, left her alone.
Over the next few weeks, they worked incessantly, collecting donations of food, clothing, and money from households, shops, and textile mills, all of which were sent over to Ireland for distribution by Kitty's group of charitable friends.
Emma, who had never worked so hard in her life, found it extremely rewarding--keeping her from dwelling inordinately on her own situation.
While she knew she was welcome to stay with her parents at Ashford Park, she was well aware that her younger sisters were growing up. She had wondered whether she should seek employment as a teacher at the Kympton parish school. Her own excellent education would surely stand her in good stead. Her opinions on the subject were far from settled however, and she determined to seek Emily's advice.
Returning to Ashford Park on a wet Saturday afternoon, she had changed and was coming downstairs when the door bell rang.
As she reached the front hall, she was surprised to see James Wilson surrendering his coat and hat to the servant. Emma was delighted and greeted him warmly.
He in turn expressed great pleasure at seeing her looking so well. "I can see that you are well, and I have no doubt you are also happy," he said as they went into the sitting room, where afternoon tea would soon be served.
Victoria and Stephanie were highly excited to see their uncle. He was always a favourite with them, now even more so when a servant followed him bearing a large box of toys and books.
"Christmas gifts," said James, "from my mother and myself. Alas, delivered too late, I do apologise," and while the girls fell upon the unexpected treasure trove with glee, he produced a small package for Emma, adding quietly, "This is also from my mother and myself, for you, Emma."
Urged by Louisa and Sophie, Emma opened it to reveal an elegant brooch of gold with tiny pearls. She was overwhelmed. That it was a piece of family jewellery, there was no doubt.
Though her mother and sisters were full of praise for its beauty, Emma could not speak for a while, so surprised and delighted was she by the unexpected gesture. Later, she thanked him profusely, promising to write a note which he must take to his mother--a task he agreed to carry out with the greatest pleasure.
"My mother has long wanted to give you some of her jewellery, but she said it never seemed to be the right time. Well, it seems this was just the right time. I am delighted that you are pleased with it," he said.
Emma tried to discover whether he had any part in