New World Tea Company

A Variation on Pride and Prejudice

By: Martin Hunnicutt

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

The New World Tea Company is a variation of the Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice story of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy. This story differs with George Wickham and Darcy having had no contact since the death of Darcy’s father. There was no attempt to elope with Miss Georgiana Darcy the previous summer. As the story begins, George Wickham, in the guise of a tradesman, attends the assembly where Charles Bingley and his family are introduced to Meryton society.
Mr Darcy arrived a few days later, and the first person he met was Elizabeth Bennet in the mercantile looking at the books for sale. Speaking with the owner, Darcy mentioned needing an appropriate gift for the hostess at Netherfield, and the young woman interrupts their conversation to suggest an appropriate gift for Meryton. The characters from Miss Austen’s classic appear one after the other, with Mr Collins, Lady Catherine, George Wickham, and Caroline Bingley creating obstacles for Elizabeth and Darcy.
Dancing and conversations at the Netherfield Ball ignite feelings between Miss Elizabeth and Mr Darcy. In the background are stories circulated in Meryton regarding George Wickham’s New World Tea Company, where investors made large, quick profits. At the ball, Mr Collins and Sir William discuss the investment opportunity, but Charles Bingley declares this idea too good to be true. However, Mr Darcy refuses to second Bingley’s warning. After the ball, Bingley’s reputation with the neighbours is damaged by his refusal to endorse the New World Tea Company. Mr Darcy leaves for the north after arguing with Elizabeth about Mr Wickham’s business. The Hursts and Caroline return to London, and Charles spends most of his days at Longbourn.
At Christmas, on the wedding day of Charlotte Lucas and Mr Collins, several local gentlemen purchase shares in Mr Wickham’s company. Everyone anticipates the beginning of riches in the new year when the New World Tea Company pays dividends. How will events unfold in the spring when Elizabeth meets Mr Darcy at Hunsford? What happens with Mr Wickham’s New World Tea Company?