“Apparently with the prospect of being the future mistress of Longbourn, Miss Lucas was pressured by her family to accept. Elizabeth says Collins paid her little heed until her father increased her dowry not too long ago.”
“So in addition to being a fool, he is mercenary. Darcy, I really have to give Mrs. Bennet a lot of credit. The nerve of that man, saying he should assume a higher position at table and you should go lower since he would one day be heir. I could not hear every word, but the woman was nothing like the hysterical mama we saw at the ball.” His grin was broad. “She was very good at quietly putting him in his place and frankly, I am surprised she did not banish him to the kitchens for the duration of the meal.”
“I doubt he would have gone willingly.”
“I suppose not. ‘Tis a shame though about Bennet. I rather like the man, and his wry sense of humour reminds me of you.”
“Oh?”
“Yes. I had to laugh to myself when I discovered he also enjoyed using those three and four-syllable words you often spout.”
“I barely noticed.”
“Ha! I find that hard to believe.” He chuckled. Continuing on he added, “I can imagine Georgiana will be happy to have a new sister, five sisters in fact. Although I must say I have never seen a young lady more exuberant than Miss Lydia.”
“‘Exuberant’ is putting it nicely. I have proposed to Bennet that he allow me to sponsor the two younger girls at school thisautumn, and he has accepted. The discipline and exposure to a more refined society will serve them well.”
“I heartily agree.”
William frowned for a moment. “Since you mentioned Georgiana, I am a bit concerned. I sent her an express shortly after arriving in Kent informing her of my marriage. The rider came back with a note from Mrs. Younge stating that Georgiana had hurt her hand and would write later in the week after it healed. I sent another letter just before leaving Kent letting her know more of my plans. At the time I told her she need not write if her hand was still troubling her as I would be joining her in another week or so. Even though I told her she need not write, it worries me that I have heard nothing.”
“Not even in a follow-up from Mrs. Younge?”
“Least of all from Mrs. Younge.” He could not help but scowl. “While Lady Catherine swears by her recommendation, the woman has been a great disappointment and I shall be giving her notice after we arrive at Ramsgate. Your mother claims she has already found an excellent replacement and I intend to interview Mrs. Annesley for the position as soon as we all return to Town.”
“That sounds like a good plan. Mother’s judgement of character has always proved sound, so hopefully you will be pleased with her choice.”
“I hope so too. Nevertheless, when we return to Town later today, I shall send off another express to Georgie letting her know of our impending arrival. It will also give Elizabeth a chance to add her own message.” He smiled broadly. “Elizabeth is going to be an exceptional mother, as well as an excellent sister.”
“I agree. Even if you had the pick of every woman in theton, Miss Elizabeth is perfect for you and will make a wonderful addition to our family, despite Lady Catherine’s objections.” Heplayfully slapped William on the shoulder. “Well, Cousin, I think it is time for me to go down the hall and hustle our two friends along.” His grin was broad. “It appears you are anxious to be off to the manor house though we will be rather early.”
“Richard, I care not how early we arrive or how long I have to wait. As long as we are married today, that is all I ask.”
“Then let us be about it. I shall return momentarily.”
Longbourn
Elizabeth’s Room
“Lizzy,” Mrs. Gardiner said while adjusting the lace veil, “Lady Anne’s pearls are exquisite and the way Jane wove little Miss Darcy’s ribbon in your hair is quite lovely. I cannot get over how well it matches the pink rosebuds around the trim of your dress. However did you manage?”
“When I showed Mama Anna’s ribbon, she remembered seeing the trim at the mercantile and rushed out to purchase it on Saturday after Mr. Darcy left for London. Aunt Maddie, everything is perfect, and I cannot thank all of you enough for helping me this morning.”
“I know this is your wedding, Lizzy,” Lydia interjected, “but if you remember, I thought I would be the first sister to be married. Thus far Colonel F. has been a big disappointment.”
“Yes, but Lydia, Papa is allowing Mr. Darcy to sponsor you and Kitty at school, and once you complete your studies, I am sure your opportunities for finding eligible husbands will be far greater. Do not forget he has promised both of you a season if you do well.”
“Oh, la!” Lydia squealed. “I cannot wait. Every time I think of it, I go completely distracted! New ball gowns, new beaux and endless parties! However shall we endure the wait?” Giggling,Lydia took Kitty’s hands and the two of them twirled in place until they became dizzy and breathlessly plopped on the sofa. Then dreamily Lydia let out a long sigh saying, “I only hope I will meet a gentleman who smells as good as Mr. Darcy.”
“Lydia!” Elizabeth exclaimed.
“Well, it is true, Lizzy. Your Mr. Darcy may be far too serious for my liking, but he does cut a good figure and his cologne is very manly. Colonel F. was not nearly so attentive to such things, even though he did enjoy a good joke.” She giggled. “So do tell us, Lizzy, what was it like kissing Mr. Darcy?”
“Lydia, please!” Elizabeth pleaded as the heat rose in her cheeks.
“I saw the two of you last night behind that old tree and I doubt he was just holding your hand. La, the colonel never kissed me, and I would really like to know.”
“Lydia,” chided Mrs. Gardiner. “Some things are meant to be kept private.”
