Elizabeth rapped the brass knocker on the door to Darcy House. This was her second visit to Mayfair, and she felt less discomfort than she had the previous call.
Miss Darcy and her companion, a pleasant lady named Mrs. Annesley, sat in the parlor. Tea awaited, and Elizabeth greeted her hostess warmly.
“How do you do today, Miss Darcy?” she asked.
“I am well. And you, Miss Bennet?” Miss Darcy smiled warmly. She thrived at Darcy House where she was in her element. The shy, awkward creature from Gunter’s had vanished, replaced by an enthusiastic, though quiet young lady.
“I, too, am well. I have had word from my dear friend Miss Lucas that she will join me on my journey to Kent next month.”
“It is your sister who resides in Kent?” Miss Darcy asked.
“It is. Her husband is the rector at Hunsford.” She sipped her tea, grateful for the warmth of the cup in her hands.
“Hunsford? Why, that is very near my aunt’s home, Rosings Park!” Miss Darcy looked shocked.
“I had forgotten the connection,” Elizabeth admitted. "I believe my cousin introduced himself to your brother whilst he was in Hertfordshire. It slipped my mind entirely.” The chaos surrounding the days following the Netherfield Ball was certainly to blame.
“Pray, forgive my forward speech, but my aunt is officious and difficult. I hope your sister can withstand her.” Miss Darcy looked equal parts horrified and ashamed of her outburst.
“Jane is perfection personified. Her serenity is not feigned. I imagine her ability to see good in all those around her will aid her well.” Elizabeth knew Jane would tolerate her husband’s patroness far better than she ever could.
Their conversation shifted, and they discussed books and music until the call came to an end. Elizabeth departed, promising to write to Miss Darcy while in Kent. The young lady was to go to Matlock House for the rest of the month. Her uncle, Lord Matlock, and her brother had arranged for several masters, and Miss Darcy would not be available for callers.
Elizabeth boarded the carriage, relieved to have avoided Mr. Darcy’s company once again. Miss Darcy was her brother’s opposite in every way. Where he was proud and disapproving, his sister was shy, welcoming, and polite. It was peculiar.
With four weeks left until she traveled to Kent, Elizabeth fought to occupy her time. She helped her aunt with her young cousins, entertaining them and assisting with their lessons. There were household duties, too, that required her aid, and Elizabeth happily did whatever else Mrs. Gardiner required.
Still, there were too many free hours in her day, leaving Elizabeth with too much time to think. Her vexation crept into her correspondence to Jane.
Dear Jane,
The last month passed quickly; do you not think so? I imagine with so much to occupy your time that your days are filled with all manner of activities. Mine are far emptier than I prefer, and I find that I am restless for more responsibility.
Charlotte has written to tell me of her invitation to Kent. I am very happy that she has accepted. We are both eager to see you again, and we shall have a marvelous time together, I am certain.
I have not written of it yet, but I have made the acquaintance of Miss Georgiana Darcy. Aunt Gardiner and I met with them at Gunter’s a few weeks ago, and I have called upon the young lady twice now. She has not called at Gracechurch Street, but I imagine it is due to her brother’s edict that she is not seen in the home of a tradesman. He is as arrogant and haughty as I recall, and I find my distaste for his company to be as constant as ever. I will suffer it, if I must, to maintain my growing friendship with Miss Darcy.
Our cousins are as well as ever. They are progressing in their lessons, and I believe in a year or so, Uncle Gardiner will take young James with him to his warehouse so that he might begin learning the business of imports and exports. It is hard seeing them grow so quickly.
How do you do, my dear sister, in your new position? I remember your promise to explain all to me someday, and I will hold you to it. Though I have avoided mentioning what occurred prior to your marriage, I cannot keep my peace forever. Your behavior baffled me, and your departure from our long-held desires is difficult for me to understand. I do love you, Jane, and I am trying to trust your judgment.
I shall bring you some treasures from London when I come. If you have any particular requests, pray, write to me with them immediately so that things might be procured before our departure.
All my love,
Elizabeth
It was not a very long letter, but it helped relieve some of Elizabeth’s disquiet. She sanded and sealed it before putting it with the outgoing post.
Jane’s reply to Elizabeth’s letter came within a week. This surprised Elizabeth; though she wrote to her sister once a week, Jane’s replies were short in supply. She usually replied to two or three of Elizabeth’s letters at one time, somehow managing to answer all her questions and queries without using too much paper.
My Dear Lizzy,
Your letter cheered me. I do appreciate hearing about our family. Our mother and father are unfaithful correspondents at best. I have received only one letter from each since departing for Kent. Mary has written regularly. She attaches religious tracts to review with my husband. Her efforts are appreciated by Mr. Collins. Kitty and Lydia have not written at all. It is not surprising, given their predilection for other activities.
I am sorry you find yourself with more time on your hands than you know what to do with. I could offer you all manner of suggestions, but I will not abuse your intelligence. I am certain you have considered each one I might present. I will be sure to keep you occupied whilst in Kent, lest you grow bored with my company and wish to return home.
My husband is as attentive as ever. I know you found little to like in his character and manner, but Mr. Collins takes very good care of me. There is nothing that escapes his notice or concern; just yesterday I awoke feeling poorly and hedelayed his meeting with Lady Catherine to ensure my comfort. You know enough of his patroness to understand just how momentous his actions were. Lady Catherine was not pleased with his tardiness, though Mr. Collins claims she accepted his reasons without delay.
