I am feeling better, Brother. I wish to assure you that I am recovering apace. Thank you for your patience as I do so. If you mean to stay in Hertfordshire for Christmas, perhaps I might join you there.
With love,
Georgiana
Darcy’s heart lifted as he read his sister’s words. Georgiana would be well. She had learned a hard lesson, but she would be stronger for it. His sister had inherited their mother’s looks. Miss Darcy had flaxen hair and a fair complexion, and she was every bit as beautiful as Lady Anne had been. He had been remiss in her education. Darcy knew he ought to have taught her how to discern those with less than honorable intentions. Now, it seemed, she had healed enough that he could begin.
He would reply immediately.And perhaps she might, indeed, join me here for Christmas. Bingley had invited him to stay at least until the new year.If I mean to ask Miss Elizabeth to marry me, then Georgiana should know her future sister.The thought thrilled him, and he took himself upstairs to his chamber so he could write to his sister in private.
Dear Georgie,
How pleased I am to hear from you! It sounds as though our aunt has been keeping you busy. I shall write to her at once and request she allow you a little more leisure. Everyone requires time to themselves—to enjoy a good book, walk out in the air or visit the shops. Has she taken you to Bond Street yet? You must persuade her to go so you may select some new music.
I am greatly enjoying my time in Hertfordshire. The country is quite different, but not in a disagreeable way. I appreciate the milder weather, for I have been able to ride out every day. There have been several shooting parties as well, and Netherfield’s dinner table has benefitted from our efforts. Some evenings are spent away from the estate. Most recently, we attended a soirée held by Sir William Lucas, a local knight fond of entertaining. His parties, while rather crowded, always include the Bennets, who are their nearest neighbors.
When last I wrote, I mentioned the Bennets of Longbourn. I have since learned more about the family and so can satisfy your curiosity. Mr. Thomas Bennet is master of the estate. I had the pleasureofconversing with him at the aforementioned soirée. He is not fond of society, and so Sir William arranged a quiet sitting room for him during the evening—near enough to hear the festivities, yet far enough for peace. He is a clever and engaging gentleman, and I look forward to our next exchange.
The lady of Longbourn is Mrs. Frances Bennet, though I believe her closest lady friends call her Fanny. I must confess, I know little of her. She has paid me scarcely any notice, which is unusual. I suspect she is aware of my fortune, yet never has she thrown her daughters in my way. She is forthright and loud—rather reminiscent of our aunt, Lady Catherine. I appreciate candor above all, and Mrs. Bennet does not disappoint in that regard.
The eldest daughter is Miss Jane Bennet, who, as I mentioned, has drawn Bingley’s attention. She is not unlike you—tall, fair, graceful—and beautiful. Miss Bennet appears to return his admiration, and I am pleased for them both. Should his sisters attempt interference, I shall give him my opinion. Though she is reserved, I believe Miss Bennet holds Charles in esteem. However, they have known one another less than a month, so perhaps I speak too hastily.
Miss Mary Bennet is the third daughter. She plays the pianoforte and prefers quiet pursuits. I know little more. Her two younger sisters, Miss Kitty and Miss Lydia, are seventeen and fifteen. Both are lively, though sorely lacking in propriety. It is not my place to speak harshly, but I am compelled to mention that they seem ill-prepared for society. I hope their behavior does not bring distress to the household.
Now, to the lady you most wish to hear of. Miss Elizabeth Bennet is the second daughter. She has dark, curling hair that catches the sunlight with glints of chestnut, and fine eyes—lively and intelligent, framed by long lashes—which seem to always be alight with wit and good humor. She is, I am told, an excellent walker—and I can now attest to the truth of it, for I encountered her only this morning while riding. We spoke for a time.
Dear sister, never has a lady captivated me more. She is a breath of fresh air, and I find I admire her deeply. Though I do not yet feel it is time to request a formal courtship, I do intend to pursue Miss Elizabeth in earnest, and if I may be so fortunate, to one day call her my wife. Never have I felt so unprepared, so unworthy. How could such a beautiful, charming, and intelligent woman choose me when others—more handsome and affable—might court her instead? Yet my impression is that she is not one to be swayed by such things. If I am so blessed as to earn her favor, she will be Mrs. Darcy ere the Season begins.
Now, I must close. Bingley wishes to call at Longbourn this afternoon, and I am no less eager than he. When I next write, I shall tell you more of Miss Elizabeth. For now, I remain
Your affectionate brother,
F. Darcy
He sanded and sealed the letter. Darcy’s heart felt uncommonly light—more so than it had in many months.Georgiana would recover, and so, he believed, would he. Picking up the missive to place it on the salver, he left his room for the second time that morning. Bingley and his sisters were likely already at table.
“Darcy!” Bingley called as he entered the breakfast room. “Have you already eaten? I would wager you were out and about before dawn. How do you do it, man? We did not return to Netherfield until quite late.”
“I suppose ’tis borne of years of habit.” Darcy joined them at the table, intending only to have a cup of tea while they dined.
“You are looking well this morning, sir.” Miss Bingley leaned over and touched his hand lightly before taking a piece of toast from the plate in front of him. “That waistcoat is very fine.” Her gaze swept over him. Darcy noted the brief wince she barely managed to conceal as her eyes landed on the scar and crooked line of his nose.
“Thank you, Miss Bingley,” he replied politely, his tone neutral. He was well aware of his appearance and had no need for empty flattery. Recalling Miss Elizabeth’s refreshing honesty that morning made him smile, and he quickly masked it behind a cup of tea, lest Miss Bingley think it meant for her.
“Will you come with me to Longbourn?” Bingley asked. “Louisa and Caroline claim they are otherwise engaged this afternoon.”
“Goodness, Charles, must you pester Mr. Darcy?” Miss Bingley scolded her brother. “I am certain he has other matters requiring his attention. Why would he wish to call at Longbourn?”
“On the contrary, Miss Bingley,” Darcy returned smoothly, “I completed my correspondence after my ride. I am quite at leisure. Mr. Bennet invited me to call, and I cannot disappoint him.”
“Capital!” Bingley cried. “Let us take the carriage, shall we? I have no desire to arrive smelling of horse.” He grinned before shoveling a forkful of eggs into his mouth.
“I shall be ready whenever you say the word,” Darcy replied. “I confess, I am eager to test my chess skills against Mr. Bennet. He claims to be a master.”
“Just like you, to go for chess rather than to see the ladies.” Bingley teased with a snort.
Miss Bingley’s reply was high-pitched and slightly frantic. “Charles, do not be absurd.Youare the only one throwing yourself at a Bennet. Mr. Darcy has no interest in seeing ladies,” she said desperately. “Is that not right, sir?”
Darcy could not suppress a grin as he took another sip of tea. The poor lady was destined for disappointment, for he was as eager as her brother to see one of the ladies of Longbourn.
