“Lady Westland means to visit,” she blurted. “I have not seen her since I departed London though we often exchange letters.”
He turned to her with interest. “My aunt’s sister? What a coincidence that we should both be here at the same time.”
Encouraged, Elizabeth pressed on. “Yes, it was her letter that delayed my collecting Elinor for our walk. I have yet to send my reply.”
“My aunt holds her sister in high regard. We have been often in company.” His glance returned to her. “Do you still correspond with Lady Matlock as well?”
“Less frequently. She has ever been kind.”
“I must write to her of our meeting once more.” He seemed pleased. “I am ordered to London for Christmastide—perhaps I shall tell her then.”
Elizabeth feigned surprise. “You would tease your poor aunt? I never thought you capable, sir!” She allowed herself a playful look, pleased when he laughed outright. “And do you mean to invite your sister to Netherfield Park?”
“Miss Bingley assures me Georgiana would be most welcome. I shall leave her to decide, though I imagine my sister may seek the peace and civility of Longbourn rather than endure the attentions of my host’s sisters.”
“Yes, pray tell her we should be most pleased to have her call whenever she feels the need to escape.” The look Elizabeth gave him carried gentle irony, her meaning perfectly clear.
When they reached Longbourn’s stables, Elizabeth paused and faced him fully. “You have my heartfelt thanks, Mr Darcy. I shall not forget your kindness…or the relief you have given me this day.”
“It was no trouble, madam. I am glad to have been of service.” He mounted with the aid of the mounting block and touched his hat in farewell. “Until the evening party at Lucas Lodge, then.” With that, he turned his horse and rode off.
Elizabeth watched him ride away. A strange mingling of gratitude, longing, and…fear stirred within her. With a sigh, she made her way to the house, her precious burden now asleep. Miss Lane met her at the door, arms reaching out to accept her young charge.
Her own arms aching, Elizabeth withdrew to her chamber to compose her reply to Suzanne’s letter.
Longbourn, Hertfordshire
14 October 1811
Dearest Suzanne,
Pray forgive the slight delay of this missive. I would have replied at once, but I was engaged in the search for my child. It seems Elinor and Arthur share a trait in common: they both delight in wandering off when left unattended. My errant daughter was fortunately found by a gentleman you know well. Mr Fitzwilliam Darcy is presently residing with a friend at Netherfield Park.
My daughter’s estate was leased last month by a gentleman from the North. Mr Charles Bingley—an amiable man by every account. His sisters, however, are another matter. What little I have seen does not speak well of them. The younger is proud and fancies herself above her company, though I suspect she may possess some hidden depths. The elder I have yet to fathom; she appears indifferent, and I rather think she married for consequence.She had no need of money; the Bingleys’ fortune, you see, comes from trade.
He has shown decided admiration for Jane. She, in turn, likes him exceedingly, though after two meetings she cannot truly know him. I am half-minded to investigate the gentleman further, yet his intimacy with Mr Darcy may serve as sufficient testimony to stay my hand. Have you ever known the latter to befriend anyone unscrupulous or untrustworthy? He appears a man of integrity, and I hope, for Jane’s sake, that he is a gentleman in every sense.
My father and mother are delighted at the prospect of welcoming you and Arthur on the first of November. Should that date suit, pray write directly, and I shall make every preparation for your arrival. I own myself most eager to see you at long last. My present life now feels so far removed from our time in London that your company will make it seem real once more.
Mama is all aflutter at the thought of entertaining such distinguished guests. She governs herself with more circumspection than in the past, and her excitement is becomingly restrained. I confess, I half-expected to see the Mrs Bennet of old re-emerge when I told her of your wish to visit. She has just come in to bid me ask after your favourite dishes—Arthur’s as well. Mama is resolved that your stay shall want for nothing.
I shall send this letter by express; my impatience will brook no delay, and I can scarcely contain my excitement! Pray send areply soon!
Your ever-affectionate friend,
Elizabeth
She sanded and sealed the letter before handing it to a footman with orders that it be sent express. As she mounted the stairs, her thoughts returned to the image of her daughter cradled in Mr Darcy’s arms—nestled there as though she had long been familiar with his embrace. Why did the picture seem so natural—so right?
She told herself it was only gratitude that stirred her so; yet her heart could not be persuaded.
Chapter Twenty-Three
October 1811
Lucas Lodge, Hertfordshire
Elizabeth
