“It is one of the best I have been privileged to hear.”
Bingley beamed widely.
Elizabeth flicked a quick glance towards Mr. Darcy. He had gone back to looking severe and silent as usual. She felt disappointed. It was as if that little interlude in the hallway had never happened.
“Perhaps we can have another ball soon,” said Mr. Bingley.
Mr. Darcy scowled.
“Oh, yes!” said Lydia. “But you must have it soon, before Mr. Collins leaves, or he will miss it.”
“Are you planning to leave us, then, Mr. Collins?” said Mr. Bingley, amiably.
“I am needed by my honorable patroness,” said Mr. Collins. “And by my flock, of course. I was hoping to return in time for the Sunday service in four days, but events have intervened.”
“Surely there is no hurry, Mr. Collins?” said Lydia, all smiles. “You must stay longer. You can ask the curate to deliver the sermon. That is what they are for. I am sure Lady Constance can spare you.”
Mr. Collins’ expression fluctuated between a grimace and a smile. “LadyCatherinede Bourgh was kind enough to permit me time to pay my respects to my cousins, and to offer an olive branch, but I do not wish to provoke her wrath by staying away too long.”
“I can safely speak on behalf of my aunt,” said Mr. Darcy, abruptly, “As long as there is a curate in place, I do not suppose you will be missed.”
He stood up. “And now, I need to take my leave. If we may, we will call on you again tomorrow to ensure all is well.”
He bowed stiffly and turned to his friend.
“Bingley, are you coming?”
Bingley stood up, looking sheepish. “Yes, of course. I hope we have not overstayed our welcome.”
He bowed quickly and followed Darcy, who was already striding out of the room.
Chapter 5
Darcy awoke the nextmorning in a state of anxiety. Elizabeth had been dismissive, but what if the apothecary was wrong? What if something had happened during the night?
He did not like sitting around twiddling his thumbs when Elizabeth could be in intense distress. Even waiting for Evans to shave him had him squirming with impatience.
