“One might deem it important. I would consider it ordinary family discourse. You are all of an age where such conversations are fitting.”
“Certainly, Papa,” Elizabeth agreed, casting an affectionate glance towards Mary, who responded with a timid smile. “When Mary smiles, she bears a striking resemblance to Jane,” she remarked.
“Yes, indeed. Only sheseldomsmiles—something that must change. She can learn from both of you when to smile, when or how to speak, and”—Mr Bennet hesitated—“how to dress, from Jane.”
“Papa!” Elizabeth protested, feigning offence, eliciting laughter from everyone in the room.
“Lately, I have noted a change in Lizzy’s demeanour, or perhaps it is in her appearance. I cannot quite say. As the master of this house, I do not like being left out of important matters. I expected Lizzy to initiate this conversation. You have been home for a few days, and we have barely seen each other. If I am not mistaken, you are avoiding me.”
Elizabeth did not answer, but she breathed deeply as she usually did when scolded by her father. However, she was sure he could not possibly know what had happened in Kent. Neither Mrs Gardiner nor Jane would ever have revealed her secrets without her knowing. Besides, she was no longer a child, and she had made no mistakes—or perhaps her father knew better.
“Then I shall begin the discussion,” Mr Bennet said when she remained silent. “I wish you girls to become closer,” he asked, directing his gaze towards Elizabeth and Jane. Both nodded, as the message was for them to include Mary more frequently in their secrets.
“I plainly see the division within our family, even if, regrettably, I know it is unavoidable. As much as I esteem your mother, I admit that she cannot be included in certain secrets, and her actions must be closely watched when a confidential matter regarding our family is to be considered.”
“I do not blame Mama for what happened to me,” Jane murmured softly.
“Do not blame her, but be aware that her interference must cease—it brought nothing good,” Mr Bennet insisted, and Elizabeth nodded.
“Unfortunately, those of us gathered here are too restrained, timid, or indifferent,” Elizabeth noted, glancing at her father, who accepted her reproach with a nod and continued.
“As a result, the image of our family is shaped primarily by the other ladies, who are vociferous, with a love of gossip, and highly regarded in Meryton. And a simple calculation tells usthat they constitute fewer than half the members of our family. Yet, to most of the world, the Bennets are them because they are the most garrulous—”
“Papa!” exclaimed Jane with mild reproach, but her father gestured to let him speak.
“Please, I know what I am talking about. Furthermore, your mother wields the power to influence us and dictate the actions of some of you,” Mr Bennet added.
“Is this a revolution?” Mary asked candidly.
“No, it is a moment of clarity,” Mr Bennet said. “While I deeply admire and appreciate your mother’s role in managing this household, a testament to her talent and intelligence, I can no longer tolerate her meddling in your affairs. I intend to keep a close watch on her—and Lydia, if providence still gives me that chance and it is not too late for her. But I need to know everything that is happening in your lives.”
Even though he referred to all of them, he looked earnestly at Elizabeth.
“Yes, that is what I need too,” Elizabeth whispered.
“So, dear daughter, what happened in Kent?”
Elizabeth nodded, her face slightly worried, but looking at her father and sisters, she smiled. In that room she loved so much she could find only understanding and wise advice.
“I shall be brief, as my memories from Kent do not fill me with joy. Firstly, I must tell you, Papa, that Jane and I made no error in not wishing to marry Mr Collins. I am sorry for the future of Longbourn, but neither Jane nor I would have had the means to build a contented life with that gentleman. Fortunately, Charlotte is happy.”
“Perhaps I should have tried,” Mary pondered aloud, and all eyes turned to her.
“No!” Jane said fervently, staunchly defending the notion of marrying for love.
“Let Mary speak,” Elizabeth urged.
“I find myself to be more like Charlotte, and you said she is happy,” Mary confessed.
“You are not like Charlotte in so many ways!” Elizabeth replied. “You are an intelligent woman who has read more than anyone else I know. All you lack is confidence in your opinions and a more engaging approach to conversations and people.”
“Lizzy is right. It is essential to change your…” Jane hesitated.
“Your manner of speaking, walking, and dressing, as Papa said before,” Elizabeth interjected, punctuating her remark with laughter. “And that last directive applies to me as well.”
“Less so since you returned from Kent and London,” Jane replied, her face brightened by a loving smile.
“Thank you, dear sister,” Elizabeth replied, then turned to Mary. “Our aunt is prepared to introduce you and Kitty to some fine gentlemen, sons of her acquaintances in town. Henceforth, you will both accompany Jane or me whenever we travel to London or elsewhere.”
