Would she still be in London when he returned? In his distraction, he had neglected to inquire after her plans. Did she think of him as he so often thought of her? She had appeared pleased and entirely at ease in his company. Never before had he felt so much at home with any woman of his acquaintance, nor had he detected in her voice or manner any of that affectation or sycophancy which he found so distasteful.
With an effort, he drew himself from these reflections and turned his attention to the business that must be concluded in preparation for his two-week sojourn in the north.
Chapter 16: Invitation to Darcy House
The Gardiner’s butler entered the drawing room.
“Ma’am, this was delivered by a personal servant of Mr. Darcy.”
As Madeline took the note, Edward Gardiner asked, “Mr. Darcy? Maddie, is this one of the gentlemen you met in the park?”
“Yes. His sister is quite taken with our Lizzy.” Her eyes scanned down the missive, then she added, “He sends his apologies and explains that he is traveling north and will not be able to escort the girls to Hatchards or to Gunter’s.”
Mr. Gardiner’s brows lifted. “He is very punctilious.”
“He is,” she agreed. “Reserved and exceedingly proper.”
She handed the note to her husband. When he had finished reading, he gave it to Elizabeth. Mr. Darcy was leaving, and she could not deny her disappointment. After she read the brief message, she brightened. He meant to return, and he wished to further the acquaintance.
Four days later, as they sat at breakfast, Rogers entered with a silver tray bearing three letters. Mr. Gardiner examined them, then paused over one in particular. With a look of curiosity, he lifted it and handed it to his niece.
“Lizzy, I did not know you had an acquaintance here in London.”
Jane ventured, “Perhaps it is from Miss Bingley.”
“And addressed to me? No, Jane, it cannot be from Miss Bingley.”
Elizabeth broke the seal and unfolded the letter.
“It is from Miss Darcy.”
Miss Elizabeth,
If you are not otherwise engaged, would you and Miss Bennet visit with me this afternoon? Perhaps we might read together. I have obtained a new book, a Gothic romance filled with secret societies and dreadful ambition, which may interest us.
Fitzwilliam warns that it may prove somewhat improper, though he trusts that I shall set it aside if it is not fit.
If you are able, pray come by one o’clock, that we may spend the afternoon together.
Sincerely,
Georgiana Darcy
Elizabeth turned to her aunt.
“May I go?”
“If Jane accompanies you, you may,” Mrs. Gardiner replied. “Does Miss Darcy have a companion?”
“I do not know Aunt Maddie. Though a young lady of her rank and situation would have one.”
“I will go with you, Lizzy,” Jane said. “Perhaps Miss Darcy will give us a tour. I may never again have the opportunity to see such a grand house.”
“Nor I,” Elizabeth admitted.
Shifting the conversation, Mr. Gardiner asked, “Today, my clerk begins a search for a suitable school for Lydia. Have you any recommendations I may offer him?”
Jane considered. “An active curriculum would be useful. Lydia has lots of energy and is easily bored. Perhaps riding, cooking, or some practical instruction. She will never tolerate embroidery, tatting, or such sedentary activities.”
