Anne’s face lit with quiet pleasure. “I have chosen two gowns for evening, and several for daytime wear. It has been a most delightful excursion.”
After two hours of measuring and selecting fabrics and patterns, the party was at last finished.
Lady Matlock turned to Elizabeth. “How came you by such an appointment?”
Lady Catherine’s gaze returned to Elizabeth with renewed scrutiny.
Elizabeth met it with calm composure. “Madame Beaumont is acquainted with my aunt and uncle.”
***
Leaving Madame Beaumont’s establishment, Elizabeth and the younger ladies proceeded along Bond Street toward Gunter’s, which stood only a few doors away.
Georgiana’s attention was immediately caught by the activity of the street, and she walked beside Elizabeth with quiet eagerness, while Jane and Mary followed behind.
Lady Catherine paused at the top of the steps, casting a dissatisfied glance toward her carriage. “Really, I do not see why we should walk, when the carriage might be brought forward.”
Lady Matlock only smiled. “It is but a short distance, and the air is pleasant.”
By the time Lady Catherine had resolved to proceed, the others had already reached Gunter’s and taken their places at one of the small tables set just beyond the shopfront.
She approached with measured steps, her expression still faintly displeased, though she seated herself without remark.
Elizabeth had arranged matters so that the seat beside her remained unoccupied.
A few minutes later, Darcy approached the group. “Good afternoon, ladies. May I join you?”
Elizabeth inclined her head toward the empty seat. “Of course.”
Soon, all but Lady Catherine were enjoying their ices.
Elizabeth glanced toward her. “Lady Catherine, you do not care for ices?”
Lady Catherine frowned slightly. “It does not seem a very dignified indulgence.”
Elizabeth inclined her head. “I can understand the concern, but you are the most dignified person I know. I do not believe a flavored ice could alter that.”
Lady Catherine regarded her for a moment, then allowed a faint smile. “I suppose I might try one.”
Elizabeth’s expression warmed. “I think that is an excellent idea.”
Darcy turned slightly aside, as though to conceal his amusement, while Lady Matlock gave a small, approving nod. “They are indeed very good.”
Darcy’s gaze returned to Elizabeth, his expression thoughtful. Leaning slightly toward her, he said in a low voice, “I believe you might persuade anyone and do so without their being aware of it.”
Elizabeth met his gaze with a hint of amusement. “Then I must take care how I employ such influence.”
His gaze lingered a moment longer. “I think it far more likely you would use it only where it is most needed.”
Lady Catherine set aside her spoon and regarded Elizabeth with a measured look.
“You appear to be very well acquainted wherever you go, Miss Bennet.”
Elizabeth met her gaze steadily, her expression, composed and did not immediately reply.
Chapter twenty-five
The drawing room was already full when the butler announced, “Mr. and Mrs. Hurst, Mr. Bingley, and Miss Bingley.”
