“Mr. Hawkes reports six horses ready. They are to be collected next week.”
“That is satisfactory.” She rose from her chair. “Then it seems all is in order. Thank you, Mr. Wilmot. Your diligence spares me a great deal of concern.”
He inclined his head again. “You may travel without uneasiness, Miss.”
Elizabeth remained standing a moment after he had gone, her gaze returning briefly to the list in her hand before she folded it and set it aside.
***
The Netherfield carriage had scarcely drawn up when the door opened and Mr. Wilmot emerged into the hall, hat in hand. He paused at the sight of the visitors and then inclined his head.
“Good morning, sir,” he said.
Bingley smiled in recognition. “Ah, Mr. Wilmot. Abroad early, I see.”
“Yes, sir. A few estate matters required attention.”
With another slight bow, he stepped past them and made his way toward the door.
Darcy’s gaze followed him a moment longer than necessary before he turned back toward the drawing room.
Mr. Hill led the Netherfield party inside and announced them.
Darcy’s glance took in the room at once. A lady of animated expression rose from her seat; beside her sat two younger women, whose resemblance left little doubt as to their relation. At that moment, a door opened at the far end of the room, and Miss Elizabeth Bennet entered, attired for travel. She offered a brief apology for her delay before taking her seat beside her sister.
Mrs. Bennet stepped forward to receive her guests.
“Mrs. Bennet,” Bingley said with a warm smile, “may I present my friend, Mr. Darcy.”
Darcy bowed. “I am pleased to make your acquaintance.”
Mrs. Bennet returned his bow with a curtsey. “Mr. Darcy, my daughters, Jane and Mary. You are already acquainted with Elizabeth. Pray be seated.”
Mary rose at once. “Shall I ask Hill to bring tea, Mama?”
“Yes, my dear.”
As the company arranged themselves, Mrs. Bennet added, “My two youngest daughters are engaged with their governess this morning.”
Bingley took a seat near Jane; the others followed.
Darcy remained standing a moment before turning toward Elizabeth. “You are travelling today, Miss Elizabeth?” he asked.
Elizabeth inclined her head. “Yes. I am to visit my aunt and uncle in London.”
Mrs. Bennet smiled. “Lizzy visits them frequently. Their little ones are exceedingly fond of her.”
“Will you remain long in town?” Darcy asked.
“Only until tomorrow afternoon.”
Mrs. Hill entered with the tea service and set it upon the table.
When all had been served, Miss Bingley regarded Elizabeth with polite curiosity. “You travel without other family, Miss Elizabeth?”
Elizabeth met her gaze calmly. “My maid accompanies me, along with a groom.”
At that moment, Harris stepped just inside the doorway and bowed slightly. “The carriage is ready, Miss.”
