At length, he nodded. “I am very glad to hear it, Lizzy.”
Elizabeth smiled. “Thank you, Uncle.”
Chapter thirty-one
Mr. Bennet found Elizabeth and Darcy in the drawing room.
“Ah, good. I have received a letter from Mr. Philips, and I should like to speak with you both. Darcy, may we make use of your study?”
Darcy rose at once and assisted Elizabeth to her feet. “Of course.”
They followed him to the study and took their seats before his desk.
Mr. Bennet opened the letter and glanced again at the accompanying document. “We have received the new deed. The entail has been removed.”
Elizabeth smiled. “That is very good news.”
Darcy inclined his head. “Indeed, my congratulations.”
Mr. Bennet gave a satisfied nod. “But, Elizabeth, there is something further I wish to discuss, and you must tell me if you disagree.”
Elizabeth laughed lightly. “I am certain I shall be able to do so, Father.”
Mr. Bennet paused a moment, then continued. “I have been considering giving Netherfield to Jane.”
Elizabeth reflected briefly, then nodded. “That seems most fitting.”
“And I intend to leave Longbourn, and the associated enterprises, in your care.”
Elizabeth’s expression grew more thoughtful. “And what provision is to be made for Mary, Kitty, and Lydia?”
Mr. Bennet glanced at Darcy before replying. “I propose that your portion, and Jane’s, be added to their doweries. It would provide them with a very respectable sum. As for Kitty and Lydia, they have some years yet before they come out.”
Elizabeth turned slightly toward Darcy.
Darcy met her look with an easy smile. “I would be content to marry you without a farthing.”
Mr. Bennet regarded him directly. “I am pleased to hear it. Would you object to it being formally settled that Longbourn remains under Elizabeth’s direction?”
Darcy answered without hesitation. “Not in the least. She understands it far better than I, and I have estates enough to occupy me.”
Mr. Bennet smiled, clearly satisfied. “Then it is settled.”
***
Darcy led Elizabeth, Jane, Bingley, and Mr. and Mrs. Bennet to a small parlor at the back of the house.
He opened the door. “We do not make much use of this room now, but it is comfortable for our discussion.”
The room possessed a quiet elegance and felt immediately inviting. A fire burned brightly in the hearth, while a large window overlooked the back garden, which in season would be particularly pleasing.
They took their seats. Jane glanced at Elizabeth.
Elizabeth gave a small nod. “Jane and I have been speaking, and we should like to have a double wedding ceremony.”
Mrs. Bennet looked uncertain. “Are you quite sure you would not rather each have your own special day?”
Elizabeth shook her head. “We have always hoped we might share the day.” She glanced at Darcy.
