“Lizzy, you are returned. How was your journey?”
“Quite pleasant,” Elizabeth replied, embracing her sister. “But why were you to ride in such weather?”
Jane paused and studied her more closely. “Lizzy, are you quite well? You look as though you have not rested much.”
Elizabeth smiled lightly. “The roads are tiresome, nothing more.”
Jane’s expression softened, though she did not press the matter. “Miss Bingley has invited me to dine. Mama believed the carriage unavailable.”
“Well, it is most conveniently returned,” Elizabeth said lightly. “You must change, and you will reach Netherfield comfortably before the rain begins.”
Jane glanced toward the drawing room. “Mama will be disappointed.”
“Allow me to speak with her,” Elizabeth said quietly. “Go and dress.”
Jane gave her a look of quiet gratitude before turning away.
Elizabeth entered the drawing room.
“My dear Lizzy,” Mrs. Bennet exclaimed. “You are returned at last.”
“I am, indeed, Mama.”
“Jane has been invited to Netherfield. Is it not delightful?”
“I hope she will find it so.”
Mrs. Bennet looked toward the window, then back at Elizabeth. “I had intended she should ride.”
“The carriage spares her discomfort,” Elizabeth replied calmly. “We would not wish her to arrive in a less favourable state.”
Mrs. Bennet hesitated, then sighed. “Very well. It may be for the best. And if the rain continues, she shall at least see him at breakfast.”
Elizabeth smiled. “Exactly so, Mama.”
***
Jane watched the countryside pass as the carriage conveyed her to Netherfield. She was grateful Lizzy had insisted she take the carriage.
Lizzy takes care of them all, she thought. I must see that she is not always the one to do so.
Soon the carriage drew up before Netherfield. The footman set down the step and assisted Jane as she descended. Within moments she was conducted to the drawing room.
“Miss Jane Bennet,” the butler announced before withdrawing.
“Miss Bennet,” Miss Bingley said smoothly. “We are delighted you could join us.”
“Thank you,” Jane replied, taking the offered seat. “I am pleased to accept your invitation. I hope you find Hertfordshire agreeable.”
Miss Bingley gave a slight shrug. “It serves its purpose, though London offers far greater variety. We spend most of our time there.”
“I have visited London on occasion,” Jane said gently. “My aunt and uncle reside there.”
“Indeed?” Miss Bingley’s brows lifted. “And where do they live?”
“On Gracechurch Street.”
“How very charming,” Miss Bingley replied brightly.
