Mr. Collins regarded him with visible perplexity and, finding no immediate remedy, remained where he stood.
Lydia and Kitty soon disappeared into the dressmaker’s; Lydia determined upon the improvement of a bonnet. Elizabeth concluded her errand at the bakery and emerged with biscuits secured for Mrs. Bennet. Harris inclined his head toward the milliner’s shop, and Elizabeth proceeded in that direction, Mr. Collins close behind.
Sir William Lucas approached with evident pleasure. “Miss Bennet, a very good day to you.”
“And to you, Sir William. May I present my cousin, Mr. Collins?”
Sir William bowed with animation. “A pleasure indeed, sir. Hertfordshire is much gratified by agreeable company.”
The sisters rejoined Elizabeth as Lydia whispered urgently, “Look, officers!”
Two gentlemen in red approached and, upon perceiving Sir William, crossed the street toward them. “Good afternoon,” one called. “May we rely upon an introduction?”
“With the greatest satisfaction,” said Sir William. “Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth, Miss Mary, Miss Kitty, Miss Lydia, and Mr. Collins, allow me to present Lieutenant Denny.”
After the proper civilities were exchanged, Lieutenant Denny gestured toward his companion. “And this is one of our newest officers, Lieutenant Wickham.”
Lieutenant Wickham bowed with easy grace. “I count myself fortunate to encounter such agreeable society so soon after my arrival.”
Elizabeth regarded him with polite interest. “And do you believe the town may rely upon your protection from the French?”
He laughed lightly. “We shall endeavour not to disappoint you. Though, in truth, my path was once expected to lead elsewhere. It had long been my late godfather’s intention that I should hold a certain living under his patronage.” He paused, with an expression of regret. “Upon his death, however, circumstances altered.”
Elizabeth’s brow knit slightly. “If the arrangement was secured in writing, it must be capable of enforcement. My uncle is in the law; he might advise you.”
Wickham hesitated, though only for a moment. “You are all generosity, but I was deprived of what had long been considered my due. It is not a matter easily remedied.”
“Then perhaps another living might be sought,” Elizabeth replied calmly. “There is no reason talent should go unused.”
A flicker crossed his expression before his smile returned. “You are most obliging, Miss Bennet, yet I would not impose upon such kindness. Denny, we must report to the colonel. Good day.”
As Wickham turned away, Elizabeth did not observe him closely, but she saw Mr. Harding, across the street, altersuddenly and step forward, as though something had given him concern.
At that moment, a cry arose. Old Mr. MacDonald had lost his footing in the filth of the street and come down heavily. Mr. Harding hurried to assist him, while Mr. MacDonald loudly lamented the condition of the roads and the neglect of drivers.
Darcy and Bingley were just then riding into Meryton. Darcy’s posture stiffened as his gaze fell upon the departing figure.
“Wickham,” he said quietly. “What business can have brought him here?”
They dismounted near the ladies and secured their reins. Darcy approached Elizabeth. “Good morning. I trust you are well?”
“Perfectly, sir,” she replied, studying him. “And you?”
“I am well. I was merely surprised.”
“You know him? He related a curious tale of a church living denied him yet declined assistance in seeking another. I confess I found it puzzling.”
Darcy’s expression grew more reserved, though he did not immediately reply.
Mr. Collins stepped forward. “We should return to Longbourn.”
Darcy glanced at Bingley. “Shall we accompany the ladies?”
“With pleasure,” Bingley replied, offering his arm to Jane.
Having secured his reins, Darcy offered his arm to Elizabeth. She accepted without hesitation, and together they began the walk toward Longbourn, the others following.
Mr. Collins made a determined effort to overtake them, as though to reclaim his proper office, but the party had already formed, and he found himself obliged to follow at a less distinguished distance.
