“It is beautiful,” Jane said softly.
Mrs. Turner gestured toward several books. “Pray look through these and select a pattern that pleases you.”
Jane seated herself and began turning the pages, pausing now and then to consider the designs.
Mrs. Turner turned to Mrs. Bennet. “And for you, perhaps this rose silk? Or this lavender?”
“They are both lovely, but I believe I prefer the rose. What do you say, Jane?”
Jane looked up and smiled. “The rose will suit you very well.”
Mrs. Turner next addressed Mary. “And for you, this plum, or perhaps a deep blue?”
Mary considered them both. “I cannot decide. What do you think, Lizzy?”
Elizabeth stepped nearer and studied her a moment. “The plum is particularly flattering. It brings warmth to your complexion.”
Mrs. Bennet nodded approvingly. “Yes, the plum is very becoming.”
“Then you must choose a pattern,” Elizabeth said, indicating the books.
Jane looked up again. “But Lizzy, will you not also have a new gown?”
“I do not require one.”
“Nonsense,” Mrs. Bennet declared. “It would never do for one of my daughters to appear at a ball in an old gown while the others are newly dressed.”
Mrs. Turner brought forward another bolt, deep green silk. “Mr. Gardiner anticipated you might say so,” she said with a smile. “He requested that I inform you he would be very displeased if you did not also select a gown.”
Elizabeth ran her fingers lightly over the fabric. “It is very beautiful. Very well, I shall not oppose such united authority.” She glanced about the shop. “But where is Nathan?”
At the sound of his name, a small boy peered through the doorway at the back. He brightened at once upon seeing her.
Elizabeth knelt. “I have something for you.”
“Miss Elizabeth, that is not necessary,” Mrs. Turner said.
Elizabeth only smiled. “You would not wish to spoil the surprise.”
She drew a small book from her reticule and handed it to him.
Nathan took it carefully and looked up. “Animals.”
“Yes, a book of animals.”
Mrs. Turner looked on with softened expression. “What do you say, Nathan?”
He hugged the book close. “Thank you.”
“You are very welcome,” Elizabeth rose, smoothing her gloves, though her thoughts lingered a moment longer than they ought.
At length, the fabrics were chosen, patterns selected, and trims agreed upon.
Elizabeth turned to Mrs. Turner. “Thank you. You have been most helpful.”
“I shall have the gowns ready for the first fitting within a week.”
“So soon?”
