“I do,” Elizabeth said calmly. “And more importantly, I believe it will benefit from it. The improvements we have begun will require closer oversight in the coming years.”
A slow smile appeared on his face. “I cannot deny the assistance would be welcome.”
“Then begin making inquiries. If you know of a suitable man, I should be glad to hear your recommendation.”
“Very good, Miss Bennet. I shall give the matter my attention.”
Elizabeth inclined her head. “Excellent.”
***
The sun shone brightly, and the breeze was light, making it a perfect day for a picnic.
Bingley and Darcy were attending the horses and carriage when Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth rode up the lane to Netherfield.
Darcy paused as Miss Elizabeth approached. He thought she looked elegant in her dark green riding habit and jaunty black hat. He stepped forward at once.
“Good morning. May I assist you down?”
Miss Elizabeth smiled warmly. “Good morning, Mr. Darcy. Thank you.”
After helping her from the saddle, he patted the horse’s neck. “Bramble, was it?”
“Yes. Bramble is my faithful friend.”
As Elizabeth spoke, Bramble nudged her shoulder with quiet insistence, clearly unwilling to be overlooked. Elizabeth rubbed his neck.
Darcy glanced up and saw Bingley already engaged with Miss Bennet. He turned back to Elizabeth with a quiet smile. “I have been looking forward to today’s outing.”
“As have I,” Elizabeth replied. “Have you selected our destination?” Her tone was warm, and Darcy found himself more pleased by it than he ought.
Darcy adopted a look of mild affront. “Of course. We have chosen a particular spot, one highly recommended by a local authority.”
Elizabeth’s eyes brightened. “Indeed? And may I inquire as to the identity of this authority?”
Darcy gave a small shrug. “If you insist. I consulted Mr. Wilmot.”
Elizabeth laughed softly. “Then I am certain we shall be well guided. Mr. Wilmot knows every inch of the surrounding land.”
Darcy glanced toward the carriage. “Bingley, the horses are growing restless. We should be off.”
Bingley sighed. “If they are not ready in five minutes, we shall go on without them.”
Darcy did not appear displeased by the possibility. However, Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst soon approached, and the moment passed.
Bingley went to meet them. “The carriage is ready.” He opened the door and assisted his sisters inside.
So they were on their way, the carriage proceeding at an easy pace while Darcy and Bingley rode alongside. Each soon fell into conversation with his preferred companion.
Elizabeth turned slightly toward Darcy. “I believe I know where we are going. A hill beyond the Gouldings’ estate.”
Darcy nodded. “Another half hour, perhaps.”
“A good choice. The ascent is gentle, and the view extends a considerable distance, though I have not been there in five or six years.”
They rode in companionable quiet for a time and Darcy found he silence more agreeable than most conversation. After a moment, Darcy said, “Mr. Wilmot shared his news. I must have met him shortly after he left you. He seemed very pleased.”
“I am glad of it,” Elizabeth replied. “I have advised him to begin seeking an under-steward. I do not wish him overburdened.”
