When she reached the end, she folded the letter and looked back at him.
“Oh my,” she said. “Must we truly receive him? He appears quite ridiculous.”
Mr. Bennet laughed softly. “That was my first impression as well. Our cousin possesses an uncommon confidence in the importance of his own intentions.”
Elizabeth tapped the folded letter lightly against her fingers. “He writes as though his visit were already agreed upon, and as though his purpose will be received with gratitude.”
“Yes,” Mr. Bennet replied. “Particularly that portion regarding his wish to make amends for the entail.”
Elizabeth raised her brows. “By marrying one of your daughters.”
“Precisely.”
Elizabeth shook her head. “That will not do.”
Mr. Bennet regarded her with mild curiosity. “So, you are decided?”
“I am,” she said simply. “Whatever his motives, such a match would benefit no one, least of all the daughter expected to accept him out of duty.”
Mr. Bennet nodded slowly. “I am inclined to agree. I see no reason to sacrifice present happiness to future convenience.”
Elizabeth allowed herself a small smile. “Mama will not view it in quite the same light.”
“No,” he said dryly. “But I thought it best to hear your opinion before the matter becomes the subject of her complete enthusiasm.”
Elizabeth glanced again at the letter. “Then I think we may receive Mr. Collins with civility, but without encouragement. If he is determined to admire himself, he need not do so at our expense.”
Mr. Bennet paused, then smiled at Elizabeth. “Very well. We shall endure him together.”
***
Millie stood beside Elizabeth, each carrying a basket of supplies. Elizabeth raised her hand to knock at Mrs. Smith’s cottage, only to pause in surprise as the door opened to reveal Mr. Darcy.
He stepped back at once and gestured for them to enter.
Sarah, who had relieved Millie that morning, sat near the hearth with the baby in her arms, while Emma occupied herselfat the table with her doll. At the sight of Elizabeth, Emma’s face lit up.
“Oh, Miz Lizzy,” she cried, “look what Mr. Darcy brought for my baby doll. She has her very own bed.” She pointed proudly to a small doll’s bed set upon the table. “And she has a blanket too.”
Emma carefully laid the doll inside, then turned and pointed toward the baby. “Mr. Darcy brought a blanket for him as well.” She patted it gently. “I think the baby likes it.”
Elizabeth set her basket down and reached for the baby. “I see. That was very kind of Mr. Darcy.” She glanced toward him, a touch of surprise in her expression, as she rocked the child lightly. Looking down, she added, “And what shall we call this young gentleman?”
Mrs. Smith emerged from the back room and came forward, smiling. “His name is Samuel,” she said. “After my father.”
“Samuel,” Elizabeth repeated softly. “You seem quite content.” She looked back to Mrs. Smith. “How are you feeling? We have brought more bread and some beef stew.”
Mrs. Smith lowered herself into a chair. “I am tired, Miss Elizabeth, but I am well. Sarah has been a great help, and everyone has been most kind.” She turned to Darcy. “Thank you, sir, for the gifts and the food. We shall have enough to last us some time.”
Darcy inclined his head. “I am glad of it.” He took up his hat. “I must be on my way.” With a brief bow, he took his leave, the door closing quietly behind him.
Elizabeth smiled fondly at Emma. “It was thoughtful of him to remember your doll as well.”
Mrs. Smith reached for the baby. “Here, let me take him. I believe he is growing restless.” She rocked Samuel gently and nodded toward Millie. “I shall settle him in the back room.”
Elizabeth nodded. “Yes, Millie will remain, and Sarah and I should return to the house. Pray send word if you find you need anything further.”
***
