Wickham subsided, though his expression remained sullen.
The soldiers assisted him onto a horse, one keeping a firm hold of the lead.
Captain Langley mounted. “My thanks.” Soon they disappeared down the lane.
Elizabeth watched until they were out of sight. “That, I hope, will be the last of him.”
Darcy glanced at her. “I would not wager on it.”
Elizabeth allowed herself a small smile. “No, perhaps not. But he will find Longbourn far less welcoming in future.”
Darcy’s expression softened slightly. “As he should.”
***
Elizabeth turned to Darcy. "What time is it?"
Darcy drew out his watch. "Almost eleven."
She smiled. "Good. The wagons will be here shortly."
"You do not need to go, do you?"
She returned his smile. "No, not this time." She took a seat upon the front step, and he seated himself beside her.
After a few minutes, several riders and two wagons came down the lane. They drew up near the stables, and the quiet of the morning gave way to purposeful activity. Crates and barrels were soon being shifted and secured, voices calling to one another as the work proceeded with practiced efficiency. When all was loaded, the wagons were covered with tarps and made ready for the road.
Elizabeth rose and walked to the first wagon. She spoke briefly with the driver before handing him a letter. The wagons set off, six escorts riding with them, some ahead and others following behind.
Elizabeth watched them go, a quiet satisfaction settling over her, then turned back to Darcy. "Do you feel inclined for a ride to Oakham Mount?"
Darcy rose at once. "It would be my pleasure."
***
Most of the party gathered in the drawing room after dinner. Kitty and Lydia had gone upstairs to remake one of Lydia’s bonnets.
Darcy sat beside Elizabeth upon the sofa. Jane and Bingley were seated nearby, engaged in quiet conversation. Miss Bingley, upon entering the room and observing both couples, frowned slightly before crossing to the pianoforte and beginning to play.
Lady Catherine, Anne, and Mrs. Bennet were seated near the fire, while Mr. Bennet remained close at his wife’s side.
Mr. Collins chose a chair near Elizabeth. “I must confess, Miss Elizabeth, I was surprised to learn that the Bennets now own Netherfield. I understand the stud farm is included as well.”
Elizabeth paused briefly, then inclined her head.
He leaned closer. “All the more reason your refusal of my offer was most ill-advised.”
Elizabeth restrained a look of impatience. “And why would you say that, sir?”
Mr. Collins gestured broadly about the room. “Because all this will one day be mine. Your promise to your mother of securing her future now appears rather hollow.”
Mrs. Bennet sat upright at this, turning toward her husband. Mr. Bennet reached over and calmly patted her hand.
Elizabeth shook her head. “You are mistaken. Netherfield and the stud farm are not part of the original entail. Their purchase does not alter that. The law is quite clear. We may dispose of them as we choose.”
Mr. Collins leaned forward again. “You are mistaken. You are a foolish young woman, and entirely ignorant of such matters.”
Darcy gave a quiet, unmistakable laugh. “On the contrary, sir, she appears very well informed. Netherfield and any subsequent acquisitions remain entirely at the family’s discretion.”
