A brief silence followed.
Mr. Bennet regarded Collins steadily. “I believe the circumstances at Longbourn are now sufficiently understood.”
Collins shifted. “Indeed, most unfortunate. A regrettable accident, as I have expressed, and one for which I have conveyed my deepest concern.”
“I am sure you have,” Mr. Bennet said. “The question before us is not what has occurred, but what is to follow.”
Collins blinked, then inclined his head. “Naturally. I am most eager to act in any way that may be deemed proper.”
Elizabeth, seated quietly, did not miss the careful phrasing.
Mr. Bennet continued, his tone even. “Longbourn, as you are aware, is entailed.”
“Yes, of course. A most important provision.”
“One which, under present circumstances, may no longer serve its intended purpose.”
Collins hesitated. “I am not certain I follow you, sir.”
“I believe you do, or you soon will,” Mr. Bennet replied mildly.
Darcy’s gaze remained fixed upon Collins, calm and unreadable.
Lady Catherine’s expression sharpened slightly, though she did not interrupt.
Mr. Bennet folded his hands. “I propose, Mr. Collins, that we come to an arrangement. One that secures your future in a manner both respectable and comfortable.”
Collins straightened, interest overcoming caution. “Indeed, sir?”
“You would agree to a legal alteration of the present entail, in exchange for an annuity, guaranteed and sufficient to maintain your situation.”
Silence fell. Collins stared at him.
Lady Catherine turned slightly. “Alter the entail?”
Mr. Bennet did not look at her. “With the proper instruments, and the cooperation of all parties, such matters may be reconsidered.”
Collins’s mouth opened, then closed. His thoughts were plainly racing. “An annuity,” he repeated.
“Yes.”
“And the amount?"
Mr. Bennet named a figure.
Collins inhaled.
Elizabeth saw at once the moment the balance shifted. Security. Independence. Respectability. All offered, without the burden of Longbourn.
But my duty,” Collins said, though the words rang hollow. “The expectations attached to the estate, my honoured patroness...”
Lady Catherine’s gaze moved from Mr. Bennet to Collins, her expression no longer certain.
Darcy spoke, his voice quiet but firm. “Your duty, sir, must be considered in light of recent events.”
Collins flushed. “An unfortunate accident,” he said quickly.
“One for which Longbourn has paid the price,” Darcy replied.
