Elizabeth stood as well. “Of course, Mama. I know you will see to everything.”
***
Darcy was perusing the shelves at the bookshop in Meryton when the bell over the door gave a soft jingle.
Mr. Bell looked up from behind the counter and smiled at the woman entering. “Good afternoon, Mrs. Phillips. How are you today?”
“I am very well, thank you,” Mrs. Phillips replied pleasantly. “I was wondering whether that new receipt pamphlet has come in.”
Mr. Bell nodded. “Yes, madam. The household receipt pamphlet you asked for has arrived. And Miss Elizabeth Bennet’s books came in this morning as well.”
Mrs. Phillips brightened. “Indeed? Miss Elizabeth does love her books. I would be happy to take them to her.” She drew coins from her reticule and laid them on the counter. “How much do I owe for Lizzy’s books?”
Mr. Bell shook his head as he gathered the volumes and the pamphlet. “There is no need, madam. Miss Elizabeth settles her account each month.”
Mrs. Phillips accepted the books and glanced at the titles. “Annals of Agriculture and Cowper,” she said, giving a small shake of her head. “I do not always understand that girl. She is forever going here and there, a very active young woman. “Why, she was only yesterday with Mrs. Smith during her confinement and missed the assembly on that account. Her mother was none too pleased; you may be sure. Still, she is a sweet girl. Always stops to speak with me when we meet.”
She nodded to Mr. Bell. “Well, I must be off.” With that, she took her leave.
Darcy, who had listened without appearing to do so, glanced briefly toward the door, his expression thoughtful, before returning his attention to the shelves.
Mr. Bell approached him. “May I help you find anything, sir?”
Darcy turned slightly. “Yes, thank you. I will take these two volumes.” He paused, then added, “And do you have another copy of Cowper?”
Mr. Bell inclined his head. “The Task, sir? Yes, I have another copy.”
“Excellent,” Darcy said. “I will take that as well.”
Chapter four
Elizabeth caught the scent of breakfast before she entered the dining room and smiled to see Jane already seated.
“Good morning, Jane. Did you sleep well?”
Jane looked up, returning her smile. “Yes, thank you. Are you excited about your trip?”
Elizabeth selected her breakfast and poured herself a cup of chocolate before taking her seat. “Yes, I always enjoy seeing Aunt and Uncle Gardiner, and our cousins. If there is time, I may take them for a walk in the park.”
Jane nodded, sipping her tea. “When will you return?”
“It is but a short visit, there and back again the next day. Would you like to come? I am sure Aunt Gardiner would be delighted to see you. It has been some time.”
Jane shook her head. “No, I had better remain here. Mama would not like it.”
Elizabeth laughed softly. “Mama might forgive us, if we returned with something particularly pretty for her.”
Jane smiled. “Perhaps, but I believe I shall stay at home this time.”
Elizabeth leaned forward slightly, amusement in her eyes. “There would not be any particular reason for that, would there?”
“Lizzy!” Jane protested, though she could not suppress a smile. “I have things to attend to, just as you do.”
Elizabeth rose from the table. “Very well, my dear sister. Enjoy your morning. I shall see you before I leave this afternoon.”
***
Elizabeth drew on her gloves and settled her hat before leaving the house. Outside, a groom stood holding two horses. She smiled as she stroked her horse's nose and produced a small carrot from her pocket. “There now,” she murmured, offering it before turning to the groom.
