After their guests departed, Elizabeth and her sisters took a walk around the grounds in front of the house.
“I hate to say it, but it was very nice getting to know Georgiana and the gentlemen without our family present,” Mary said. “I do not think things would have gone as well had they been here.”
"Jane, did you tell her what Aunt Madeleine said in that regard?” Elizabeth asked.
“No, not yet.”
“What did she say?” Mary asked.
“She said that our chances of meeting worthy gentlemen and possibly forming an attachment are significantly lessened because of our imprudent family,” Jane said.
“In truth, we have several things working against us, Mary,” Elizabeth explained. “Number one, as we have said, Kitty and Lydia behave shamefully. Number two, you know how Mama carries on, and she cares for no one’s opinion but her own. Number three, except for when we visit Uncle Edward and Aunt Madeleine, there are no opportunities to meet people because Papa does not care to travel. Number four, which ironically rhymes with poor, is our financial situation. Considering how meager each of our portions are, it is better to say we have no dowries. In this day and age, however, most men want a dowered wife, especially men of our station."
Jane explained how Aunt Madeleine had made plans to introduce them to a wider society and to eligible gentlemen.
"Aunt Madeleine believes that if we are allowed opportunities to make new acquaintances away from our family, it will be a much better environment to get to know any gentleman who might show interest," Jane said. "Lizzy and I agree with her. From your words just now, I would say that you agree, too.”
“Oh, yes, I certainly agree,” Mary said.
As they walked back to the house, they saw their father’s carriage coming down the drive. He had likely passed their departing guests on the road.
“Welcome back, Papa,” Jane said. “How was your journey?”
“Tolerably well, thank you, Jane. Are you girls well? You were not injured in the storm?” he asked, looking at each of them.
“No, sir, we were not injured. Everyone at Longbourn is well,” Jane assured him.
“That is good to hear. I was worried for you girls. Was that the Netherfield party I passed on the road?”
“Likely so, Papa. They have been our guests since the storm damaged Netherfield,” Elizabeth replied.
He looked at her. “Netherfield was damaged that badly?”
“Indeed. It is now uninhabitable,” Elizabeth said.
“My word! Did everyone at Netherfield Park make it out safely?”
“Yes, they did. The Olivers and Netherfield’s cook have also been staying at Longbourn. They will wish to speak with you when you are available.”
He nodded. “Well, girls, it appears you have much to acquaint me with. Let me get settled, and I shall meet you in the drawing room.”
Ten minutes later, Papa walked into the drawing room and sat on the couch beside Jane. She handed him a cup of tea. Elizabeth and Mary sat in the armchairs to their right, holding their own cups of tea.
“Mr. Hill tells me that I am indebted to Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley for coming to your aid before the storm,” Papa said, looking at them and taking a sip of tea.
“I do not know what we would have done had Mr. Darcy not thought to check on us,” Mary agreed.
“I am glad he did think to do so. And, I am sorry I was not here with you. Goodness! Two dangerous storms on the same day!” he exclaimed, shaking his head. “Mr. Hill said the whirlwind was very frightening when it hit.”
“It was, Papa. It was terrifying,” Mary confirmed.
“I am sure you girls saw to Miss Darcy’s and Mrs. Annesley’s comfort.”
“Yes, we made sure to do so,” Elizabeth said. “Also, Mr. Darcy’s cousin, Colonel Richard Fitzwilliam, came on horseback looking for them after hearing about the storm. We offered him hospitality as well.”
“Were you girls treated with respect by these gentlemen?” Papa asked.
“They were perfect gentlemen,” Jane assured him.
