Chapter 9
Driven by his heart’s desire and longing, Darcy travelled to Hertfordshire with Georgiana in the middle of May, a fortnight before the wedding. Colonel Fitzwilliam and his brother, the viscount, were expected a week later, together with the Gardiners.
They arrived at Netherfield in the afternoon, and immediately Bingley took them to Longbourn. While waiting in front of the door, feeling as nervous as a schoolboy, Darcy realised he had never been to the house before, nor had he taken the trouble to at least speak to Mr Bennet.
Their impromptu arrival surprised the family, and they were received with polite yet reluctant civility. To Darcy, the only thing that mattered was Elizabeth’s slight blush and the smile that brightened her face and her eyes.
Very soon, it became obvious that the Bennets’ distant politeness was caused by him, not by Georgiana. His sister, timid at first, was gently engaged in conversation by Elizabeth and Jane; then Mrs Bennet declared her exceedingly pretty but too thin and ordered refreshments. Surrounded by young women of her own age, Georgiana slowly overcame her usual restraint. From his sister’s side, Elizabeth gazed at him, her look warm and reassuring.
“Mr Darcy, what a lovely surprise that you called on us so soon after your arrival,” Mr Bennet said.
“Thank you, sir. I am delighted to be here, though I should apologise for our unannounced visit.”
“Not at all. You are most welcome. I trust you will indulge me with a conversation that does not include lace, gowns, reticules, or shoes.”
“I shall certainly do my best, sir,” he answered, suddenly realising whom Elizabeth had inherited her the sense of humour from.
“Then let us go to the library. It will be quieter and more peaceful. We should leave Mr Bingley with the ladies, though. He is always impatient when he is separated from Jane.”
Darcy nodded, and the two of them entered the library, closing the door. The room was small but neat and comfortable. Mr Bennet poured each of them a drink, and they sat.
“It is a pleasure to finally speak to you, Mr Darcy. I cannot remember whether we spoke when you were last at Netherfield.”
“Probably not. That was my fault, and I cannot apologise enough.”
“No need. My brother and sister Gardiner speak highly of you.”
“I am flattered to hear that.”
“And Mr Bingley praises you at least ten times a day.”
“Bingley is a loyal friend,” Darcy said.
“Elizabeth speaks highly of you too, which is rather astonishing. I know the two of you have never been friends.”
Darcy cleared his throat, shocked by the direct approach.
“I had the good fortune to see Miss Elizabeth several times in the last few months, and I tried to improve her opinion of me.”
“Well, I dare say you succeeded. Your opinion of our family must have improved too since you took the trouble to call on us the moment you arrived at Netherfield. Such attentions cannot be meaningless from a gentleman like you.”
Darcy took a deep breath. “Mr Bennet, during my previous stay at Netherfield, my judgment was at fault and my opinion altered by pride and arrogance. I apologise if my manners caused harm or offended you. Since then, I hope I have learnt my lesson.”
“It is refreshing — and very rare — to hear a man apologise, especially when he is not forced to do so. Let us drink to men with strong character and honour,” Mr Bennet suggested.
Darcy did so, but his host continued. “Rumour has it that we have you to thank for ridding us of that scoundrel Wickham. He had debts to every shop owner in Meryton, and word is that you paid them.”
“Rumours are like the wind, Mr Bennet. Let them blow themselves away. Debts of honour must be paid. You have an excellent brandy, sir,” he added, changing the subject.
“Would you like another glass?” Mr Bennet offered.
“Yes please.”
“I hope to have the pleasure of seeing you again during your stay at Netherfield, Mr Darcy.”
“You certainly will if it depends on me, Mr Bennet.”
***
