Page 101 of Bitterness of Spirit

“I wonder why? Mr. Wilson received much praise for the ball. The Duke of York, as well as the Countess of Jersey and Countess of Sefton, approved of it very much,” Elizabeth continued.

“Surely, Lady Catherine’s opinion cannot weigh more than a duke and two countesses,” Mrs. Bennet ended the debate. “She might not be accustomed to balls of the latest fashion in London since she spends most of her time in Kent.”

“Miss de Bourgh seemed to enjoy her time nevertheless,” Bingley interjected.

“Yes,” Mr. Collins quickly responded, “Lady Catherine is sure a certain event will finally take place as it should have many years ago.”

“What event?” Lydia asked.

“The long-awaited wedding between Mr. Darcy and Miss de Bourgh. There can be no better match than one between these two remarkable young people, both blessed with so many fine qualities,” Mr. Collins replied.

A chill descended along Elizabeth’s spine as she tried to remain calm. Even though she knew it was ridiculous to take him seriously, Mr. Collins’s words distressed her. As it was only a few days before their journey north, her restlessness had increased.

“That is nonsense. Darcy will not marry Miss de Bourgh,” Bingley said bluntly. To Mr. Collins’s appalled gaze, he continued while diligently cutting his steak. “I know for a fact that such a union is not agreeable to either of them. But, just to be certain, I shall ask them one more time when we meet at Pemberley.”

“I am sorry to contradict you, but surely Lady Catherine must know better than you,” Mr. Collins insisted.

“It is such a pity that some men do not know when to insist and when to accept defeat,” Mrs. Bennet interjected again. “You should not trust Lady Catherine so much, Mr. Collins. I heard she rejected the notion that Mr. Wilson had a house in Park Lane, and she was proved wrong. I believe this case might be similar.”

“We look forward to our journey to Derbyshire,” Jane quickly interrupted to avoid a fight over the subject of Lady Catherine’s infallibility.

Still, Mr. Collins insisted on his point of view. “Lady Catherine said she would stay with her brother the earl this summer to be closer to her daughter. The Matlock estate in only twenty miles away from Pemberley.”

“Then why not stay at Pemberley if she wishes to be closer to her daughter? Might it be that Mr. Darcy—or even her daughter—does not wish her in such proximity?” Mrs. Bennet continued.

“I am sure that is not the case!” Mr. Collins fought back. “As I said, Lady Catherine is waiting for the news of their marriage.”

“Upon my word, that makes no sense,” Lydia declared.

“It pains me to admit it, but I completely agree with my youngest daughter,” Mr. Bennet said. “I am almost tempted go along on the trip to Derbyshire, only to see for myself who is marrying whom and who stays at each estate.”

“My son-in-law has Lady Catherine’s trust and confidence. I am sure he knows exactly how things are,” Lady Lucas added sharply. “Miss Elizabeth even had a chance to observe their close relationship when she stayed in Hunsford. They dined or had tea at Rosings several times.

“And my son-in-law has Mr. Darcy’s trust and confidence. I am sure he has better knowledge of things with his long-time friend,” Mrs. Bennet replied, rolling her eyes. “Besides, Mr. Darcy invited my entire family to stay at Pemberley, not just to visit or dine.”

“Did he?” Mr. Collins asked doubtfully.

Mrs. Bennet felt offended, so brought forward more proof. “Indeed! He specifically wrote to Mr. Bingley: ‘You and Mrs. Bingley, Miss Bennet, and the entire party will be most welcome at Pemberley. I do not wish to interfere with anyone’s fixed engagements and would certainly not want to intrude on the others’ plans, but there are rooms prepared for everyone at Pemberley at any time.’ Did I quote him accurately, Mr. Bingley?”

“Perfectly accurate, madam,” Bingley confirmed.

Mrs. Bennet threw a meaningful glance at her guests and ordered the second course, content to win another debate with those who would eventually become the undeserving owners of Longbourn.

***

The night before their journey, Elizabeth barely slept. She was accustomed to a lack of rest; sleep had mostly evaded her since Darcy’s proposal at the Parsonage.

From Hertfordshire to London, there were only Elizabeth, Jane, and Bingley. The journey was short and delightful with much joy and pleasant anticipation. Bingley was already on brotherly terms with Elizabeth, and Jane was happy to see their open and affectionate relationship.

“To be honest, I would rather not take Louisa and Caroline to Derbyshire. But Darcy invited all of us several months ago, and now they insist on coming.”

“Caroline seems to have a special fondness for Pemberley,” Elisabeth said half in jest.

Bingley was slightly uneasy. “Caroline is not reasonable. She has hoped to gain Darcy’s attention for several years now—just like Lady Catherine and her planned marriage for him.”

“Mr. Darcy is not a man to be convinced against his will,” Jane replied.

“No indeed, my dear. But Caroline prefers to expose herself to ridicule, I am afraid. Darcy has been very tolerant of her for a long time.”