Page 12 of Bitterness of Spirit

“And that was all? Did he provide no other arguments? No other option? How can that be?”

“Well, he is not the type of man to carry on long conversations with those beneath him. He likes to have his own way and his own will. We had some disagreements and—”

“I can testify to that.” Mrs. Bennet came to the rescue. ”He stood hours and hours next to several of our neighbours and barely spoke a few words with any of them.”

“Mr. Darcy is truly a horrible man to treat poor Mr. Wickham with such cruelty,” Lydia declared.

“I beg to differ,” Mr. Collins replied with apparent distress. “Lady Catherine has said many times that Mr. Darcy is a gentleman gifted with all the qualities a young man should possess. If he made an error in judgement concerning Mr. Wickham, it should be forgotten and forgiven in consideration of his other excellent traits.”

“Well, if Lady Catherine has spoken, who are we to contradict her?” Mr. Bennet commented in jest.

Mr. Collins heard only the words and ignored the mocking tone. “That is so true, my dear Mr. Bennet! Her ladyship’s opinions have proved to be right so many times that they cannot be doubted. Besides, her ladyship eagerly anticipates the wedding between Mr. Darcy and Miss Anne de Bourgh. She is certain that will be a perfect match.”

“Really?” Mr. Wilson’s brow rose in wonder.

“Yes! I was told that they have been intended for each other since they were in their cradles. It was Lady Anne’s dear wish as much as it was Lady Catherine’s,” Mr. Collins repeated.

“Was it?” Mr. Wilson’s mistrust was unconcealed.

“Yes, I heard the same several times,” Mr. Wickham interjected. “Although, Darcy seems unwilling to comply with his mother’s wish too. He has delayed accomplishing his duty despite his aunt’s insistence and the public’s knowledge.”

“There is nothing more stupid than marrying because of others’ insistence. Not even parents should have the right to impose their will in such a matter,” Mr. Wilson replied with cold severity. His tone was sharp and commanding, admitting no opposition.

Mrs. Bennet’s cheeks coloured slightly. “There are situations when a mater must insist on her children doing what is right for them. Nobody is more preoccupied with her children’s well-being than a mother. If children are unwise, we must insist on making the right decision.”

Mr. Wilson breathed deeply, sipped a little wine, and attempted a smile. “My dear Mrs. Bennet, I respectfully disagree when it comes to marriage. Bonding to someone for a lifetime should not be forced on anyone. I agree that it is the elder’s duty to give advice and to protect those young and unwise—perhaps even to temper an incautious inclination at times. But to force marriage upon anyone would bring nothing but sorrow and unhappiness. I wish more people were aware of that.”

A heavy silence fell over the room.

“But, sir, is it better for a young lady with no means and connections to remain a spinster? Or for a man with an unfortunate situation in life to remain alone instead of having a family with a convenient spouse?” Lady Lucas inquired with puzzlement.

“It is not for me to say what is best for others, madam. I just stated my opinion that the choice should be made by the person—man or woman—without being forced by others since one has to live a lifetime with that decision.”

“I agree,” Charlotte Lucas replied. “If one makes the decision with full knowledge, one has nothing to repine. But if others force it, such a decision might become a lifelong burden.”

“You are a wise lady, Miss Lucas,” Mr. Wilson bowed to her. “I wish you all the best, and I pray your life will be pleasant and peaceful.”

“This is my hope too, sir.” Charlotte returned the sentiment.

“I assure you, my dear sir, that I shall do everything in my power to make Mrs. Collins the happiest of women, just as I am sure I shall be the happiest of men,” Mr. Collins intervened.

Mr. Wilson concealed his smile, and Charlotte blushed slightly.

“I congratulate you, sir.” The elder gentleman ended the subject, and for several minutes, dinner was enjoyed in silence.

Then Lady Lucas addressed Mr. Wickham. “And how are you, sir? Do you enjoy Meryton? You have several more months before you will all leave for the summer.”

“You are very kind to ask, ma’am. Being here is the only good thing to come of Darcy’s rejection. Despite my limited means, I cannot complain; my situation is good enough at present,” he said, glancing at Elizabeth with a slight smile.

Elizabeth returned the look and the smile then glanced at Mr. Wilson; strangely, his countenance became more severe.

“I am astonished to discover young Darcy’s disrespectful treatment of his late father’s will. George Darcy surely did not deserve such lack of consideration. I shall hold him accountable as soon as I meet young Darcy—which I hope will occur as soon as I return to London.”

“Oh, I would kindly ask you not to do that,” Mr. Wickham replied hastily. “I prefer not to dwell on this painful story. What was done is done. I look to the future with hope.”

“That is a wise approach, Wickham. But if it is so, why do you always speak of the past? You said you do not wish me to speak to Darcy, yet, you speak of him constantly.”

The severity in Mr. Wilson’s tone took everyone by surprise. Elizabeth glared at him with puzzlement while Mr. Wickham seemed disconcerted and struggled to keep a cheerful countenance.