Page 123 of A Most Unwelcome Acquaintance

“You should know when silence serves it,” Lady Catherine replied.

Hurst opened his newspaper.

Jane took Elizabeth’s hand for a moment, a warning without words that Elizabeth understood. Lady Catherine had brought the quarrel to Netherfield, but Jane had no wish to participate.

Louisa poured tea despite Lady Catherine’s refusal and offered a cup to Anne. Mrs. Jenkinson asked whether the room held a draft and Hurst said it held several. Louisa gave him a look, and he returned his attention to the page.

Caroline tried to regain control of the visit. “You must find Netherfield modest after Rosings, Lady Catherine, though we have sought to make it comfortable.”

“Comfort depends upon order.”

“I agree.”

Elizabeth saw Caroline receive the word as praise.

Lady Catherine looked toward Jane. “You are the eldest Miss Bennet.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“My nephew’s friend admires you.”

Jane’s color rose and Caroline shifted in her chair.

“Lady Catherine,” Georgiana said.

Her aunt silenced her with a glance.

Jane answered with care. “Mr. Bingley has shown my family much kindness.”

“Kindness invites mistakes when young women attach hopes to it.”

Elizabeth released Jane’s hand and faced Lady Catherine. “My sister has made no claim upon Mr. Bingley.”

“I spoke to her.”

“No, you spoke of her.”

The room changed. Caroline sat rigid, caught between satisfaction at Elizabeth’s rebuke and alarm at its boldness. Louisa set the teapot down before it slipped from her hand. Georgiana understood why Darcy had written of Elizabeth with such care.

Lady Catherine studied her. “You possess the sharp tongue Collins described.”

“Collins?”

“My clergyman at Hunsford. Your father’s cousin.”

Elizabeth’s surprise became amusement. “Your information has travelled farther than its source.”

“He knows your family.”

“His acquaintance is with Charlotte.”

“Longbourn will be his.”

“One day. My father has no plan to assist him.”

Hurst lowered the newspaper.

Lady Catherine ignored him. “You make light of serious matters.”