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“He used the entire pitcher,” Jane added.

“He was very thirsty.”

Aunt Gardiner pressed a hand to her forehead.

Elizabeth laughed a little. “You two see to this disaster. I shall tend to Miss Bingley.” She did not say “the other disaster,” though she thought it. She did not want either her aunt or her soft-hearted sister to be required to assist their petulant guest. Elizabeth left everyone and went into the sickroom with the parcel.

“At last,” Miss Bingley said. “I began to think no one had heard me.”

“On the contrary, Miss Bingley, the people in the next street heard you.” Though it was no easy task, Elizabeth kept her words pleasant and a smile upon her lips.

Miss Bingley lips flattened into a straight line.

Elizabeth placed the parcel upon the small table beside the bed. “The apothecary has sent willow bark. Shall I make up some tea for you?”

Miss Bingley considered it. “Very well.”

Elizabeth took the kettle from the fire and prepared the drink. “Are you ready?”

Miss Bingley stiffly turned on her side, lifted herself upon one elbow, swallowed the tea carefully and with a grimace, then surrendered the cup.

“It is bitter.”

“You complained that the laudanum made you too drowsy.”

“Could you not have added something?”

“I shall ask whether the apothecary carries willow bark flavoured with ratafia.”

Miss Bingley gave her another sharp look, but Elizabeth ignored her as she placed the cup back on the tray.

Jane entered while she was doing so. “How do you feel, Miss Bingley?”

“I am excessively uncomfortable.”

“Would another pillow help?” Jane asked.

“Perhaps.”

“Jane,” Elizabeth said, “I will get the pillow. Mr. Bingley will be calling this afternoon.”

Her sister stopped. “Yes. I believe he said he would.”

“You should change your gown.” Edward’s accident had left its damage.

Jane plucked the wet material away from her skin. “There is ample time.”

“There will not be if Miss Bingley requires you to rearrange every coal in the grate first.”

Miss Bingley’s lips thinned. “It cannot possibly matter what your sister is wearing. Charles is coming to see me.”

“Yes,” Elizabeth said. “I am sure you are right.”

Jane gave her a warning look.

Elizabeth tipped her head towards the door. “Go upstairs. I shall remain here.”

“I cannot leave everything to you.”