Page 33

“It is a recent transformation,” Elizabeth said, “since Mrs. Ellington’s arrival has afforded the opportunity for further study.”

“What a pity,” Miss Bingley remarked, with the faintest arch of her brows, “for Miss Lydia’s spirits are always so very lively. We shall miss her company at the ball.”

“Indeed, we shall,” said Mr. Bingley, “but we shall have to be comforted by the company of the other Bennets, and of course, Mrs. Ellington.”

Mrs. Ellington, seated somewhat apart from the younger ladies, accepted this with a slight inclination of the head.

“I hope I may have the pleasure of at least one set with every lady here who means to dance?” requested Mr. Bingley.

All the ladies except Mrs. Ellington accepted readily, and Jane was most pleased to be singled out when Mr. Bingley asked that he might have her first two dances of the evening. A greater surprise followed, however, when Mr. Darcy also asked for a set from each of the ladies.

“Mr. Darcy, I had thought that you did not like to dance?” asked Mrs. Ellington.

“I do not like to dance if I do not know my partner well, madam, but as I am now well-acquainted with the Bennets, I believe dancing with them shall be a pleasant way to spend a part of my evening,” he answered.

“How very kind, Mr. Darcy,” Jane said. “I would be pleased to dance with you at the ball.”

Kitty, remembering her mother’s stern warning that she must accept a dance from Mr. Darcy if ever he should ask, repeated her sister’s words.

Mr. Darcy bowed, though his expression remained as composed and serious as ever. “I shall look forward to it, Miss Kitty. It will be an honour.” Then, turning to Elizabeth, “Miss Elizabeth,” he said, his voice perfectly formal. “I believe I have not yet heard your response to my request for a dance. May I have the honour of your hand for a set at the ball?”

Elizabeth’s mind retreated to Netherfield, to the memory of his voice calling her pretty. She felt the warmth of a blush rise to her cheeks under his intense gaze, certain he could see the recollection in her eyes. She drew a breath to steady herself. “Yes, Mr. Darcy,” she replied, her voice more quiet than she intended. “It would be an honour.”

“Thank you,” he said, his own voice softening almost imperceptibly. He gave a slight nod before turning back to the room.

“I hope also that you shall relay my request for a dance to Miss Mary when you see her?” Mr. Bingley asked.

“Of course we shall,” replied Kitty. Then, with a thoughtless smile, she added, “Though I should think her card is already promised to Mr. Lucas for most of the evening.”

Their guests looked at Kitty with bewilderment.

“Mr. David Lucas and my sister Mary became betrothed only this morning,” said Elizabeth. “My mother and the couple are even now at Lucas Lodge, so they might share the joyous news.”

Mr. Bingley’s face lit up with unfeigned delight. “Betrothed! Why, that is capital news! Do give them my felicitations!” he exclaimed, his smile wide and genuine. He turned to his friend. “Did you hear that, Darcy? A wedding!”

“You must give your sister also my felicitations,” replied Darcy. “It will be very pleasant for your family to have your sister settled at such an easy distance.”

“Thank you both,” said Elizabeth. “We are pleased beyond measure that we shall have Mary so happily settled, and, as you say, Mr. Darcy, at such an easy distance.”

“When shall the wedding be?” asked Mr. Bingley.

“As they only became betrothed this morning, I have no notion,” Elizabeth replied with a laugh. “Even two ladies as industrious as my mother and Lady Lucas cannot have finalised their plans so quickly.”

Miss Bingley, having listened with a polite smile, now found her opportunity. “It really is a credit to your family’s foresight, Miss Elizabeth,” Miss Bingley began, before casting a glance in the direction of Mrs. Ellington. “It is quite reassuring to see Miss Mary choose a path that is in keeping with her standing. It is a very sweet, simple little match. I am sure it will be very comfortable for them both.”

Elizabeth met Miss Bingley’s gaze. “Yes, it is truly sweet, is it not? It makes me so happy that my sister is marrying someone she loves. It is a rare enough thing in this world to find a partner who understands one’s own heart. I have observed that such matches are almost always the most comfortable of all.”

Miss Bingley’s smile thinned. “Of course,” she replied. Her eyes flickered to Mr. Darcy as if seeking an ally, but he offered no response.

Kitty, who had not stopped thinking of the wedding since the betrothal had been announced, added, “And we are so pleased too! The Lucases are such fine neighbours, and now they shall be our relations as well!” This declaration, so unaffected in its joy, caused even Mr. Darcy to smile. Miss Bingley’s face remained as impassive as ever.

“You have a very generous way, Miss Kitty,” said Mr. Darcy. “At this moment, you remind me powerfully of my own sister, who although not having your high spirits, has the same earnestness about her when speaking of those she holds dear.”

Kitty was taken aback by such praise from Mr. Darcy. “T-thank you, sir.”

“Charles,” said Miss Bingley, “we really must be going.”

“I think we can remain a few minutes longer. I had intended to pay our respects at Lucas Lodge, Caroline,” her brother replied, “but it would be dreadfully intrusive to descend upon them now. I should hate to interrupt while they are in the midst of such excitement.”