“Papa has added a few lines to Kitty’s letter.”
My Lizzy,
Your silly sister was so bored of an evening I suggested she find something productive to do. I was pleasantly surprised when she suggested I teach her to play chess. She is a slow learner, but I believe she shall enjoy the challenge.
Well, well, our little Alex is an earl. How your mother would have crowed about it. I can just picture her lording over the drawing room this past week. I pray the commotion will soon die down.
Promise you will take care, dear girl. Give the new lord a kiss from his grandpapa.
Your old Papa
“It is nice to hear from them.” Jane had a serene smile. Elizabeth did not think her sister missed Meryton at all.
She opened the second letter.
Dear Eliza,
As you know, little shocks me, but in this case, I must tell you I was quite speechless when I read your news.
Mr Collins was so alarmed he would not rest until I shared the information with him. I thank you Lizzy for providing me with a quiet home for a whole afternoon. Between my husband’s shock, and then his need to inform Lady Catherine, I had a pleasant quiet few hours in which to imagine your new home.
I promise, should the opportunity arise, I will visit you, my dear friend.
Yours, etc.
Charlotte
~ /~
Darcy House
Darcy crushed the missive in his hand. “What the devil is my uncle up to?”
He paced to the window to stare out with unseeing eyes. Elizabeth was everything he ever imagined for his wife. Kind, intelligent, diligent to her responsibilities, and his attraction to her was stronger than he had ever experienced. He longed to hold her in his arms and kiss her delightful lips. He was very much looking forward to their dance at the ball.
With a soft growl he retraced his steps moving to the drinks tray and poured a finger of brandy which he downed in one gulp. If Lord Matlock should begin to cause trouble for his Elizabeth now, it will not go well for him.
A knock on his study door distracted him. “Enter.”
“Brother?” Georgiana peeked her head in before entering the room completely. “I have a note from my aunt. She is inviting us to tea with her and uncle. They have included Lizzy and Jane, and Alex. Aunt Susan says she has sent an invitation to Carrington House already.”
“It seems they are being thorough.” He grated out through clenched teeth.
“William?”
He placed his empty glass on the tray and with an effort, produced a reassuring smile for his sister. “Our uncle has sent me an invitation to attend as well.”
Georgiana had remained near the door, now she approached her brother. “I know Lady Matlock has been helpful to their entrance into society. I must admit I did not expect such notice from Lord Matlock.”
“Nor I. I am sure there is nothing to worry about.” His words were meant to soothe Georgiana, he only wished they soothed him as well.
~ /~
Lizzy,
I have made arrangements with Mr Winters, the man who will sell the items. Leave instructions with your butler what is to be removed so we can come at Mr Winters convenience. It may be quite early in the day to avoid congestion on the streets.
Gardiner.
