“I forgot to mention that there is a local assembly tonight in Meryton. I plan to attend, but since I know everyone is tired from their journey, it is certainly not necessary for you all to join me,” he said.
“Meryton?” said Miss Bingley. “Is that the dirty little town we passed through on our way here?”
“Yes,” said Bingley. “Though I did not think it particularly dirty. I thought it no different than any other country town. In fact, one might call it rather prosperous for its location.”
Miss Bingley wrinkled her nose. “No, thank you, Charles. I think I would rather rest from our journey.”
Georgiana looked up at her brother with pleading in her eyes. “May I go, Brother?” she asked. “It would be the perfect chance to see Catherine again. I am certain she will be there.”
Stephen expected Darcy to deny his sister’s request. He was extremely protective of his sister. Surprising everyone, Darcy said, “You may go, but you may not dance with any gentleman. If you must dance, do so with your friend, though I would prefer you not dance at all. If you think that will be too boring, you may stay behind. I will brook no complaints once we are there.”
Georgiana’s face lit up. “Oh, thank you, Fitzwilliam. I must go speak with my maid about what I should wear.” She dashed off without another word.
Darcy turned to Georgiana’s new companion and said, “You will be accompanying us to keep an eye on her.”
Mrs. Annesley curtseyed and said, “Of course, sir.” Then, she left as well.
Miss Bingley looked confused. “Does that mean you will be attending as well, Mr. Darcy?”
“Of course,” he answered.
“And you, Lord Hilldale?” she asked Stephen.
“It sounds delightful,” he answered. “What better way to stretch out the stiffness of a long journey than with a few dances?”
“I suppose I will attend as well, then,” she said begrudgingly. “It would not do for a hostess to not accompany her guests.”
Stephen thought Darcy would be more pleased if she stayed behind, but he gave no outward sign as to what his opinions on the matter were.
Bingley turned to Mrs. Hurst. “That just leaves you and Hurst,” he said. “Will you be joining us?”
Mrs. Hurst looked as though she wished to decline, but Hurst beat her to it by saying, “Sure. Why not?” The lady could hardly contradict her husband in front of everyone, and she likely didn’t wish to stay behind in a strange house all by herself, so she reluctantly nodded her agreement.
