“Dear aunt, we both know that statement is an exaggeration,” Darcy replied, and the Matlocks laughed again.
“So, will you go with Bingley tomorrow?” the colonel asked. “If you do, I should like to go too. For no other reason than mere curiosity.”
“I probably will. Bingley needs some support,” Darcy replied. His answer surprised even himself; it was as if his mind had made a decision against his will. “However, please do not take offence, Cousin, but I believe it would be better if we are not too many at this particular call. I noticed Miss Bennet was quite distressed when she saw Bingley. Perhaps we should allow her a little time to compose herself. And you may call with Bingley the next time.”
“That is a sensible suggestion that I utterly support,” Lady Matlock agreed.
Once he returned home, Darcy had another agitated evening. The certainty that he would see Elizabeth again the next day was disquieting. Lady Matlock’s claims about Elizabeth not liking him, even though he had dismissed them at first, troubled him. Not for a moment had he imagined Elizabeth’s opinion of him could be anything other than good. What could have prompted her to say they were enemies?
It was amusing how Elizabeth had made a favourable impression on Lady Matlock too. Her character, her wit, and her mind were worthy of admiration by anyone honest enough to recognise worthiness. Of course, his aunt liked Elizabeth, but she would surely disapprove if she knew of Darcy’s admiration for her. And she would surely oppose a possible connection with Elizabeth and her family. It was a matter that Darcy had reflected upon countless times. Elizabeth herself was everythinghe had ever wanted in a woman. She would certainly suit him as his wife. But her situation in life was an obstacle against her becoming Mrs Darcy. It was a position that required more than his admiration and affection; he had to consider his duty and his family’s expectations. The lady he did marry, eventually, would certainly not bring him the joy that he felt at the thought of seeing Elizabeth again the next morning.
***
“Darcy, I am grateful to you for coming with me,” Bingley said in the carriage. “I am nervous, and I know I shall behave like a fool. I cannot believe I shall see Miss Bennet again.”
I cannot either, Darcy thought to himself. “Bingley, may I ask — did you tell your sisters about Miss Bennet?”
“I did not. Caroline really brings me to the edge of my patience whenever she hears about the Bennets. But what I find even stranger is that she disapproves of my affection for Miss Bennet but seems to dislike Miss Elizabeth even more, and I do not know why!”
I do, Darcy thought, recollecting the evening when he had told Miss Bingley about Miss Elizabeth’s fine eyes. That had been another careless imprudence, just as it had been to tell the colonel about Bingley and Miss Bennet.
“There is something you should know, and I believe it is better you find out now, as I expect it will be mentioned during your visit and might anger you.”
“What is it?”
“Well…I have reason to believe that Miss Bennet and her aunt also visited your sisters yesterday, not just Lady Matlock.”
Bingley stared at him in disbelief, then frowned, blinking repeatedly.
“What do you mean? She was in my house? When?”
“As I said, I am not sure whether she was or not. But she might have been. I just wanted to warn you in case you hear about it. It is better to be shocked here in the carriage than in front of Miss Bennet and her relatives.”
“But…how is it possible that you know and I do not? Who told you? Caroline? Do you have a relationship with her?”
“Come now, Bingley, do not be ridiculous. The only reason I speak to your sister is you and our friendship. Were it not for that, I should never be in her company. I apologise for being so bluntly rude, but that is the truth.”
“Then how…?”
“She did inform me that Miss Bennet might call. I confess that, for a while, I was in agreement with your sisters — though for different reasons. I believed that Miss Bennet was not a good match for you. As you already know, I presumed that her feelings did not equal yours.”
“I do know that. And I know you agreed with Caroline and Louisa to keep me away from Netherfield!”
“I cannot deny that. However, I have realised my involvement was unnecessary and, although well meant, more harmful than useful. It was not for me to judge anyone’s feelings.”
“And now? What do you think?”
“I have no reason to change my previous estimation. But I shall refrain from expressing it. I am willing to support you in making your own decision, based on your judgment alone.”
“Thank you. I shall ask Miss Bennet whether she visited Caroline yesterday. If she did, my sister will hear from me. How dare she deceive me in my own house! She has treated me like a fool long enough. That will end today!”
“Bingley, try to compose yourself before we arrive in Gracechurch Street. I dare say it is in your best interest to make a good impression.”
“You are right, of course,” Bingley agreed, while Darcy admitted to himself that he too was concerned with making a good impression.
They reached their destination around noon; the house was a handsome building, placed on an elegant street with a small park across from it. It showed that, whatever business Mr Gardiner had, it was successful.
They were invited into a lovely drawing room, tastefully furnished. Mrs Gardiner waited with her husband and her two nieces. Darcy’s first glance was directed towards Elizabeth, and he could see her surprise. She certainly had not expected to see him there. Was she pleased with his presence, or the opposite?
