“Before we are discovered,” Toby added.
They began to run, then stopped and turned back.
“Goodbye,” they said together, waving.
“Goodbye,” Darcy replied.
They vanished into the trees. Darcy remained where he was for a moment longer. Then he shook his head slightly, a quiet sound of amusement escaping him.
“Darcy!”
Bingley’s voice carried across the garden.
Darcy turned.
Bingley approached at a brisk pace, his expression curious.
“What is amusing?” he asked.
Darcy’s expression had already returned to its usual composure.
“Nothing at all,” he said.
Bingley stared at him for a moment, then chuckled.
“Very well. Come—we have more to see.”
Darcy fell into step beside him, though his thoughts lingered, just briefly, upon two identical boys and their earnest inspection of a stranger.
The New Neighbors
Mr. Bennet did not always bring news home with him, though when he did, it was seldom without purpose. On the morning following his call at Netherfield, there was in his manner at breakfast a composure that suggested he had something to relate, and that he would do so in his own time.
The family assembled as they always did, the meal proceeding with its usual order. Mrs. Bennet directed the servants with her customary ease, ensuring each plate was properly attended. Jane poured the tea. Mary had already set aside a book she had been reading before the others entered. Kitty and Lydia exchanged glances that spoke of anticipation without having a cause. Thomas and Toby sat side by side, their attention divided between their meal and whatever mischief might next present itself.
Elizabeth watched her stepfather with mild curiosity. She had long since learned that any attempt to hasten him would only delay matters further.
He allowed them to finish before speaking.
“I have seen our new neighbor.”
The effect was immediate. Lydia nearly set down her cup with unnecessary force; Kitty leaned forward; Mary looked up; Jane’s expression brightened with interest. Even the boys paused.
“And what is he like?” Mrs. Bennet asked.
“A very pleasant young man,” Mr. Bennet said. “Open in his manner, easily pleased, and disposed to think well of everything he encounters.”
“That sounds promising,” Jane said.
“It does,” Mrs. Bennet agreed. “And his circumstances?”
“Much as reported. His income is respectable, though I did not press him for exact figures. He spoke readily of his intention to settle at Netherfield for the present.”
“And his company?” Mary asked. “Is he alone?”
“He has a gentleman staying with him—Mr. Darcy.”
Elizabeth felt the subtle shift that passed through her sisters at the introduction of a second name.
