“I imagine that is so, but it is no recipe for future happiness. If you want Mr. Bingley, do not push him away. If you do not want him, tell him so at once. But one thing to consider…” she trailed off.
“Yes?”
“I do not know how to say this without sounding grasping, but it may be our last chance, Jane.”
“Because of Lydia?”
“Yes; if it becomes known that she is not ill, that she ran away from her friends in Brighton with a man, none of us might find husbands. I am not saying that this is a reason to marry Mr. Bingley, but it should certainly be kept in mind, should it not?”
“You are right in every respect, Lizzy. And I do want him, as it happens.”
“Good; at the risk of sounding like Mama or Charlotte, you should secure him as soon as may be.”
“I shall attend to it at once.” Jane was now smiling in the dark.
“Good! I look forward to having a brother!”
***
The next morning, Jane went to speak with her father. “Papa, may I have a few minutes of your time?”
“As much as you like, Jane; but first, let me ask – have the girls enough fabric for mourning clothes? Is anything needed? Bonnets, ribbons?”
Jane’s mouth fell open. Before she could close it, her father chuckled. “You are surprised that I should think of such things, I take it?”
“Well, yes, Papa.” Jane eyed her father with some confusion.
“I always had your mother to handle such matters, but now I suppose I must involve myself in them.”
“We have dyed some of our older clothing and remade our bonnets, Papa, so I believe we have enough for now.”
“Good; if there is need for anything more, Jane, you are to let me know at once. You are, after all, now mistress of Longbourn.”
“I had not thought of myself in that capacity, Papa, but I suppose you are right.”
“Yes; and do let Mrs. Hill know that it isyoushe should apply to for her household requirements and approval of menus. She has tried to discuss these things with me, and I admit to feeling rather out of my depth.”
“I shall, Papa.”
“I thank you. Now, then, what did you wish to discuss?”
“Mr. Bingley.”
“Are his visits distressing you? I can have them cease at once, if you like, Jane.”
“Oh, no, not at all. On the contrary.”
“Oh?” Mr. Bennet peered at his eldest daughter over his glasses.
“I have determined to accept him when he offers for me, and I ask that you agree at once when he comes for your approval. Let us not delay.”
“Is there a reason behind this sudden change, Jane?”
“Lizzy pointed out to me that I was letting my hurt pride dictate the terms of my relationship with Mr. Bingley.”
“Indeed, hurt pride is a cold bed companion, if you will forgive my saying so. But there is more, I take it, given the apparent need for haste?”
“Lydia.” Jane’s response was terse.
