Page 72 of Miss Bingley’s Return

Darcy nodded. “For that reason, I shall say nothing to Lady Catherine until it becomes necessary, and even then, the communication will be mine and will not involve you. Lady Catherine is more than capable of rushing to Longbourn the moment she learns of it to confront you.”

An expression of comprehension came over her pretty features. “That is why you spoke to Sir William.”

“It is,” agreed Darcy. “It would not do for Lady Catherine to learn of my attentions to you from Mr. Collins. Not only would it put Mr. Collins in a difficult situation, but I would not have Lady Catherine abuse you in your home.”

“I will own, Mr. Darcy,” said she, “that I had not thought accepting your calls would complicate my life to this extent.”

“Are you reconsidering?” asked Darcy, knowing she would do no such thing.

“Perhaps not,” replied she, her tone airy, unconcerned. “Do you not think you should have warned me?”

“And risk you running away from my aunt screaming in terror?”

Miss Elizabeth gave him a delighted grin. “That was a smooth use of my own words, Mr. Darcy.”

“I rather thought so myself.”

“I received a letter from my friend today.”

Elizabeth could see at once that her mother was on the edge of demanding what Mr. Bingley could mean to them, but she checked her words, an uncommon bit of restraint. A few moments later, she donned an expression that attempted polite interest.

“Mr. Bingley has written to you?”

“Yes, Mrs. Bennet, he has,” said Mr. Darcy. The gentleman was enjoying this.

“And what he said would interest us?”

Elizabeth caught Mr. Darcy’s eye, and both refrained from laughing, though it was difficult. Mr. Bennet, who was watching both, snorted, though Mrs. Bennet ignored him.

“As you are acquainted with him, I thought it might be.” Mr. Darcy shrugged. “If you do not wish to hear, I have no objection to keeping it to myself.”

“No, Mr. Darcy,” said Mrs. Bennet, a hasty declaration that betrayed her interest. “We have no objection to hearing it.”

“Very well,” replied the gentleman. “Bingley writes to inform me of his successful proposal to Miss Clara Whitcombe.”

“That is wonderful news, Mr. Darcy,” said Jane before their mother could say anything. “Please convey our congratulations to Mr. Bingley, and ask him to pass our best wishes to Miss Whitcombe.”

“You are acquainted with Mr. Bingley’s paramour?” demanded Mrs. Bennet, appearing more than a little suspicious.

“Yes, Mama,” replied Jane with deceptive mildness. “Lizzy and I both count Mr. Bingley’s betrothed as our friend. Perhaps someday she will become a more particular connection, since Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley are such close friends.”

The way Mrs. Bennet regarded Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy one after the other did not escape the attention of anyone in the room. Mrs. Bennet might not understand or like how Mr. Bingley had chosen another instead of her most beautiful daughter, but to speak of Mr. Bingley in such a manner might offend Mr. Darcy. Thus, she chose the sensible option of remaining silent.

“Are you acquainted with Bingley?” asked Mr. Bennet of Mr. Harrington.

“Not so well as Darcy is,” replied Mr. Harrington with a grin, “but yes, I have known Bingley for some years now. Excellent fellow, and his new fiancée is a pleasant woman who I believe suits him.”

“Then I think we should all join in congratulating our friend,” said Mr. Bennet. “Do you know what he means to do about Netherfield?”

“Before I departed London, we spoke on that very subject,” replied Mr. Darcy. “Bingley has no need to renew the lease, as his betrothed is her father’s heir.”

“That is fortunate for Mr. Bingley,” said Mrs. Bennet. Then she brightened. “Perhaps a new family will take the lease.”

Though no one said anything, they all realized that by family, Mrs. Bennet meant gentleman—Mrs. Bennet yet had three unattached daughters, after all.

“No, actually,” said Mr. Darcy, his manner almost offhand. “Should all go to plan, I will need a place to stay nearby in the future. I am giving serious consideration to purchasing Netherfield.”

“Purchase Netherfield?” demanded Mrs. Bennet, her eyes wide with shock.