Page 126 of A Question of Character

Mr. Bennet did not interrupt.

“I have reason to believe she is not opposed to my addresses. I would therefore ask your permission to court her properly, with the hope that, should her feelings continue to be favorable, I may in time request a greater blessing.”

Mr. Bennet leaned back in his chair and regarded him for a few seconds too long.

“Lizzy has mentioned you.”

Darcy was unsure whether to take comfort from that. “I hope not unfavorably.”

“Not unfavorably, no. Though she has occasionally described you as solemn, which I consider less an insult than a warning.”

“I can give no defense.”

“That is wise.” Mr. Bennet tapped one finger against the arm of his chair. “You understand that Elizabeth is not a young woman to be managed.”

“Yes.”

“Or dazzled into obedience.”

“I would not wish her to be.”

“Good. I should dislike to see you disappointed so soon.” A hint of amusement entered his face. “You have my permission, Mr. Darcy. Lizzy’s heart is her own, and if she chooses to entrust it to you, I shall hope you deserve the distinction.”

Darcy bowed his head. “I will endeavor to do so.”

“I hope you will do more than endeavor. Endeavor is a useful word when one expects difficulty.”

“I expect difficulty,” Darcy admitted.

Mr. Bennet’s amusement faded somewhat. “So do I. Word has reached me of your reaction yesterday to Mr. Wickham.”

Darcy’s shoulders stiffened.

Mr. Bennet noticed. Of course he did. The man might play indolent before his family, but there was little indolence in his eyes when he chose to use them.

“I do not ask from curiosity alone,” Mr. Bennet continued. “The young man is often in my house. He is attached to Lydia, and I have not discouraged it. If an untrustworthy man sits at my table, I should like to know it.”

Darcy chose each word with care. “I have known Mr. Wickham for many years. We were raised in some proximity. My father was his patron.”

“And?”

“And I have grave reason to distrust him.”

“That is a broad statement.”

“It is the broadest statement I may honorably make without bringing another person’s private distress into public view.”

Mr. Bennet watched him, fingers now still upon the chair. “Has he wronged you?”

“Yes.”

“Financially?”

“In part.”

“Morally?”

Darcy looked directly at him. “Yes.”