Page 181 of A Question of Character

“I have been thinking.”

“So have I.”

She rested both hands upon the gate.

“I believe neither of us wishes to quarrel.”

“No.”

“But neither can we pretend the difficulty has vanished.”

Darcy studied the distant hills.

“It has not.”

“No.” Her agreement came without reservation.

“I have failed you.”

She shook her head. “I do not think—”

“I gave you my word.” He forced himself onward. “I promised I would attempt a civil conversation with Wickham.”

“You did.”

“I have not.”

Elizabeth regarded him steadily.

“I noticed.”

“I cannot excuse it.”

His hands clenched behind his back.

“I convinced myself that speaking with him would accomplish nothing.”

“And now?”

“I am less certain.”

She remained silent.

“I have been unfair.”

The admission resisted every instinct pride possessed.

Still, once spoken, another followed more readily.

“I expected you to trust my judgment while declining every opportunity to examine yours.”

Elizabeth’s features softened with unmistakable relief.

“Thank you.”

“I deserve no thanks.”

“You have listened.”