Page 56 of A Question of Character

Georgiana laughed.

“I was right the first time.”

“You generally are,” Darcy replied.

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow.

“Brotherly partiality.”

“Simple observation.”

“I believe Miss Darcy had assistance.”

“I decline to diminish an honest victory.”

Mr. Gardiner joined them with Mrs. Gardiner upon his arm.

“Have we settled some important national concern?”

“The ducklings have all been accounted for,” Elizabeth answered.

“Excellent. I should hate for Parliament to be summoned over a missing duck.”

Mrs. Gardiner smiled.

“I think Parliament has survived greater crises.”

Georgiana continued watching the little family until they disappeared beneath the overhanging branches.

“I am glad they shall have water all summer.”

“You speak as though you envy them,” Elizabeth said.

“A little.”

“Because they have no governess?”

Georgiana laughed.

“No. Because they shall remain beside the water.”

“You are thinking of Ramsgate.”

“I am.”

Her expression brightened.

“I have wished for the sea every day since Christmas.”

“It is your favorite place.”

“I think so. Mrs. Younge says the air agrees with me better than London.”

“I expect she is right,” Darcy answered.

“I remember walking on the beach after supper when the tide was going out. Everything smelled of salt, and one could hear the waves even after returning indoors.”

Elizabeth listened with pleasure.