Page 93 of A Question of Character

“You asked me to assist with your search.” He had been rather preoccupied with the mess from the summer.

“I did.”

“I failed you.”

Bingley waved the apology away before it was completed. “You had more important matters.”

“You knew?” How much had his cousin shared? Bingley was discreet but any whisper of the scandal could ruin his sister’s prospects.

“Richard wrote that Georgiana had suffered an unfortunate disappointment and that you required privacy. I asked no further questions.”

Darcy looked at him with renewed gratitude.

Bingley possessed many admirable qualities. Among the greatest was his instinctive understanding of when friendship required curiosity and when it required silence.

“I appreciate your discretion.”

“Nonsense.” Bingley leaned forward, resting his forearms upon his knees. “Besides, I discovered something useful while you were occupied.”

“Oh?” This piqued his interest.

“I found an estate.”

Darcy’s attention sharpened. “You have leased one?”

“I have.”

“Without my inspection?”

Bingley’s grin broadened. “I know. Remarkable, is it not? I have become positively independent.”

“I had not thought such a miracle possible.” He relaxed into their typical easy banter.

“Nor had my sisters.”

Darcy laughed outright, the sound surprising even himself.

“There you are,” Bingley declared triumphantly. “I thought you had mislaid that expression.”

“What expression?”

“The one proving you are still capable of amusement.” Bingley smirked.

“It appears for favored company.”

His friend rolled his eyes. “I shall treasure the distinction.”

Darcy sat opposite him. “Tell me about the estate.”

“I believe you will approve.”

“I hope so.” Bingley was not a fool, but he had little experience when it came to estates.

“It is called Netherfield Park.”

The name meant nothing.

“It is a handsome place,” Bingley continued. “Large enough for entertaining without becoming oppressive. Excellent stables. Productive land. The house requires very little attention.”