Page 72 of Mr. Darcy Comes to Town

“How did she take to the idea of using a standardized measuring cup? And spoons?”

“Very well, I must say. The idea fired her up,” Miss Elizabeth revealed.

“When the cookery book is published, I would like to purchase the first copy for Georgiana,” Darcy said. “She is interested in learning to cook simple recipes. I hope there will be a section for new cooks.”

“There will be,” Miss Elizabeth claimed, nodding. “And one for first time bakers as well.” She looked up at him. “Would you…would you care to come to the kitchens so I can give this to her?”

Darcy held up his hand. “I do not wish to put her on the spot. She must feel free to use it or not, according to her expertise. If I am present, she may feel obligated.”

“I understand,” Miss Elizabeth said. “I will set it aside and give it to her later.” She placed the box on the hall table. “Hill, put this in my bedchamber as well, and tell Cook nothing about it.”

“Of course, miss,” Hill said.

“Thank you.” Miss Elizabeth faced Darcy. “Now, are we ready to go?”

“Yes.” Darcy’s short answer appeared to satisfy her.

Hill hastily set the cuffs beside the box and strode across to the front door. He bowed them through it and closed it after them.

“You brought your gig,” Miss Elizabeth observed. “Riding in the open is ever so lovely—particularly on such a fine day.”

“If you need it, I have a rug you can put over your legs,” Darcy told her. He handed her up into the gig. He gave the groom a coin and then climbed up into his own seat. He released the brake, and flicked the reins, setting the horse in motion. “Now, tell me about this puppy you have found.”

Lizzy folded her gloved hands in her lap and gazed up at him, knowing her eyes must be bright with anticipation. “Have you heard of Sussex spaniels?”

He frowned in thought. “Is it stocky and built low? With shorter legs?”

“Yes, that is the one. They generally have golden-liver coats, but they can be other colors too—black, black and tan, and white. The ones we are seeing today have the golden liver coloring.”

“And what is their temperament?” Mr. Darcy asked.

“They are a calm breed,” Lizzy informed him. How thrilling it is to be sitting here beside Mr. Darcy. Somehow, being driven by him is exhilarating. Why is that, I wonder? Concentrate, now. “They are good with children, and like to be around their people. They can be depended upon to be protective, as well.”

“They sound perfect.” He smiled down at her, and Lizzy’s heart raced. “How old are they and who owns the litter?”

“They are ten weeks old and fully weaned. If Georgiana likes one of the puppies, the owners, a farming family associated with the local squire, is willing to keep the puppy until Georgiana’s visit comes to a close.”

“A few more weeks with the mother will be good for the puppy,” Mr. Darcy observed.

Lizzy pointed down the road. “Do you see that right-hand turn just up ahead?”

“I do.”

“Kindly turn there.”

“Very well.”

The new lane wound through fields laying fallow for the coming winter. A flock of black-faced Norfolk horned sheep wandered over one field, munching away at the autumnal grass. Hedgerows lined the lane, dotted with late blackberries, interspersed with bright red hawthorn berries. They spied farmwives and their children gathering rosehips, wild plums, and cobnuts. The mothers called out for their children to mind the carriage, and bobbed curtsies as the gig passed. Lizzy bowed her head in acknowledgement of their greetings. Mr. Darcy took good care that they drove slowly along the lane next to the farm folk.

“I love wild plum jam,” Lizzy proclaimed. “What about you, Mr. Darcy? Do you like it?”

He nodded. “I do—particularly jam made from Mirabelle plums. My father planted seedlings along our drystone walls some thirty years ago. They have grown exceptionally well.”

“I would love to taste some,” Lizzy said, her eyes wide.

“I will send for a pot,” he readily promised.

Lizzy sputtered, and finally managed something coherent. “Mr. Darcy, such extravagance is not to be thought of. No, I pray you will not send to Derbyshire for some on my account.”