Page 47 of The Crown’s Gift

Lady Catherine questioned her about masters, accomplishments, dowry, and royal invitations. Elizabeth answered what courtesy required and declined the rest with a smile.

"Your father has no son," Lady Catherine said. "Netherfield will pass according to the terms of the grant?"

"To whichever of his daughters he designates by will, or in equal shares if he does not. Longbourn remains entailed upon Mr Collins."

Mr Collins bowed from his chair as if the entail were an accomplishment.

"Five women cannot manage one estate," Lady Catherine declared.

"Then it is fortunate we have been taught arithmetic."

Charlotte coughed into her handkerchief.

The arrival of Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam three days later altered every visit.

The colonel called at the parsonage within an hour of reaching Rosings. Darcy accompanied him, though Lady Catherine had surely not commanded such haste.

Elizabeth sat near the window with Charlotte when the gentlemen entered. Darcy's gaze found her immediately.

"Miss Elizabeth. I did not know you were in Kent."

"We arrived last week."

"How long do you remain?"

"Nearly a month."

Relief flickered in his face. "I hope Hunsford is comfortable."

Mr Collins launched into praise of the chimneys. Darcy endured it while Colonel Fitzwilliam seated himself near Elizabeth.

"My cousin has spoken of nothing but drainage since the drawing room," the colonel said. "Your father has ruined him for ordinary conversation."

Darcy looked offended. "I mentioned it once."

"At breakfast, again during the journey, and when we crossed the stream."

Elizabeth smiled. "Papa will be gratified."

Darcy's eyes warmed at having earned it.

He called again the next morning alone. He sat for twenty minutes, spoke to Charlotte about the parish, asked Elizabeth whether she preferred Kent to Hertfordshire, and left having explained nothing of why he came.

"He is in love with you," Charlotte said when the door closed.

Elizabeth stared. "He spoke six sentences."

"Five were to you."

"Mr Darcy is often silent."

"Not with his eyes."

Elizabeth turned toward the window. Darcy crossed the garden path without looking back.

"He admires me," she admitted. "Or did in London."

"And you?"