Page 159 of The Long Road Back to Yesterday

Elizabeth dipped her pen.

My dear Friend,

I must write cautiously, for there is no innocent explanation I could offer should this letter fall into another person's hands.

A gentleman whose name will be familiar to you has arrived in Meryton. I met Mr. W. today. My youngest sister is already much taken with him, and I fear that Jane and I may not be equal to preventing what followed before.

Please share this with your brother.

E.B.

Elizabeth folded and sealed the letter and wrote Georgiana's direction.

Neither letter could go with the household post. Her mother would be furious if she discovered that Elizabeth had appealed to Uncle Edward about Lydia, and Georgiana's name upon the second letter would raise questions Elizabeth could not answer.

She slipped both letters into her pocket.

A short time later, Elizabeth went downstairs and told Mrs. Hill that she had forgotten something in Meryton and would return shortly.

Mrs. Bennet scarcely looked away from Lydia, who was describing Mr. Wickham for what was possibly the third time.

Elizabeth left Longbourn alone.

At the post office in Meryton, she handed over both letters. She sighed as she returned to Longbourn. She had done what she could.

* * *

Three days passed before Elizabeth received an answer from Gracechurch Street.

The letter was from Aunt Maddie.

My dear Lizzy,

Your uncle is in Kent upon business for a client and is not expected home for nearly three weeks. He has always permitted me to open his letters when he is away, and I hope you will forgive me for reading yours.

I think you are right to be concerned. Send Lydia to me.

I have enclosed sufficient money for two places on the coach, and a note inviting you both to Gracechurch Street. Show the note to your parents. There is no reason for them to know that the invitation originated with you.

You must come with her, Lizzy. I love Lydia dearly, but I do not think I am equal to receiving her alone.

Your affectionate aunt,

M. Gardiner

Elizabeth laughed when she reached the final sentence.

Two banknotes and a second folded paper had been enclosed with the letter. Elizabeth read her aunt's invitation before taking it downstairs.

Mrs. Bennet and her sisters were in the drawing room when Elizabeth entered. Mr. Bennet sat near the window with a newspaper.

“Mamma, Aunt Maddie has invited Lydia and me to spend a few weeks with her in London.”

Lydia looked up. “London?”

Mrs. Bennet held out her hand for the letter.

Elizabeth gave it to her.