Page 211 of The Long Road Back to Yesterday

One afternoon, Bingley and Darcy called at Longbourn and found the sisters together in the drawing room, all with needle in hand.

“We have heard something of what you have been doing,” Bingley said. “Darcy and I should like to help. There must be things you cannot supply from the household stores.”

“Cloth,” Mary said. “And food in some cases. There are medicines that must be purchased as well.”

“Then allow us to provide what is needed,” Darcy said.

Lydia said, “We could use wool before winter, and knitting yarn, sir.”

“And shoes,” Jane added. “Several of the children need them.”

“Then you shall have whatever is needed,” Bingley said.

The pleasure in Jane’s expression brought an answering warmth to his face.

Darcy was watching Elizabeth. “You will let us know what else is required?”

“Yes, sir.” Elizabeth held his gaze, then gestured to the chair beside her. “Will you join me, Mr. Darcy?”

Chapter 54: The Picnic

An invitation from the Gouldings arrived late in August.

Mrs. Goulding was hosting a picnic at Goulding Park to welcome Mr. Bingley more formally to the neighborhood. The gathering would include several families from the surrounding estates, with luncheon served on the lawn and games afterward for those inclined to participate.

Kitty turned to her father, her eyes alight.

“May we go, Papa?”

Thomas Bennet looked over the top of his book at his daughters.

“It has been more than three months since your mamma died. You need not participate in any riotous games, but I see no harm in taking tea with our neighbors and helping to welcome the newest residents of Netherfield. You are not proposing to dance until two in the morning.”

Kitty smiled. “Then we may go?”

“You may.”

Lydia had been examining a length of muslin at the table. “Papa, I prefer to remain at home with you.”

Mr. Bennet looked at her for a moment. “Of course, my girl.”

Kitty came around the table and put an arm briefly about Lydia's shoulders before taking the invitation from Jane to see it for herself.

* * *

On the morning of the picnic, Bingley's carriage appeared on the Longbourn drive with Caroline, Louisa, and Mr. Hurst already inside.

Mr. Bennet watched from the drawing-room window as Bingley climbed down.

“He has come three miles in the wrong direction.”

Elizabeth joined him at the window. “So, he has.”

Bingley was admitted moments later. His attention went directly to Jane.

“Good morning. I hope I have not kept you waiting.”

“No, sir.”