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“It is where you are residing.”
“Yes, I will be home then, but I suspect we will need to have a long talk.”
Fitzwilliam Darcy bowed over Elizabeth Bennet’s hand and smiled down at her.
“I look forward to it.”
--
Darcy made sure that Elizabeth was safely away before returning to Lucas Lodge. In truth, he was ready to leave as well, but there was one important person he had to meet.
“Miss Mary, might I prevail upon you to introduce me to your sister Miss Catherine. I wish to pass on some information about her intended, and the patron who granted him the Living.”
Mary Bennet had been re-introduced to Darcy as part of the general round of information. She had seen him with Elizabeth and noted that the two of them had appeared relaxed and happy. Unlike many of the other guests looking at the two of them.
“Of course. There she is, talking to Mrs. Bingley’s sister. Catherine, Mariah, allow me to introduce Mr. Darcy. Mr. Darcy, my next youngest sister Miss Catherine Bennet, and the new Mrs. Bingley’s younger sister Mariah.”
Mariah was called away by her mother before Darcy could start.
“Miss Catherine, your intended, the Reverend Collins, has the Living at Hunsford in Kent. The Living is within the grant of the estate at Rosings Park. I know that Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s name has been mentioned many times.”
Two sets of giggles told Darcy that rather than use the word many, endlessly was more appropriate.
“I see. Well Lady Catherine is my aunt, the elder sister of my deceased mother. I will be at Rosings Park around Easter, it is an annual visit. I am sure that I will meet you then. My cousin Anne, Lady Catherine’s only child is a quiet lady. She was dangerously ill as a child and she has to be careful of simple illnesses. She has vowed never to marry and I wish that she had more friends nearby. I am sure she will welcome some female company closer to her own age.”
Darcy leaned in conspiratorially.
“Without speaking ill of my aunt, she is very conscious of consequence. Mentioning that you have been in my company will immediately grant you an imprimatur of acceptance.”
“Thank you Mr. Darcy. I will drop your name most assiduously.”
They all chuckled.
“And more seriously I will talk to Miss de Bourgh. Friendship cannot be forced but I will definitely make the effort.”
“I can ask no more. My best wishes for next weekend. I will see you at the start of Spring.”
With a bow Darcy was gone.
“He really can be a charming gentleman when he tries.”
Mary agreed.
“He spent a long time talking with Lizzie, they both looked very happy. He is an intelligent man, able to keep up with her.”
