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Jane looked thoughtful. “What else did he say about her?”
“He told me she is much younger than him and not yet out. I think he looks on her as a little girl still. I imagine he will have a difficult time when she comes out and has gentlemen callers.”
“Probably.” She was quiet for a moment as I poked at the fire. “Lizzy, do you think Miss Bingley likes me?”
“What makes you ask such a question?”
“She was different last evening. She asked me about our family—”
“Likely gauging whether or not we are worthy connections,” I interrupted.
“I told her about the Gardiners in London when she asked if my mother had any family. She was not particularly kind.”
“Oh, Jane! I know you think well of everyone, but Miss Bingley is not a kind person. I have never seen it in her. Her sister might have some redemptive qualities, but Miss Bingley is quite catty.”
“That is harsh.”
“It is true.”
She sighed. “You may be right, but I have not seen it. Though Caroline was not enthused about our relationship to the Gardiners, it is not wholly surprising. She is hoping to move up in society and away from her own roots in trade. It is only natural that she would not wish for such connections. I am not happy about it, but I cannot blame her.”
“I can.”
“Lizzy!”
I laughed. “She is a shameless social climber and you know it. Now why do you not tell me why you are truly concerned about whether or not Miss Bingley likes you?”
Jane flushed and looked at her hands.
“It is because you have hopes of Mr. Bingley, is it not?”
“Do not tease me, Lizzy,” said Jane softly.
“I would not. I think Mr. Bingley an estimable man. His sisters are regrettable, but Miss Bingley will eventually marry and move to her own home. If she can find anyone to take her.”
Jane stifled a laugh. “That is unkind.”
“Will you do my buttons? I need to dress for dinner.” I put my back to her and ignored her comments about Miss Bingley.
“Will you be polite to Miss Bingley?” she asked.
“Of course. I am always polite.”
“Very well. Will you be kind?”
I sighed. “I will try.”
“And to Mr. Darcy as well?”
“I am kind to Mr. Darcy!”
“You tease him.”
“That is not unkindness. Besides, I already told you I was quite friendly with him before dinner in the library.”
“So you are friends with Mr. Darcy now?”
I thought for a moment. “I suppose I am.” Friends with Mr. Darcy. How unexpected.
