Page 17

Mr. Darcy had successfully evaded another unappealing invitation. An evening spent in his library had been much more agreeable, but he was pleased when Mr. Bingley, dressed in evening clothes, called at a late hour.

“I know you don’t like going out, but I was a bit surprised not to see you at Lady Hartley’s ball since she is such a good friend of your aunt,” he said.

“Lady Hartley and my aunt have been endeavouring to contrive a match between me and Lady Millicent. I conveniently had a cold this evening.”

“You have had quite a few colds lately,” Mr. Bingley observed.

“And it isn’t even the season for them yet. With my health being in such a sorry state, I am likely to catch a great many colds this winter,” Mr. Darcy jested. “But never mind my woes. How was Hertfordshire? Did you encounter any highwaymen?”

“Not a one.”

“Wild animals?”

“Not that I could see.”

“Young ladies?”

“Thirty-six. I kept count for your information.”

Mr. Darcy was taken aback. “Even I hadn’t expected that many.”

“I have to concede that it was just as you said. Twenty-seven of them simpered at me while their mothers boasted of various attributes.”

“What about the other nine?”

“Three are much too sensible for simpering, and another three barely noticed my existence because I don’t have a red coat.

Two others are excessively shy, and one was more interested in her studies and practising her music.

Actual practising, not displaying her musical talent at her parents’ encouragement.

I have heard more music than I ever want to hear again.

I have had drawings, paintings, and needlework thrust under my nose.

One mother showed me her daughter’s reading list, which was so crisp and fresh that I am sure it had only just been written for the purpose of impressing me. ”

“She failed to do her research,” Mr. Darcy said with a grin.

“Very funny. But her list need not go to waste. I shall encourage her to show it to you.” Mr. Bingley grinned back.

“But I have to concede that your foresight was excellent. Most of these mothers also wanted me to know that their daughters are particularly skilled in the art of dancing, as I will be able to observe at the next assembly. If not for your advice, I might already be committed for every dance. Probably for the next assembly as well. But thanks to you, I was taking care to be wary.”

“I’m glad to hear it. Otherwise the drawings, paintings, and needlework might have done you in. But what was that about a red coat?”

“There is a regiment encamped in Meryton for the winter, and those three ladies only have eyes for officers.”

“It appears that you chose a very busy neighbourhood for your new home.”

“Yes, and I wasn’t the only one. There was another property for lease, and it was taken by a Mr. Madison, whom I am certain you will like.

An intelligent man, fond of reading, and interested in government business and foreign affairs.

When you get bored with me, you can visit Purvis Lodge and spend hours talking with him. ”

“I have never found you boring.”

“For which I am grateful. I know that I haven’t your sort of brain.”

“You are not unintelligent, and you have many other excellent qualities. But it does sound as though I shall like Mr. Madison.”

“There is someone else whom I am eager for you to meet. I have found the most wonderful lady.”

Mr. Darcy looked at his friend with concern. “I thought you said you were wary.”

“I was, but she is different. An angel, not just in looks, but down to her soul. So very good and amiable, and not on the catch for a husband. And her parents were different from the others. I was visited by a horde of fathers almost immediately after arriving at Netherfield, and they all had something to say about their daughters, except for Mr. Bennet. I didn’t even realize he had any, let alone five of them, until I returned his call.

And Mrs. Bennet didn’t say a word about their good qualities, or show me any products of their artistry or reading lists, or make me listen to music.

Actually, Miss Bennet doesn’t play an instrument or sing or draw, but I still think her perfect.

And you will be happy to know that she does read quite extensively. ”

“How were you able to determine this? It is unlike you to speak of books.”

Mr. Bingley blushed. “Mr. Madison said so, and also that she is well informed. He is of the opinion that ladies ought to improve their minds by reading.”

“I like the man already. Does Miss Bennet have any significant connections?”

“I don’t think so, but her father’s estate is a good one. Nothing like yours, but quite respectable.”

“Any idea as to her fortune?”

“Not exactly, but I think it might be on the small side. She is one of five sisters, and I doubt that her mother brought much to the marriage, but you know that doesn’t matter to me. I only care about happiness.”

“Happiness is important; however, one should be mindful of other factors. I suppose it is reasonable to assume, from Mr. Madison’s opinion, that she is one of the sensible ladies.”

“Yes, and one of her sisters is another, and the third is a friend of theirs. You will like them too.”

“We shall see.”

“I know you are dubious, but when you meet Miss Bennet, you will see why I adore her. And I mean that in the strongest way. She is truly special. I have never cared about anyone like this.”

“Then I look forward to meeting her,” Mr. Darcy said.

He was still dubious, but if this neighbourhood could produce three sensible ladies, a pair of unambitious parents, and an intelligent, well-informed man, then it might also be capable of providing Mr. Bingley with a suitable wife.

If, however, he thought his friend had been taken in, he would not hesitate to offer a word or two of appropriate advice.