Page 30

Mr. Bingley left London at dawn, determined to avoid seeing or hearing from his sisters.

He knew they would likely not speak to him for some time after learning of what he intended to do.

Still, he also knew they depended on him to maintain their lifestyle—sooner or later, they would have to accept his decision, whether they approved of it or not.

As for his friend Darcy, Bingley was certain that he, too, would come to understand—especially once he saw how happy he was with the only woman he had ever truly loved.

Once he arrived at Netherfield and changed his clothes, he asked a servant to saddle his horse and rode toward Longbourn.

He was optimistic that Mrs. Bennet would help him locate Jane.

She had always treated him with great deference and warmth.

However, when he dismounted in front of the house, no one came out to greet him.

Clearly, much had changed since his last visit.

Mr. Bennet's death had brought about the family's downfall.

He tied the reins of his horse to a small tree, allowing it to rest and graze, and then walked toward the door and knocked.

Mr. Hill opened it, visibly surprised to see the young gentleman.

But as a good servant, he bowed and waited for him to speak.

"Good afternoon. I have come to offer my condolences to Mrs. Bennet.

Would you kindly inform her that I am here?

" "I am sorry, sir, but Mrs. Bennet and her daughters have traveled to London for a few days," Mr. Hill replied.

"What a misfortune! I was very eager to speak with her.

Could you tell me when they are expected to return?

" Mr. Bingley suspected Mrs. Bennet might have gone to London to be near Jane.

"I am sorry, sir, but Mrs. Bennet did not inform me of her plans.

" The Hills were more than mere servants—they were practically part of the family.

Since Mr. Bennet's death, they had been Mrs. Bennet's primary support.

Mr. Hill, in particular, felt a strong sense of duty to protect the family, especially after having witnessed the pain Miss Jane had endured.

He had seen her weep on more than one occasion because of that very man, and now that she had a good and loving husband, Mr. Hill would not aid in anything that might disturb her peace.

"I see. Thank you for your time," Mr. Bingley said politely.

Then, he took the reins of his horse and rode to Meryton.

Surely, Mrs. Phillips would know when her sister planned to return—or better yet, she could tell him where to find Jane.

However, upon arriving at the Phillips' home, he was informed by the servants that the family was away and would not return until the end of the following week.

With little choice, Mr. Bingley resolved to visit the Lucases.

Perhaps they could provide some answers.

Unfortunately for him, they knew nothing about Mrs. Bennet's current situation or that of her daughters.

She had chosen not to inform anyone of Jane's marriage, wishing to avoid gossip and unsolicited commentary.

Officially, the family was still in mourning and avoided all social engagements.

Mrs. Bennet preferred to shield her daughter rather than subject her to the idle chatter of society.

"I do hope, dear Mr. Bingley, that you will not disappear so suddenly this time.

More than one young lady was terribly disappointed by your abrupt departure," said Sir William, glancing meaningfully at his wife.

"I am very sorry that my leaving caused any distress," Mr. Bingley replied, feeling a pang of guilt.

He had not realized how much his actions might have hurt Jane and her family.

After listening to Sir William speak for several minutes without pause, Mr. Bingley finally managed to steer the conversation to what truly concerned him.

"At present, I do not know how long I shall remain.

I came to settle a few matters and may return to London in the next few days.

This morning, I visited Longbourn to pay my respects to Mrs. Bennet, but the butler informed me that the family is in London, though he did not say when they would return.

Do you happen to know anything about their whereabouts?

It is quite important for me to speak with them.

" "They are likely staying with Mr. Gardiner, Mrs. Bennet's brother," Sir William offered.

"They might remain there for a few days, settling affairs or visiting relatives.

" "And you may already know," Lady Lucas added proudly, "that my daughter Charlotte will soon be the new mistress of Longbourn.

Mrs. Bennet may have traveled to London to finalize the arrangements for her new residence.

It is quite a small house, but conveniently close to her sister's.

As a man of the cloth, Mr. Collins allowed them to stay all this time, but Longbourn no longer belongs to them.

It is now my daughter's home." "I understand.

Thank you for your time. It has been a pleasure speaking with you," Mr. Bingley said, standing.

He had no desire to continue listening to tales of Mr. Collins' supposed benevolence.

Upon returning to Netherfield, Mr. Bingley locked himself in his study to reflect and make a plan.

He would remain in Hertfordshire a few more days, hoping for Mrs. Bennet's return.

If she did not arrive within two days, he would return to London and ask his solicitor to assist him in locating her brother.

'At least I know the gentleman's name is Gardiner, that he owns a warehouse in London, and that he lives near Cheapside,' Mr. Bingley thought, feeling both frustrated and newly determined.

◆◆◆