Page 37 of I Thee Wed (Pride And Prejudice Variation #2)

A letter from Charlotte awaited Elizabeth when she returned to the parsonage. She broke the seal and read:

My dearest Lizzy,

I trust your visit to the parsonage is proving agreeable. You must write and tell me all about Hunsford, and give me a full account of the part of Kent where you are residing. I am curious to know what the house is like, and pray do not omit the kitchen. Does it have two ovens?

As for me, I am well. Only two days ago, I met your mother and Miss Farrow at the haberdasher’s.

Your mother behaved with great propriety, and I could scarce recognize her as the same lady I had known.

Indeed, I was so impressed that I am half tempted to ask my own mama to engage her as tutor to my father, for he stands in sad need of it.

Alexander sends his regards. His courtship of Miss King goes on delightfully. I daresay they will be married before the year is out, perhaps at Christmas. How charming a season for nuptials, especially if there should be snow upon the ground, so that all may look like a scene from a fairy tale.

I confess I once expected that Alexander would marry you, and that we should be sisters.

Yet life turns upon the most curious hinges, does it not?

I cannot help but think he would have remained devoted, had your fortune equaled Miss King’s.

Still, you and I are sensible women. We both know that men must wed for wealth and connection, however much they may admire elsewhere.

Elizabeth, when you return, I pray you will discourage Alexander from cleaving to you so closely.

Mary is already very jealous, and we would not wish anything to occur that might frighten her from his suit.

I am sure you understand me. It would be even better if you could remain with Mary until Alexander is married.

Mamma calls me now to assist with dinner. I hope to hear from you soon, Elizabeth. Do write to me all about Hunsford and the parish.

Your affectionate friend,

Charlotte

Elizabeth set the letter down. Charlotte seeks to turn me aside, and it is no more than I expected. Her brother pays his addresses elsewhere, and Charlotte’s allegiance must be given to her new sister.

She looked down again at the letter. It was courteous, but it was also injurious. Elizabeth crumpled it and threw it into the fire, so that she should never be able to reread it. She prayed she might one day forget she had ever received it.