Page 4 of Fortuitous Encounters

Such was her attention on Lydia that she almost missed the slight gasp from Mr Darcy, for he controlled it quickly.

“What makes you think she is trying? What have you heard?”

She had stepped closer to the mark than intended and hastened to reassure him. “Nothing at all. I did not even know you had a sister. It was simply a general comment that applies almost universally to fifteen-year-old girls. My case in point—” she added, nodding towards Lydia.

The tension drained from his shoulders; she hoped she had not upset their delicate balance. He fell deep in thought, so she kept her peace and waited patiently, trusting he would return when he was ready.

At length, Darcy asked pensively, “Are you knowledgeable about such things?”

She liked this less serious version of the man. “I have four sisters, the two Lucas daughters might as well be related, and I was such a creature myself not long ago. I know a great deal about young ladies—trying and otherwise.”

Once again, Darcy thought carefully for a few moments. “Could I… I mean… Would I ask too much to prevail upon you to offer me some advice about my sister?”

The question surprised Elizabeth, but fortunately the answer was so obvious she needed no real thought.

She replied in a whisper, “I shall be happy to assist in any way I can.”

“It cannot be here,” he said quietly. “Would you mind if I call on you tomorrow? Perhaps we could walk out?”

Elizabeth returned a shy smile. “That would make me happy.”

Darcy noted the rather unconventional reply; he suspected this young lady spoke only what she meant. A traditional polite reply would not necessarily clarify whether a visit was anticipated, dreaded, or simply expected—but her phrasing suggested she did more than her civil duty and would genuinely enjoy the company. Of course, it could easily mean she was just nicer than average, or they said things differently in Hertfordshire. He must not get ahead of himself—he was not as knowledgeable about women as he thought.

Elizabeth glanced at her sister; Jane remained in close discussion with Mr Bingley. She graced Mr Darcy with a naughty smile possibly suggesting minor mischief, and suggested, “If you have no objection, perhaps when we walk out, our privacy would be better ensured were our chaperone somewhat… ah… distracted.”

Darcy chuckled. “I shan’t even need my horse. I can simply tie a rope to Bingley, and he will drag me quite comfortably to Longbourn in half the time.”

Both laughed heartily, though they did their best to at least maintain some sense of decorum. Elizabeth glanced at her mother and thought she would have a trying homecoming once the assembly ended.

Third Dance

The remainder of the dance they sat out found them visited by various acquaintances. Elizabeth was happy to introduce Mr Darcy to those who had not had the opportunity—which amounted to almost everyone since he had been declining introductions and hiding in a corner.

Near the end of the set, Elizabeth asked a question that had been plaguing her. “Mr Darcy, are you still opposed to gossip?”

“Why?”

“A single syllable? Is this all the reply which I am to have the honour of expecting! I might, perhaps, wish to be informed why a man of sense and education who has lived in the world cannot produce a weightier reply?”

“I thoroughly, conscientiously, and with the utmost humility concede your point, madam! Bingley opines that I fill all my letters with four-syllable words. Perhaps I should write down my replies before delivering them?”

“Oh, heavens no! I am only a poor country miss. I am not sure I know any four-syllable words at all.”

“Are you certain of that, Miss E-liz-a-beth?”

Both dissolved into a minor fit of giggling, though they tried to keep their mirth within reasonable bounds. The exchange was entirely ridiculous, yet diverting as well.

When their amusement had run its course, Elizabeth finally replied, “Perhaps I should answer your question?”

“That might be useful.”

“I must request a rather onerous task of you. I hope you will not mind.”

“Of course, I agree to your suggestion in advance, but you have left me insatiably curious as to the particulars.”

“Would I ask too much if I request you dance two more sets?”

“We have already danced two sets. With a third we would be practically engaged, and a fourth would require grandchildren!”