Page 76 of The Crown’s Gift

Sir Thomas glanced outside. "A relation of Mr Darcy's who regards clocks as advice for other people."

Darcy stood. "My aunt."

Elizabeth's pulse quickened. "You did not know she was coming?"

"No."

The knocker sounded.

Lady Catherine entered in traveling silk and indignation. She accepted no refreshment, expressed no pleasure in meeting Lady Bennet again, and looked at Darcy as though he were a disobedient estate servant.

"I require a private conversation with Miss Elizabeth."

Lady Bennet's mouth opened.

Sir Thomas spoke first. "You may request one."

Lady Catherine turned. "Sir Thomas, this is a matter between Miss Elizabeth and myself."

"Then she may decide."

All attention moved to Elizabeth.

She set down her cup. "We may walk in the east garden."

Darcy took one step. Elizabeth met his eyes. He stopped.

The morning was cool and bright. Lady Catherine refused Elizabeth's offer of the terrace and marched down the gravel path until the house stood far enough away to prevent overhearing.

"You can be at no loss to understand why I am here."

"I can think of several possibilities. Mr Collins may have misplaced a shelf."

"This is no occasion for wit. A report of the most alarming nature reached me yesterday. I was told that my nephew intends to marry you."

Elizabeth's heart leapt at the certainty of the rumor. She kept her expression calm.

"Mr Darcy has not informed me of such an intention."

"But you expect it."

"My expectations are my own."

"From his infancy he has been destined for my daughter. Their union was planned by their mothers."

"Then their mothers should perhaps have consulted the two people required to marry."

Lady Catherine's color rose. "Do you imagine royal favor places you upon equal footing with the Darcys? Your father was an obscure country gentleman until accident elevated him."

"Until action distinguished him."

"Netherfield was given, not inherited."

"Pemberley was inherited, not earned. I do not think either fact determines the present owner's worth."

Lady Catherine stopped walking. "Your mother is a woman of noisy manners. Your younger sisters lack connection. Longbourn will pass to a clergyman. Your family's appearance at Court is tolerated because the King indulges gratitude."

Anger steadied Elizabeth.