Chapter 8 Brewing up #3
How did I fail to recognize that I harboured vipers in my own home? There is scarcely any chance of convincing Miss Bennet to accept me after this revelation. Yet, how can I bear the thought of living without her?
I must make my intentions clear to her, but first, I must address the situation with Caroline and Louisa.
Mrs. Gardiner
Mrs. Gardiner was feeling bad for the young man standing in front of her.
Oh dear! I have just seen him for the first time and even I can tell that he was suffering for months. How can his sisters do this to him? Don’t they love him?
She recognized that if her niece stood any chance of a happy marriage with this gentleman, his sisters had to be reined in. To achieve this, Mr. Bingley needed to be made fully aware of the situation. There existed no other alternative.
I understand your pain, young man. You have been cruelly used. However, my priority is to safeguard Jane. If you indeed harbour sincere intentions towards my niece, you must gain control over your sisters. I shall by no means allow my dear niece to be subjected to your sisters' misconduct again.
She awaited Mr. Bingley's response with patience.
Rosings
Darcy
While his friend endured suffering, Darcy endeavoured to suppress his burgeoning excitement.
The prior evening, after ample contemplation, he arrived at the realisation that no other lady would suffice in this lifetime.
He resolved to propose to Miss Elizabeth this very evening, ideally before her dinner engagement with Aunt Catherine.
For the past twelve days, he had strolled with her each day. By now, he was convinced that she was cognizant of his intentions and anticipated his declaration.
Once the decision was settled, Darcy spent the remaining hours of the night ruminating on his proposal.
He even endeavoured to put his thoughts on paper, only to consign them to the flames.
He had no desire to affront her with a rehearsed speech.
He wished to speak from his heart, to convey the overflow of love he harboured for her.
I know my heart won’t let me down. I will know what to say to her when the time comes.
Piccadilly Street, London
Bingley
Bingley remained in thoughtful silence for a considerable span. He had much to contemplate. To their credit, both Miss Bennet and Mrs. Gardiner displayed admirable patience, anticipating his forthcoming words.
Now I know how Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth got impeccable character. Mrs. Gardiner is both formidable and kind. I like her already.
“Mrs. Gardiner, might I inquire about your residence?” he asked.
He noted the surprise on Mrs. Gardiner’s countenance, yet she supplied her Cheapside address.
"Would Mr. Gardiner object if I were to pay a visit to your home?" he inquired once more.
"No, he will not object. I shall inform him to anticipate your arrival. I will also arrange the introduction," Mrs. Gardiner promptly replied.
Expressing his gratitude, Bingley redirected his attention to Miss Bennet. He drew a deep breath, interlocked his fingers, and silently invoked the Almighty for guidance. Maintaining her gaze, he embarked upon the most significant discourse he would ever deliver to another in this lifetime.
“Miss Bennet, I know I have caused you pain all this time,” he raised his hands when she attempted to speak.
“Pray, Miss Bennet, permit me to conclude.
Allow me to lay my heart before you and express my sincerest intentions.
From the moment our eyes met that day at the Assembly, I was entranced by your beauty, elegance, kindness, and captivating spirit.
My affection for you began then. I realize this may be challenging for you to accept.
I know I ran away from you like a coward.
Yet, during all the days of our separation, I was in pain.
Not a single moment passed without my yearning for you.
I was a true fool to remain distant from you, dearest Miss Bennet. A genuine fool.
I understand that this may seem abrupt. I acknowledge that considering me as a serious suitor might be challenging for you, given the difficulties you've faced on my account.
To be completely honest, I myself question if I am deserving of you at this moment.
Nevertheless, I wish to ask for a courtship.
You deserve to be courted, Miss Bennet. Would you allow me the privilege of calling upon you?
My intentions are entirely honourable," Bingley awaited her response with anticipation.
“I would like it if you call on me, Mr. Bingley. I really would like that,” His heart soared at her response.
“You do not know how much happiness you just granted me, Miss Bennet. Trust me on this, I will ask you only if I convinced myself that I deserve you,” Bingley raised her hands to his lips.
Turning to Mrs. Gardiner, he continued.
“Mrs. Gardiner, I have some matters that I need to take care of. I won’t come to your doorstep until I take care of them.
It might take some days, even a week. Rest assured, I shall meet with Mr. Gardiner within a fortnight.
Additionally, I wish to make a solemn pledge now – no member of my family shall cause any harm to Miss Bennet again. I give you my word on this.”
Mrs. Gardiner regarded him earnestly, then nodded her approval.
“You cannot fathom the relief your words bring, Mr. Bingley. Just so you know, Jane plans to return to Longbourn at the end of next week.”
“In that case, I shall travel to Hertfordshire and reopen Netherfield. I must seek Mr. Bennet’s consent to court Miss Bennet anyway. However, I would be grateful for an introduction to Mr. Gardiner either way,” Bingley responded.
“I am certain Mr. Gardiner would welcome the opportunity to know you, Mr. Bingley. Just inform us when you intend to visit,” Mrs. Gardiner smiled warmly.
With one more look into his angel's eyes and a promise to visit soon, Bingley left the ladies and walked onto the street.
Instead of heading home or to White's, he returned to Hatchard.
He had much to contemplate, and Hatchard was the ideal sanctuary for his thoughts.
Here, he could reflect without interruption from any of his acquaintances.
Is this why Darcy always spends his time here?