Chapter Introducing Mrs. Collins
Dearest Eliza,
I am delighted to hear that a conclusion has been drawn on such a difficult matter and wish you all as much comfort as can be found at this time.
I am not as astonished by Mr Darcy’s involvement as you are.
From what I have heard from Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr Darcy appears to be a man who takes action to help a friend, and I admire him for it.
I look forward to meeting him again, which I have reason to think I shall, for several reasons.
Forgive me, Eliza, but I am hardly being fanciful when I say I believe he will apply to you again.
I am sure he acted, at least in part, to win your approval.
He has his honour, but he is not a saint.
You might already know some of the news I can impart?
Our friend aforementioned, Colonel Fitzwilliam, was injured at Salamanca (you will have read about the battle, perhaps?) and is recovering at Rosings.
His leg is badly injured, so he is rather trapped inside with his aunt.
I have offered the best remedy I can, which is to provide alternative company, for which he seems grateful.
My other news, which is much more mine to tell, is that I am with child. Among all of the upheaval you have experienced in recent weeks, I hope this makes you glad. It certainly makes me so.
I send my fondest regards to your family, but especially to your dear father, whom I hate to hear of as being unwell. I will be thinking of him. Pray do not mention me to your mother, as I do not think she welcomes my regards.
Yours in affection,
Charlotte