Chapter Fifty-Nine
The moment she heard that Charlotte Lucas was engaged to marry the Viscount Worthing, Miss Bingley took to her bed, which was rather a relief to everyone in the household.
Mr. Bingley congratulated his guest, saying that Miss Lucas was a sensible young woman, who would make anyone a fine wife.
Mr. Fitzwilliam agreed, of course, and added that his cousin, Darcy, had coached him on exactly how to go about proposing to the young lady. “You should perhaps ask his advice as well, Mr. Bingley,” Mr. Fitzwilliam added, staring hard at his host.
Mr. Bingley turned red, but said nothing.
After dinner, Mr. Darcy retired to his room to pen the letter to his aunr.
Dear Aunt Eleanor,
I scarce know how to write this, but Reginald has gotten himself engaged.
There, that was done. But surely he could help Charlotte Lucas a bit, could he not?
I am certain you are as surprised as I, but let me tell you something about his young lady.
Her name is Charlotte Lucas; she is the daughter of Sir William and Lady Lucas.
She is older than any of the debutantes and doubtless would be considered on the shelf in London, but certainly she is young enough to bear children.
Mr. Darcy found himself reddening as he wrote this, but he pushed on.
Her manners are good, her appearance pleasing. I do not imagine she has a dowry, but the important thing is
Here, Mr. Darcy hesitated. He stared at the floor for a minute before continuing.
he is very taken with her, and has been since the moment they met. She seems equally taken with him, despite his admittedly unusual manners. I am happy that he has found someone, and hope you will be happy as well.
I do not know any of the details as to when they plan to wed, where, etc. If you wish to come here, I do not doubt that Bingley would be happy to host you.
Your affectionate nephew,
Darcy