Chapter Eighteen
Mr. Bingley was doing his best to prepare for his adventure, as he thought of it, to the countryside. He went shopping with his valet, Gibbs, to purchase clothing that could survive a good deal of walking and, well, country activities. Whatever those might be.
He purchased several pairs of boots that looked as though they would survive hiking through fields, as well as trousers and shirts that Gibbs thought would clean easily.
His greatcoat had seen better days, so he ordered a new one.
Then he thought that he should bring the old one to Netherfield Park and leave the new one in London, for what use had he for new clothing in the country?
But then again, Netherfield was only thirty miles from London, so he could always come back and order more clothing if he required it.
And likely, there was someone in Meryton, the town near Netherfield Park, who could make clothing, and doubtless he should make it a point to give his custom to local merchants. That was what Darcy always said.
He had two carriages; one would take him to Netherfield, the other would be left behind for the Hursts and Caroline to use.
Were there enough horses? He thought so, but maybe he should write to Darcy about it.
Or just ask Darcy when he came to visit, as they could always return to London to visit Tattersalls.
There were a good many people who needed to be given his new address for mail, including his various business associates and his own solicitor. But perhaps he should wait and write to them once he was actually at Netherfield. Might that be better?
There was just so much to think about!