Chapter Forty-Nine
The next morning’s mail brought letters for both Georgiana and Mr. Darcy. Georgiana elected to read her letter after returning to her room, for fear that her brother might look over her shoulder or ask to see it.
Dearest Georgiana,
I cannot believe that George Wickham is actually there in Meryton! It truly is the most romantic thing I have ever heard! But you know you cannot go against your brother’s wishes, so you must find a way to reconcile the two. Perhaps invite George for tea at Netherfield?
It is all so very wonderful! Do let me know how things progress!
I take Socks out three times a week, as we agreed. And he has made a friend of one of the sheepdogs, so you need not fear for his well-being!
Your loving cousin,
Anne
Georgiana could not wait to reply.
Dear Anne,
Of all the dreadful things, Miss Bingley is here!
I overheard Mr. Bingley talking to Brother, and it seems she actually went through Mr. Bingley’s trash in Bingley House in London and found a note Brother had sent, saying that he was on his way to Netherfield, and that is why she is here! Can you even imagine such a thing?
I had to put her in her place rather severely, and I know Brother is unhappy with me as a result, but I refuse to just sit back and listen to her insult my friends.
And I fear I may have been a bit too rude, though, as she decided not to come down for dinner last night.
In any case, it is just as well, for things are ever so much easier when she is not around.
Perhaps she will go back to London; that would suit me very well indeed!
In any case, we are to host the Bennets here at Longbourn on Friday for dinner.
I suppose I should have organised it myself, but Miss Bingley set it up.
Doubtless, she did it to watch her brother and Jane Bennet; I am sure she must disapprove of the match, though anyone can see that Jane is perfect for Mr. Bingley!
I have not seen George again since I last wrote, but I think your idea is a good one. Brother said he is not allowed to call on me at Netherfield, but surely it will be all right if it leads to a reconciliation!
Your loving cousin,
Georgiana
Mr. Darcy also waited to read his letter until he could be alone; it was the long-awaited message from his Aunt Catherine.
Darcy,
I admit that I had reluctance to become involved in the situation, but you made your point when you asked me to imagine such a poor specimen of humanity responsible for Rosings Park. Unsupportable!
I have to say that it was most distasteful to have to listen to that man go on and on about his antecedents, as if they could possibly be important!
But I did as you asked, and I learnt that his family is from a small market town called Atherstone.
In any case, there is your answer, and I hope it helps you.
Your loving aunt,
Catherine
Atherstone! He would alert his solicitor at once.
Mr. Stanley,
I have just learnt that Mr. Collins comes from a small town outside of Birmingham called Atherstone.
Fitzwilliam Darcy