Chapter Fifty-Two
When the gentlemen finally departed, the ladies sat in silence. When Elizabeth began to laugh, the others joined in, and soon all three were laughing heartily.
“Well!” said Lady Lucas. “I think that was the very oddest social call I have ever experienced!”
Elizabeth added, “Mr. Darcy said that he never before saw his cousin speak so with a young lady. Truly, Charlotte, I think you have made a conquest!”
Charlotte shook her head. “Eliza, you must know as well as I that his parents would never permit such a marriage.”
“And why not, I should like to know?” Lady Lucas put in, heatedly. “Are you not the daughter of a knight?”
Charlotte bit her lip. “The eldest son of an Earl may look a good deal higher than the daughter of a knight, particularly one who is already on the shelf and has no dowry.”
“But he is quite odd, is he not, Charlotte? The young ladies of the ton may not have the patience that you have with such a gentleman,” Elizabeth said. “Which is likely why he favours you so.”
“I do not think him odd,” Charlotte said, softly. “He is actually quite sweet.”
“Which you must admit is odd in a gentleman,” Elizabeth said, grinning at her friend.
“Make a joke of it if you wish, Eliza,” Charlotte replied. “I like him quite well, and wish that we were more equals.”
“To my mind, he would be lucky to have you,” Elizabeth said, loyally. “And if you like him, then I shall like him as well. Even though he has yet to say a single word to me.”
“Shall we walk, Eliza?” Charlotte asked.
Elizabeth agreed at once, and the two set out for a brisk walk in the weak December sun.
“Now that we are away from prying ears, tell me how things are with Mr. Bingley,” Charlotte said.
“Quite frustrating. We have tried all the usual things. I look away when he speaks, while Jane gazes at him in adoration. I sit across the room whenever possible, while Jane sits beside him. Jane always knows just how he wants his tea prepared, when I cannot recall it to save my life. Dear Lord, the man must be thick as a block not to understand that he is to propose to Jane!”
“Why not leave Jane alone with Mr. Bingley? Go to London, or something?”
Elizabeth stopped and turned to Charlotte with a wide smile. “Charlotte, you are positively brilliant!”