Chapter 10 #2
His expression quickly sobered. “I fear I would not like that very well at all. To expend so much effort to be your friend, only never to see you again. I fear I could never abide it.”
He seemed so sincere and disturbed by the thought that she felt herself weakening towards him.
“I am certain that there will be some way to avoid such a sad outcome to your efforts,” she suggested.
“I have become too attached to Georgiana and Priscilla never to see them again, so perhaps we may encounter one another in London.”
“That is a better plan, but I am certain we can improve upon it.” Darcy smiled as the dance came to an end. “We should discuss it nearer the end of the summer.”
Elizabeth barely made it to the edge of the dance floor before they were interrupted by Mr James, whose face was mutinous.
“Miss Elizabeth.” His hand was offered imperiously.
“Mr James. Of course, my next is yours, but since we have nearly a quarter hour, it might be pleasant to rest and obtain a glass of punch before the next dance?” Elizabeth raised her brow at his eagerness.
Mr Darcy bowed and left her to ensure that his father was well.
Priscilla found them and exclaimed, “Let us take those seats there until the second begins.”
The following fifteen minutes was a marvel of watching Priscilla manage Mr James. She sent him to obtain some punch, and directed the conversation so effortlessly that the gentleman barely got in a word with Elizabeth before the strings of the second set were heard.
“Mr Darcy has wasted no time in treading upon another man’s claim,” Mr James grumbled as they began following the steps.
“I beg your pardon, but if you are referring to me, then allow me to inform you sir, that I am no man’s claim.” Elizabeth was affronted.
“One would think that with a fortune like his, that he would have no need of your inheritance,” Mr James continued as if she had not spoken.
“Inheritance? I have a respectable dowry, but I am not what anyone would call an heiress.” Elizabeth was confused.
“I am referring, of course, to that charming estate in your father’s neighbourhood that belongs to the old lady from Nethercourt House,” Mr James answered.
“Lady Barry? What would Lady Barry and Netherfield Park have to do with me?” Elizabeth asked in consternation.
“It is known throughout Ramsgate that you have the old woman’s affections.
Possibly the only person known to have obtained them.
They say there is a connection and attachment of long standing.
She admits few into her home besides yourself, and none of the locals.
” Mr James seemed confident indeed in his information.
“That signifies a proper affection, I should think.”
“Who says?” Elizabeth was outraged. “It is no wonder she will not admit her neighbours if this is the gossip they amuse themselves with! I should be ashamed to think she ever heard of it!”
“You should be grateful, for such a portion will allow us to marry. There is no reason she should not allow you to take possession of this Netherfield Park as soon as we wed, and I am certain she will appreciate it when you are married to a gentleman who will take all of her burdens from her shoulders.” Mr James looked extremely pleased with this idea.
“I hope you will take me to meet her soon. I cannot wait to be as dear to her as you are.”
“I am quite certain you cannot, but we will not be doing that.” Elizabeth was disgusted, but the instant that she stepped back and away from him, the gentleman dropped to one knee in the middle of the dance floor.
“Mr James!” she exclaimed as the dancers all around them ceased dancing and stepped back in interest.
He held his hand out to her. “Miss Elizabeth, I am sure that my attentions have been too marked to be mistaken. As we have discussed our future here on this dance floor, I have become overwhelmed by sentiments too powerful to overcome!”
“Mr James, you had better overcome them, and stand up, right now, sir! I have discussed no future with you, here, nor anywhere else. You have presumed based on completely wrong assumptions, and I have not agreed, nor even responded positively to anything you have said tonight beyond agreeing to partner you for the dance!”
“I apologise, my darling. I know you are quivering with anticipation. Say you will marry me, and end our agony now!” Mr James begged.
“NO!” Elizabeth cried in distress and anger as Priscilla, Darcy, and her father rushed to her.
Priscilla threw her arm around Elizabeth’s shoulder and led her from the ballroom as Darcy assisted Mr Bennet in dragging Mr James from the dance floor and into their host’s study, where he was soundly abused for his presumption, and warned never to approach Miss Elizabeth or the Bennet family again.
Elizabeth wished she could sink through the floor and disappear as her father’s carriage was called.
The Miss Bennets boarded with Mr Bennet, and the family left early.
The Darcys remained for a short time so there would be no new speculation, considering that they spent a great deal of time with the Bennets.
Their host, who was also the magistrate and had some influence among the locals, assured Mr Bennet that he would ensure that all of the other guests understood that Mr James had been in his cups due to his nerves regarding his proposal, but that Miss Bennet had never discussed her future with him, nor had she ever entertained him for more than a dance or two.
There was hope that talk would favour Elizabeth in the matter and die down soon.