Epilogue
Gracechurch-street
My dearest Mrs Darcy,
Oh, how well that sounds! I am so pleased to be able to write that, knowing that is forevermore your name.
Darling Lizzy, I know by now you will have reached Pemberley, and will have seen that none of my descriptions have been in the slightest bit exaggerated.
Have you ever seen a place so beautiful, for which nature has done more, or natural beauty been so little counteracted by awkward taste?
The spring flowers will be blooming all around the lake, and the woodland full of birdsong.
You will get lost on the paths, though, if you do not take a guide, for they are very extensive.
I am sure that Mr Darcy will have thought of that already and assigned a groundsman to follow you on your rambles.
You looked so well when I saw you last at the Bingleys’ supper party, I have to confess my suspicions that the spring flowers might not be the only thing blooming at Pemberley this year?
You have been married these three months, and while it would be too early for the quickening, other signs might be in evidence.
I know I discussed these things with you, Jane and Mary before your marriage – I cannot think it fitting for girls to go entirely unaware into matrimony – if there are any questions you would like to ask me, I am at your disposal.
Of course, if I am incorrect in my suspicions, ignore these ramblings entirely.
How I look forward to seeing you this summer!
Mr Darcy promised me that he should teach you to drive a little phaeton and ponies by then, and you shall take me all around the lake and the boundary of the park, for it is ten miles around and too far even for you on foot, my Lizzy!
How pleasant a time we shall all have together, though we shall be with you only two weeks before going on to see Charles and Jane at Angel’s Rest, and then to Hutton Bonville to visit with Mary and John.
So much better than the Lakes, our original destination, though perhaps we might all go there together next year?
Darcy seemed to think that you should both like that.
Well, I have nearly filled my paper and must go now, my dear, though I know your husband would not for a moment begrudge paying for another page.
I must write yet to Mary and my afternoon is almost gone.
Your uncle and cousins send their fondest love and we look forward very much to seeing you in June.
With my love as always,
Your loving
Aunt Madeline
Pemberley
April 12th, 1812
Dearest Aunt Madeline,
What can I say but that you are, as always, correct in every particular?
My husband and I both stand in awe of your perspicacity.
Your loving niece,
Elizabeth Darcy