Page 174
“Nobody has proposed it,” Elizabeth replied.
Caroline smoothed a fold in her gown. “I was speaking to Jane.”
“And I was attempting to relieve her of an objection she has not made.”
Jane touched Elizabeth’s wrist. The gesture was gentle, but its meaning was plain enough. Elizabeth returned to her sewing.
She had slept badly. Anna in Mr. Darcy’s arms returned whenever she closed her eyes, then the sentence she and Mrs. Reynolds had left unfinished before the gathering. The faded writing had yielded only a few words, but they named Alice Reed.
She ought not to repay Jane’s patience by quarrelling with Caroline over a remark scarcely worth hearing.
“Is Louisa still determined to travel tomorrow?” Jane asked.
“Yes. Hurst wishes to be at home.”
“I hope they have enjoyed their visit.”
“Very much. I shall return with them.”
Elizabeth’s needle stopped.
Jane looked up. “Tomorrow?”
“It is the most convenient opportunity. Louisa has room in the carriage, and I have imposed upon Mr. Darcy quite long enough.”
“He has never suggested that you have imposed,” Jane said.
“Of course he has not. That does not oblige me to remain until he does.”
Charles returned before lunch with a letter in one hand and his gloves in the other. He kissed Jane, asked whether she was comfortable, and then looked at Caroline.
“Have you written to Alderbrook’s agent about the nursery?”
“I wrote about several things. Did he send the samples?”
“He sent a question.”
Charles laid the letter upon the table. “Jane, will you look at this?”
His wife read the first paragraph, then reached for Elizabeth without lifting her eyes from the page. Elizabeth took the offered sheet.
November 2, 1813
Sir,
Miss Bingley’s directions respecting the room beside the principal bedchamber have reached me. Before making any alteration to the work already agreed, I should be obliged by your confirmation that this room is to be prepared as a morning room, with the nursery placed upon the floor above.
Your plan marks the adjoining room for the child, and Mr. Vale’s instructions concerning the fireplace and window fastenings were given upon that understanding. I have therefore asked the workmen to proceed only with the repairs already approved until I hear from you.
The owner has confirmed that the remaining work will permit possession at the beginning of February, provided no further damage is discovered when the last boards are lifted. Mr. Vale will inspect before the rooms are offered for your use.
I remain, sir, your obedient servant,
Edward Finch
Elizabeth read the first paragraph once more. Then she gave the letter back to Charles.
“The floor above?” Jane asked.
