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Darcy turned to the window before either could see him smile.
Chapter Seventeen
MRS. REYNOLDS WAITED until Darcy had signed the order for coal before introducing a matter for which he had made no provision.
“Miss Bennet has asked whether there is a carrier we particularly recommend for a parcel from Hertfordshire.”
“Whatever her father sends may come by the usual route. Is it something she needs immediately?”
“Her winter clothes, sir. She wrote yesterday. I believe she expects to have some things altered when they arrive.”
Darcy put down his pen.
He had invited the Bingleys to remain through the winter and heard Miss Bennet speak of writing home. Only afterward had he begun to consider what the extended visit might require of her. He still did not know what she possessed to wear in Derbyshire in January.
“What alterations?”
“I have not seen the clothes.”
“No, of course not.”
Mrs. Reynolds waited. She had a way of leaving an unreasonable question unanswered which made Darcy hear it more plainly after he had spoken.
“Have somebody come from the town. She will require wool gowns, a warm pelisse, and whatever is suitable for the evenings. You will know better than I do.”
“I can arrange for Mrs. Mercer to attend.”
“Then do so. Nothing flimsy. She walks a great deal.”
“Yes, sir.”
“And the colour—”
He stopped. Mrs. Reynolds had lifted her eyes from the little book in which she entered his instructions.
“Miss Bennet may wish to choose that herself.”
Darcy leaned back in his chair.
“I had not intended to prevent her.”
“Then I shall ask Mrs. Mercer to bring patterns, when Miss Bennet wishes to see her.”
There was no reproof in the housekeeper’s voice. It would have been easier to answer if there had been.
“Have you spoken to her about buying anything?”
“No, sir. She asked about the carrier.”
“And I have answered a question about a parcel by ordering her a wardrobe.”
Mrs. Reynolds’s mouth softened.
“You have answered it very generously.”
“Generosity is not an excuse for being officious.”
“No, sir.”
