Page 71 of Bitterness of Spirit

It was not a surprise that, shortly after Jane finished breakfast, their usual guest—Mr. Bingley—called. Elizabeth was somewhat concerned that her sister would not join her on her walk, but fortunately, Mr. Bingley suggested it.

“Such a lovely day—might you enjoy a walk? I know it is Miss Elizabeth’s favourite pastime, and I would be happy to keep you company.”

“You are very considerate, sir,” Jane replied with a blush.

“In fact, you read my mind, Mr. Bingley, as I intended to propose a walk to my sisters.”

“I have had enough of parks,” Lydia responded. “Aunt Madeleine promised to take us shopping. I hope she will not take back her word in favour of a stroll.”

“And I would like to look for music sheets,” Mary added.

“I shall not take back my word,” Mrs. Gardiner assured them. “I think Lizzy and Jane might very well amuse themselves with a walk while we go ahead with our plans.”

“That would be perfect,” Elizabeth responded with genuine gratitude for her aunt’s arrangement. Having her younger sisters along would have made her meeting with Miss de Bourgh more difficult and less peaceful.

“Excellent!” Bingley said with such a large smile that one might think he had received a valuable gift. “I shall greet the gentlemen while you ladies prepare yourselves. Excellent,” he repeated as he left with such a familiarity that it might have been his own home.

Mrs. Gardiner and Elizabeth smiled at each other with contentment while Jane gazed after him, lost in her thoughts.

Soon after their younger sisters left with Aunt Gardiner, the elder were ready to walk. Mr. Bingley took his role as a protector seriously, but he had to share that privilege. By a lucky coincidence, Mr. Wilson finished his business early and returned just as they exited the gate.

“You seem to have a smaller party than I expected,” he said.

“Only one sister was interested in spending time outdoors. The others went with Aunt Madeline to employ their time making purchases,” Elizabeth explained.

“Well then, would you care for company? I could benefit from a stroll,” the gentleman said, much to Elizabeth’s surprise.

“Yes, of course. It would be our pleasure,” she replied, slightly puzzled.

Bingley offered his arm, and Jane took it. Immediately, Elizabeth understood Mr. Wilson’s thoughtful gesture. Since she had a companion, the happy couple might take a few steps ahead and enjoy a little privacy in the park.

“You are a wise and considerate gentleman, Mr. Wilson,” she declared with a meaningful glance.

“Hardly, my dear Elizabeth. I would simply enjoy your company on a lovely warm day.”

For a while, they spoke of the ball, of the Gardiners’ upcoming return to Gracechurch Street, and the planned trip to the north. Ahead of them, Bingley and Jane seemed to have a shy interaction, a little conversation, then a long silence and again a brief discussion. All the time, her hand was on his arm and they walked close enough for their garments to touch with each step.

Elizabeth turned when she heard a voice calling her and—with pretended astonishment—saw the carriage she was expecting. It was the colonel’s voice, and when the carriage stopped, he was the first to leave. Darcy followed him, helped Anne down, and then Mrs. Jenkinson.

Elizabeth curtseyed. “Miss de Bourgh, what a pleasure to see you again.”

“A pleasure indeed,” Anne replied.

“And a wonderful happenstance,” the colonel added as Elizabeth glanced at Anne then at Darcy. It appeared to be a secret shared only by three.

Miss de Bourgh, Jane, and Mr. Wilson were introduced, and their ramble continued in a larger group.

“Mr. Wilson, I did not expect to see you,” Darcy said. “I know you are usually very busy in the mornings.”

“I am. And I was today too, but luckily, I finished in time to keep Elizabeth company. It was necessary as three is never a good number for walking or any other activity,” Wilson responded.

A smile spread on every face as Jane’s turned red.

“Besides, I could not miss the chance to meet Miss de Bourgh. I have heard so many things of you that making your acquaintance was a pleasure I did not wish to miss.”

“Me?” Anne inquired incredulously. “What could you have heard of me, sir? From whom?”

“From Elizabeth. She has spoken highly of you since she returned from Kent.”