Page 58 of Dear Friend

“What is?”

“That they should make you smile so.”

Elizabeth's hand paused upon the ribbon of her bonnet. “Was I smiling?”

“You were.”

“I am frequently cheerful before breakfast.”

“Not after walking above two hours, and certainly not since you lost Julia's company on your walks.”

Elizabeth glanced towards the clock and was surprised to discover Jane was right. She had not realised how long she had been away.

Jane closed her book and set it aside. “So, what did you find upon Oakham Mount? I suppose that is where you went.”

“Mr. Darcy.” Elizabeth continued to fiddle with the ribbons of her bonnet.

Jane blinked. “The same Mr. Darcy?”

“Unless Hertfordshire has lately acquired another, then yes.” Elizabeth removed her bonnet. “It seems Mr. Darcy has also discovered an interest in wandering about Oakham Mount.”

“And you were together all this time?”

“Not all of it. I reached the summit before him.” Elizabeth settled beside her sister. “We happened upon one another and walked together afterwards.”

Jane regarded her with an expression of growing comprehension. “I begin to understand the smile.”

“Do not.”

“I have said nothing.”

“You continue to accomplish a remarkable amount with silence.”

Jane laughed. “Did you enjoy his company?”

Elizabeth considered pretending the question required thought, but there seemed little purpose in deceiving Jane. “Very much, actually.”

“Very much?”

“Must you repeat it?”

“I only wished to be certain I heard correctly.”

Elizabeth nudged her lightly. “Mr. Darcy is different when there are not fifty people about him. He was agreeable enough when we danced and during his visit yesterday, but this morning he seemed less guarded. I begin to suspect he notices everything and simply chooses very carefully what he means to say.”

“I cannot think that a bad thing, can you?”

“I did not say it was.” Elizabeth looked down at her bonnet, turning one ribbon absently between her fingers. “Indeed, I believe I rather like it.”

Jane's brows rose.

“There. That expression is precisely why I ought not to tell you anything.” Elizabeth protested.

“I am only listening.”

“Very loudly.”

Jane's smile remained, but she allowed Elizabeth to continue without teasing her further.