Page 166 of The Long Road Back to Yesterday

Bingley laughed. “I had not realized my usefulness depended upon my dancing.”

“Of course it does. And you must give a ball at Netherfield and invite all the officers. I have not danced with Mr. Wickham yet, and I particularly wish to dance with him in a ballroom while he is wearing his red coat.”

“Then I perceive there are considerable responsibilities attached to the lease.”

“There certainly are,” Lydia said. “You cannot take Netherfield and never give a ball.”

“I shall remember that before I sign anything.”

Darcy remained near the mantel. Elizabeth could feel his attention return to her whenever the conversation allowed it, but private speech was not possible.

As Lydia continued to chatter about Wickham, the pleasure faded from Elizabeth's face. Darcy saw the fear that replaced it, and his expression softened with concern. He wished he could cross the room and offer comfort, but for now he could only watch her.

Mr. Bennet entered a few minutes later.

“Mr. Bingley? Mr. Darcy?”

Bingley stepped forward and explained their visit. Mr. Bennet listened with interest and invited the gentlemen into his study.

Mrs. Bennet protested immediately.

“You cannot carry them off before they have even had tea, Mr. Bennet.”

“Our guests came to discuss drains and tenants, my dear. I doubt tea will improve either.”

“They must have tea before they leave.”

Mr. Bennet looked at Bingley. “You see the difficulties attending property in Hertfordshire. You will be subject to the social engagements of your neighbors.”

Bingley smiled. “I believe that may be the most pleasurable risk attached to the property, sir.”

Mr. Bennet smiled at the young man and gestured for him to follow.

Bingley moved toward the door.

Elizabeth saw Mr. Darcy hesitate before he, too, left the room.

Mrs. Bennet waited until the study door had closed before looking at Jane.

“What a charming young man Mr. Bingley is! And considering Netherfield!”

Lydia laughed. “I like him very well, but Mr. Darcy is the more handsome of the two.”

Kitty agreed.

Elizabeth reached for her sewing again.

Jane's eyes met hers.

“Lizzy, your hands are shaking.”

Elizabeth put the sewing back into her basket.

Mrs. Bennet looked over. “Are you ill, Lizzy?”

“No, Mamma.”

“You have been very strange lately. Perhaps you should take some salts.”