Page 45 of The Long Road Back to Yesterday

One morning, her uncle watched her with curiosity.

“What are you seeking, Elizabeth? I have noticed that you study those advertisements as though they were one of your father's Greek lexicons.”

“Uncle Edward, I should like to obtain a position as a governess or a lady's companion.”

He looked gravely at his niece. “You understand, Elizabeth, that once you accept a position as a paid companion, your standing as a gentlewoman will decline?”

“Uncle, my financial and social position declined dramatically when Papa passed.”

“Yes, my dear, but your birth and rank did not. They will, however, if you enter into employment.”

“Uncle, I should like to try to obtain a position in Derbyshire. If, for any reason, I do not like it or the family does not find me suitable, I can return home.”

“Am I to understand you seek a position as a governess or companion in Derbyshire? Why not somewhere in London, where you might spend your free days with us?”

“I love the countryside, Uncle, and I wish to remove myself as far as possible from the looming specter of my sister's ruin.”

“In that case, you may wish to visit some of the registries. It is entirely possible that a family from a Derbyshire estate is interviewing applicants here in London.”

“I should like that very much. Where are these registries?”

“Since you hope to secure a position with a family of means, you should apply to the registries that serve the wealthy. Mrs. Hay's, Mrs. Faircloth's, and Mrs. Foley's employment registries all cater to the families of Mayfair who own country estates. You may tell them you prefer a position in the north, particularly in Derbyshire.”

He paused.

“Elizabeth, you will need references from a previous employer or from respectable families. I fear none of your relatives or acquaintances hold a position high enough to recommend you for the sort of household where you wish to serve, especially as a governess or a lady's companion.”

“Uncle, perhaps Sir William Lucas would provide a letter of reference. I am certain Charlotte would write it for him. He need only sign it.”

“That would answer very well, my dear. Can you think of another?”

“I could ask our friend, Mr. Bingley, if he would be willing to persuade his sister, Mrs. Hurst, to write one on my behalf. He holds our entire family in high regard, and I am certain he could obtain such a letter for me, though she and I have not met.”

“Then we shall ask him. Do you have his direction? I can write to him today.”

“I do, sir. He gave his card to Jane. I shall run upstairs and fetch it.”

That same day, Elizabeth posted letters to Charlotte and Mr. Bingley.

He called the very next day. The moment he saw Jane, he appeared troubled.

“Miss Bennet, have you been unwell?”

Warmth returned to Jane's face for the first time since arriving in London.

“No, sir. I have been well, though somewhat out of spirits.”

“Ah, I understand. May I take you and Miss Elizabeth for a drive through Hyde Park? The sunshine and fresh air are sure to do you good.”

Jane's expression brightened further as she replied, “Yes, sir. I should like that very much.”

Mr. Bingley looked to Mrs. Gardiner. “Ma'am, may I take your nieces out for a drive?”

“Yes, Mr. Bingley. I should greatly appreciate your kindness. My niece has slept poorly and has no appetite. I am certain a little sunshine and fresh air will help to restore her.”

* * *

When they had reached the park, and Mr. Bingley found an opportunity to converse, he said, “Miss Elizabeth, your uncle mentioned you seek a reference from Mr. and Mrs. Hurst. You are looking for a position?”