Mr. And Mrs. Collins: A Pride and Prejudice Sequel by M. A. Bard

Author:M. A. Bard [Bard, M. A.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Pride and Prejudice & Related Fandoms, Sequel - Canon Compliant, Others POV, 2nd Edition
Goodreads: 217161378
Published: 2024-08-03T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter: Favorable Verdict

In the glowing sun of a splendid summer's day, Mr. Collins endeavored to settle his mind by wandering through the lush gardens. The vibrant blooms and gentle breeze brought a measure of solace to his troubled thoughts. As he meandered along the neatly trimmed paths, the warmth of the sun began to lift his spirits, its golden rays soothing his weary soul.

He was contemplating the beauty of the garden when a discreet cough interrupted his reverie. Turning, he saw a servant approaching with an air of urgency. "Sir, there is a lady of great importance who wishes to speak with you. Please follow me."

A wave of confusion washed over Mr. Collins, mingled with a hint of curiosity. Who could this important lady be? With a nod, he followed the servant through the winding paths of the garden and into the cool, shaded corridors of the bishop's palace. They arrived at a small, elegantly furnished parlor.

Upon entering, Mr. Collins's eyes widened in astonishment. Seated with an air of imperious dignity was Lady Catherine de Bourgh herself. Her expression was stern, her eyes cold and unwelcoming. She did not rise to greet him, nor did she offer any pleasantries.

Instead, she fixed him with a withering gaze, her displeasure evident in every line of her countenance. Mr. Collins, more out of ingrained habit than any genuine sentiment, bowed deeply and greeted her with the utmost respect.

"Lady Catherine," he stammered, "it is an unexpected honor to see you here."

Her response was a curt nod. "Mr. Collins," she began, her voice sharp and cutting, "I have come to address a matter of great importance. It has come to my attention that you are currently under scrutiny by the tribunal, and I must say, I am deeply disappointed."

Mr. Collins felt a chill run down his spine. Lady Catherine's disapproval was more daunting than the tribunal's accusations. "Your Ladyship," he began, his voice trembling, "I assure you, I have always sought to conduct my duties with the utmost diligence and devotion."

Lady Catherine raised a hand to silence him, her eyes narrowing with disdain. "Do not speak of diligence and devotion when the evidence points to the contrary. I have received numerous reports of your failings, Mr. Collins. The upper echelons of the parish community have found your conduct lacking, and I cannot ignore such widespread discontent."

Mr. Collins's heart sank further with each word. He had hoped for some measure of understanding or at least a fair hearing, but Lady Catherine's words were as unforgiving as her gaze. "Your Ladyship," he ventured, his voice barely above a whisper, "I have faced many challenges in this parish. The committee resigned before I had the chance to know them, and I have been met with resistance and exclusion from the upper class."

Lady Catherine's eyes glinted with a steely resolve. "Excuses, Mr. Collins. A true leader overcomes challenges and unites his community. You have failed to do so, and now you face the consequences of your inadequacy. It is

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