Simply Beautiful by P. O. Dixon

Author:P. O. Dixon
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Regents and Cotswold Book Group

Chapter 16 - Relations

Mr. Edward Gardiner and his wife, Mrs. Madeline Gardiner, were Longbourn’s first official houseguests. The former, Elizabeth’s late mother’s brother, brought back faint memories due to his jovial nature. However, Elizabeth had never met his wife, as he was unmarried when they last saw each other.

In contrast to her mother’s sister, Mrs. Phillips, Mr. Gardiner appeared to possess both sense and education; his wife, too, exhibited intelligence, good taste, and keen sensibilities. The Gardiners were the kind of people Elizabeth could proudly claim as kin. One could easily mistake them for members of the landed gentry, but the truth was that they resided in Cheapside, within sight of their warehouses. Elizabeth gleaned this information from a conversation her father had with the guests.

As they settled into their seats, Elizabeth experienced a sense of contentment as she sipped her tea and engaged in conversation. Having guests in the house provided a welcome change from the usual company of her father and the servants.

When it became apparent that the gentlemen’s discussion was shifting toward business matters, Mrs. Gardiner turned her attention to Elizabeth.

“Lizzy,” the other woman began tentatively. “I hope it is not inappropriate for me to address you by that name. Or would you prefer I use your given name?”

“Indeed, you may address me however you prefer,” Elizabeth replied. She had been called by her given name for years, but upon meeting her father and hearing him call her “Lizzy,” a sense of familiarity and comfort had developed.

“Excellent!” exclaimed Mrs. Gardiner. “I much prefer ‘Lizzy.’ That is how your uncle referred to you when he learned your father was bringing you home to live with him here at Longbourn. If it is not too forward of me, may I request a tour of the house? I am fascinated by the interiors of country estates, and Longbourn is no exception. I have heard that the manor house has undergone significant improvements since your return.”

Elizabeth gladly agreed, and as they strolled through the halls, Mrs. Gardiner examined every detail with a keen eye. Elizabeth could not help but feel a sense of pride as she showcased the well-appointed rooms and furnishings. It was not Pemberley, but being accustomed to a more refined lifestyle, Elizabeth had made the best of the resources available to her.

Upon entering the east parlor, Mrs. Gardiner paused and turned to Elizabeth with a smile. “My dear, this room is positively divine. The furnishings are exquisite, and the decor is simply lovely.” She ventured further into the room. “I love what you have done here, Lizzy. The last time your uncle and I visited your father—or rather, the only time, for there was just one occasion—this room was nothing like it is now.”

“I assume you are referring to the furniture, the paintings draped with cloth, and the general neglect,” Elizabeth remarked.

“Indeed, but that was a different time. Now there is warmth in this room, evidence of a woman’s touch, if you will.” The older woman blushed slightly. “Pray, I hope I have not spoken out of turn.

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