The Pemberley House Party by Selkirk Jemima

Author:Selkirk, Jemima
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2018-06-13T00:00:00+00:00

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When they had all eaten, the Earl was keen to get back to the shoot, but Lord Wentworth, who had overindulged in eating too much syllabub, suggested they rested first. The Earl did not look happy, but Samuel Wentworth and Mr. Thornley agreed. The Earl, who was unaccustomed to having his wishes thwarted, was not happy and looked to Darcy to overrule them, but Darcy did not, saying he too would enjoy a short interlude. His lordship gave a snort of disgust and stomped off to talk to one of the loaders, who hastily cast his own lunch aside to speak to him. None of the guests seemed to miss him. Even Lady Matlock seemed unmoved by his tetchiness and serenely sipped at a glass of fresh lemonade.

Viscount Egdale, who was sitting near Miss Lester, suggested in a vague manner that some of the ladies might enjoy a short walk.

Bertram Fitzwilliam was immediately on his feet asking the Miss Bennets if they would like to join them.

Mr. Edward sneered at his brother. “Oh, leave them alone, Bertie. It is too warm to walk, and no one wants to listen to you talking about nature or anything else.”

Mary’s face was bright red, but Miss Lester gave him a withering look. “I for one would enjoy a walk,” she said. “And so would I,” said Rebecca Fitzwilliam, looking at her husband. The colonel was quickly on his feet offering his arm to his wife, and a few minutes later the small group set off for a walk.

Edward Fitzwilliam did not join them. He stayed where he was, watching the servants as they cleared away the picnic. As one of the maids picked up a basket, Elizabeth noticed him complimenting her on the food. Her cheeks were bright red, but then she stifled a cry as he reached out and touched her ankle. He laughed as she hurried away.

Elizabeth looked to see if anyone else had spotted what he had done, but Darcy was deep in conversation with Mr. Thornley and seemed oblivious to what had taken place. She glared disapprovingly at the Earl’s youngest son, but his expression was insolent, challenging her to say something. She remained silent as he knew she would, but she got up and supervised the packing up of the picnic, keeping the maid away from him.

When the others returned from their walk, Darcy declared the afternoon shoot would start in five minutes.

Edward Fitzwilliam, who at last had gotten to his feet, called to his brothers. “Are you ready to be beaten? Perhaps we should have a wager on who will bag the most birds.”

“You have no money to lose,” said Viscount Egdale.

“Nor will you, if you continue to lose at the card tables,” said Mr. Edward quickly. “Bertie, what about you? I will allow you an advantage if you need one.”

“I will not shoot,” muttered Mr. Bertram. “I find no particular pleasure in shooting down the wildlife.”

“So you would insult our cousin,” said Mr. Edward.

“No… naturally… I w…would… Darcy, please accept my apologies.

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