From Longbourn to Pemberley - Autumn 1810 by M-C Ranger

Author:M-C Ranger [Ranger, M-C]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-11-14T05:00:00+00:00

*****

It wasn’t until the end of the third day, several hours after the visit from Mr. Jones, the apothecary, that Jane’s fever dropped and she began to feel better. She was at last able to take in a clear broth. Elizabeth, to distract her, told her about what had happened since she had arrived to take care of her.

‘First of all, I must tell you that I made an entrance that caused tongues to wag.’

‘How so?’ asked Jane, curious.

‘Imagine, I had just traversed the three miles between Longbourn and Netherfield Park on foot, through the mud, as you can surmise, after the rainstorm that you had to brave. In short, my petticoats were covered in mud, at least the bottom six inches, and one could have sworn that I had not coiffed myself at all, as the wind had wreaked such havoc on my hair. Imagine, I presented myself, without prior warning, at the hour when our hosts were in the dining room. How I would have loved for you to see the look on the faces of these ladies. Who would have thought they could open their eyes so widely! I believe that my behaviour shocked more than one person – more than one lady, to be precise.’

‘You are unbelievable! I can picture it perfectly. This wouldn’t be the first time for you to return from a walk, your petticoats and the bottom of your dress completely soiled!’

‘It’s true, but in this case, I was not at home, facing one of our sisters or our father, believe me! I made an extremely poor impression, but I care not – I came here to see you. Deep down inside, I knew I was arriving in enemy territory.’

‘Oh Lizzy, why must you say such a thing? Our hosts have been so attentive. I am still so troubled at having put them in a situation such as this.’

‘You say that our hosts were very attentive, but I must correct you on this. Some of our hosts truly were attentive, and sincerely so. I am certain that, when I was not present, comments made about me by Miss Bingley and her sister were not very charitable, particularly after the departure of Miss Anne, who was truly upset by the situation.’

‘It’s true, I had forgotten that the Elliot ladies left yesterday late morning.’

‘Yes, Miss Anne appeared, how shall I say, very concerned for your well-being, even if she was, like us, a guest. Even Mr. Darcy, so cold and haughty, inquired after your health. As for Miss Elliot, she is a friend of Caroline Bingley’s through and through: the same air of superiority and the same false sense of friendship.’

‘Come Lizzy, I am sure you are mistaken and that Caroline Bingley was accommodating and played her role of hostess perfectly. As for Mrs. Hurst and Miss Elliot, I am certain that they are very accomplished young women.’

Her younger sister was unable to keep herself from saying, ‘Indeed, Jane, I can attest that these young women are highly accomplished!’ Her tone carried a hint of sarcasm.

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