Master of Longbourn: A Regency Novel inspired by P&P by Sydney Salier

Author:Sydney Salier [Salier, Sydney]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-01-23T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 18

4 October 1811

Darcy did get Bingley to get on his horse and accompany him on a tour of inspection of Netherfield.

Considering the lack of enthusiasm displayed by his host for the estate, Darcy could not resist to ask, ‘Bingley, why are you here? Henry said you wanted to learn how to manage an estate, but you do not appear to be particularly interested.’

Bingley sighed. ‘To be honest, I am here because our father wanted us to move up in the world and become landed gentry. He made quite a good fortune in trade, but he hoped for better for his children. When he passed, he bequeathed me his fortune, apart from my sisters’ dowries, and recommended that I should buy an estate.’

‘You are only leasing Netherfield though, are you not?’

‘Indeed, I am. Henry suggested I should try before I buy.’ Bingley chuckled. ‘That seems to be one of his favourite sayings.’ He would have said more but then remembered that Darcy was a lot more strait-laced than his cousin. He might not appreciate Henry’s cavalier attitude towards ladies.

‘So, you actually have no real interest in managing an estate.’

‘It is too early to tell. I have only been here for four days. The neighbours are very friendly, much more so than in London. There is also not the frenetic quality in the entertainments here as in town. I confess that I like that.’

That statement caught Darcy by surprise. Perhaps there was more to this young man than was apparent at first glance. A moment later, Bingley spoiled that impression by asking, ‘How long do we have to do this? I would like to get back to the house in good time to clean up before we visit the Bennet ladies. I want to be sure that I present at my best. Do you not think Miss Bennet is an angel?’

Darcy barely refrained from rolling his eyes.

~O~

Since Bingley could not keep his mind on the business at hand, Darcy gave up and Bingley had his wish. He was washed, brushed, and dressed in his good blue coat when they set out for Longbourn.

As neither the sisters, nor Mr Hurst accompanied them, the gentlemen all fit very comfortably into Darcy’s coach.

Despite their unexpected visit, they were received with perfect civility and Mrs Bennet immediately sent for refreshments.

They made polite conversation for a few minutes until Darcy drew Collins aside for a private discussion.

‘Miss Bingley has expressed a desire to learn more about the practical aspects of being the mistress of an estate and I promised her that I would ask you to recommend a mentor for her.’

Collins tilted his head as he watched Bingley flirting with Jane. ‘Is Miss Bingley younger or older than her brother?’

‘I believe she is a year or two his junior.’

Pursing his lips, Collins contemplated the options. ‘I believe the best person to undertake that education would be Mrs Bennet. She only recently learnt about those duties herself and the lessons are fresh in her mind.’

‘From what I have seen today, the lady has done a magnificent job in stepping up.

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