Page 98 of Colour My World
“Her indifferent state of health unhappily prevents her from being in town.”
Mary put her hand to her chest. “By your leave, Lady Catherine has deprived the British court of a bright ornament.”
“Yes—I mean, no—I mean…” Mr Collins blinked several times and stared into his empty glass. Hisairefaltered.
The game has gone far enough.
Elizabeth caught her father’s eye and shook her head—once, firmly.
“Cousin Collins, please provide me a challenge. I have a backgammon set awaiting your talents.”
Mr Collins blinked. “Backgammon? Oh. Why, of course, sir! A game of skill and strategy.” He stood and patted his waistcoat. “Lady Catherine herself once remarked upon my talent.”
Chapter 35
Meryton, the following day…
Elizabeth and her sisters walked towards Meryton, the air crisp with the turn of the season. They had arranged to meet Charlotte and Maria Lucas, but as they neared the market square, a cluster of scarlet coats caught their attention.
The militia had gathered, not in formation, but at ease, their scarlet coats vivid against the late autumn landscape. Officers stood in small groups, conversing with townsfolk, their polished brass glinting in the light. Laughter mingled with the rustle of leaves and the clatter of cart wheels.
One among them, a lieutenant with a confident stride and a ready smile, broke from the others and stepped forward.
“Lieutenant Denny, at your service.” He tipped his hat, his tone easy, his smile aimed wide.
Lydia nudged Jane, “Do the honours.”
“Lydia!” Mary hissed.
Jane stepped forward. “A pleasure to make your acquaintance, sir.”
He bowed and rose with a raised eyebrow.
“I am Miss Bennet of Longbourn. These are my sisters, Miss Elizabeth, Miss Mary, Miss Kitty, and Miss Lydia.”
Another man stepped to his side. “May I present a particular friend of mine? Mr George Wickham has only just arrived but is already quite taken with your little town.”
Mr Wickham looked every inch the gentleman—fashionably curled hair, a coat of excellent cut, and pleasingly symmetrical features.
“A pleasure,” he said.
He nodded at Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, and Kitty but bowed toLydia.
She curtsied. “Welcome to Meryton, sir.”
“I find myself already quite charmed.”
“Do you mean to stay in Meryton long, Mr Wickham?” Jane asked.
“As long as duty permits. The town is most agreeable.”
“Do you plan to join the militia, sir?” Kitty asked.
“I do. This is a charming town. I was last in Dover. Have you ever seen the sea, Miss Lydia?”
Elizabeth reached for Lydia’s arm and drew her closer. “Where does your family reside, Mr Wickham?”
“The north. A pleasant place. Now, my path has led me here.” His voice coaxed, but his gaze struck flint. A haze seeped around him, thin and smoke-like. Oil and tarnish.
