Page 57 of The Wager
Elizabeth chuckled softly at the mental image of her youngest sister going toe-to-toe with Caroline Bingley in a showdown of who could be more ridiculous in their behavior. The difference is, that Lydia was never mean-spirited, only self-centered as most girls of fifteen were.
“Well, Lizzy? What does your aunt have to say?”
So lost in her thoughts, Elizabeth had almost forgotten the letter in her hand. She quickly broke the seal and began reading. After a few lines, she read a few passages to her mother.
Lady Kildair, upon learning of your being in town the night of her ball, immediately proffered an invitation to you and Jane as she adores the two of you. How could she not? You are both so loveable.
Also, Trenton arrives with his friend Bertie on St. Nicholas' Day and these two fine young men are included in Lady Kildair's invitation. Sophia has planned several excursions whilst you are in town. Tell your Papa to loosen his purse strings as she intends to take you to Madame Etienne’s and, to keep Elizabeth sane, allow a side-trip to Hatchard’s.
Give your mother our best wishes and tell her we are looking forward to seeing the rest of the family on the twenty-third of December. I have already put my maid on notice that my dresses may need some alterations – as in letting out the seams – after partaking in the culinary delights my sister is widely known for.
I wait impatiently for a reply with your date of arrival.
With much love,
Aunt Sarah
A letter was almost immediately dispatched, informing their aunt of their arrival on the second of December, giving Jane and Elizabeth time to have a ball gown made by Madame Etienne. A second letter was sent to their brother, apprising him of Miss Bingley's delusions and cautioning him to remain on guard when in her presence. His letter back to them was a surprise and a delight.
Dearest sisters,
Although I have yet to meet the illustrious Miss Caroline Bingley, I have heard much about her from Bertie's family. Without being cruel, I can safely say they do not like her. Not even a smidín, as my Irish friend Lord O'Donnell likes to say. By the by, his lordship sends his regard. I have yet to tell him Jane is betrothed. Let us hope he does not lead a delegation of Irish rogues to storm the coastland of England to kidnap a bride.
I must admit to some relief over the news of an engagement and a courtship. With my beautiful sisters safely attached to worthy men, I can hang up my sword and shield and enjoy life as a carefree bachelor. It is exhausting always looking into dark corners of parlors, withdrawing rooms, and ballrooms to ensure your joint safety. If I look closely in my mirror, I do believe I have a few gray hairs sprouting as I write of my tortuous trials and troubles of being the eldest brother of fair maidens.
Bertie and I plan to stay at Mr. Bingley's townhouse for the first night of our arrival. I promise we shall arrive on time for Lady Kildair's ball, whereupon I shall dance with both of my beautiful sisters, greet your suitors with much joy, and avoid the tentacles of Miss Bingley.
Always with much affection,
Trenton
"Given Trenton's reference to Miss Bingley's tentacles," Jane began, smiling at their brother's teasing letter. "You must have told him what happened at Netherfield Park."
"I did. The minute I became aware of his friendship with Bertie, I had to give him fair warning."
"We have yet to meet his friend. I wonder if he looks much like his elder brother?"
"We shall find out at Lady Kildair's ball."
"We shall… Oh! Before I forget, we must start packing our supplies from the stillroom. Papa has promised to have his man transport the majority of our belongings to Twelve Oaks while we are in Town."
"I cannot believe these are the last few days we will spend at Longbourn."
"We always knew this day would come., and we shall visit often." Jane slid a handkerchief out of her hidden pocket and dabbed the corner of her eyes. "Besides, once Trenton is established, you and I can always return to Netherfield Park."
"You, my dear, dear sister will not return to Netherfield Park with me in tow. You will arrive as Viscountess Ashford and set up house with your handsome husband."
"And you, Lizzy?" Jane looked at her with tender regard. "Is your future tied to a tall gentleman from Derbyshire?"
"I believe it is."
"Does he know that?"
"He is cautiously optimistic."
Jane shook her head at her sister's teasing manner.
"You are as besotted as him and I give you leave to advise Mr. Darcy of this."
