Page 102 of May I Have the Pleasure
“As will I, my love.”
“She certainly pegged us though, did she not?”
“That she did, my love. That she did.”
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Sussex—December 1815
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“Well, Elizabeth. That is the last corner of the last estate, at least those in England. Considering how little we found for concern; do you wish to visit those in France or Scotland.”
“Not really. Lord Mawbry suggested I either ignore those or sell them. I will consult with the head of the family first, but I am currently inclined to follow his advice.”
“Do you mean your new uncle?”
“Yes, he has written several times. He desires to exert his authority over me.”
“I desire to exert my authority over the sun and wind, and expect the same success!”
“Haha. I am notquiteso intractable, am I?”
“Not at all. I find you very agreeable.”
“And I find you capable of professing opinions that are not your own.”
“Is this such a case?”
“Perhaps I should emulate Mr Bingley and allow you to convince me without effort.”
“You mean give up without establishingour comparative height and size?”
“Insufferable man!”
“I shall take that as a compliment.”
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“Fitzwilliam, I have agreed to return to London and meet the rest of the family. I am trying to find a way to give some or all of Lord Mawbry’s land back to the family, but I refuse to give it to anyone I find unworthy, and I am beginning to understand why Lord Mawbry chose me over his own family. His uncle wants me to consider marriage to one of the nephews.”
“What are your thoughts on that subject.”
“I amverydisinclined. I entered marriage once by family authority, once by my own stupidity, and once out of friendship, duty, and honour. I will marry for affection or not at all.”
“An admirable sentiment!”
“What about you, Fitzwilliam. Is there a Mrs Darcy somewhere that I do not know about?”
“I am not presently inclined towards matrimony. I suppose I will once Georgiana is settled, but not this year. I have taken steps to ensure Pemberley is secure should I never choose to.”
“I wish you would.”
“Why?”
“Because if you married and were happy, then I could feel like I did not help destroy your life a few years ago. I know I do not holdallthe responsibility for that debacle, but you are my dearest friend, and I would like to see you happy.”
“I will see what I can do, but it will take some time. I am even more timid than you.”
