Page 7 of Lord Lonbourn's Daughter
Elizabeth and Jane were dressing together, as usual. Their maids were flitting about in their limited wardrobe, making suggestions about what gowns they should wear.
“Jane, would it be prudent to marry just so that I can wear darker colours?”
Jane laughed and scowled at the same time.
“Oh, do not look at me like that. You look beautiful in white, light blue, and pink, while I look like a washed-out cloth in these pale colours. To be able to wear dark-blue, deep greens, or rich reds…”
“You look lovely in pink, Lizzy.”
“You do not need to lie for my benefit.”
“Why this sudden interest in colours and dresses, Lizzy? Does it have anything to do with a certain brooding gentleman?”
“Certainly not! We are here to attract suitors, so it would be easier if I looked my best.”
“Oh Lizzy, you are the most beautiful woman of my acquaintance!”
“Nonsense! You do have a mirror, do you not? Besides, you are my sister and have an obligation to flatter me incessantly. Whether or not it is true holds no bearing.”
“Oh, Lizzy!”
“I am sorry, Jane. I shall leave my petulance behind, and I promise to be utterly pleasant and content for the rest of the day to make amends.”
“I might hold you to it!”
Elizabeth sighed and accepted a light-grey gown from her maid. Simple and unadorned, it suited her mood perfectly.
#
Her father was already eating when they joined him in the breakfast room. He gestured for them to sit as he had something to relate.
“You girls wanted to experience a London Season. I dare say none is complete without a trot through the park.”
“Oh yes, I should dearly love a ride out of doors to stave off the stiffness from last night’s dancing.”
“Tired of the Season already, Lizzy?”
“Not at all, dear Papa. I am merely a little sore from all that stepping and turning. A ride with the wind blowing in my face sounds lovely.”
“When I mentioned trotting, I was planning to use my own two hoofs.”
“Excellent. I shall fetch my boots.” Elizabeth relished the idea of a brisk walk.
“But, Papa, are you to walk fast? You know I cannot keep up with you and Lizzy. Perhaps I should remain at home. I have a novel I have not finished,” Mary interjected.
“Oh no, dear Mary. You are coming with us. But there is no need to fret. There will be no trotting. A stroll would be a more apt description. I only mentioned trotting to lure your sister to attend. People walk in the park to see and be seen, not for the benefit of exercise.”
“And what will you tell Jane to tempt her to accompany us?” Elizabeth enquired.
“Jane, will you escort me to Hyde Park?”
“Yes, Papa!”
“Do you see how easily it is done, Lizzy? A simple yes—no questions asked. It is no wonder Jane is my favourite daughter.”
“I thought I was your favourite,” Elizabeth retorted whilst schooling her expression into false affront.
“Certainly, you are my favourite witty daughter. Jane is my favourite obedient daughter.”
