Page 33 of New World Tea Company
Mr Collins required another ten minutes to share his observations of Meryton before he addressed the purpose of his visit. He said, “As you know, I am heir to Mr Bennet, and when the unfortunate but inevitable day arrives when that gentleman dies, I shall become master of Netherfield.”
Sir William interrupted his guest and corrected him, “Longbourn. You meant to say ‘Longbourn,’ did you not?”
Puffing up with some indignation, Collins said, “I am certain I said Longbourn. I know what I shall inherit.”
Not wanting to argue with a guest, Sir William waved for Collins to continue, which he did. After another few minutes, Mr Collins explained the graciousness of his patroness, LadyCatherine de Bourgh and her excellent advice that he marry as soon as possible.
“I came to Meryton to visit my cousin and his family,” Collins continued. “Longleaf appears to be a modest estate of some value, and I know that I shall be a credible member of the community when I become master there.”
Not correcting the man’s second slip of the tongue regarding the name of the estate he would inherit, Sir William agreed, “I have no doubt of it, Mr Collins.”
Now the parson frowned, “But I found my cousin’s daughters to be entirely too free-spirited and unwilling to remember their place in the Lord’s world and work. Women are to be men’s helpmates and silent when any man speaks.”
Lucas was not certain the parson quoted the Bible accurately, but he chose to remain silent and hoped that Collins would end his speech before the day concluded. However, the visitor continued, “And last night, in your welcoming home, when I was introduced to the families in the neighbourhood, I found myself admiring…I remarked to myself how pleasant and proper your eldest daughter comported herself. She saw to the comfort of every guest, obeyed the commands of her mother and yourself, and addressed herself to the needs of your company.”
‘The man repeats himself and speaks without end,’Sir William thought, not for the first time.
“After much thought, I resolved to visit Lucas Lodge and speak to you immediately.”
Sir William waited a moment before asking, “Yes, Mr Collins. You appear most resolved.”
Collins asked, “Then you will approve of my proposal?”
The host blinked and replied, “Proposal, sir? I failed to discern a proposal. Please explain what you mean?”
“I should like to marry your daughter, Charlotte,” Collins said, disappointed that his future father-in-law did not understand his eloquent presentation.
Sir William paused for only a moment before he asked, “Mr Collins, do you mean that you wish to marry my daughter, Charlotte?”
“Yes, Sir William. I have a good living at Hunsford, where a wife familiar with running a household and managing a few maids can be a credible parson’s wife. Then, when Mr Bennet ever passes, we shall return and establish ourselves in Longboard.”
“Sir, I am certain my daughter will receive your addresses with joy. But you must make them known to her, for she is of age and must consent herself.”
Almost disappointed at this unexpected development, Collins said, “But my situation with a stable income and the future prospects as master of Longleaf will undoubtedly make my proposal welcome to her. With your endorsement, I am certain she will be agreeable.”
Sir William rose from his chair and moved to the door, “Yes, Mr Collins, I am certain my daughter will welcome your proposal. But allow me to send her to you in this office, and you can make them known to her and hear her answer.”
Not allowing Collins to speak again, Sir William hurried from the room and sought out Charlotte in the kitchens. Ignoring his wife and younger daughter, Sir William took Charlotte by the arm and led her back toward his office.
“Mr Collins would speak with you privately, Charlotte.”
Surprised, Charlotte asked, “Does he wish to speak with me, Father?”
“Yes, and it is my most sincere wish that you hear his proposal.”
“Proposal?” Charlotte asked incredulously because she had never expected to hear the word used in association with herself.
“Yes, even if it sounds like a sermon, he will propose marriage to you this hour.”
“A proposal?” Charlotte asked a second time.
“You can be Mrs William Collins and eventually be mistress of Longbourn even though he calls the place Longleaf or Longboard.”
Smiling, Charlotte replied, “Father, Mr Collins must be very nervous. I shall go and sit with him.”
His daughter quickly entered the office and closed the door behind her. Then Sir William returned to the kitchen where Lady Lucas approached and grew excited when she heard her husband’s news.
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