Page 81 of Master of Netherfield
Georgiana looked up with surprise on her face when she asked, “Do you not sew Miss Bingley? My brother believes that every accomplished lady should be able to sew and clothe her children, her tenants and herservants upon occasion.”
“Well, yes…but does sewing prevent your study of music, painting and dancing; the refined accomplishments expected of a lady of our position in society?”
With surprise still evident on her face, Georgiana asked, “Miss Bingley, you mistake me. I sew often but also dance, play and sing, and study many books. Mrs Annesley and I keep a very busy schedule of studies with Mary, Kitty and Lydia. Mr Bennet guides our reading though I fear even my brother is lost with the number of books that we order from the booksellers in London.”
Mr Darcy smiled at his sister as she continued, “Just last week we completed Macbeth and while my brother enjoys the play, I do not care for it at all.”
“Ah yes, Macbeth, a fine English author,” Miss Bingley agreed.
There was silence at the table for a moment before Georgiana explained, “I referred to the play by Shakespeare, Miss Bingley. Perhaps you remember it as the ‘Scottish Play’?”
The confusion on Caroline Bingley’s face was evident for all to see. ‘Were they discussing a play or an author? Shakespeare was English–why would he write a play about Scotland?’
Undeterred, Caroline attempted another subject. “And have you made much alteration to the decor of Netherfield, Miss Darcy? I know you and your brother have been here only a few years, but it is important to display the most current fashions in your home when entertaining.”
Mrs Annesley spoke up at this moment, “Miss Darcy has studied at the hand of Mrs Bennet and with the Countess of Liverpool. Her Ladyship was most complimentary of this dining room when she visited in the late summer.”
“The Prime Minister’s wife visited Meryton?” gasped Caroline.
Georgiana frowned and her brother came to her rescue as he explained, “Lady Jenkinson sponsored Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth for their introduction at court earlier this summer. She came to Netherfield in August to rest after the presentations and stayed with us for a fortnight. Next year Her Ladyship will sponsor Miss Mary’s introduction and then the following year, she will sponsor Georgiana, Miss Catherine and Miss Lydia.”
Caroline’s estimation of the Bennet family was shooting skyward with the speed and brightness of fireworks; few could obtain sponsorship by the countess for introduction of daughters at court.
“Miss Bingley, what is your memory of your introduction to the queen?” asked Mrs Annesley innocently.
“I only remember a long walk up many flights of stairs,” Caroline replied. “There were six other young ladies in my set before Her Majesty.”
“Miss Bennet and Miss Elizabeth took tea with Her Majesty and her ladies in waiting,” Georgiana said. “We hope that next year, Mary will be asked to perform for the queen on the pianoforte. If that goes well...”
“Do not worry Georgiana,” Darcy assured his sister. “All will go well when it is your turn. With the accomplished ladies of Longbourn as your model, your introduction to the queen will be a sparkling event.”
**++**
In her room that evening, Caroline dismissed her maid and then sat before her mirror. Intent upon an examination for winkles around her eyes, she found her eye captured by the gowns hanging in the open door of the wardrobe. She had gowns for morning, afternoon receptions, tea, dinner, dancing and lounging; but among all her finery was nothing touched by anyone she could call friend. Miss Darcy’s words regarding her ‘friends’ at Longbourn were not something Caroline really understood.
She did however see the strength of the bond between the Darcy brother and sister. When she compared it to the withering bonds with her sister and brother, she felt older for a moment and fearful.
“I have damaged my connection to my sister and my brother by my own hand. I must make something, find someone or I shall never recover.”
**++**
Chapter 33.Meryton Assembly
Friday evening arrived quickly at Netherfield. Charles spoke privately with Caroline who insisted that she would attend the local assembly.
“Mr Darcy will leave promptly at six of the clock Caroline. Do not be late!”
“Charles, I am certain Mr Darcy is the head of the local society,” she replied. “The ‘dance’ cannot begin until he arrives at six or at seven.”
Shaking his head, Charles left the room and spoke to the coachmen. The Bingley carriage would be harnessed this evening as well and wait after the Darcy carriage left. If Caroline wanted to arrive late, she would arrive alone.
**++**
The carriage at Longbourn waited while Mr Bennet escorted his wife and three eldest daughters from the house. From the door, Kitty, Lydia and Miss Georgie waved at the party as they climbed into the carriage and departed.
“Now girls,” said Mrs Brice. “Mrs Annesley will play for us, and we shall have our own party tonight with Master Thomas.”
“In two years, it will be our turn!” Lydia announced. “We shall be the beautiful debutantes at court and at the Meryton Assembly!”
