As on every other occasion, Mrs. Bennet was convinced that “today was the day” when Mr. Darcy would ask Lizzy to be his wife, and she gave her daughter a knowing smile on her way out. With the door left slightly ajar, Lizzy listened for the retreating footsteps of her mother and sisters. After she was sure that Mama was not eavesdropping, she turned to Mr. Darcy. “You said Jane was experiencing no difficulty in carrying ‘her lone offspring.’ That is a very peculiar way of phrasing it. One child is the rule, not the exception, Mr. Darcy.”

“I imagine that did sound odd,” he said, fidgeting. “Our Newfoundland recently had a litter. I guess that was in the back of my mind when I made that comment.”

Lizzy nodded, but asked no questions about the furry arrivals at Pemberley. Although she usually took the lead in their conversations, she was of no mind to do so today. When the gentleman asked if they might go for a walk in the park, Lizzy stated that she preferred to remain indoors.

“But the weather is absolutely perfect for a brisk walk.”

“Mr. Darcy, we have been fortunate on your many visits to have had good weather. However, I am not inclined to walk today. Maybe on your next visit or the one after that or the one after that, we may go for a walk.”

“Elizabeth, you are out of sorts with me, and I do not blame you. I know my coming and going has been an irritant to you.”

Yes, an irritant and inexplicable. Your excuses for your frequent absences never satisfy.

“But my purpose today is to invite you to Pemberley. My cousin, Anne de Bourgh, is coming with my sister from London, so that we might all go together.” Mr. Darcy came and sat next to Lizzy on the sofa and took her hands in his. “If your parents approve, I would like to set out as soon as possible because there is something I would like to share with you, but I must do it at Pemberley.”