Lizzy smiled. It was a pleasant surprise to know that the dour Mr. Darcy had a sense of humor.

“Mrs. Long has a daughter who lives in Kensington,” Lizzy responded, “and has been complaining about the inferiority of goods in the village shops for as long as I can remember, so no one would think you rude if you did not engage her. Instead, may I suggest Sir William Lucas, a kind gentleman, who has recently been knighted at St. James’s Palace? He would be happy to share his experience with you.”

“I shall seek him out at the first opportunity.”

“There is another difficulty, sir. By virtue of your rank, it is you who must initiate the conversation. No one will approach Mr. Darcy of Pemberley without being properly introduced.”

“You know the name of my estate?”

“Such information is widely circulated as is the case whenever any single man comes into the neighborhood. Ladies must have dance partners, Mr. Darcy.”

“I see. May I ask what else is said about me?”

Lizzy hesitated. Did Mr. Darcy really want to hear about the discussions in the village regarding the size of his fortune or, worse, that he was considered to be a most disagreeable man, completely lacking in the charm of his friend, Mr. Bingley?

“Your silence speaks for you, Miss Elizabeth, and it is not undeserved. But do you think it is possible to overcome a bad first impression?”

“Most definitely. A more satisfactory performance will replace the previous image, and it would reflect well on you in that you recognized where you fell short and…”

“…and that I was willing to make corrections,” Darcy said, finishing her sentence. At that point he stood up. “The Bingleys and I have been invited to the home of Sir William Lucas. Will you be there, Miss Elizabeth?”