“That is unnecessary as you expressed yourself with great energy. The subject of dancing always renders a lady eloquent.”

“That is because there are few things I enjoy as much as dancing, sir.”

“Would teasing be among the few?” he asked.

“Only when the person being teased has little experience with it.”

Sensing the levity in their exchange, Charlotte took Lizzy’s hand and explained that she was leading her friend to the pianoforte so that she might exhibit her talents. “It is her turn to be teased, Mr. Darcy.”

“If that is the case, then I shall not move from this spot.”

Lizzy was not a proficient, but the delight she experienced in playing was evident, and her performance merited a request for another. While she performed her second piece, Miss Bingley came and stood next to Mr. Darcy, and he felt as if a sinister shadow had darkened his path.

“Is it not insupportable that we must pass an evening in such society because my brother insists on having a house in the country?” The whine continued at length. She complained of the noise, the heat, the lack of fashion, and the self-importance of the guests.

“My mind was more agreeably engaged, Miss Bingley. I was reflecting on the pleasure a pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty woman can bestow, as is the case with Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”

Miss Elizabeth Bennet! He could not be serious! If she had fine eyes, then that was the only thing that was attractive about her. Her clothes were out of fashion, and who did her hair? And what of her family?

“I agree with you, Mr. Darcy. Other than Miss Jane Bennet, Miss Elizabeth is certainly the most attractive of the Bennet daughters, and I am sure you were entertained by Miss Mary Bennet’s exhibition on the pianoforte. I do not recall if you were introduced at the assembly to the younger sisters, but they are certainly enthusiastic in dancing with all of the young officers. Then there is their mother, Mrs. Bennet, who has so much to say and is so easily heard saying it.”