Mr Bennet was clearly irritated at his wife's outburst and hurried her out of the room so that he may talk to Elizabeth alone.
“Now, Lizzy, I know you are angry with me, but if you think about it, I am sure you will conclude it is a good match. I am not getting any younger, as Mrs Bennet is so fond of reminding me, and if there is a chance I can ensure the wellbeing of my family before my demise, then I must act upon it. Besides, Mr Darcy is not a man you say no to.” He took her by the hand and led her to the sofa.
“My dear, I know that we have made sport of Mr Darcy in the past, but he came to me with a sincere proposal, and I believe it is a good one. I understand your reluctance, but to my knowledge, no other gentleman has made you an offer,” he said tenderly.
“But, Papa, I do not love him, and I am convinced he does not love me. I have seen how he looks at others he considers beneath him, including our family. Can we not wait and see if Mr Bingley makes an offer for Jane?” she pleaded. “I cannot marry him, Papa. Please don’t ask me to.”
Elizabeth was his favourite child, but he was disappointed that she had given no thought to the advantages her union with Mr Darcy would bring, and not only to her but to her entire family, especially her sisters. Their marriage would elevate the family to a level in society they could only dream of. Reluctant thought he was, he could not deny them this opportunity.
“I am sorry you feel that way, Elizabeth, for it is all settled. We shook hands on it, and as a gentleman, I will not go back on my word.”
Her downturned mouth indicated her unhappiness at his statement.
“However, Mrs Bennet tells me your cousin intends to make you an offer this morning; surely Mr Darcy is a better prospect than the parson?” joked Mr Bennet as he tried to lift her spirits.
Elizabeth offered only a weak smile in reply. It appeared she did have a choice in the matter after all. Either marry Mr Darcy or marry Mr Collins. As it was impossible to even consider marrying her cousin, she must, therefore, try to look forward, and embrace the prospect of becoming Mrs Darcy.
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About the Author
I was born in a small rural town in Hertfordshire, England. My ancestry has been traced back to the 3rd century AD in Nottingham, England. Prior to this we were Danish Vikings.
Until the early 20th century, we were landowners and farmers in Kent & Essex. With the modernisation of farming techniques, we sold up and moved nearer to the capital, finally settling in Tring.
My paternal grandparents, who inspired my love of the past, were bother teachers, specialising in English and History.
My paternal grandmother was also a descendant of the Scotish Clan of Galbraith. We have our own clan tartan in the colours of black, green, blue and white squares.
My mother is descended from the single family of Standingford, (often spelt the Anglo-Saxon way of Stanton). There is only one family with this name and all, no matter how distantly, are related. We have our own heraldic shield and family motto. Dum Spiro, While I Breathe.
I am the middle of five children, with an older sister, a twin brother and a younger sister and brother.
My hobbies include reading, writing, listening to classical music, walking the dog and jet skiing.
I read a variety of authors, including Oscar Wilde, Shakespeare, Noel Coward, and Jane Austen, while my favourite composer is Bach.
I am a full-time writer, but I also contribute articles to various magazines, charities, and private publications.
Before I decided to become a full-time writer, I worked for the British Government.
My husband and I have been married forty years, and we have two daughters, four grandchildren and one dog.
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Mr Darcy's Struggle Page 27