Darcy's Passions Read Online Free PDF Page B

like dancing after all. I consider it as one of the first refinements of polished societies”
    With his usual outspoken bluntness, Darcy responded, “Certainly, Sir; it also has the advantage of being in vogue amongst the less polished societies of the world. Every savage can dance.”
    Darcy’s reserve did not deter Sir William’s conversation; he spoke of Bingley’s affably joining the dancers, complimented Darcy’s dancing at the assembly, inquired into how often Darcy danced at St. James, and finally queried about Darcy’s house in town. Darcy, distracted by this babble, did not realize at that instant Elizabeth moved toward them, and Sir William, struck with the notion of doing a very gallant thing, called out to her, “My dear
Miss Eliza, why are you not dancing? Mr. Darcy, you must allow me to present this young lady to you as a very desirable partner.You cannot refuse to dance, I am sure when so much beauty is before you.” Sir William took her hand and attempted to give it to Darcy.
    Taken by surprise at this sudden turn of events, Darcy wanted to take advantage of this pleasant offering.The possibility of holding Elizabeth’s hand uncharacteristically warmed Darcy’s innards, creating an unfamiliar sensation.Although he was not unwilling to receive her hand, Elizabeth instantly drew back from him and said with some discomposure to Sir William,“Indeed, Sir, I have not the least intention of dancing. I entreat you not to suppose that I moved this way in order to beg for a partner.”
    â€œMiss Bennet, you would do me a great honor if you allow us to dance,” Darcy responded gravely. The fact Elizabeth Bennet offered no pretense or traps to allure potential suitors appeared not wasted on his sensible nature.
    However, Elizabeth would not agree; even Sir William’s entreaties could not persuade her. “You excel so much in the dance, Miss Eliza, that it is cruel to deny me the happiness of seeing you; and though this gentleman dislikes the amusement in general, he can have no objection, I am sure, to oblige us for one half-hour.”
    â€œMr. Darcy is all politeness,” said Elizabeth, smiling. Yet, she continued her refusal and walked away.
    Her briskness should offend him, but it did not do so; he still considered the beauty of the woman when Miss Bingley approached.“I can guess the subject of your reverie, Mr. Darcy,” she began, close enough to nearly whisper in his ear.
    Without turning his head toward her or taking his eyes from the figure of Elizabeth Bennet, he responded,“I should imagine not.”
    Not to be deterred, she continued, adding her usual censure of the gathering,“You are considering how insupportable it would be to pass many evenings in this manner—in such society; and, indeed, I am quite of your opinion. I was never more annoyed!The insipidity, and yet the noise—the nothingness, and yet the self-importance
of all those people! What would I give to hear your strictures on them!”
    She evidently expected Darcy to agree Hertfordshire society to be too full of self-importance. Imagine her surprise when he said rather distractedly, “Your conjecture is totally wrong, I assure you. My mind was more agreeably engaged. I have been meditating on the very great pleasure which a pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty woman can bestow.”
    Miss Bingley, registering his unhinged attention, immediately realized his thoughts seemed elsewhere. With an underlying layer of urgency, she asked,“What lady creates such pleasure for you, Mr. Darcy? Is it someone I know?” Caroline hoped he meant the reference for her.
    Darcy replied with resolve,“Miss Elizabeth Bennet.”
    Watching her hopes dissipate devastated Caroline. “Miss Elizabeth Bennet! I am all astonishment. How long has she been such a favorite?—and pray, when am I to wish you joy?” And although she continued to