Mr. Darcy and the Secret of Becoming a Gentleman Read Online Free PDF

before.”
    â€œMama,” pleaded Elizabeth. “I think you must be misunderstanding the situation. Please, do not get carried away before you know all the facts. I will go with them to see what his intentions are.”
    â€œOh, Lizzy, absolutely not! There is no point to it. We already know he does not find you pleasing. He has said as much. You will only be in the way. No, Jane will do fine on her own. I will hear no more on the subject.”
    Elizabeth was forced to watch them go. She took refuge in her room, unable to bear her mother’s raptures any longer. In private reflection, she tried to sort out the tumult of emotions she was feeling. Little by little, she realized they included anger, frustration, scorn, bewilderment, embarrassment, curiosity, and, if she was honest, a touch of jealousy.

Chapter 4
    Similar Natures
    After assembling in the garden, the three companions began their journey to Meryton. Kitty soon lagged behind, being both uncomfortable around the stern Mr. Darcy and intent on acceding to her mother’s suggestion that she visit Maria Lucas. After walking for some time in silence, Darcy cleared his throat and finally addressed Jane. “Miss Bennet, I hope that I have not put you in an awkward position by requesting that you accompany me to Meryton?”
    Unsure how to respond, Jane replied in her most genteel fashion that she was sure she would greatly enjoy Mr. Darcy’s company and that she was more than pleased to assist him with his sister.
    â€œMy sister?” Darcy absentmindedly inquired. “Oh yes, we are to shop for her.” After a pause, Darcy added, “Miss Bennet, I must be honest and tell you that I did not ask you here to talk about my sister’s wardrobe. I fear that my real reason will undoubtedly give you offense, as I need to speak to you about a most personal matter. I know that decorum requires that I not assume such familiarity, but I must beg your pardon and seek leave to do exactly that. If I thought there was any other way, I assure you I would not burden you in this fashion.”
    With a genuine smile that put Darcy slightly more at ease, Jane replied, “Mr. Darcy, I must admit I suspected that there might be an ulterior motive for your request. But, sir, do not be uncomfortable. Please feel free to speak to me as you would to any other good friend, as that is what I hope we will soon become.”
    Darcy replied sincerely, “Madam, you are far too kind. Nonetheless, I will accept your invitation and, with your permission, speak frankly. I want you to know, however, that I truly appreciate your generosity of spirit. I can imagine how much it must cost you. I had feared that you would refuse to speak to me altogether.”
    â€œSir, I would never even consider doing such a thing.”
    â€œWell, I am relieved to hear it. But, Miss Bennet, let me apologize nonetheless for asking for your company in a manner that made it very difficult for you to object. It was selfish of me, and I am afraid that in the process I may have given your mother the wrong impression.”
    Jane replied, “Sir, if you are to speak frankly, then so will I. You may be right that my mother misunderstood your intentions, but do not concern yourself. It will not be the first time nor, I fear, the last.”
    Surprised by Jane’s candor, Darcy had to return her smile. He then grew quiet as he searched for the strength to broach a subject he dreaded. Jane for her part was inclined to let Mr. Darcy take his time. Suspecting that he wished to speak to her about Lizzy and understanding that it would be a painful subject for him, she wanted to let him gather his thoughts before he spoke. She had to admit this was a side of Mr. Darcy she had not expected. He now seemed so unsure of himself and at great pains to be as civil as possible. While she had never held Lizzy’s poor opinion of him, she was surprised to see how amiable he could be and