The Pursuit of Mary Bennet Read Online Free PDF Page A

Jane gave her a severe look, and she had the decency to look ashamed.
    “I am sorry, Mary,” Kitty said.
    I inclined my head to acknowledge the apology, even while my thoughts were drifting. Had no one else noticed Mr. Walsh watching me that evening? It was entirely possible I imagined his attentions . It had only been the one time, in any case.
    “He and Charles are great friends,” Jane said, looking at me. “They both love riding and shooting. And he is advising Charles regarding estate management. Now that he owns High Tor, Charles has a great deal more responsibility.”
    When Mr. Bingley first came into the country, he had let Netherfield Park, near Meryton, from its owners in London. As it turned out, they had possession of several properties—High Tor in Derbyshire being another one—and wished to divest themselves of some of them. Jane and Charles had hoped to live near Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy; it was thus to the satisfaction of all when they purchased High Tor. Charles had made many improvements to the land in the past few years.
    “I thought only Mr. Darcy advised Charles,” Kitty said, turning up her nose.
    “Not at all. When he and Lizzy stay with us, though, the two men ride about the estate with the steward and single out areas that need improvement of one kind or another. And Kitty, please be more respectful when you speak of Mr. Darcy,” Jane added.
    It would be a tedious journey, trapped in the chaise with Kitty for two days. I pulled out a book from my reticule and began to read, thankful I was not one of those people who suffered from nausea in a carriage.
    O n the second evening, to Jane’s surprise and delight, Charles met us at the inn where we were staying to escort us the remainder of the way. Papa had notified him by special messenger that we were en route. We dined early, in a private room.
    “What news?” Jane asked. “How is my little David?”
    “He’s well, my dear. Teething and fussing, giving his nurse the fidgets, I’d wager. And I’m certain he misses his mother, although perhaps not as much as I have missed you.”
    Jane glowed.
    “I have some news which might make your sisters happy,” Charles said.
    “Oh, do tell us!” Kitty demanded.
    “Henry Walsh has returned. The matter he had to attend to was easily dealt with, as it turned out.”
    Kitty jumped to her feet and waltzed around the room. I said, “How nice for all of you, Charles, but there is no reason his presence should affect me .” A look I couldn’t interpret passed between him and Jane. Perhaps they pitied me, because I was not someone their friend could esteem.
    After an early start and a long morning’s ride, we arrived at High Tor. Jane went directly to the nursery while Kitty and I took refreshment. Kitty fidgeted and, after what amounted to a significant amount of time for her, asked one of the servants where the other guests were.
    “I believe I saw them walk out earlier, miss,” came the answer.
    When I’d finished eating, I took a plate to Jane in the nursery. David, my nephew, was now six months old. A little cherub, all rosy cheeks and rolls of fat, he’d become more lovable than a newborn, in my mind. He smiled, cooed, and fixed his eyes on my face. I played with him while Jane ate, and when he grew sleepy we made our way downstairs.
    Since the day was fine, I suggested we walk. Kitty was opposed at first.
    “We shall probably meet the other guests,” Jane said.
    Kitty reconsidered. “In that case, I shall come.”
    “Where has Charles gone?” I asked.
    “He is with his steward, I believe. Charles and Mr. Cox are talking of going to the magistrate to complain of the poor condition of the local roads, and the difficulty of getting agricultural crops to market.”
    “The poor roads make travel difficult altogether,” I said, “whether by post or private chaise or—”
    “For the lord’s sake, Mary, can’t you think of something more interesting to talk about?” Kitty said.
    I