Free Darcy & Elizabeth: A Season of Courtship (Darcy Saga Prequel Duo) by Sharon Lathan Page B

loathe to veer the
conversation away from Elizabeth and the subject of their wedding. Then again,
sharing a discussion on philosophy was enjoyable, and it could lead to better
understanding his future father-in-law, as well as his betrothed.
    With that in mind, he explained, “England
has established rules that have served us well for centuries. I trust in our
heritage and, as a landowner, accept my duty seriously. I have also seen the
adverse effects of this so-called progress in places, such as the coal mines and
mismanaged mills. They harm the landscape and, in far too many instances, do
not help the workers to improve their lot in life. Despite these facts, change
is inevitable. Fighting the future revolution is a fruitless endeavor, in my
opinion. It is better to work with the reality, doing what is wise to balance
the old ways with the new waves that will come.”
    “I quite agree, Mr. Darcy, although
I cheerfully leave the future to those such as yourself who are young and
energetic. I do not have the stamina, bendable nature, or inclination to
willingly change my ways.” He laughed along with Darcy. “I do welcome your
further thoughts on the topic, but as it is clear Mr. Bingley is not as
fascinated, we can save our discussion for later.”
    Bingley flushed. “I do apologize,
Mr. Bennet. Darcy has tried, without success, to ignite my passions for such
matters. Alas, I am a poor student.”
    “Mr. Bingley has other passions,”
Darcy interjected, smiling warmly at his friend. “He has been an apt pupil in
matters of farming and estate management. In time, with fortune leading him to
an ideal property, Bingley will prove his capability.”
    Bingley’s cheeks flamed redder. His
expression conveyed pride at Darcy’s praise, as well as a hint of anxiety,
especially in the swift flicker of his eyes toward Mr. Bennet, who was frowning
minutely. Instantly it dawned on Darcy that Bingley had not shared with Jane’s
family his plans to purchase an estate of his own. Surely he has enlightened
Miss Bennet to the fact that she may well end up residing far away from the
Bennets? Nevertheless, since none of it was technically any business of his—nor
was he desirous to be in the middle of the conversation when it was broached—Darcy
quickly changed the subject.
    “Ah! Here is your copy of Parzival by Wolfram von Eschenbach.” He drew the slim volume off the shelf, silently
thanking the fates for drawing his eyes in a providential direction. “I named
my stallion after this poem and confess to being quite startled when Miss
Elizabeth instantly recognized where it came from. I greatly appreciate that
your daughter is an extensive reader, Mr. Bennet, and clearly have you to thank
for instilling that passion within her.”
    Mr. Bennet turned toward his desk,
circling and relaxing into the chair as he replied. “Lizzy was always precocious
in that way. No offense intended toward my dear Jane, Mr. Bingley, but none of
my daughters have shown the intense interest in reading as Lizzy has.”
    “Not to worry, sir,” Bingley
assured, smiling dreamily. “I am not the rabid absorber of literature as Darcy
is, so it matters little to me that Miss Bennet does not read to the extent of
Miss Elizabeth. Darcy, on the other hand, would have a difficult way of it with
a wife who was not the bookworm he is!”
    Thanks for feeding into my plan,
Charles. Darcy smothered his smile and nodded. “Indeed, Bingley is correct.
It might surprise you, Mr. Bennet, but as lovely as Miss Elizabeth is, it
honestly was not physical attraction that first drew me to her.”
    “I am not surprised, Mr. Darcy. After
all, the people of Hertfordshire are aware that Lizzy was deemed ‘not handsome
enough’ to tempt you into even a simple dance. I can only imagine the amazed
speculation that will flitter throughout the countryside when your betrothal is
announced.”
    Darcy stiffened and almost dropped
the book from suddenly nerveless fingers. The