“In considering your own recommendations, I know your disposition to be good, and your family excellent. My own observation leads me to conclude that, as Anne cannot be the wife of Mr. Darcy, to become the wife of Colonel Fitzwilliam is not a situation to be regretted or otherwise looked upon as exceptional in any way; to be sure, there is a great disparity in fortune, which—in these times—is nothing very wonderful.”

Colonel Fitzwilliam had coloured deeply during this last volley, making every attempt to keep his composure and recall the courtesy due his aunt, despite her being, in the present situation, little deserving of any such civil consideration. At the earliest pause, he quietly but firmly replied, “Indeed, Ma’am, you do me too much honour. As we are both aware, my low prospects as the younger son are not such that Miss de Bourgh’s birth or person should merit. Whilst I am not insensible of the compliment of your proposal, I must decline out of deference to my regard for Miss de Bourgh.”

“Nonsense!” exclaimed Lady de Bourgh. “Whilst Anne is doubtless one of the most favoured of her sex, she is approaching an age when it is desirable to have her well-married. And, I am convinced that she could do much worse,” said Lady Catherine in a rare moment of compliment abroad. “In addition to being a close relation, your modesty tells me you are sensible of your good fortune in securing such a wife. Therefore, we may consider the matter as settled.”

Even the easy temper of Colonel Fitzwilliam was sorely tried by this latest affront, and he could hardly keep his mind and countenance calm as she continued, “All that remains, Colonel Fitzwilliam, is for you to inform your father. He and I shall meet, and everything quickly settled. I should think you might be married without any material delay.”

“Indeed, Lady Catherine,” cried Colonel Fitzwilliam, “your persistence after my reply is astonishing. Whilst I have no doubt that my esteemed parents would regard an alliance with Miss de Bourgh as in every way desirable, indeed, I must beg leave to decide my own feelings, to say nothing of the consideration which is due those of Miss de Bourgh, and her own views as to what course best constitutes her future happiness.”

Lady Catherine now dropt any veneer of civility and, in a quite different tone of voice, responded, “Fitzwilliam you surprise me exceedingly. I should have thought that a man of your sense and experience in the world could properly credit the opportunity of such a connection.”