“One would never wish to promote any new method precipitously, certainly. However, that Mr. Lee uses it in his own house must speak highly of his estimation of its safety. Indeed, since having the coal-light at his factory in Manchester, Mr. Lee has contracted to extend the gas-pipe in his spinning establishment, as well as to light the stretch of yard that separates the various buildings in the grounds. Only think, Elizabeth, of the salubrious results of gas-lighting along the streets of London: how different travel would be in the night-time, and the disability such light would cause the footpads and other criminals who depend upon the cover of darkness on the roads for their mischief.”

“My dear Mr. Darcy,” cried Elizabeth, “is such a thing possible? I know that London has had great success with gas-lights, but that is one town, albeit a large one. Do you imagine a plan which would encompass the highways, in addition to the towns?”

“Yes, Lizzy, it is not only possible, but I think inevitable.”

“And, this coal-gas comes from the coal naturally?” asked Elizabeth.

“Yes, which is the logic of it all. The coal naturally yields the coal-gas when heated, but not heated sufficiently to consume the coal, providing the gas-light as well as the heat. The Pemberley collieries are profitable, to be sure, but the interest of public safety is, I believe, a powerful inducement to the adoption of gas-light. I would certainly wish to be a part of its wider general promotion, given proof of its safety.”

Mr. and Mrs. Parker arrived at Pemberley late the following evening. Mr. Darcy and Mr. Parker set off for Manchester before the Pemberley ladies had made their appearance at breakfast. Elizabeth had only the short space of a few hours in the evening before to observe Mr. and Mrs. Parker. Her amazement at his choice of wife was complete. He was an excellent example of that new breed of scientifical gentlemen who had been raised on the newest theories and inventions, directing his own education from his earliest years toward those studies most advantageous to a philosopher concerned in the business of invention and industry. Mr. Darcy had been most impressed with Mr. Parker’s mathematical turn-of-mind and his knowledge of the most recent advances in all areas of natural philosophy. He especially commended his application of those ideas that held the greatest promise of benefit to those whose suffering was the most acute—the working poor of the new cities. Darcy honoured Mr. Parker for his abilities and his liberality, his energies and his application.