“Now, now, Mrs. Bennet, listen to me.” He waited for her to calm before he spoke again in a soothing voice, so unlike his usual acerbic way of addressing her. “Think about it. We have five daughters. Taking them all about and dressing them as they ought will be very expensive. Would it not be easier if there were only two or three of them to dress and plan for?”

She was about to protest again when she saw his serious look entreating her to consider his plan. Silly and petty she might be, but Mrs. Bennet knew the cost of fabric and she understood his logic, however much she might dislike it.

He could tell she was wavering and decided to add another log to the fire. “If we can successfully reduce our expenditures, and if Kitty and Lydia can focus on their music and studies, I may be able to take you to the seaside for the summer.”

“The seaside?” Her eyes brightened suddenly and she sat up straighter in her chair. “Truly, Mr. Bennet? You are not teasing?” she asked hopefully.

Mr. Bennet felt the tiniest twinge of guilt over her enthusiasm and apparent distrust of him, but it was gone almost as soon as it appeared. “Truly. I would like to take a house for the summer. I’ve already sent out inquiries.”

That was enough to convince Mrs. Bennet to agree to even the most stringent changes, and so they continued their plans for the girls, deciding that Kitty and Lydia could attend family functions at home. Until at least one of her other sisters was married or she turned nineteen, whichever came first, Kitty was not to be out, and Lydia must follow suit. Three daughters out was enough for anyone to handle, Mr. Bennet told his wife, and he did not want her to overtax herself. Mrs. Bennet blushed prettily and smiled at her husband, readily agreeing that he knew best.

Chapter 2

Over the next se’nnight, Mr. Bennet engaged a music master, a drawing master, and a French tutor. He brought all his girls into his bookroom and told them of the coming changes: he had created a schedule for each of them, and each day they would be expected to study with the masters, practice a bit on their own, and assist their mother in running the household. In addition, they would each meet with him every week to discuss literature and history. They were stunned, and for a full minute, no one said anything; the girls just stared at their father as if they had never seen him before. Jane finally broke the silence.

“I will look forward to the drawing master, sir. Thank you for the consideration.”

Her sisters murmured thanks as well and exchanged confused glances. Mr. Bennet held up a hand.