Papa has sent for more music from town and I am learning a new Mozart concerto. I prefer him to most composers, though if I am being honest I must admit to dearly loving Scotch airs. They always feel light and happy and never fail to leave me smiling. In answer to your other question, I do not know what sort of gifts I prefer—the thoughtful kind, I suppose. I do not need expensive jewels or extravagant parties—though a room full of friends is always enjoyable. My favorite gift to date is a necklace from my uncle. He was on a business trip to Spain, many years ago, and he saw an intricately carved locket in a small shop in some out of the way place. He said it immediately made him think of me and as the next day was my birthday, he bought it. I hung it on a ribbon and wore it daily for years until the hinge broke. I’m sure it was not too expensive, though it was beautifully done, but my uncle was right—it was ideally suited to me. Perhaps that is one of the reasons I loved it so much. It proved to me just how well he knew me. I’d suspected and I knew we shared a special bond—he is my godfather as well as my uncle—but this added proof was very welcome.

I am wanted by my mother so I must close.

Faithfully,

Elizabeth Bennet

She questioned somewhat her closing, but she thought it a measure of goodwill and decided to leave it. Before she posted it, she went to her father in the parlor and asked if he would like to add a note to her letter.

“No, I sent Mr. Darcy a letter two days ago. I am not so forlorn for correspondence that I already feel the need to write again.”

Elizabeth smiled and sat next to him on the settee. “Father, has Mr. Darcy spoken to you about the wedding trip?”

“Yes, he has. He wishes to take you to The Lakes; he remembered you’d mentioned wanting to see them.”

“Yes, that part I know and it is very kind of him.” She ignored the very pointed look her father was giving her. “I was wondering who is to accompany us? Did you discuss it?”

At this Mr. Bennet lost his teasing smile and looked grave for a moment. “We did. I asked him if his own sister would perform the job or one of your own. He said he would rather you go just the two of you,” her brows raised to her hairline, “and I said we could discuss it later. Shall I take it from your expression that you do not favor the idea of a month long tête–à–tête?”