Private Time
Darcy said he would like to discuss something with her which was rather difficult. They were sitting in her room in front of the fire dressed for bed.
It sounded serious so Elizabeth said; "Yes dear, what is it?"
"Lady Fitzwilliam has made inquiries about a voucher for the Almack's Assembly Rooms for Georgiana. She was told it would not be granted." He said.
"I don't understand dear. What is Almack's Assembly Rooms?" she asked.
"This is all about the 'ton' or 'le bon ton'. Do you know of the ton?" he asked.
"No, Caroline mentioned it to Jane. Jane didn't understand and decided not to ask." she said.
"The ton is London High Society." he said. "From what I know Lady Castlereagh, Lady Jersey, Lady Cowper, Mrs. Burrel, Countess Esterhazy and Countess Lieven are the patronesses of Almack's. They decide who gets a voucher. Vouchers are granted based on position in society, address and behavior. If granted a voucher you pay ten guineas and attend a ball with supper once a week for twelve weeks during the season. The balls are held at Almack's Assembly Rooms at King Street, St. James. They are attended by the highest level of society." he said.
"Can we do anything to attain a voucher?" she asked.
"Georgiana is not coming out this year so it's not important now. I'm not sure we should pursue a voucher. There will be private balls, parties and teas. Almack's is more about marrying a title or even Royalty." he said.
"Would denial of the voucher have anything to do with Lidia and Wickham or me?" she asked.
"There is no way of telling. A few servants, the Collin's and Lady Catherine know. Even then it has more to do with ones position in society. Neither of us have claim to a title." he said.
"This is what Lady Catherine warned me of in the garden." she said.
"No, she warned you that her plans did not include you." he said.
"And the Fitzwilliam's, what do they think." she asked.
"My Aunt and Uncle both think a voucher would be an advantage for Georgiana but not essential to find her a good match." he said.
"What do you want for Georgiana, husband?" she asked.
Darcy sat quite looking into the fire. He reached over and grasped her had.
"I want for her what I have." he said.
Elizabeth thought about what he had said.
"Then we should keep a watch out for a young gentleman who won't dance at country assembles." she said.
She saw a slight smile and then a soft laugh. He tried so hard not to show what he felt but finally gave in.
"Yes, one who calls on young ladies in the afternoon and can't engage in conversation." he said.
"Oh we talked of house remodeling and good roads." she said.
"I was that bad! How did you endure it?" he said.
"And yet you are in my bedroom asking that question." she said.
"Can I ask questions in bed?" he asked.
"Not about roads or remodeling, but I'm open to a conversation." she said.
He got up and doused the lamp. He reached over and grasped her hand pulled her up.
"Come to bed dear, we can discuss the weather." he said.