Thwarting Lady Catherine's plans, both gentlemen found their way to Elizabeth's side. Colonel Fitzwilliam, always courteous, offered to turn her pages. Mr. Darcy, as usual, took a seat nearby and listened to her attentively.
Tired of being stared at and determined to have some conversation from the man, Elizabeth asked, "Do you sing, Mr. Darcy?"
"Indeed, he does, Miss Bennet! For I have heard him myself in church on many occasions."
"Shall we insist then, Colonel, that Mr. Darcy sing for his supper?"
Both Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam smiled at her, amused.
This trip to Rosings was surely made better by Miss Bennet's charming presence, Richard mused. Pity she had no money or family to speak of. If she did, he would be in some danger, he thought.
Glancing over at Darcy, he wondered for a moment if perhaps his cousin was, indeed, in danger. He made a mental note to speak to him about the lovely Miss Bennet tomorrow. After all, he could afford to marry where he pleased.
Elizabeth was still looking at Mr. Darcy. She played the first notes of "My Love is Like a Red Red Rose."
"Will Mr. Darcy sing, do you think, Colonel?"
"If he will not, I certainly will!"
"Richard, few things are as awful as your singing. Please spare us all."
With that, the three gathered around the piano began to laugh.
Suddenly, Lady Catherine's voice was heard.
"What is this? What is Miss Bennet saying? Of what are you speaking? I must have my share of the conversation."
Elizabeth smiled at Darcy.
"I believe you are summoned, sir. I shall excuse you this time."
"You are too kind, Miss Bennet."
He bowed and left to rejoin his aunt.
"You had best go too, Colonel. I know this one by heart."
Richard rolled his eyes, but nonetheless departed.
"You should practice more, Miss Bennet. There is an adequate instrument in Mrs. Jenkins's apartments. You should come to Rosings and practice. You will be in no one's way there."
"You're very kind, Lady Catherine," Elizabeth murmured, privately determined to do no such thing.