Author's note: I hesitated whether Elizabeth should tell Jane by letter that Mr. Darcy was visiting her or speak in person with her if they continued their informal courtship. It is a very difficult decision. If the majority of readers think that Elizabeth should tell Jane by letter, I have no problem modifying the chapter.
PPP
During the second week at Sandstone to Elizabeth's surprise, she received a letter from Jane. It had been over a month since she had heard from her. Unfortunately, the relationship between them was no longer the same.
1st May 1812
Longbourn, Hertfordshire
Dear Lizzy,
I hope you and your grandfather are in good health. Fortunately, we are all well at Longbourn. The only news is the Bingleys recently returned to Netherfield Park. But apparently, Mr. Darcy isn't coming back this year. Georgiana also told me they do not intend to renew the lease of the estate since they want to live in the north of the country.
I wanted to tell you in July I am going with the Gardiners on a trip to Derbyshire. I don't know if you remember that my aunt hails from Lambton. From what I understand, the village is only 5 miles from Pemberley. I would like to see you during my stay there, or perhaps I might impose on you to stay with you and your grandfather for several days.
My parents miss you very much and want you to come back to Longbourn. My mother is very sorry for what she said to you a few months ago, and she has earnestly asked me to convince you to come back home.
I also want you to come back. I miss our conversations very much, and I feel very lonely in Longbourn.
With love,
Jane Bennet.
Elizabeth didn't know exactly what to feel about Jane's letter and visit. On the one hand, she was happy she had written to her, but on the other hand, she was afraid of Jane's reaction and feelings if she found out that Mr. Darcy had proposed to her. She was not sure if Jane was over her infatuation with Mr. Darcy. Despite her grandfather constantly reassuring her that it was not her fault that Mr. Darcy was interested in her and not Jane, she still felt a bit guilty.
She thought about telling Jane that Mr. Darcy had proposed to her some weeks ago but finally decided against it. At the moment Mr. Darcy was simply courting her informally and nothing had been settled between the two of them. Jane would be in Derbyshire for a few days and she would speak to her personally about her relationship with Mr. Darcy, only if Mr. Darcy was still courting her by then.
After several failed attempts, she finished writing the response to Jane's letter.
7th May 1812
Sandstone, Derbyshire
Dear Jane,
Thankfully, my grandfather and I are very well. I am glad everyone is well at Longbourn. The first days in Sandstone were very busy, but I am already adjusting to my new life. I recently received a letter from Georgiana where she mentioned they are looking to buy an estate in Derbyshire.
I am glad you are coming to Lambton for a holiday, and we will certainly see each other during your stay. We would be happy to invite you to spend a few days with us at Sandstone. You have to confirm the date you will arrive so we can make all the preparations.
Tell your parents I remember them fondly, but I am currently very happy living with my grandfather and have no wish to return to Longbourn.
With love,
Elizabeth Bennett