"Are you sure, sir?"
"I know how to drive the coach."
"Yes, sir but it's at night."
"There's a full moon; the weather is fine."
"The horses might spook."
"They're a steady team, and you know I can handle them."
"But who will watch them and the coach while you're at the assembly?"
"I have made arrangements with Mr. Philips; I will park the coach behind his office and he will have his footman watch over them."
"But still, maybe you could take the groom."
"No, he should attend the stableman's party with you. You both deserve a bit of fun; I have kept you both away from home for so long."
"But …"
"I insist."
"Yes, sir."
-}{-
"You should wear the blue."
"I wore it to the last assembly, people will notice."
"Only the ladies will; he'll never notice."
"But still"
"It sets off your eyes."
"That it does."
"And it buttons in front."
"Mama!"
"You must be prepared for all eventualities. And remove the lace trim."
"Why?"
"He might snag it. All men are clumsy."
-}{-
"Beeton, I don't need a bath before bed, I'll just have a wash up – that way you won't be delayed getting to Mr. Gorham's party."
"With all due respect, sir, you are need of a shave, a haircut, and a bath - certain standards must be maintained, even amongst gentlemen farmers. Besides, there's plenty of time, the party will not be starting until nine at the earliest."
"Very well, clip away."
-}{-
"All the servants have left the house."
"Does that include the ladies' maids and the gentlemens' valets?"
"Yes, it does."
"Excellent, then we will be locking all the doors other than the front door. You do have your keys?"
"Yes."
"Do not let anyone back into the house until at least midnight."
"I won't."
"Then have a good time Mrs. Nichols."
-}{-
"My brother has left for the assembly. And he said that Mr. Bingley has gone to bed."
"Excellent. I just hope that Mr. Bingley does not decide he needs something to read and comes down to the library for a book. Now go join the others, it sounds like Miss Lydia wishes the dancing to start."
-}{-
"Miss Mary, while Mrs. Annesley is taking a break between sets, could you please go up and slip this ribbon over the doorknob to Mr. Bingley's bedroom. Quietly, mind you – you do not want him to catch you."
