Elizabeth was unable to sleep at all that night, so an hour before dawn, she got up and headed for Oakham Mount. She was sad and disappointed with herself for being unable to control her emotions better. She had argued with Jane for the first time in her life. She knew, in some ways, her cousin was right.
The day before, they had gone to Netherfield. A quarter of an hour before tea, while Jane was conversing with Lady Maria and Miss Bingley was reading the social pages of the newspaper, Georgiana invited her to play an aria from The Magic Flute.
When they finished playing, Mr. Darcy - who had arrived a few minutes earlier - politely congratulated them, "As always, your performance was excellent, but I wish you would sing next time."
Elizabeth smiled and replied, "I am so sorry, Mr. Darcy, but I won't be able to please you because I don't speak the language, and Georgiana doesn't like to sing alone."
Caroline looked at her in surprise and sarcastically said, "I know Miss Bennet only speaks English, but I remember a few days ago you stated you speak Italian very well, Miss Elizabeth."
Since Elizabeth was tired of Caroline's veiled insults and mocking comments, she lost her temper and, looking Caroline in the eye, clearly replied, "For your information, Miss Bingley, The Magic Flute was written in German and not Italian."
Miss Bingley blushed and replied she had not paid attention to her performance. From that moment, the conversation became tense, and nobody enjoyed their tea. On the way back to Longbourn, Jane admonished her for being so rude to Caroline Bingley.
Distracted, she climbed to the top of the hill, and when she reached her favorite spot - to her surprise - she found Mr. Darcy sitting on a flat rock.
They stared at each other for a few seconds; Darcy recovered first from his astonishment and politely greeted her, "Good morning, Miss Bennet. I didn't expect to find you here, let alone so early in the morning."
"Good morning, Mr. Darcy. It is a surprise to me, as well. I see you rode here." She pointed to a large, beautiful horse, "What is his name?"
Darcy smiled and replied, "His name is Achilles."
Elizabeth smiled slightly, "I hope Achilles doesn't have any problems with his heel because it would be unfortunate if he has."
"Have you read The Iliad?"
"Yes, but I confess I don't like Achilles very much. I prefer Hector."
"Why?" Darcy asked curiously.
"Because Hector was a good man, he fought out of necessity and duty to defend his family and his kingdom, while Achilles was a demigod who fought because he liked it."
"Your opinion of Hector and Achilles is far too simplistic, but I do admit that I partially agree with your statements."
Elizabeth laughed, "I'm glad we are partly in agreement. Perhaps another day, we can discuss the Odyssey. We can discuss who was more intelligent, Penelope or Odysseus."
"I know you enjoy a good debate, Miss Bennet. I even realize sometimes you express opinions that are not your own." He smiled slightly and added, "I am sure you would answer, Penelope."
Elizabeth chuckled, "And I am sure you would answer, Odysseus. Am I right, Mr. Darcy?"
Darcy shook his head, "Honestly, I think there is no correct answer to your question. Without a doubt, both were highly intelligent people."
"That was a polite answer, Mr. Darcy." She added with a hint of sadness, "Unfortunately, several men underestimated the intelligence and strength of the women."
Darcy smiled slightly and replied, "This is the way of the world, Miss Bennet. But I can say in favor of my sex that several gentlemen are kind and consider seriously the opinion of their sisters and wives."
"I know, Mr. Darcy. I have the example of my grandfather. He was an exceptional gentleman…"
For several minutes, they continued talking about various topics. Then, Elizabeth said goodbye and returned to Longbourn for breakfast with her family. The next day, they were to see each other at dinner at Mary and Mr. Collins' engagement party.
Unbeknownst to Darcy, that chance meeting with Elizabeth Bennet was the beginning of a deep admiration and then great love for her. In his opinion, she was one of the most intelligent, original, and educated women he had ever met. Besides, she was a beautiful and vivacious woman.