Notes: After some comments and suggestions, I'm trying to improve the writing :)
Next chapter, Netherfield Park.
PPP
After Jane precipitously fled from Longbourn, Mr. Stern lingered in the bookroom with Mr. Carey and Mrs. Bennet, engaging in a protracted discourse on various intricate details enshrined in Mr. Bennet's will. The aforementioned document explicitly decreed that Mr. Carey would assume the role of guardian of his nieces until they reached the age of twenty-one, thereby becoming entrusted with the weighty responsibility of managing Longbourn until Elizabeth turned twenty-one.
Upon conducting an exhaustive analysis of each article, Mr. Carey remarked with a tone of grave concern, "Although my brother-in-law's will appeared to be devoid of ambiguity, I harbor deep apprehension that Mr. Phillips may attempt to contest its validity."
In response, Mr. Stern vehemently shook his head and remarked, "This document," as he gestured towards the contract that bore the signatures of Mr. Bennet and his father, "effectively broke the entailment, thereby granting Thomas Bennet the unfettered freedom to designate his chosen heir."
"Certainly, I am aware of the situation. However, my primary concern lies not with the legal implications, but rather with the looming threat of a scandal that has the potential to tarnish the reputation and moral standing of my sister and nieces."
Mrs. Bennet, her heart heavy with a profound sense of foreboding and apprehension, let out a sigh that reflected her inner turmoil. With a voice as soft as a whisper, she interjected, "I agree with my brother's sentiments. It is my fervent desire to exhaust every available resource at my disposal to safeguard the well-being of my daughters, including Jane."
"Mrs. Bennet, please bear in mind that Mr. Phillips is a solicitor, and if he analyzes these documents, he will undoubtedly discern that there is not a single legal recourse he can undertake." He paused for a moment to gather his thoughts, then added, "Furthermore, if you desire, I can engage in a direct conversation with him today and elucidate the situation in great detail."
After pondering the matter for several moments, she replied, "Indeed, it is a very good idea. I shall compose a missive, extending an invitation for Mr. Phillips to Longbourn..."
PPP
In the immediate aftermath of a heated and impassioned argument with his wife, precipitated by his truthful revelation to Jane of the undisclosed circumstances surrounding her birth, a young man handed him a note. To his astonishment, it was from Mrs. Bennet, who had extended an invitation for him to visit Longbourn with the purpose of discussing Mr. Bennet's will with his solicitor.
Even though Mr. Phillips was confident in the authenticity of the documents, his curiosity compelled him to accept the invitation. An hour later, he arrived at Longbourn, where Mrs. Hill escorted him to the bookroom.
Amidst greetings and introductions, Mrs. Bennet, her countenance etched with a palpable concern for Jane's well-being, could not resist the urgent need to inquire, "Pray tell me, how fares Jane?"
Mr. Phillips frowned in a mix of confusion and apprehension, and responded, "Jane? Is she not here?"
Concerned, Mrs. Bennet exclaimed, "No, no! When Jane discovered she was not the Heiress of Longbourn, she promptly fled from Longbourn. I was under the impression she had gone to your house."
"Indeed, she was at my house, but she departed nearly two hours ago..." Mr. Phillips proceeded to provide a concise account of the transpired events. As the tale unfolded, Mrs. Bennet's complexion paled, and her anxiety intensified upon realizing that Jane was now privy to the distressing truth.
Upon witnessing his sister's profound state of shock, Mr. Carey swiftly summoned Mrs. Hill to provide immediate assistance. Simultaneously, he resolved to request Mr. Hill's help to search for Jane. There were a few precious hours of daylight remaining and for the time being, he preferred to avoid potential gossip involving additional servants in the search.