Expectations: The Transformation of Miss Anne de Bourgh (Pride and Prejudice Continued), Volume 1 Page 3

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  At supper, Miss de Bourgh shared the news of her invitation with Mrs. Jenkinson. Her companion, who hovered over her with more zeal than any mother hen, expressed her pleasure at their thoughtfulness but worried about the weather. “Are you sure you want to go out in this rain? I think this cold blow will be with us for another day or two. You do not want to expose yourself when you have been so tired lately.”

  “I shall take the landau. The windows will be a fine protection.”

  Mrs. Jenkinson, who had more worries than imagination, offered, “Perhaps you can go another day, when the weather is better. I am sure the Misses Fairfax will understand.” She then encouraged Anne to have a little more of the soup while it was still warm.

  Anne said, “But I will not be in the elements for more than a minute or two. I will take great care not to get wet.”

  Mrs. Jenkinson said with great, sad solemnity, “Miss, your mother would never forgive me if I let you expose yourself to such weather.” As that seemed to settle the matter, she returned to her own soup.

  Anne had no argument against that. She looked at her meal, no longer hungry.