Page 85 of Attempted Compromises
“Jane,” Elizabeth said softly, laying a reassuring hand on her sister’s arm. “You have nothing to worry about. Mrs. Nicholls is a kind and capable woman. She’ll be glad to meet with you.”
Jane exhaled shakily, glancing down at the small notebook she carried. “I wrote a few ideas, but I’m afraid they’re terribly simple. What if she thinks I’m… inadequate?”
Elizabeth chuckled softly, giving her sister’s hand a squeeze. “Mrs. Nicholls is not some ogre— or even Mr. Collins’s patroness Lady Catherine de Bourgh! She is practical and fair-minded, and she will appreciate your thoughtfulness. Remember, you are themistress now—it’s your kindness and sense that will guide the household, not an endless list of rules.”
Mrs. Nicholls stood as they entered Jane’s new office, her calm and competent demeanor immediately setting a tone of professionalism. The room itself was cozy and efficient, with a large desk neatly arranged with ledgers, a small bouquet of winter roses brightening the space. “Good morning, Mrs. Bingley, Mrs. Darcy,” she said, curtsying deeply. “And Miss Darcy, Mrs. Annesley, a good morning to you as well.”
“Good morning, Mrs. Nicholls,” Jane said, her voice soft but warm. “Thank you for meeting with us. I know the shifts must feel sudden.”
Mrs. Nicholls smiled kindly. “Not at all, Mrs. Bingley. I’ve heard much about you from Mrs. Hill, and I assure you, the household is pleased to have you here.”
Jane’s cheeks pinked with modesty, and she exchanged a glance with Elizabeth. “Thank you, Mrs. Nicholls. That is very kind.”
Elizabeth, sensing Jane’s hesitation, stepped in smoothly. “Mrs. Nicholls, my sister has a few matters she’d like to discuss, and I know she values your experience and advice. For instance, she was wondering about menu planning.”
“Oh yes,” Jane said, her voice growing steadier. “I would like to work with you on the menus, though I don’t want to disrupt the household routines unnecessarily.”
Mrs. Nicholls nodded. “It would be a pleasure, Mrs. Bingley. The Christmas season always brings opportunities to refresh the table. Have you any particular preferences or traditions?”
Jane hesitated, glancing at Elizabeth. “Perhaps something simple but festive? I trust your judgment.”
Elizabeth added, “Jane has always been a wonderful hostess, Mrs. Nicholls, but she’s not one for excessive opulence. I’m sure your expertise will make the planning smooth.”
Mrs. Nicholls smiled again, her shoulders visibly relaxing. “Of course, Mrs. Darcy. We’ll ensure everything is balanced and tasteful.”
The conversation turned to decorating, and Jane broached the topic tentatively. “I wondered about redoing the mistress’s chambers. Would there be any pieces stored in the attic that could be used? I wouldn’t want to waste funds unnecessarily.”
Mrs. Nicholls’s face lit up. “A very sensible idea, Mrs. Bingley. There are several fine pieces stored away—many of them antiques. If you like, I can have the footmen bring them down for your inspection.”
Jane nodded gratefully. “Thank you, Mrs. Nicholls. That sounds perfect.”
“And the parlor,” Elizabeth interjected, her voice steady. “We’d like to see it refreshed, especially considering the events that occurred there.”
Mrs. Nicholls’s expression turned serious. “A wise choice, Mrs. Darcy. It will help to put certain… unpleasant memories to rest.”
Elizabeth glanced at Jane, who looked thoughtful. “Perhaps lighter colors?” Jane suggested. “Something cheerful but not garish. And fresh flowers, if possible.”
“An excellent idea,” Mrs. Nicholls said approvingly. “We can arrange for new draperies and rugs in softer hues. I’ll consult with the upholsterer.”
Elizabeth leaned forward slightly. “I also think we should have the locks changed,” she said. “On the doors, the tea caddy, everything. Miss Bingley, as mistress, had copies of the keys. I don’t want to take any risks.”
Mrs. Nicholls gave a sharp nod. “An excellent precaution, Mrs. Darcy. I’ll see to it immediately.”
Georgiana, who had been listening quietly, spoke up. “Do you think Miss Bingley will return?”
Elizabeth hesitated, her gaze softening as she turned to Darcy’s younger sister. “I don’t know, Georgiana. But we’re staying through Christmas, and we’ll remain here until the weather warms enough for Andrew to travel safely to London.”
Georgiana nodded, her trust in Elizabeth evident. Mrs. Nicholls glanced at her with a kind smile. “Miss Darcy, if there are any particular arrangements you’d like, please don’t hesitate to let me know.”
Mrs. Annesley, who had been silent thus far, offered a measured suggestion. “Perhaps some adjustments to the music room, Miss Darcy? It might be a pleasant project for the colder months.”
Georgiana brightened at the idea. “Yes, I would like that very much. Thank you.”
The discussion moved on to other details—household expenses, holiday preparations, and minor repairs—and by the time the meeting concluded, Jane’s confidence seemed to have grown. As Mrs. Nicholls curtsied and left to begin her tasks, Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley excused themselves as well.
Elizabeth turned to Jane with a warm smile. “You were marvelous, Jane. Mrs. Nicholls respects you already.”
Jane blushed but looked pleased. “I hope so. She seems so capable—I didn’t want to overstep.”
