inspiration + perspiration = invention :: T. Edison ::
A collection of one-shots based on Northanger Abbey: drabbles, flash fiction, missing scenes, and more. Title from Shakespeare's Othello, as quoted by Jane Austen in Chapter One. Now available as an eBook via Draft2Digital.
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"You really should not have come," Henry attempted severity even as he could not help smiling.
"As I am here not only of my own volition, but on special errand from your sister, you should not chide me," Lewin answered in like manner, taking one of the study's chairs without a hint of contrition.
"Then I shall spare you a repetition of my last sermon and only ask how you left her."
"Well enough, except for wanting the same thing as I."
"A speedier union? I am afraid you came to the wrong person if you are seeking special license."
"A bishop's grace is not the favour we seek. Come, Tilney, it is both her wish and mine for you to wed us. Only say you will and I promise to do everything possible to clear the way."
"Nay, how could I supplant Dr. Prewiit, who has been waiting for the office these many years? He christened us all and will bury none, let him have the holy rite of marriage at least to say farewell."
Rather than banter further, Lewin eyed him expressively. "Your father has grown very fond of my opinion, and continually seeks new opportunities to indulge us."
With equal consideration Henry replied, "I pray his good humour continue: to that end, I must decline to disturb either his or your peace."
"We are of a mind to ask him openly rather than hint at our wishes. I would do so today if you but agreed."
"It is good to hear my sister's caution in all this grand scheming." Yet his heart was not fully in the tease, nor detached from a dream shared in childhood and painfully remembered when news of Eleanor's engagement reached Woodston. He had so little idea now of what had gone on in his absence, pieced together as it was from second-hand reports and conjectures. For all he knew his father might actually agree to this proposal.
The very real possibility that the mere request could ruin all stiffened his resolve.
"You had better not chance it." After a brief, melancholy pause he strove once more for levity. "After all, with so many more years of experience, and without the temptation of youthful association, Dr. Prewitt is a far safer choice to carry you through the ceremony. There will be no laughter to mar the viscount's wedding!"
Lewin shook his head in chagrin. "No, I fancy not."
Title from Chapter 24 of Northanger Abbey: "To involve her in the danger of a second detection, to court her into an apartment which must wring her heart, could not be the office of a friend."