P&P:TUS News of Lydia and Wickham Spreads

Just how far has news of their misfortune spread?

August 16, 1812

Elizabeth looked and Jane, and Jane returned the glance with a tight and weary smile. The narrow vestibule was far too quiet for comfort. An eerie hush had settled over Longbourn since the initial news of Lydia had arrived, punctuated only by moments of Mama’s nervous episodes.

How nice it would have been for Elizabeth to be able to hide in her room, away from the work of the house, and indulge in unconstrained sensib...