Cassandra nodded in agreement. Henry broke in, not giving his wife the chance to respond. "The doctor's are certainly hopeful for my wife's much awaited recovery. Aren't they dear?" He looked to his wife for approval. Martha nodded with much effort, standing. "Please excuse me ladies. I think I might lay down for awhile so as to get some rest for Mr. Lefroy's ball tomorrow evening." She curtsied politely, and left the room.
Before another word could be spoken, Henry quickly spoke. "Jane dear, I should think you are awaiting the festivities with much anticipation, are you not?" He teased. "My Henry, you are quite a humorous fellow." She responded with sarcasm. "I suppose I am a bit excited at the idea, though I am hoping for a chance to see more of London during my stay as well. And maybe perhaps I might find a good spot to work on my writing." Henry and Cassandra exchanged glances. They weren't the least bit shocked to find that their sister was more interested in writing, rather than fancy balls and such. Jane stood to her feet. "Cassandra, would you care to join me for a walk around London? Matter of fact, why don't you join us too, Henry." "Of course, Jane." They agreed. It had been a while since Henry had employed the idea of a walk in the city, and Cassandra was eager to get out and perhaps meet some new people. Henry also suggested that they might attend the opera that evening. "What a splendid idea brother!" Jane exclaimed with delight.
The three of them walked the streets of London taking in all the city had to offer. With it's beautiful waters, and breath taking views, Jane thought she might feel differently about the place that she had once disliked. Or perhaps it was knowing that she was so close to Mr. Lefroy. So close, indeed. She found herself hoping that the hours might pass more quickly that day, so tomorrow would come faster. She hadn't felt such childlike anticipation in a long while, if ever. A sudden sense of happiness overcame her as she realized how well her life was at last falling into place. She stopped to admire a beautiful fountain they had come upon while walking. It had been placed directly in the middle of a large pond, surrounded by cobblestone walkways, towering trees and some of the most intricately designed benches she had ever seen. She had wanted to stay a bit longer to admire it some more, when she spotted Henry and Cassandra making their way toward her. "Jane! Would you like to return to the house for some supper before the opera?" Henry asked, smiling. "Oh, of course. I am getting quite hungry." She could feel the stabbing hunger pains. She would definitely return to this pond before heading back to Hampshire. She was already finding their trip to London so delightful.