Mar 31, 1812
Anne overheard the previous conversation and is not pleased
ANNE
Darcy! What is wrong with you?
DARCY
Oh good grief. Do I have to climb out a window to get out of this place?
ANNE
I heard that conversation you just had with my mother.
DARCY
You heard?
ANNE
Of course. I have to keep abreast of what goes on around here. How do you think I'm able to survive this place?
DARCY
Well, we're not engaged yet if that's what you're worried about.
ANNE
You made it sound as if you're just waiting until the time is right and then we'll get married.
DARCY
Well, it's hard to make any real progress against your mother.
ANNE
Well, I certainly can't make any headway with her. It's up to you to make her see the light. You know that.
DARCY
Look, Anne. I think it's high time that you put your foot down.
ANNE
I tried that. Years ago. You remember what happened.
DARCY
Well I could certainly use some help here. Dealing with your mother on my own isn't good for my digestion.
ANNE
But there's nothing I can do.
DARCY
You're older now. More mature. More capable of fending for yourself.
ANNE
Not when she's around.
DARCY
But you're around her all the time. Start working your wiles on her. Bit by bit.
ANNE
You think it's that simple?
DARCY
Start getting out more. Go for long walks. Get some colour in your cheeks. Elope with Richard.
ANNE
Look, cousin. You're the man here. Don't chicken out on me, please.
DARCY
Well, it would certainly be nice if you could at the very least back me up on this. Your mother still thinks that you actually do want to marry me.
ANNE
Well, you don't have to live with her.
DARCY
So I have to take all the blame for ruining her plans? I'd appreciate it if you could share some of her wrath with me.
ANNE
I'm trapped here. Mother is everywhere. And when she's busy, Mrs. Jenkinson is hovering over me.
DARCY
Mrs. Jenkinson? Get rid of her.
ANNE
How?
DARCY
Maybe I can make her an offer. One that's hard to turn down.
ANNE
Oh, well done, cousin. I knew I could count on you to think of something devious.
Next dialogue: bumping into Elizabeth near Hunsford
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