Brougham Park

Chapter 15

An excellent way to spend time with one's family is by having meals together. The Dawsons' commitment to this philosophy has created a heartwarming tradition that spans years, resulting in a strong and unbreakable family connection. Breakfast, in particular, holds a special place as a meal where the family gathers to engage in intimate conversations. This time allows concerns to be shared, wishes to be expressed, and the events of the previous day to be recounted. Such moments foster a sense of togetherness and understanding among family members.

"Mr Dawson, I really think that we should hold a dinner and invite the Carters along with Mr Crew. He is such a nice gentleman and has been very kind to us all. Just the other day, as Kitty and I were walking to the village for some errands, something remarkable happened. We saw him on his horse, heading towards us from the village. He took the time to ask where we were headed, and I mentioned my plans to buy a few items. You won't believe what transpired next. He insisted on going to the village to retrieve the items for me, so I wouldn't tire myself out. Although Kitty declined his offer, he remained adamant and went to the village himself. Kitty and I walked back home, and a few hours later, Mr. Crew returned with every single item I had wanted. It's moments like these that make me consider him such a precious young man," Mrs Dawson said with enthusiasm.

"I think you are being too hasty, my dear. It has only been two weeks since Mr Crew arrived. I do not see the necessity of having a dinner party." Mr Dawson said, probably trying to avoid another dinner party in his home. There have been too many visitors at the same time in the neighbourhood that Mr Dawson felt overwhelmed by it.

Mrs Dawson, not one to be easily deterred, countered with determination. "Indeed, it's been precisely two weeks since Mr Crew's arrival. He's already received invitations from the Ferrars and even my own sister. It would be a missed opportunity if we didn't extend our hospitality as well. Who knows how much longer he plans to stay in our area?" It seemed that Mrs Dawson was well on her way to winning her point.

Kitty, too, readily concurred with her mother's suggestion, emphasising how agreeable and amiable Mr Crew appeared to be. She expressed genuine regret at the thought of such a gentleman not having the opportunity to share a meal with their family. William, having only encountered Mr Crew briefly during a visit to Charles, had relatively little to contribute to the discussion. Samantha, however, aligned herself with her sister's sentiments.

Now, the reader might be perplexed as to the change visible in Samantha. Over the span of two weeks of continuous interaction, her viewpoint regarding Mr Crew had subtly changed. His inherent straightforwardness and unwavering honesty had played a transformative role, gradually dismantling her initial reservations. While he occasionally veered into what some might consider an almost blunt honesty.

Mr Crew's presence had become a familiar one during Celia and Samantha's walks to Lockwood Village. These shared moments had consistently revealed his affable nature, devoid of any behaviours that might trigger Samantha's repulsion. However, acknowledging his positive qualities doesn't render Samantha blind to his imperfections. She had discerned that Mr Crew's emotional expressions often oscillate to extremes, particularly in moments of excitement. This tendency to wholeheartedly invest in his emotions, once ignited, becomes an undeniable trait. While his fervent enthusiasm is often endearing, there are occasions when these extreme emotional displays can verge on the slightly vexing and at times embarrassing.

The conversation during breakfast turned into a minor argument, culminating with Mrs Dawson securing a victory. While the girls were genuinely excited about the possibility of hosting another dinner party at their home within four days, Mr Dawson's countenance seemed to mirror a certain reluctance. Yet, the innate desire of a father to witness his children's happiness remained undeniable, outweighing any reservations he might have held.