He had the distinct feeling that she was c h a t t y. Sudden anxiety twisted in his gut tightly as he forced himself to listen carefully to her words – his mind was seeking an a p p r o p r i a t e response that which would be acceptable and far from lacking. “ Yes. I am Mr. Darcy. ” Capital reply, Darcy. Internally, he grimaced. Perhaps she would want to leave! It would certainly be a r e l i e f; yet he knew that more was required of him and he turned to face his company fully. “ Do not feel the need to depart, madam. If I have disturbed your peace, it is I who should leave. ” Better. “ Forgive me my manners, or lack thereof. I do not recall your name. ”