[ It is perhaps quite noticeable how both Mary and Mr. Bennet's countenance changes as he mentions Newcastle. He thinks to offer a comfortable subject by speaking of a place their loved ones dwell, but neither party ever feels much inclined to hear about the place. The word "Newcastle" brings to mind money, as Lydia only writes home when she wants to wail to Mrs. Bennet that she needs more of it, for Wickham has lost it all in some fashion or another. Both of the Bennets listen politely, but when he is done there is a stretch of silence as neither rushes to ask for more information on the city. A better educated woman than Mary would know how to gracefully navigate the subject, but she can only guess at it. ]

Yes. It is clear you enjoy literature.

[ She glances away awkwardly, as if someone will appear to whisper in her ear what she should say. But then she swallows her nervousness and tells herself that she is capable of this. She is intelligent if not world savvy. ]

Have you ever read The Decameron? I have not, as I have heard it contains stories not appropriate for ladies, but I should like to read more of Italy. Have you ever been there?