( his smile widens. in a way, he is glad to hear that she would miss him. since departing for the marines years ago and limiting communication with his father before finally ceasing when atticus vacated his claim to the peerage, he has had no one to miss him. he has never stayed in one place long enough to form any connections well enough for that to happen. his desire to travel and see always trumped companionship. but, comfort can be found in the assurance that a person out there misses you. that they are sad in your absence. it's an emptiness in his heart that he has long denied himself — or just hasn't noticed until now.

he thinks he too will miss miss bennet when he leaves. )

Never fear, Miss Bennet. I have no doubt another hermit would occupy my place soon enough and bring difficulty and disorder to your doorstep.

( at her invitation, he tilts his head towards her, slightly bowing. ) If I am welcomed, I will stay for the fireworks. ( war deepened his dislike of guns but did not diminish his fascination with explosions. on his own, atticus could burn a small effigy of guy faux, but he cannot set off fireworks on his little patch of land without worrying about a fire. the grass is dry now.

across the lawn, a footman interrupts their visit, calling to him. the master of the house would like to see him. )