[ She supposes she should have seen talk of travel coming and once again Mary knows she will be lost during the conversation. Her movements are so few, her experiences so nonexistent that everyone must talk amongst themselves as if she is not there. This city is the farthest she's ever traveled and will likely not be beaten.

But now she feels rather inadequate by comparison. Kitty has been far to the north, her aunt is from there as well, and Mr. Cartwright has been to the continent. Her eyes lower to the table as she's sure Mr. Hickinbottom has traveled vastly too.

However, the man in question is naturally looking her way to observe her mood and how she finds this conversation. He comes to a conclusion and says: "Not much, no. I am a businessman through and through and wheresoever business might take me I would be happy to go, but I prefer to stay close to home." And then as if he is testing the waters, he adds while reaching for a biscuit: "I think perhaps Miss Bennet prefers to be close to home too."

She looks up, startled. When had she given any indication of that? How could he know such things? She isn't sure whether to be embarrassed and feel exposed or to be impressed at his astute observations. Mary inclines her head slightly. ]

I have often preferred to remain behind as travel does not suit me. However, were I not so wary of poor roads and weather, there are a few places I should like to see. Someday.