If Darcy only came to be disagreeable, why is he there? I can not make this work into what we know at all. Darcy does not seem to be the kind to bullied or coaxed into attending a dreary social event by Bingley or his sisters. He does not seem to be without the resources to be left at home, should they want to attend without him. Nor is Bingley the sort to infer an insult if Darcy should ask to be released. His sisters certainly should think that they can find another to dance with - it is not to ensure them a partner (FOR A SINGLE DANCE EACH!!! not that I am harping! *chuckles*) that he goes.

Was there some necessary etiquette I am missing, that requires you to accompany your host at any large social gatherings to which he might be invited during your stay? Did he go only to prove that no one in Meryton was worth his time? He is awfully forward about telling the unpalatable truths (like when Miss Bingley is told about Elizabeth Bennett's fine eyes!), but I think a lie here would have served better: "Sorry, old man, caught a dreadful cold. Probably be better by tomorrow's shooting, but you'd best go to the ball without me. I will be fine with my book. Tell me about it when you get home, there's a good fellow!"