austin.token

Project Gutenberg 's Etext of Pride and Prejudice , by Jane Austen 
# 8 in our series by Jane Austen 
 
This is version pandp09 .  . .still needs proofreading . 
 
After several years of copyright research , we have finally been 
able to find at least one edition of Pride and Prejudice we can 
base our copyright clearance on , the one volume `` Complete Works 
of Jane Austen '' in the Modern Library edition . 
 
This should be easy to find , if you are interested in proofing ,  
and any other edition published before 1923 , or before 1989 , in 
the US , without a copyright notice . 
 
 
Copyright laws are changing all over the world , be sure to check 
the copyright laws for your country before posting these files ! !  
 
Please take a look at the important information in this header . 
We encourage you to keep this file on your own disk , keeping an 
electronic path open for the next readers . Do not remove this . 
 
 
**Welcome To The World of Free Plain Vanilla Electronic Texts** 
 
**Etexts Readable By Both Humans and By Computers , Since 1971** 
 
*These Etexts Prepared By Hundreds of Volunteers and Donations* 
 
Information on contacting Project Gutenberg to get Etexts , and 
further information is included below . We need your donations . 
 
 
Pride and Prejudice 
 
by Jane Austen 
 
June , 1998 [ Etext # 1342 ]  
 
 
Project Gutenberg 's Etext of Pride and Prejudice , by Jane Austen 
******This file should be named pandp09.txt or pandp09.zip****** 
 
Corrected EDITIONS of our etexts get a new NUMBER , pandp10.txt 
VERSIONS based on separate sources get new LETTER , pandp10a.txt 
 
 
This etext was prepared by Joseph S . Miller , Pensacola , FL and 
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Library , Prescott , AZ . 
 
Project Gutenberg Etexts are usually created from multiple editions ,  
all of which are in the Public Domain in the United States , unless a 
copyright notice is included . Therefore , we do NOT keep these books 
in compliance with any particular paper edition , usually otherwise . 
 
 
We are now trying to release all our books one month in advance 
of the official release dates , for time for better editing . 
 
Please note : neither this list nor its contents are final till 
midnight of the last day of the month of any such announcement . 
The official release date of all Project Gutenberg Etexts is at 
Midnight , Central Time , of the last day of the stated month . A 
preliminary version may often be posted for suggestion , comment 
and editing by those who wish to do so . To be sure you have an 
up to date first edition [ xxxxx10x.xxx ] please check file sizes 
in the first week of the next month . Since our ftp program has 
a bug in it that scrambles the date [ tried to fix and failed ] a 
look at the file size will have to do , but we will try to see a 
new copy has at least one byte more or less . 
 
 
Information about Project Gutenberg ( one page )  
 
We produce about two million dollars for each hour we work . The 
fifty hours is one conservative estimate for how long it we take 
to get any etext selected , entered , proofread , edited , copyright 
searched and analyzed , the copyright letters written , etc . This 
projected audience is one hundred million readers . If our value 
per text is nominally estimated at one dollar then we produce $ 2 
million dollars per hour this year as we release thirty-two text 
files per month , or 384 more Etexts in 1998 for a total of 1500+ 
If these reach just 10 % of the computerized population , then the 
total should reach over 150 billion Etexts given away . 
 
The Goal of Project Gutenberg is to Give Away One Trillion Etext 
Files by the December 31 , 2001 . [ 10 , 000 x 100 , 000 , 000=Trillion ]  
This is ten thousand titles each to one hundred million readers ,  
which is only 10 % of the present number of computer users . 2001 
should have at least twice as many computer users as that , so it 
will require us reaching less than 5 % of the users in 2001 . 
 
 
We need your donations more than ever !  
 
 
All donations should be made to `` Project Gutenberg/CMU '' : and are 
tax deductible to the extent allowable by law . ( CMU = Carnegie- 
Mellon University )  . 
 
For these and other matters , please mail to :  
 
Project Gutenberg 
P . O . Box 2782 
Champaign , IL 61825 
 
When all other email fails try our Executive Director :  
Michael S . Hart < hart @ pobox.com >  
 
We would prefer to send you this information by email 
( Internet , Bitnet , Compuserve , ATTMAIL or MCImail )  . 
 
****** 
If you have an FTP program ( or emulator ) , please 
FTP directly to the Project Gutenberg archives :  
[ Mac users , do NOT point and click .  . .type ]  
 
ftp uiarchive.cso.uiuc.edu 
login : anonymous 
password : your @ login 
cd etext/etext90 through /etext96 
or cd etext/articles [ get suggest gut for more information ]  
dir [ to see files ]  
get or mget [ to get files .  . .set bin for zip files ]  
GET INDEX ? 00.GUT 
for a list of books 
and 
GET NEW GUT for general information 
and 
MGET GUT* for newsletters . 
 
**Information prepared by the Project Gutenberg legal advisor** 
( Three Pages )  
 
 
***START**THE SMALL PRINT ! **FOR PUBLIC DOMAIN ETEXTS**START*** 
Why is this `` Small Print ! '' statement here ? You know : lawyers . 
They tell us you might sue us if there is something wrong with 
your copy of this etext , even if you got it for free from 
someone other than us , and even if what 's wrong is not our 
fault . So , among other things , this `` Small Print ! '' statement 
disclaims most of our liability to you . It also tells you how 
you can distribute copies of this etext if you want to . 
 
*BEFORE ! * YOU USE OR READ THIS ETEXT 
By using or reading any part of this PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm 
etext , you indicate that you understand , agree to and accept 
this `` Small Print ! '' statement . If you do not , you can receive 
a refund of the money ( if any ) you paid for this etext by 
sending a request within 30 days of receiving it to the person 
you got it from . If you received this etext on a physical 
medium ( such as a disk ) , you must return it with your request . 
 
ABOUT PROJECT GUTENBERG-TM ETEXTS 
This PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm etext , like most PROJECT GUTENBERG- 
tm etexts , is a `` public domain '' work distributed by Professor 
Michael S . Hart through the Project Gutenberg Association at 
Carnegie-Mellon University ( the `` Project '' )  . Among other 
things , this means that no one owns a United States copyright 
on or for this work , so the Project ( and you ! ) can copy and 
distribute it in the United States without permission and 
without paying copyright royalties . Special rules , set forth 
below , apply if you wish to copy and distribute this etext 
under the Project 's `` PROJECT GUTENBERG '' trademark . 
 
To create these etexts , the Project expends considerable 
efforts to identify , transcribe and proofread public domain 
works . Despite these efforts , the Project 's etexts and any 
medium they may be on may contain `` Defects ''  . Among other 
things , Defects may take the form of incomplete , inaccurate or 
corrupt data , transcription errors , a copyright or other 
intellectual property infringement , a defective or damaged 
disk or other etext medium , a computer virus , or computer 
codes that damage or can not be read by your equipment . 
 
LIMITED WARRANTY ; DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES 
But for the `` Right of Replacement or Refund '' described below ,  
[ 1 ] the Project ( and any other party you may receive this 
etext from as a PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm etext ) disclaims all 
liability to you for damages , costs and expenses , including 
legal fees , and [ 2 ] YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE OR 
UNDER STRICT LIABILITY , OR FOR BREACH OF WARRANTY OR CONTRACT ,  
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO INDIRECT , CONSEQUENTIAL , PUNITIVE 
OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES , EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE 
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES . 
 
If you discover a Defect in this etext within 90 days of 
receiving it , you can receive a refund of the money ( if any )  
you paid for it by sending an explanatory note within that 
time to the person you received it from . If you received it 
on a physical medium , you must return it with your note , and 
such person may choose to alternatively give you a replacement 
copy . If you received it electronically , such person may 
choose to alternatively give you a second opportunity to 
receive it electronically . 
 
THIS ETEXT IS OTHERWISE PROVIDED TO YOU `` AS-IS ''  . NO OTHER 
WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND , EXPRESS OR IMPLIED , ARE MADE TO YOU AS 
TO THE ETEXT OR ANY MEDIUM IT MAY BE ON , INCLUDING BUT NOT 
LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A 
PARTICULAR PURPOSE . 
 
Some states do not allow disclaimers of implied warranties or 
the exclusion or limitation of consequential damages , so the 
above disclaimers and exclusions may not apply to you , and you 
may have other legal rights . 
 
INDEMNITY 
You will indemnify and hold the Project , its directors ,  
officers , members and agents harmless from all liability , cost 
and expense , including legal fees , that arise directly or 
indirectly from any of the following that you do or cause :  
[ 1 ] distribution of this etext , [ 2 ] alteration , modification ,  
or addition to the etext , or [ 3 ] any Defect . 
 
DISTRIBUTION UNDER `` PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm ''  
You may distribute copies of this etext electronically , or by 
disk , book or any other medium if you either delete this 
`` Small Print ! '' and all other references to Project Gutenberg ,  
or :  
 
[ 1 ] Only give exact copies of it . Among other things , this 
requires that you do not remove , alter or modify the 
etext or this `` small print ! '' statement . You may however ,  
if you wish , distribute this etext in machine readable 
binary , compressed , mark-up , or proprietary form ,  
including any form resulting from conversion by word pro- 
cessing or hypertext software , but only so long as 
*EITHER* :  
 
[ * ] The etext , when displayed , is clearly readable , and 
does *not* contain characters other than those 
intended by the author of the work , although tilde 
( ~ ) , asterisk ( * ) and underline ( _ ) characters may 
be used to convey punctuation intended by the 
author , and additional characters may be used to 
indicate hypertext links ; OR 
 
[ * ] The etext may be readily converted by the reader at 
no expense into plain ASCII , EBCDIC or equivalent 
form by the program that displays the etext ( as is 
the case , for instance , with most word processors ) ;  
OR 
 
[ * ] You provide , or agree to also provide on request at 
no additional cost , fee or expense , a copy of the 
etext in its original plain ASCII form ( or in EBCDIC 
or other equivalent proprietary form )  . 
 
[ 2 ] Honor the etext refund and replacement provisions of this 
`` Small Print ! '' statement . 
 
[ 3 ] Pay a trademark license fee to the Project of 20 % of the 
net profits you derive calculated using the method you 
already use to calculate your applicable taxes . If you 
do n't derive profits , no royalty is due . Royalties are 
payable to `` Project Gutenberg Association/Carnegie-Mellon 
University '' within the 60 days following each 
date you prepare ( or were legally required to prepare )  
your annual ( or equivalent periodic ) tax return . 
 
WHAT IF YOU *WANT* TO SEND MONEY EVEN IF YOU DO N'T HAVE TO ?  
The Project gratefully accepts contributions in money , time ,  
scanning machines , OCR software , public domain etexts , royalty 
free copyright licenses , and every other sort of contribution 
you can think of . Money should be paid to `` Project Gutenberg 
Association / Carnegie-Mellon University ''  . 
 
*END*THE SMALL PRINT ! FOR PUBLIC DOMAIN ETEXTS*Ver.04.29.93*END* 
 
 
 
 
 
This is version pandp09 .  . .still needs proofreading . 
 
After several years of copyright research , we have finally been 
able to find at least one edition of Pride and Prejudice we can 
base our copyright clearance on , the one volume `` Complete Works 
of Jane Austen '' in the Modern Library edition . 
 
This should be easy to find , if you are interested in proofing ,  
and any other edition published before 1923 , or before 1989 , in 
the US , without a copyright notice . 
 
 
 
 
 
Pride and Prejudice 
by Jane Austen 
 
 
 
 
Chapter 1 
 
It is a truth universally acknowledged , that a single man in 
possession of a large fortune must be in want of a wife . 
 
However little known the feelings or views of such a man may 
be on his first entering a neighbourhood , this truth is so well 
fixed in the minds of the surrounding families , that he is 
considered the rightful property of someone or other of their 
daughters . 
 
`` My dear Mr . Bennet , '' said his lady to him one day , `` have you 
heard that Netherfield Park is let at last ? ''  
 
Mr . Bennet replied that he had not . 
 
`` But it is , returned she ; `` for Mrs . Long has just been here , and 
she told me all about it . 
 
Mr . Bennet made no answer . 
 
`` Do you not want to know who has taken it ? '' cried his wife 
impatiently . 
 
`` YOU want to tell me , and I have no objection to hearing it . ''  
 
This was invitation enough . 
 
`` Why , my dear , you must know , Mrs . Long says that 
Netherfield is taken by a young man of large fortune from the 
north of England ; that he came down on Monday in a chaise 
and four to see the place , and was so much delighted with it ,  
that he agreed with Mr . Morris immediately ; that he is to take 
possession before Michaelmas , and some of his servants are to 
be in the house by the end of next week . ''  
 
`` What is his name ? ''  
 
`` Bingley . ''  
 
`` Is he married or single ? ''  
 
`` Oh ! Single , my dear , to be sure ! A single man of large 
fortune ; four or five thousand a year . What a fine thing for our 
girls ! ''  
 
`` How so ? How can it affect them ? ''  
 
`` My dear Mr . Bennet , '' replied his wife , `` how can you be so 
tiresome ! You must know that I am thinking of his marrying 
one of them . ''  
 
`` Is that his design in settling here ? ''  
 
`` Design ! Nonsense , how can you talk so ! But it is very likely 
that he MAY fall in love with one of them , and therefore you 
must visit him as soon as he comes . ''  
 
`` I see no occasion for that . You and the girls may go , or you 
may send them by themselves , which perhaps will be still 
better , for as you are as handsome as any of them , Mr . Bingley 
may like you the best of the party . ''  
 
`` My dear , you flatter me . I certainly HAVE had my share of 
beauty , but I do not pretend to be anything extraordinary now . 
When a woman has five grown-up daughters , she ought to give 
over thinking of her own beauty . ''  
 
`` In such cases , a woman has not often much beauty to think 
of . ''  
 
`` But , my dear , you must indeed go and see Mr . Bingley when 
he comes into the neighbourhood . ''  
 
`` It is more than I engage for , I assure you . ''  
 
`` But consider your daughters . Only think what an 
establishment it would be for one of them . Sir William and 
Lady Lucas are determined to go , merely on that account , for 
in general , you know , they visit no newcomers . Indeed you 
must go , for it will be impossible for US to visit him if you do 
not . ''  
 
`` You are over-scrupulous , surely . I dare say Mr . Bingley will 
be very glad to see you ; and I will send a few lines by you to 
assure him of my hearty consent to his marrying whichever he 
chooses of the girls ; though I must throw in a good word for 
my little Lizzy . ''  
 
`` I desire you will do no such thing . Lizzy is not a bit better 
than the others ; and I am sure she is not half so handsome as 
Jane , nor half so good-humoured as Lydia . But you are always 
giving HER the preference . ''  
 
`` They have none of them much to recommend them , '' replied 
he ; `` they are all silly and ignorant like other girls ; but Lizzy has 
something more of quickness than her sisters . ''  
 
`` Mr . Bennet , how CAN you abuse your own children in such a 
way ? You take delight in vexing me . You have no compassion 
for my poor nerves . ''  
 
`` You mistake me , my dear . I have a high respect for your 
nerves . They are my old friends . I have heard you mention 
them with consideration these last twenty years at least . ''  
 
Mr . Bennet was so odd a mixture of quick parts , sarcastic 
humour , reserve , and caprice , that the experience of three-and- 
twenty years had been insufficient to make his wife understand 
his character . HER mind was less difficult to develop . She was 
a woman of mean understanding , little information , and 
uncertain temper . When she was discontented , she fancied 
herself nervous . The business of her life was to get her 
daughters married ; its solace was visiting and news . 
 
 
 
Chapter 2 
 
Mr . Bennet was among the earliest of those who waited on Mr . 
Bingley . He had always intended to visit him , though to the last 
always assuring his wife that he should not go ; and till the 
evening after the visit was paid she had no knowledge of it . It 
was then disclosed in the following manner : -- Observing his 
second daughter employed in trimming a hat , he suddenly 
addressed her with :  
 
`` I hope Mr . Bingley will like it , Lizzy . ''  
 
`` We are not in a way to know WHAT Mr . Bingley likes , '' said 
her mother resentfully , `` since we are not to visit . ''  
 
`` But you forget , mamma , '' said Elizabeth , `` that we shall meet 
him at the assemblies , and that Mrs . Long promised to introduce 
him . ''  
 
`` I do not believe Mrs . Long will do any such thing . She has two 
nieces of her own . She is a selfish , hypocritical woman , and I 
have no opinion of her . ''  
 
`` No more have I , '' said Mr . Bennet ; `` and I am glad to find that 
you do not depend on her serving you . ''  
 
Mrs . Bennet deigned not to make any reply , but , unable to 
contain herself , began scolding one of her daughters . 
 
`` Do n't keep coughing so , Kitty , for Heaven 's sake ! Have a little 
compassion on my nerves . You tear them to pieces . ''  
 
`` Kitty has no discretion in her coughs , '' said her father ; `` she 
times them ill . ''  
 
`` I do not cough for my own amusement , '' replied Kitty fretfully . 
`` When is your next ball to be , Lizzy ? ''  
 
`` To-morrow fortnight . ''  
 
`` Aye , so it is , '' cried her mother , `` and Mrs . Long does not come 
back till the day before ; so it will be impossible for her to 
introduce him , for she will not know him herself . ''  
 
`` Then , my dear , you may have the advantage of your friend , and 
introduce Mr . Bingley to HER . ''  
 
`` Impossible , Mr . Bennet , impossible , when I am not acquainted 
with him myself ; how can you be so teasing ? ''  
 
`` I honour your circumspection . A fortnight 's acquaintance is 
certainly very little . One can not know what a man really is by 
the end of a fortnight . But if WE do not venture somebody else 
will ; and after all , Mrs . Long and her daughters must stand their 
chance ; and , therefore , as she will think it an act of kindness , if 
you decline the office , I will take it on myself . ''  
 
The girls stared at their father . Mrs . Bennet said only ,  
`` Nonsense , nonsense ! ''  
 
`` What can be the meaning of that emphatic exclamation ? '' cried 
he . `` Do you consider the forms of introduction , and the stress 
that is laid on them , as nonsense ? I can not quite agree with you 
THERE . What say you , Mary ? For you are a young lady of 
deep reflection , I know , and read great books and make 
extracts . ''  
 
Mary wished to say something sensible , but knew not how . 
 
`` While Mary is adjusting her ideas , '' he continued , `` let us return 
to Mr . Bingley . ''  
 
`` I am sick of Mr . Bingley , '' cried his wife . 
 
`` I am sorry to hear THAT ; but why did not you tell me that 
before ? If I had known as much this morning I certainly would 
not have called on him . It is very unlucky ; but as I have actually 
paid the visit ; we can not escape the acquaintance now . ''  
 
The astonishment of the ladies was just what he wished ; that of 
Mrs . Bennet perhaps surpassing the rest ; though , when the first 
tumult of joy was over , she began to declare that it was what she 
had expected all the while . 
 
`` How good it was in you , my dear Mr . Bennet ! But I knew I 
should 
persuade you at last . I was sure you loved your girls too well to 
neglect such an acquaintance . Well , how pleased I am ! and it is 
such a good joke , too , that you should have gone this morning 
and never said a word about it till now . ''  
 
`` Now , Kitty , you may cough as much as you choose , '' said Mr . 
Bennet ; and , as he spoke , he left the room , fatigued with the 
raptures of his wife . 
 
What an excellent father you have , girls ! '' said she , when the 
door was shut . `` I do not know how you will ever make him 
amends for his kindness ; or me , either , for that matter . At our 
time of life it is not so pleasant , I can tell you , to be making new 
acquaintances every day ; but for your sakes , we would do 
anything . Lydia , my love , though you ARE the youngest , I dare 
say Mr . Bingley will dance with you at the next ball . ''  
 
`` Oh ! '' said Lydia stoutly , `` I am not afraid ; for though I AM the 
youngest , I 'm the tallest . ''  
 
The rest of the evening was spent in conjecturing how soon he 
would return Mr . Bennet 's visit , and determining when they 
should ask him to dinner . 
 
 
 
Chapter 3 
 
Not all that Mrs . Bennet , however , with the assistance of her 
five daughters , could ask on the subject , was sufficient to draw 
from her husband any satisfactory description of Mr . Bingley . 
They attacked him in various way -- with barefaced questions ,  
ingenious suppositions , and distant surmises ; but he eluded the 
skill of them all , and they were at last obliged to accept the 
second-hand intelligence of their neighbour , Lady Lucas . Her 
report was highly favourable . Sir William had been delighted 
with him . He was quite young , wonderfully handsome ,  
extremely agreeable , and , to crown the whole , he meant to be 
at the next assembly with a large party . Nothing could be more 
delightful ! To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards 
falling in love ; and very lively hopes of Mr . Bingley 's heart 
were entertained . 
 
`` If I can but see one of my daughters happily settled at 
Netherfield , '' said Mrs . Bennet to her husband , `` and all the 
others equally well married , I shall have nothing to wish for . ''  
 
In a few days Mr . Bingley returned Mr . Bennet 's visit , and sat 
about ten minutes with him in his library . He had entertained 
hopes of being admitted to a sight of the young ladies , of 
whose beauty he had heard much ; but he saw only the father . 
The ladies were somewhat more fortunate , for they had the 
advantage of ascertaining from an upper window that he wore 
a blue coat , and rode a black horse . 
 
An invitation to dinner was soon afterwards dispatched ; and 
already had Mrs . Bennet planned the courses that were to do 
credit to her housekeeping , when an answer arrived which 
deferred it all . Mr . Bingley was obliged to be in town the 
following day , and , consequently , unable to accept the honour 
of their invitation , etc . Mrs . Bennet was quite disconcerted . 
She could not imagine what business he could have in town so 
soon after his arrival in Hertfordshire ; and she began to fear 
that he might be always flying about from one place to another ,  
and never settled at Netherfield as he ought to be . Lady Lucas 
quieted her fears a little by starting the idea of his being gone 
to London only to get a large party for the ball ; and a report 
soon followed , that Mr . Bingley was to bring twelve ladies and 
seven gentlemen with him to the assembly . The girls grieved 
over such a number of ladies , but were comforted the day 
before the ball by hearing , that instead of twelve he brought 
only six with him from London -- his five sisters and a cousin . 
And when the party entered the assembly room it consisted of 
only five altogether -- Mr . Bingley , his two sisters , the husband 
of the eldest , and another young man . 
 
Mr . Bingley was good-looking and gentlemanlike ; he had a 
pleasant countenance , and easy , unaffected manners . His 
sisters were fine women , with an air of decided fashion . His 
brother-in-law , Mr . Hurst , merely looked the gentleman ; but 
his friend Mr . Darcy soon drew the attention of the room by 
his fine , tall person , handsome features , noble mien , and the 
report which was in general circulation within five minutes 
after his entrance , of his having ten thousand a year . The 
gentlemen pronounced him to be a fine figure of a man , the 
ladies declared he was much handsomer than Mr . Bingley , and 
he was looked at with great admiration for about half the 
evening , till his manners gave a disgust which turned the tide of 
his popularity ; for he was discovered to be proud ; to be above 
his company , and above being pleased ; and not all his large 
estate in Derbyshire could then save him from having a most 
forbidding , disagreeable countenance , and being unworthy to 
be compared with his friend . 
 
Mr . Bingley had soon made himself acquainted with all the 
principal people in the room ; he was lively and unreserved ,  
danced every dance , was angry that the ball closed so early ,  
and talked of giving one himself at Netherfield . Such amiable 
qualities must speak for themselves . What a contrast between 
him and his friend ! Mr . Darcy danced only once with Mrs . 
Hurst and once with Miss Bingley , declined being introduced 
to any other lady , and spent the rest of the evening in walking 
about the room , speaking occasionally to one of his own party . 
His character was decided . He was the proudest , most 
disagreeable man in the world , and everybody hoped that he 
would never come there again . Amongst the most violent 
against him was Mrs . Bennet , whose dislike of his general 
behaviour was sharpened into particular resentment by his 
having slighted one of her daughters . 
 
Elizabeth Bennet had been obliged , by the scarcity of 
gentlemen , to sit down for two dances ; and during part of that 
time , Mr . Darcy had been standing near enough for her to hear 
a conversation between him and Mr . Bingley , who came from 
the dance for a few minutes , to press his friend to join it . 
 
`` Come , Darcy , '' said he , `` I must have you dance . I hate to see 
you standing about by yourself in this stupid manner . You had 
much better dance . ''  
 
`` I certainly shall not . You know how I detest it , unless I am 
particularly acquainted with my partner . At such an assembly as 
this it would be insupportable . Your sisters are engaged , and 
there is not another woman in the room whom it would not be a 
punishment to me to stand up with . ''  
 
`` I would not be so fastidious as you are , '' cried Mr . Bingley ,  
`` for a kingdom ! Upon my honour , I never met with so many 
pleasant girls in my life as I have this evening ; and there are 
several of them you see uncommonly pretty . ''  
 
`` YOU are dancing with the only handsome girl in the room , ''  
said Mr . Darcy , looking at the eldest Miss Bennet . 
 
`` Oh ! She is the most beautiful creature I ever beheld ! But 
there is one of her sisters sitting down just behind you , who is 
very pretty , and I dare say very agreeable . Do let me ask my 
partner to introduce you . ''  
 
`` Which do you mean ? '' and turning round he looked for a 
moment at Elizabeth , till catching her eye , he withdrew his own 
and coldly said : `` She is tolerable , but not handsome enough to 
tempt ME ; I am in no humour at present to give consequence 
to young ladies who are slighted by other men . You had better 
return to your partner and enjoy her smiles , for you are wasting 
your time with me . ''  
 
Mr . Bingley followed his advice . Mr . Darcy walked off ; and 
Elizabeth remained with no very cordial feelings toward him . 
She told the story , however , with great spirit among her 
friends ; for she had a lively , playful disposition , which delighted 
in anything ridiculous . 
 
The evening altogether passed off pleasantly to the whole 
family . Mrs . Bennet had seen her eldest daughter much 
admired by the Netherfield party . Mr . Bingley had danced with 
her twice , and she had been distinguished by his sisters . Jane 
was as much gratified by this as her mother could be , though in 
a quieter way . Elizabeth felt Jane 's pleasure . Mary had heard 
herself mentioned to Miss Bingley as the most accomplished 
girl in the neighbourhood ; and Catherine and Lydia had been 
fortunate enough never to be without partners , which was all 
that they had yet learnt to care for at a ball . They returned ,  
therefore , in good spirits to Longbourn , the village where they 
lived , and of which they were the principal inhabitants . They 
found Mr . Bennet still up . With a book he was regardless of 
time ; and on the present occasion he had a good deal of 
curiosity as to the events of an evening which had raised such 
splendid expectations . He had rather hoped that his wife's 
views on the stranger would be disappointed ; but he soon 
found out that he had a different story to hear . 
 
`` Oh ! my dear Mr . Bennet , '' as she entered the room , `` we have 
had a most delightful evening , a most excellent ball . I wish you 
had been there . Jane was so admired , nothing could be like it . 
Everybody said how well she looked ; and Mr . Bingley thought 
her quite beautiful , and danced with her twice ! Only think of 
THAT , my dear ; he actually danced with her twice ! and she was 
the only creature in the room that he asked a second time . 
First of all , he asked Miss Lucas . I was so vexed to see him 
stand up with her ! But , however , he did not admire her at all ;  
indeed , nobody can , you know ; and he seemed quite struck with 
Jane as she was going down the dance . So he inquired who she 
was , and got introduced , and asked her for the two next . Then 
the two third he danced with Miss King , and the two fourth with 
Maria Lucas , and the two fifth with Jane again , and the two 
sixth with Lizzy , and the BOULANGER -- ''  
 
`` If he had had any compassion for ME , '' cried her husband 
impatiently , `` he would not have danced half so much ! For God's 
sake , say no more of his partners . O that he had 
sprained his ankle in the first place ! ''  
 
`` Oh ! my dear , I am quite delighted with him . He is so 
excessively handsome ! And his sisters are charming women . I 
never in my life saw anything more elegant than their dresses . I 
dare say the lace upon Mrs . Hurst 's gown -- ''  
 
Here she was interrupted again . Mr . Bennet protested against 
any description of finery . She was therefore obliged to seek 
another branch of the subject , and related , with much bitterness 
of spirit and some exaggeration , the shocking rudeness of Mr . 
Darcy . 
 
`` But I can assure you , '' she added , `` that Lizzy does not lose 
much by not suiting HIS fancy ; for he is a most disagreeable ,  
horrid man , not at all worth pleasing . So high and so conceited 
that there was no enduring him ! He walked here , and he 
walked there , fancying himself so very great ! Not handsome 
enough to dance with ! I wish you had been there , my dear , to 
have given him one of your set-downs . I quite detest the man . ''  
 
 
 
Chapter 4 
 
When Jane and Elizabeth were alone , the former , who had been 
cautious in her praise of Mr . Bingley before , expressed to her 
sister just how very much she admired him . 
 
`` He is just what a young man ought to be , '' said she , `` sensible ,  
good-humoured , lively ; and I never saw such happy manners ! --  
so much ease , with such perfect good breeding ! ''  
 
`` He is also handsome , '' replied Elizabeth , `` which a young man 
ought likewise to be , if he possibly can . His character is thereby 
complete . ''  
 
`` I was very much flattered by his asking me to dance a second 
time . I did not expect such a compliment . ''  
 
`` Did not you ? _I_ did for you . But that is one great difference 
between us . Compliments always take YOU by surprise , and 
ME never . What could be more natural than his asking you 
again ? He could not help seeing that you were about five times 
as pretty as every other woman in the room . No thanks to his 
gallantry for that . Well , he certainly is very agreeable , and I 
give you leave to like him . You have liked many a stupider 
person . ''  
 
`` Dear Lizzy ! ''  
 
`` Oh ! you are a great deal too apt , you know , to like people in 
general . You never see a fault in anybody . All the world are 
good and agreeable in your eyes . I never heard you speak ill of 
a human being in your life . ''  
 
`` I would not wish to be hasty in censuring anyone ; but I always 
speak what I think . ''  
 
`` I know you do ; and it is THAT which makes the wonder . With 
YOUR good sense , to be so honestly blind to the follies and 
nonsense of others ! Affectation of candour is common enough --  
one meets with it everywhere . But to be candid without 
ostentation or design -- to take the good of everybody's 
character and make it still better , and say nothing of the bad --  
belongs to you alone . And so you like this man 's sisters , too , do 
you ? Their manners are not equal to his . ''  
 
`` Certainly not -- at first . But they are very pleasing women when 
you converse with them . Miss Bingley is to live with her 
brother , and keep his house ; and I am much mistaken if we shall 
not find a very charming neighbour in her . ''  
 
Elizabeth listened in silence , but was not convinced ; their 
behaviour at the assembly had not been calculated to please in 
general ; and with more quickness of observation and less pliancy 
of temper than her sister , and with a judgement too unassailed by 
any attention to herself , she was very little disposed to approve 
them . They were in fact very fine ladies ; not deficient in good 
humour when they were pleased , nor in the power of making 
themselves agreeable when they chose it , but proud and 
conceited . They were rather handsome , had been educated in 
one of the first private seminaries in town , had a fortune of 
twenty thousand pounds , were in the habit of spending more 
than they ought , and of associating with people of rank , and 
were therefore in every respect entitled to think well of 
themselves , and meanly of others . They were of a respectable 
family in the north of England ; a circumstance more deeply 
impressed on their memories than that their brother 's fortune 
and their own had been acquired by trade . 
 
Mr . Bingley inherited property to the amount of nearly a 
hundred thousand pounds from his father , who had intended to 
purchase an estate , but did not live to do it . Mr . Bingley 
intended it likewise , and sometimes made choice of his county ;  
but as he was now provided with a good house and the liberty of 
a manor , it was doubtful to many of those who best knew the 
easiness of his temper , whether he might not spend the 
remainder of his days at Netherfield , and leave the next 
generation to purchase . 
 
His sisters were anxious for his having an estate of his own ; but ,  
though he was now only established as a tenant , Miss Bingley 
was by no means unwilling to preside at his table -- nor was Mrs . 
Hurst , who had married a man of more fashion than fortune , less 
disposed to consider his house as her home when it suited her . 
Mr . Bingley had not been or age two years , when he was tempted 
by an accidental recommendation to look at Netherfield House . 
He did look at it , and into it for half-an-hour -- was pleased with 
the situation and the principal rooms , satisfied with what the 
owner said in its praise , and took it immediately . 
 
Between him and Darcy there was a very steady friendship , in 
spite of great opposition of character . Bingley was endeared to 
Darcy by the easiness , openness , and ductility of his temper ,  
though no disposition could offer a greater contrast to his own ,  
and though with his own he never appeared dissatisfied . On the 
strength of Darcy 's regard , Bingley had the firmest reliance , and 
of his judgement the highest opinion . In understanding , Darcy 
was the superior . Bingley was by no means deficient , but Darcy 
was clever . He was at the same time haughty , reserved , and 
fastidious , and his manners , though well-bred , were not inviting . 
In that respect his friend had greatly the advantage . Bingley was 
sure of being liked wherever he appeared , Darcy was continually 
giving offense . 
 
The manner in which they spoke of the Meryton assembly was 
sufficiently characteristic . Bingley had never met with more 
pleasant people or prettier girls in his life ; everybody had been 
most kind and attentive to him ; there had been no formality , no 
stiffness ; he had soon felt acquainted with all the room ; and , as 
to Miss Bennet , he could not conceive an angel more beautiful . 
Darcy , on the contrary , had seen a collection of people in whom 
there was little beauty and no fashion , for none of whom he had 
felt the smallest interest , and from none received either attention 
or pleasure . Miss Bennet he acknowledged to be pretty , but she 
smiled too much . 
 
Mrs . Hurst and her sister allowed it to be so -- but still they 
admired her and liked her , and pronounced her to be a sweet 
girl , and one whom they would not object to know more of . 
Miss Bennet was therefore established as a sweet girl , and their 
brother felt authorized by such commendation to think of her as 
he chose . 
 
 
 
Chapter 5 
 
Within a short walk of Longbourn lived a family with whom 
the Bennets were particularly intimate . Sir William Lucas had 
been formerly in trade in Meryton , where he had made a 
tolerable fortune , and risen to the honour of knighthood by an 
address to the king during his mayoralty . The distinction had 
perhaps been felt too strongly . It had given him a disgust to 
his business , and to his residence in a small market town ; and ,  
in quitting them both , he had removed with his family to a 
house about a mile from Meryton , denominated from that 
period Lucas Lodge , where he could think with pleasure of his 
own importance , and , unshackled by business , occupy himself 
solely in being civil to all the world . For , though elated by his 
rank , it did not render him supercilious ; on the contrary , he was 
all attention to everybody . By nature inoffensive , friendly , and 
obliging , his presentation at St . James 's had made him 
courteous . 
 
Lady Lucas was a very good kind of woman , not too clever to 
be a valuable neighbour to Mrs . Bennet . They had several 
children . The eldest of them , a sensible , intelligent young 
woman , about twenty-seven , was Elizabeth 's intimate friend . 
 
That the Miss Lucases and the Miss Bennets should meet to 
talk over a ball was absolutely necessary ; and the morning after 
the assembly brought the former to Longbourn to hear and to 
communicate . `` YOU began the evening well , Charlotte , '' said 
Mrs . Bennet with civil self-command to Miss Lucas . `` YOU 
were Mr . Bingley 's first choice . ''  
 
`` Yes ; but he seemed to like his second better . ''  
 
`` Oh ! you mean Jane , I suppose , because he danced with her 
twice . To be sure that DID seem as if he admired her -- indeed I 
rather believe he DID -- I heard something about it -- but I 
hardly know what -- something about Mr . Robinson . ''  
 
`` Perhaps you mean what I overheard between him and Mr . 
Robinson ; did not I mention it to you ? Mr . Robinson 's asking 
him how he liked our Meryton assemblies , and whether he did 
not think there were a great many pretty women in the room ,  
and WHICH he thought the prettiest ? and his answering 
immediately to the last question : Oh ! the eldest Miss Bennet ,  
beyond a doubt ; there can not be two opinions on that point . ' ``  
 
`` Upon my word ! Well , that is very decided indeed -- that does 
seem as if -- but , however , it may all come to nothing , you 
know . ''  
 
`` MY overhearings were more to the purpose than YOURS ,  
Eliza , '' said Charlotte . `` Mr . Darcy is not so well worth 
listening to as his friend , is he ? -- poor Eliza ! -- to be only just 
TOLERABLE . ''  
 
`` I beg you would not put it into Lizzy 's head to be vexed by 
his ill-treatment , for he is such a disagreeable man , that it 
would be quite a misfortune to be liked by him . Mrs . Long 
told me last night that he sat close to her for half-an-hour 
without once opening his lips . ''  
 
`` Are you quite sure , ma'am ? -- is not there a little mistake ? ''  
said Jane . `` I certainly saw Mr . Darcy speaking to her . ''  
 
`` Aye -- because she asked him at last how he liked Netherfield ,  
and he could not help answering her ; but she said he seemed 
quite angry at being spoke to . ''  
 
`` Miss Bingley told me , '' said Jane , `` that he never speaks much ,  
unless among his intimate acquaintances . With THEM he is 
remarkably agreeable . ''  
 
`` I do not believe a word of it , my dear . If he had been so very 
agreeable , he would have talked to Mrs . Long . But I can guess 
how it was ; everybody says that he is eat up with pride , and I 
dare say he had heard somehow that Mrs . Long does not keep 
a carriage , and had come to the ball in a hack chaise . ''  
 
`` I do not mind his not talking to Mrs . Long , '' said Miss Lucas ,  
`` but I wish he had danced with Eliza . ''  
 
`` Another time , Lizzy , '' said her mother , `` I would not dance 
with HIM , if I were you . ''  
 
`` I believe , ma'am , I may safely promise you NEVER to dance 
with him . ''  
 
`` His pride , '' said Miss Lucas , `` does not offend ME so much as 
pride often does , because there is an excuse for it . One cannot 
wonder that so very fine a young man , with family , fortune ,  
everything in his favour , should think highly of himself . If I 
may so express it , he has a RIGHT to be proud . ''  
 
`` That is very true , '' replied Elizabeth , `` and I could easily 
forgive HIS pride , if he had not mortified MINE . ''  
 
`` Pride , '' observed Mary , who piqued herself upon the solidity 
of her reflections , `` is a very common failing , I believe . By all 
that I have ever read , I am convinced that it is very common 
indeed ; that human nature is particularly prone to it , and that 
there are very few of us who do not cherish a feeling of 
self-complacency on the score of some quality or other , real or 
imaginary . Vanity a pride are different things , though the 
words are often used synonymously . A person may be proud 
without being vain . Pride relates more to our opinion of 
ourselves , vanity to what we would have others think of us . ''  
 
`` If I were as rich as Mr . Darcy , '' cried a young Lucas , who 
came with his sisters , `` I should not care how proud I was . I 
would keep a pack of foxhounds , and drink a bottle of wine a 
day . ''  
 
`` Then you would drink a great deal more than you ought , '' said 
Mrs . Bennet ; `` and if I were to see you at it , I should take away 
your bottle directly . ''  
 
The boy protested that she should not ; she continued to declare 
that she would , and the argument ended only with the visit . 
 
 
 
Chapter 6 
 
The ladies of Longbourn soon waited on those of Netherfield . 
The visit was soon returned in due form . Miss Bennet's 
pleasing manners grew on the goodwill of Mrs . Hurst and Miss 
Bingley ; and though the mother was found to be intolerable ,  
and the younger sisters not worth speaking to , a wish of 
being better acquainted with THEM was expressed towards 
the two eldest . By Jane , this attention was received with the 
greatest pleasure , but Elizabeth still saw superciliousness in 
their treatment of everybody , hardly excepting even her sister ,  
and could not like them ; though their kindness to Jane , such as it 
was , had a value as arising in all probability from the influence 
of their brother 's admiration . It was generally evident 
whenever they met , that he DID admire her and to HER it was 
equally evident that Jane was yielding to the preference which 
she had begun to entertain for him from the first , and was in a 
way to be very much in love ; but she considered with pleasure 
that it was not likely to be discovered by the world in general ,  
since Jane united , with great strength of feeling , a composure 
of temper and a uniform cheerfulness of manner which would 
guard her from the suspicions of the impertinent . She 
mentioned this to her friend Miss Lucas . 
 
`` It may perhaps be pleasant , '' replied Charlotte , `` to be able to 
impose on the public in such a case ; but it is sometimes a 
disadvantage to be so very guarded . If a woman conceals her 
affection with the same skill from the object of it , she may lose 
the opportunity of fixing him ; and it will then be but poor 
consolation to believe the world equally in the dark . There is 
so much of gratitude or vanity in almost every attachment , that 
it is not safe to leave any to itself . We can all BEGIN freely -- a 
slight preference is natural enough ; but there are very few of us 
who have heart enough to be really in love without 
encouragement . In nine cases out of ten a women had better 
show MORE affection than she feels . Bingley , likes your 
sister , undoubtedly ; but he may never do more than like her , if 
she does not help him on . ''  
 
`` But she does help him on , as much as her nature will allow . If 
_I_ can perceive her regard for him , he must be a simpleton ,  
indeed , not to discover it too . ''  
 
`` Remember , Eliza , that he does not know Jane 's disposition as 
you do . ''  
 
`` But if a woman is partial to a man , and does not endeavour to 
conceal it , he must find it out . ''  
 
`` Perhaps he must , if he sees enough of her . But , though 
Bingley and Jane meet tolerably often , it is never for many 
hours together ; and , as they always see each other in large 
mixed parties , it is impossible that every moment should be 
employed in conversing together . Jane should therefore make 
the most of every half-hour in which she can command his 
attention . When she is secure of him , there will be more leisure 
for falling in love as much as she chooses . ''  
 
`` Your plan is a good one , '' replied Elizabeth , `` where nothing is 
in question but the desire of being well married , and if I were 
determined to get a rich husband , or any husband , I dare say I 
should adopt it . But these are not Jane 's feelings ; she is not 
acting by design . As yet , she can not even be certain of the 
degree of her own regard nor of its reasonableness . She has 
known him only a fortnight . She danced four dances with him 
at Meryton ; she saw him one morning at his own house , and 
has since dined with him in company four times . This is not 
quite enough to make her understand his character . ''  
 
`` Not as you represent it . Had she merely DINED with him , she 
might only have discovered whether he had a good appetite ; but 
you must remember that four evenings have also been spent 
together -- and four evenings may do a great deal . ''  
 
`` Yes ; these four evenings have enabled them to ascertain that 
they both like Vingt-un better than Commerce ; but with respect 
to any other leading characteristic , I do not imagine that much 
has been unfolded . ''  
 
`` Well , '' said Charlotte , `` I wish Jane success with all my heart ;  
and if she were married to him to-morrow , I should think she 
had as good a chance of happiness as if she were to be studying 
his character for a twelvemonth . Happiness in marriage is 
entirely a matter of chance . If the dispositions of the parties are 
ever so well known to each other or ever so similar beforehand ,  
it does not advance their felicity in the least . They always 
continue to grow sufficiently unlike afterwards to have their 
share of vexation ; and it is better to know as little as possible of 
the defects of the person with whom you are to pass your life . ''  
 
`` You make me laugh , Charlotte ; but it is not sound . You know 
it is not sound , and that you would never act in this way 
yourself . ''  
 
Occupied in observing Mr . Bingley 's attentions to her sister ,  
Elizabeth was far from suspecting that she was herself becoming 
an object of some interest in the eyes of his friend . Mr . Darcy 
had at first scarcely allowed her to be pretty ; he had looked at 
her without admiration at the ball ; and when they next met , he 
looked at her only to criticise . But no sooner had he made it 
clear to himself and his friends that she hardly had a good feature 
in her face , than he began to find it was rendered uncommonly 
intelligent by the beautiful expression of her dark eyes . To this 
discovery succeeded some others equally mortifying . Though he 
had detected with a critical eye more than one failure of perfect 
symmetry in her form , he was forced to acknowledge her figure 
to be light and pleasing ; and in spite of his asserting that her 
manners were not those of the fashionable world , he was caught 
by their easy playfulness . Of this she was perfectly unaware ; to 
her he was only the man who made himself agreeable nowhere ,  
and who had not thought her handsome enough to dance with . 
 
He began to wish to know more of her , and as a step towards 
conversing with her himself , attended to her conversation with 
others . His doing so drew her notice . It was at Sir William 
Lucas 's , where a large party were assembled . 
 
`` What does Mr . Darcy mean , '' said she to Charlotte , `` by 
listening to my conversation with Colonel Forster ? ''  
 
`` That is a question which Mr . Darcy only can answer . ''  
 
`` But if he does it any more I shall certainly let him know that I 
see what he is about . He has a very satirical eye , and if I do not 
begin by being impertinent myself , I shall soon grow afraid of 
him . ''  
 
On his approaching them soon afterwards , though without 
seeming to have any intention of speaking , Miss Lucas defied 
her friend to mention such a subject to him ; which immediately 
provoking Elizabeth to do it , she turned to him and said :  
 
`` Did you not think , Mr . Darcy , that I expressed myself 
uncommonly well just now , when I was teasing Colonel Forster 
to give us a ball at Meryton ? ''  
 
`` With great energy ; but it is always a subject which makes a lady 
energetic . ''  
 
`` You are severe on us . ''  
 
`` It will be HER turn soon to be teased , '' said Miss Lucas . `` I 
am going to open the instrument , Eliza , and you know what 
follows . ''  
 
`` You are a very strange creature by way of a friend ! -- always 
wanting me to play and sing before anybody and everybody ! If 
my vanity had taken a musical turn , you would have been 
invaluable ; but as it is , I would really rather not sit down before 
those who must be in the habit of hearing the very best 
performers . '' On Miss Lucas 's persevering , however , she added ,  
`` Very well , if it must be so , it must . '' And gravely glancing at Mr . 
Darcy , `` There is a fine old saying , which everybody here is of 
course familiar with : 'Keep your breath to cool your porridge ' ;  
and I shall keep mine to swell my song . ''  
 
Her performance was pleasing , though by no means capital . 
After a song or two , and before she could reply to the entreaties 
of several that she would sing again , she was eagerly succeeded 
at the instrument by her sister Mary , who having , in consequence 
of being the only plain one in the family , worked hard for 
knowledge and accomplishments , was always impatient for 
display . 
 
Mary had neither genius nor taste ; and though vanity had given 
her application , it had given her likewise a pedantic air and 
conceited manner , which would have injured a higher degree of 
excellence than she had reached . Elizabeth , easy and unaffected ,  
had been listened to with much more pleasure , though not 
playing half so well ; and Mary , at the end of a long concerto ,  
was glad to purchase praise and gratitude by Scotch and Irish 
airs , at the request of her younger sisters , who , with some of the 
Lucases , and two or three officers , joined eagerly in dancing at 
one end of the room . 
 
Mr . Darcy stood near them in silent indignation at such a mode 
of passing the evening , to the exclusion of all conversation , and 
was too much engrossed by his thoughts to perceive that Sir 
William Lucas was his neighbour , till Sir William thus began :  
 
`` What a charming amusement for young people this is , Mr . 
Darcy ! There is nothing like dancing after all . I consider it as 
one of the first refinements of polished society . ''  
 
`` Certainly , sir ; and it has the advantage also of being in vogue 
amongst the less polished societies of the world . Every savage 
can dance . ''  
 
Sir William only smiled . `` Your friend performs delightfully , '' he 
continued after a pause , on seeing Bingley join the group ; `` and I 
doubt not that you are an adept in the science yourself , Mr . 
Darcy . ''  
 
`` You saw me dance at Meryton , I believe , sir . ''  
 
`` Yes , indeed , and received no inconsiderable pleasure from the 
sight . Do you often dance at St . James 's ? ''  
 
`` Never , sir . ''  
 
`` Do you not think it would be a proper compliment to the 
place ? ''  
 
`` It is a compliment which I never play to any place if I can avoid 
it . ''  
 
`` You have a house in town , I conclude ? ''  
 
Mr . Darcy bowed . 
 
`` I had once had some thought of fixing in town myself -- for I am 
fond of superior society ; but I did not feel quite certain that the 
air of London would agree with Lady Lucas . ''  
 
He paused in hopes of an answer ; but his companion was not 
disposed to make any ; and Elizabeth at that instant moving 
towards them , he was struck with the action of doing a very 
gallant thing , and called out to her :  
 
`` My dear Miss Eliza , why are you not dancing ? Mr . Darcy , you 
must allow me to present this young lady to you as a very 
desirable partner . You can not refuse to dance , I am sure when 
so much beauty is before you . '' And , taking her hand , he would 
have given it to Mr . Darcy who , though extremely surprised ,  
was not unwilling to receive it , when she instantly drew back ,  
and said with some discomposure to Sir William :  
 
`` Indeed , sir , I have not the least intention of dancing . I entreat 
you not to suppose that I moved this way in order to beg for a 
partner . ''  
 
Mr . Darcy , with grave propriety , requested to be allowed the 
honour of her hand , but in vain . Elizabeth was determined ; nor 
did Sir William at all shake her purpose by his attempt at 
persuasion . 
 
`` You excel so much in the dance , Miss Eliza , that it is cruel to 
deny me the happiness of seeing you ; and though this gentleman 
dislikes the amusement in general , he can have no objection , I 
am sure , to oblige us for one half-hour . ''  
 
`` Mr . Darcy is all politeness , '' said Elizabeth , smiling . 
 
`` He is , indeed ; but , considering the inducement , my dear Miss 
Eliza , we can not wonder at his complaisance -- for who would 
object to such a partner ? ''  
 
Elizabeth looked archly , and turned away . Her resistance had 
not injured her with the gentleman , and he was thinking of her 
with some complacency , when thus accosted by Miss Bingley :  
 
`` I can guess the subject of your reverie . ''  
 
`` I should imagine not . ''  
 
`` You are considering how insupportable it would be to pass 
many evenings in this manner -- in such society ; and indeed I am 
quite of you opinion . I was never more annoyed ! The insipidity ,  
and yet the noise -- the nothingness , and yet the self-importance 
of all those people ! What would I give to hear your strictures on 
them ! ''  
 
`` You conjecture is totally wrong , I assure you . My mind was 
more agreeably engaged . I have been meditating on the very 
great pleasure which a pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty 
woman can bestow . ''  
 
Miss Bingley immediately fixed her eyes on his face , a desired he 
would tell her what lady had the credit of inspiring such 
reflections . Mr . Darcy replied with great intrepidity :  
 
`` Miss Elizabeth Bennet . ''  
 
`` Miss Elizabeth Bennet ! '' repeated Miss Bingley . `` I am all 
astonishment . How long has she been such a favourite ? -- and 
pray , when am I to wish you joy ? ''  
 
`` That is exactly the question which I expected you to ask . A 
lady 's imagination is very rapid ; it jumps from admiration to 
love , from love to matrimony , in a moment . I knew you would 
be wishing me joy . ''  
 
`` Nay , if you are serious about it , I shall consider the matter is 
absolutely settled . You will be having a charming 
mother-in-law , indeed ; and , of course , she will always be at 
Pemberley with you . ''  
 
He listened to her with perfect indifference while she chose to 
entertain herself in this manner ; and as his composure convinced 
her that all was safe , her wit flowed long . 
 
 
 
Chapter 7 
 
Mr . Bennet 's property consisted almost entirely in an estate of 
two thousand a year , which , unfortunately for his daughters , was 
entailed , in default of heirs male , on a distant relation ; and their 
mother 's fortune , though ample for her situation in life , could 
but ill supply the deficiency of his . Her father had been an 
attorney in Meryton , and had left her four thousand pounds . 
 
She had a sister married to a Mr . Phillips , who had been a clerk 
to their father and succeeded him in the business , and a brother 
settled in London in a respectable line of trade . 
 
The village of Longbourn was only one mile from Meryton ; a 
most convenient distance for the young ladies , who were usually 
tempted thither three or four times a week , to pay their duty to 
their aunt and to a milliner 's shop just over the way . The two 
youngest of the family , Catherine and Lydia , were particularly 
frequent in these attentions ; their minds were more vacant than 
their sisters ' , and when nothing better offered , a walk to 
Meryton was necessary to amuse their morning hours and 
furnish conversation for the evening ; and however bare of news 
the country in general might be , they always contrived to learn 
some from their aunt . At present , indeed , they were well 
supplied both with news and happiness by the recent arrival of 
a militia regiment in the neighbourhood ; it was to remain the 
whole winter , and Meryton was the headquarters . 
 
Their visits to Mrs . Phillips were now productive of the most 
interesting intelligence . Every day added something to their 
knowledge of the officers ' names and connections . Their 
lodgings were not long a secret , and at length they began to 
know the officers themselves . Mr . Phillips visited them all , and 
this opened to his nieces a store of felicity unknown before . 
They could talk of nothing but officers ; and Mr . Bingley 's large 
fortune , the mention of which gave animation to their mother ,  
was worthless in their eyes when opposed to the regimentals of 
an ensign . 
 
After listening one morning to their effusions on this subject , Mr . 
Bennet coolly observed :  
 
`` From all that I can collect by your manner of talking , you must 
be two of the silliest girls in the country . I have suspected it 
some time , but I am now convinced . ''  
 
Catherine was disconcerted , and made no answer ; but Lydia ,  
with perfect indifference , continued to express her admiration of 
Captain Carter , and her hope of seeing him in the course of the 
day , as he was going the next morning to London . 
 
`` I am astonished , my dear , '' said Mrs . Bennet , `` that you should 
be so ready to think your own children silly . If I wished to think 
slightingly of anybody 's children , it should not be of my own ,  
however . ''  
 
`` If my children are silly , I must hope to be always sensible of it . ''  
 
`` Yes -- but as it happens , they are all of them very clever . ''  
 
`` This is the only point , I flatter myself , on which we do not 
agree . I had hoped that our sentiments coincided in every 
particular , but I must so far differ from you as to think our two 
youngest daughters uncommonly foolish . ''  
 
`` My dear Mr . Bennet , you must not expect such girls to have 
the sense of their father and mother . When they get to our age , I 
dare say they will not think about officers any more than we do . 
I remember the time when I liked a red coat myself very well --  
and , indeed , so I do still at my heart ; and if a smart young 
colonel , with five or six thousand a year , should want one of my 
girls I shall not say nay to him ; and I thought Colonel Forster 
looked very becoming the other night at Sir William 's in his 
regimentals . ''  
 
`` Mamma , '' cried Lydia , `` my aunt says that Colonel Forster and 
Captain Carter do not go so often to Miss Watson 's as they did 
when they first came ; she sees them now very often standing in 
Clarke 's library . ''  
 
Mrs . Bennet was prevented replying by the entrance of the 
footman with a note for Miss Bennet ; it came from Netherfield ,  
and the servant waited for an answer . Mrs . Bennet 's eyes 
sparkled with pleasure , and she was eagerly calling out , while 
her daughter read :  
 
`` Well , Jane , who is it from ? What is it about ? What does he 
say ? Well , Jane , make haste and tell us ; make haste , my love . ''  
 
`` It is from Miss Bingley , '' said Jane , and then read it aloud . 
 
`` MY DEAR FRIEND , --  
`` If you are not so compassionate as to dine to-day with 
Louisa and me , we shall be in danger of hating each other for 
the rest of our lives , for a whole day 's tete-a-tete between two 
women can never end without a quarrel . Come as soon as you 
can on receipt of this . My brother and the gentlemen are to dine 
with the officers . -- Yours ever ,  
`` CAROLINE BINGLEY ''  
 
`` With the officers ! '' cried Lydia . `` I wonder my aunt did not tell 
us of THAT . ''  
 
`` Dining out , '' said Mrs . Bennet , `` that is very unlucky . ''  
 
`` Can I have the carriage ? '' said Jane . 
 
`` No , my dear , you had better go on horseback , because it seems 
likely to rain ; and then you must stay all night . ''  
 
`` That would be a good scheme , '' said Elizabeth , `` if you were 
sure that they would not offer to send her home . ''  
 
`` Oh ! but the gentlemen will have Mr . Bingley 's chaise to go to 
Meryton , and the Hursts have no horses to theirs . ''  
 
`` I had much rather go in the coach . ''  
 
`` But , my dear , your father can not spare the horses , I am sure . 
They are wanted in the farm , Mr . Bennet , are they not ?  
 
`` They are wanted in the farm much oftener than I can get them . ''  
 
`` But if you have got them to-day , '' said Elizabeth , `` my mother's 
purpose will be answered . ''  
 
She did at last extort from her father an acknowledgment that 
the horses were engaged ; Jane was therefore obliged to go on 
horseback , and her mother attended her to the door with many 
cheerful prognostics of a bad day . Her hopes were answered ;  
Jane had not been gone long before it rained hard . Her sisters 
were uneasy for her , but her mother was delighted . The rain 
continued the whole evening without intermission ; Jane certainly 
could not some back . 
 
`` This was a lucky idea of mine , indeed ! '' said Mrs . Bennet more 
than once , as if the credit of making it rain were all her own . Till 
the next morning , however , she was not aware of all the felicity 
of her contrivance . Breakfast was scarcely over when a servant 
from Netherfield brought the following note for Elizabeth :  
 
`` MY DEAREST LIZZY , --  
`` I find myself very unwell this morning , which , I 
suppose , is to be imputed to my getting wet through yesterday . 
My kind friends will not hear of my returning till I am better . 
They insist also on my seeing Mr . Jones -- therefore do not be 
alarmed if you should hear of his having been to me -- and ,  
excepting a sore throat and headache , there is not much the 
matter with me . -- Yours , etc . ''  
 
`` Well , my dear , '' said Mr . Bennet , when Elizabeth had read the 
note aloud , `` if your daughter should have a dangerous fit of 
illness -- if she should die , it would be a comfort to know that it 
was all in pursuit of Mr . Bingley , and under your orders . ''  
 
`` Oh ! I am not afraid of her dying . People do not die of little 
trifling colds . She will be taken good care of . As long as she 
stays there , it is all very well . I would go an see her if I could 
have the carriage . ''  
 
Elizabeth , feeling really anxious , was determined to go to her ,  
though the carriage was not to be had ; and as she was no 
horsewoman , walking was her only alternative . She declared her 
resolution . 
 
`` How can you be so silly , '' cried her mother , `` as to think of such 
a thing , in all this dirt ! You will not be fit to be seen when you 
get there . ''  
 
`` I shall be very fit to see Jane -- which is all I want . ''  
 
`` Is this a hint to me , Lizzy , '' said her father , `` to send for the 
horses ? ''  
 
`` `` No , indeed , I do not wish to avoid the walk . The distance is 
nothing when one has a motive ; only three miles . I shall be back 
by dinner . ''  
 
`` I admire the activity of your benevolence , '' observed Mary , `` but 
every impulse of feeling should be guided by reason ; and , in my 
opinion , exertion should always be in proportion to what is 
required . ''  
 
`` We will go as far as Meryton with you , '' said Catherine and 
Lydia . Elizabeth accepted their company , and the three young 
ladies set off together . 
 
`` If we make haste , '' said Lydia , as they walked along , `` perhaps 
we may see something of Captain Carter before he goes . ''  
 
`` In Meryton they parted ; the two youngest repaired to the 
lodgings of one of the officers ' wives , and Elizabeth continued 
her walk alone , crossing field after field at a quick pace , jumping 
over stiles and springing over puddles with impatient activity ,  
and finding herself at last within view of the house , with weary 
ankles , dirty stockings , and a face glowing with the warmth of 
exercise . 
 
She was shown into the breakfast-parlour , where all but Jane 
were assembled , and where her appearance created a great deal 
of surprise . That she should have walked three miles so early in 
the day , in such dirty weather , and by herself , was almost 
incredible to Mrs . Hurst and Miss Bingley ; and Elizabeth was 
convinced that they held her in contempt for it . She was 
received , however , very politely by them ; and in their brother's 
manners there was something better than politeness ; there was 
good humour and kindness . Mr . Darcy said very little , and Mr . 
Hurst nothing at all . The former was divided between 
admiration of the brilliancy which exercise had given to her 
complexion , and doubt as to the occasion 's justifying her coming 
so far alone . The latter was thinking only of his breakfast . 
 
Her inquiries after her sister were not very favourably answered . 
Miss Bennet had slept ill , and though up , was very feverish , and 
not well enough to leave her room . Elizabeth was glad to be 
taken to her immediately ; and Jane , who had only been withheld 
by the fear of giving alarm or inconvenience from expressing in 
her note how much she longed for such a visit , was delighted at 
her entrance . She was not equal , however , to much 
conversation , and when Miss Bingley left them together , could 
attempt little besides expressions of gratitude for the 
extraordinary kindness she was treated with . Elizabeth silently 
attended her . 
 
When breakfast was over they were joined by the sisters ; and 
Elizabeth began to like them herself , when she saw how much 
affection and solicitude they showed for Jane . The apothecary 
came , and having examined his patient , said , as might be 
supposed , that she had caught a violent cold , and that they must 
endeavour to get the better of it ; advised her to return to bed ,  
and promised her some draughts . The advice was followed 
readily , for the feverish symptoms increased , and her head ached 
acutely . Elizabeth did not quit her room for a moment ; nor were 
the other ladies often absent ; the gentlemen being out , they had ,  
in fact , nothing to do elsewhere . 
 
When the clock struck three , Elizabeth felt that she must go , and 
very unwillingly said so . Miss Bingley offered her the carriage ,  
and she only wanted a little pressing to accept it , when Jane 
testified such concern in parting with her , that Miss Bingley was 
obliged to convert the offer of the chaise to an invitation to 
remain at Netherfield for the present . Elizabeth most thankfully 
consented , and a servant was dispatched to Longbourn to 
acquaint the family with her stay and bring back a supply of 
clothes . 
 
 
 
Chapter 8 
 
At five o'clock the two ladies retired to dress , and at half-past 
six Elizabeth was summoned to dinner . To the civil inquiries 
which then poured in , and amongst which she had the pleasure 
of distinguishing the much superior solicitude of Mr . Bingley 's ,  
she could not make a very favourable answer . Jane was by no 
means better . The sisters , on hearing this , repeated three or four 
times how much they were grieved , how shocking it was to have 
a bad cold , and how excessively they disliked being ill 
themselves ; and then thought no more of the matter : and their 
indifference towards Jane when not immediately before them 
restored Elizabeth to the enjoyment of all her former dislike . 
 
Their brother , indeed , was the only one of the party whom she 
could regard with any complacency . His anxiety for Jane was 
evident , and his attentions to herself most pleasing , and they 
prevented her feeling herself so much an intruder as she 
believed she was considered by the others . She had very little 
notice from any but him . Miss Bingley was engrossed by Mr . 
Darcy , her sister scarcely less so ; and as for Mr . Hurst , by whom 
Elizabeth sat , he was an indolent man , who lived only to eat ,  
drink , and play at cards ; who , when he found her to prefer a 
plain dish to a ragout , had nothing to say to her . 
 
When dinner was over , she returned directly to Jane , and Miss 
Bingley began abusing her as soon as she was out of the room . 
Her manners were pronounced to be very bad indeed , a mixture 
of pride and impertinence ; she had no conversation , no style , no 
beauty . Mrs . Hurst thought the same , and added :  
 
`` She has nothing , in short , to recommend her , but being an 
excellent walker . I shall never forget her appearance this 
morning . She really looked almost wild . ''  
 
`` She did , indeed , Louisa . I could hardly keep my countenance . 
Very nonsensical to come at all ! Why must SHE be scampering 
about the country , because her sister had a cold ? Her hair , so 
untidy , so blowsy ! ''  
 
`` Yes , and her petticoat ; I hope you saw her petticoat , six inches 
deep in mud , I am absolutely certain ; and the gown which had 
been let down to hide it not doing its office . ''  
 
`` Your picture may be very exact , Louisa , '' said Bingley ; `` but 
this was all lost upon me . I thought Miss Elizabeth Bennet 
looked remarkably well when she came into the room this 
morning . Her dirty petticoat quite escaped my notice . ''  
 
`` YOU observed it , Mr . Darcy , I am sure , '' said Miss Bingley ;  
`` and I am inclined to think that you would not wish to see 
YOUR sister make such an exhibition . ''  
 
`` Certainly not . ''  
 
`` To walk three miles , or four miles , or five miles , or whatever it 
is , above her ankles in dirt , and alone , quite alone ! What could 
she mean by it ? It seems to me to show an abominable sort of 
conceited independence , a most country-town indifference to 
decorum . ''  
 
`` It shows an affection for her sister that is very pleasing , '' said 
Bingley . 
 
`` I am afraid , Mr . Darcy , '' observed Miss Bingley in a half 
whisper , `` that this adventure has rather affected your 
admiration of her fine eyes . ''  
 
`` Not at all , '' he replied ; `` they were brightened by the exercise . ''  
A short pause followed this speech , and Mrs . Hurst began again :  
 
`` I have a excessive regard for Miss Jane Bennet , she is really a 
very sweet girl , and I wish with all my heart she were well 
settled . But with such a father and mother , and such low 
connections , I am afraid there is no chance of it . ''  
 
`` I think I have heard you say that their uncle is an attorney on 
Meryton . ''  
 
`` Yes ; and they have another , who lives somewhere near 
Cheapside . ''  
 
`` That is capital , '' added her sister , and they both laughed 
heartily . 
 
`` If they had uncles enough to fill ALL Cheapside , '' cried 
Bingley , `` it would not make them one jot less agreeable . ''  
 
`` But it must very materially lessen their chance of marrying men 
of any consideration in the world , '' replied Darcy . 
 
To this speech Bingley made no answer ; but his sisters gave it 
their hearty assent , and indulged their mirth for some time at the 
expense of their dear friend 's vulgar relations . 
 
With a renewal of tenderness , however , they returned to her 
room on leaving the dining-parlour , and sat with her till 
summoned to coffee . She was still very poorly , and Elizabeth 
would not quit her at all , till late in the evening , when she had 
the comfort of seeing her sleep , and when it seemed to her rather 
right than pleasant that she should go downstairs herself . On 
entering the drawing-room she found the whole party at loo , and 
was immediately invited to join them ; but suspecting them to be 
playing high , she declined it , for the short time she could stay 
below , with a book . Mr . Hurst looked at her with astonishment . 
 
`` Do you prefer reading to cards ? '' said he ; `` that is rather 
singular . ''  
 
`` Miss Eliza Bennet , '' said Miss Bingley , `` despises cards . She is a 
great reader , and has no pleasure in anything else . ''  
 
`` I deserve neither such praise nor such censure , '' cried Elizabeth ;  
`` I am NOT a great reader , and I have pleasure in many things . ''  
 
`` In nursing your sister I am sure you have pleasure , '' said 
Bingley ; `` and I hope it will be soon increased by seeing her quite 
well . ''  
 
Elizabeth thanked him from her heart , and then walked towards 
the table where a few books were lying . He immediately offered 
to fetch her others -- all that his library afforded . 
 
`` And I wish my collection were larger for your benefit and my 
own credit ; but I am an idle fellow , and though I have not many ,  
I have more than I ever looked into . ''  
 
Elizabeth assured him that she could suit herself perfectly with 
those in the room . 
 
`` I am astonished , '' said Miss Bingley , `` that my father should 
have left so small a collection of books . What a delightful library 
you have at Pemberley , Mr . Darcy ! ''  
 
`` It ought to be good , '' he replied , `` it has been the work of many 
generations . ''  
 
`` And then you have added so much to it yourself , you are 
always buying books . ''  
 
`` I can not comprehend the neglect of a family library in such days 
as these . ''  
 
`` Neglect ! I am sure you neglect nothing that can add to the 
beauties of that noble place . Charles , when you build YOUR 
house , I wish it may be half as delightful as Pemberley . ''  
 
`` I wish it may . ''  
 
`` But I would really advise you to make your purchase in that 
neighbourhood , and take Pemberley for a kind of model . There 
is not a finer county in England than Derbyshire . ''  
 
`` With all my heart ; I will buy Pemberley itself if Darcy will sell 
it . ''  
 
`` I am talking of possibilities , Charles . ''  
 
`` Upon my word , Caroline , I should think it more possible to get 
Pemberley by purchase than by imitation . ''  
 
Elizabeth was so much caught with what passed , as to leave her 
very little attention for her book ; and soon laying it wholly aside ,  
she drew near the card-table , and stationed herself between Mr . 
Bingley and his eldest sister , to observe the game . ''  
 
`` Is Miss Darcy much grown since the spring ? '' said Miss 
Bingley ; `` will she be as tall as I am ? ''  
 
`` I think she will . She is now about Miss Elizabeth Bennet's 
height , or rather taller . ''  
 
`` How I long to see her again ! I never met with anybody who 
delighted me so much . Such a countenance , such manners ! And 
so extremely accomplished for her age ! Her performance on the 
pianoforte is exquisite . ''  
 
`` It is amazing to me , '' said Bingley , `` how young ladies can have 
patience to be so very accomplished as they all are . ''  
 
`` All young ladies accomplished ! My dear Charles , what do you 
mean ? ''  
 
`` Yes , all of them , I think . They all paint tables , cover screens ,  
and net purses . I scarcely know anyone who can not do all this ,  
and I am sure I never heard a young lady spoken of for the first 
time , without being informed that she was very accomplished . ''  
 
`` Your list of the common extent of accomplishments , '' said 
Darcy , `` has too much truth . The word is applied to many a 
woman who deserves it no otherwise than by netting a purse or 
covering a screen . But I am very far from agreeing with you in 
your estimation of ladies in general . I can not boast of knowing 
more than half-a-dozen , in the whole range of my acquaintance ,  
that are really accomplished . ''  
 
`` Nor I , I am sure , '' said Miss Bingley . 
 
`` Then , '' observed Elizabeth , `` you must comprehend a great deal 
in your idea of an accomplished woman . ''  
 
`` Yes , I do comprehend a great deal in it . ''  
 
`` Oh ! certainly , '' cried his faithful assistant , `` no one can be really 
esteemed accomplished who does not greatly surpass what is 
usually met with . A woman must have a thorough knowledge of 
music , singing , drawing , dancing , and the modern languages , to 
deserve the word ; and besides all this , she must possess a certain 
something in her air and manner of walking , the tone of her 
voice , her address and expressions , or the word will be but 
half-deserved . ''  
 
`` All this she must possess , '' added Darcy , `` and to all this she 
must yet add something more substantial , in the improvement of 
her mind by extensive reading . ''  
 
`` I am no longer surprised at your knowing ONLY six 
accomplished women . I rather wonder now at your knowing 
ANY . ''  
 
`` Are you so severe upon your own sex as to doubt the 
possibility of all this ?  
 
`` _I_ never saw such a woman . _I_ never saw such capacity , and 
taste , and application , and elegance , as you describe united . ''  
 
Mrs . Hurst and Miss Bingley both cried out against the injustice 
of her implied doubt , and were both protesting that they knew 
many women who answered this description , when Mr . Hurst 
called them to order , with bitter complaints of their inattention 
to what was going forward . As all conversation was thereby at 
an end , Elizabeth soon afterwards left the room . 
 
`` Elizabeth Bennet , '' said Miss Bingley , when the door was 
closed on her , `` is one of those young ladies who seek to 
recommend themselves to the other sex by undervaluing their 
own ; and with many men , I dare say , it succeeds . But , in my 
opinion , it is a paltry device , a very mean art . ''  
 
`` Undoubtedly , '' replied Darcy , to whom this remark was chiefly 
addressed , `` there is a meanness in ALL the arts which ladies 
sometimes condescend to employ for captivation . Whatever 
bears affinity to cunning is despicable . ''  
 
Miss Bingley was not so entirely satisfied with this reply as to 
continue the subject . 
 
Elizabeth joined them again only to say that her sister was 
worse , and that she could not leave her . Bingley urged Mr . 
Jones being sent for immediately ; while his sisters , convinced 
that no country advice could be of any service , recommended an 
express to town for one of the most eminent physicians . This 
she would not hear of ; but she was not so unwilling to comply 
with their brother 's proposal ; and it was settled that Mr . Jones 
should be sent for early in the morning , if Miss Bennet were not 
decidedly better . Bingley was quite uncomfortable ; his sisters 
declared that they were miserable : They solaced their 
wretchedness , however , by duets after supper , while he could 
find no better relief to his feelings than by giving his housekeeper 
directions that every attention might be paid to the sick lady and 
her sister . 
 
 
 
Chapter 9 
 
Elizabeth passed the chief of the night in her sister 's room , and 
in the morning had the pleasure of being able to send a tolerable 
answer to the inquiries which she very early received from Mr . 
Bingley by a housemaid , and some time afterwards from the two 
elegant ladies who waited on his sisters . In spite of this 
amendment , however , she requested to have a note sent to 
Longbourn , desiring her mother to visit Jane , and form her own 
judgement of her situation . The note was immediately 
dispatched , and its contents as quickly complied with . Mrs . 
Bennet , accompanied by her two youngest girls , reached 
Netherfield soon after the family breakfast . 
 
Had she found Jane in any apparent danger , Mrs . Bennet would 
have been very miserable ; but being satisfied on seeing her that 
her illness was not alarming , she had no wish of her recovering 
immediately , as her restoration to health would probably remove 
her from Netherfield . She would not listen , therefore , to her 
daughter 's proposal of being carried home ; neither did the 
apothecary , who arrived about the same time , think it at all 
advisable . After sitting a little while with Jane , on Miss 
Bingley 's appearance and invitation , the mother and three 
daughter all attended her into the breakfast parlour . Bingley met 
them with hopes that Mrs . Bennet had not found Miss Bennet 
worse than she expected . 
 
`` Indeed I have , sir , '' was her answer . `` She is a great deal too ill 
to be moved . Mr . Jones says we must not think of moving her . 
We must trespass a little longer on your kindness . ''  
 
`` Removed ! '' cried Bingley . `` It must not be thought of . My 
sister , I am sure , will not hear of her removal . ''  
 
`` You may depend upon it , madam , '' said Miss Bingley , with cold 
civility , `` that Miss Bennet will receive every possible attention 
while she remains with us . ''  
 
Mrs . Bennet was profuse in hr acknowledgements . 
 
`` I am sure , '' she added , `` if it was not for such good friends I do 
not know what would become of her , for she is very ill indeed ,  
and suffers a vast deal , though with the greatest patience in the 
world , which is always the way with her , for she has , without 
exception , the sweetest temper I have ever met with . I often tell 
my other girls they are nothing to HER . You have a sweet room 
here , Mr . Bingley , and a charming prospect over the gravel 
walk . I do not know a place in the country that is equal to 
Netherfield . You will not think of quitting it in a hurry , I hope ,  
though you have but a short lease . ''  
 
`` Whatever I do is done in a hurry , '' replied he ; `` and therefore if I 
should resolve to quit Netherfield , I should probably be off in 
five minutes . At present , however , I consider myself as quite 
fixed here . ''  
 
`` That is exactly what I should have supposed of you , '' said 
Elizabeth . 
 
`` You begin to comprehend me , do you ? '' cried he , turning 
towards her . 
 
`` Oh ! yes -- I understand you perfectly . ''  
 
`` I wish I might take this for a compliment ; but to be so easily 
seen through I am afraid is pitiful . ''  
 
`` That is as it happens . It does not follow that a deep , intricate 
character is more or less estimable than such a one as yours . ''  
 
`` Lizzy , '' cried her mother , `` remember where you are , and do not 
run on in the wild manner that you are suffered to do at home . ''  
 
`` I did not know before , '' continued Bingley immediately , `` that 
your were a studier of character . It must be an amusing study . ''  
 
`` `` Yes , but intricate characters are the MOST amusing . They 
have at least that advantage . ''  
 
`` The country , '' said Darcy , `` can in general supply but a few 
subjects for such a study . In a country neighbourhood you move 
in a very confined and unvarying society . ''  
 
`` But people themselves alter so much , that there is something 
new to be observed in them for ever . ''  
 
`` Yes , indeed , '' cried Mrs . Bennet , offended by his manner of 
mentioning a country neighbourhood . `` I assure you there is 
quite as much of THAT going on in the country as in town . ''  
 
Everybody was surprised , and Darcy , after looking at her for a 
moment , turned silently away . Mrs . Bennet , who fancied she 
had gained a complete victory over him , continued her triumph . 
 
`` I can not see that London has any great advantage over the 
country , for my part , except the shops and public places . The 
country is a vast deal pleasanter , is it not , Mr . Bingley ? ''  
 
`` When I am in the country , '' he replied , `` I never wish to leave it ;  
and when I am in town it is pretty much the same . They have 
each their advantages , and I can be equally happy in either . ''  
 
`` Aye -- that is because you have the right disposition . But that 
gentleman , '' looking at Darcy , `` seemed to think the country was 
nothing at all . ''  
 
`` Indeed , mamma , you are mistaken , '' said Elizabeth , blushing for 
her mother . `` You quite mistook Mr . Darcy . He only meant that 
there was not such a variety of people to be met with in the 
country as in the town , which you must acknowledge to be 
true . ''  
 
`` Certainly , my dear , nobody said there were ; but as to not 
meeting with many people in this neighbourhood , I believe there 
are few neighbourhoods larger . I know we dine with 
four-and-twenty families . ''  
 
Nothing but concern for Elizabeth could enable Bingley to keep 
his countenance . His sister was less delicate , and directed her 
eyes towards Mr . Darcy with a very expressive smile . Elizabeth ,  
for the sake of saying something that might turn her mother's 
thoughts , now asked her if Charlotte Lucas had been at 
Longbourn since HER coming away . 
 
`` Yes , she called yesterday with her father . What an agreeable 
man Sir William is , Mr . Bingley , is not he ? So much the man of 
fashion ! So genteel and easy ! He had always something to say 
to everybody . THAT is my idea of good breeding ; and those 
persons who fancy themselves very important , and never open 
their mouths , quite mistake the matter . ''  
 
`` Did Charlotte dine with you ? ''  
 
`` No , she would go home . I fancy she was wanted about 
mince-pies . For my part , Mr . Bingley , _I_ always keep servants 
that can do their own work ; MY daughters are brought up very 
differently . But everybody is to judge for themselves , and the 
Lucases are a very good sort of girls , I assure you . It is a pity 
they are not handsome ! Not that _I_ think Charlotte so VERY 
plain -- but then she is our particular friend . ''  
 
`` She seems a very pleasant young woman . ''  
 
`` Oh ! dear , yes ; but you must own she is very plain . Lady Lucas 
herself has often said so , and envied me Jane 's beauty . I do not 
like to boast of my own child , but to be sure , Jane -- one does 
not often see anybody better looking . It is what everybody says . 
I do not trust my own partiality . When she was only fifteen ,  
there was a man at my brother Gardiner 's in town so much in 
love with her that my sister-in-law was sure he would make her 
an offer before we came away . But , however , he did not . 
Perhaps he thought her too young . However , he wrote some 
verses on her , and very pretty they were . ''  
 
`` And so ended his affection , '' said Elizabeth impatiently . `` There 
has been many a one , I fancy , overcome in the same way . I 
wonder who first discovered the efficacy of poetry in driving 
away love ! ''  
 
`` I have been used to consider poetry as the FOOD of love , '' said 
Darcy . 
 
`` Of a fine , stout , healthy love it may . Everything nourishes 
what is strong already . But if it be only a slight , thin sort of 
inclination , I am convinced that one good sonnet will starve it 
entirely away . ''  
 
Darcy only smiled ; and the general pause which ensued made 
Elizabeth tremble lest her mother should be exposing herself 
again . She longed to speak , but could think of nothing to say ;  
and after a short silence Mrs . Bennet began repeating her thanks 
to Mr . Bingley for his kindness to Jane , with an apology for 
troubling him also with Lizzy . Mr . Bingley was unaffectedly 
civil in his answer , and forced his younger sister to be civil also ,  
and say what the occasion required . She performed her part 
indeed without much graciousness , but Mrs . Bennet was 
satisfied , and soon afterwards ordered her carriage . Upon this 
signal , the youngest of her daughters put herself forward . The 
two girls had been whispering to each other during the whole 
visit , and the result of it was , that the youngest should tax Mr . 
Bingley with having promised on his first coming into the 
country to give a ball at Netherfield . 
 
Lydia was a stout , well-grown girl of fifteen , with a fine 
complexion and good-humoured countenance ; a favourite with 
her mother , whose affection had brought her into public at an 
early age . She had high animal spirits , and a sort of natural 
self-consequence , which the attention of the officers , to whom 
her uncle 's good dinners , and her own easy manners recommended 
her , had increased into assurance . She was very equal ,  
therefore , to address Mr . Bingley on the subject of the ball , and 
abruptly reminded him that it would be the most shameful thing 
in the world if he did not keep it . His answer to this sudden 
attack was delightful to her mother 's ear :  
 
`` I am perfectly ready , I assure you , to keep my engagement ; and 
when your sister is recovered , you shall , if you please , name the 
very day of the ball . But you would not wish to be dancing 
when she is ill . ''  
 
Lydia declared herself satisfied . `` Oh ! yes -- it would be much 
better to wait till Jane was well , and by that time most likely 
Captain Carter would be at Meryton again . And when you have 
given YOUR ball , '' she added , `` I shall insist on their giving one 
also . I shall tell Colonel Forster it will be quite a shame if he 
does not . ''  
 
Mrs . Bennet and her daughter then departed , and Elizabeth 
returned instantly to Jane , leaving her own and her relations' 
behaviour to the remarks of the two ladies and Mr . Darcy ; the 
latter of whom , however , could not be prevailed on to join in 
their censure of HER , in spite of all Miss Bingley 's witticisms on 
FINE EYES . 
 
 
 
Chapter 10 
 
The day passed much as the day before had done . Mrs . Hurst 
and Miss Bingley had spent some hours of the morning with the 
invalid , who continued , though slowly , to mend ; and in the 
evening Elizabeth joined their party in the drawing-room . The 
loo-table , however , did not appear . Mr . Darcy was writing , and 
Miss Bingley , seated near him , was watching the progress of his 
letter and repeatedly calling his attention by messages to his 
sister . Mr . Hurst and Mr . Bingley were at piquet , and Mrs . 
Hurst was observing their game . 
 
Elizabeth took up some needlework , and was sufficiently 
amused in attending to what passed between Darcy and his 
companion . The perpetual commendations of the lady , either on 
his handwriting , or on the evenness of his lines , or on the length 
of his letter , with the perfect unconcern with which her praises 
were received , formed a curious dialogue , and was exactly in 
union with her opinion of each . 
 
`` How delighted Miss Darcy will be to receive such a letter ! ''  
 
He made no answer . 
 
`` You write uncommonly fast . ''  
 
`` You are mistaken . I write rather slowly . ''  
 
`` How many letters you must have occasion to write in the 
course of a year ! Letters of business , too ! How odious I should 
think them ! ''  
 
`` It is fortunate , then , that they fall to my lot instead of yours . ''  
 
`` Pray tell your sister that I long to see her . ''  
 
`` I have already told her so once , by your desire . ''  
 
`` I am afraid you do not like your pen . Let me mend it for you . I 
mend pens remarkably well . ''  
 
`` Thank you -- but I always mend my own . ''  
 
`` How can you contrive to write so even ? ''  
 
He was silent . 
 
`` Tell your sister I am delighted to hear of her improvement on 
the harp ; and pray let her know that I am quite in raptures with 
her beautiful little design for a table , and I think it infinitely 
superior to Miss Grantley's . ''  
 
`` Will you give me leave to defer your raptures till I write again ?  
At present I have not room to do them justice . ''  
 
`` Oh ! It is of no consequence . I shall see her in January . But do 
you always write such charming long letters to her , Mr . Darcy ? ''  
 
`` They are generally long ; but whether always charming it is not 
for me to determine . ''  
 
`` It is a rule with me , that a person who can write a long letter 
with ease , can not write ill . ''  
 
`` That will not do for a compliment to Darcy , Caroline , '' cried 
her brother , `` because he does not write with ease . He studies 
too much for words of four syllables . Do not you , Darcy ? ''  
 
`` My style of writing is very different from yours . ''  
 
`` Oh ! '' cried Miss Bingley , `` Charles writes in the most careless 
way imaginable . He leaves out half his words , and blots the 
rest . ''  
 
`` My ideas flow so rapidly that I have not time to express them --  
by which means my letters sometimes convey no ideas at all to 
my correspondents . ''  
 
`` Your humility , Mr . Bingley , '' said Elizabeth , `` must disarm 
reproof . ''  
 
`` Nothing is more deceitful , '' said Darcy , `` than the appearance of 
humility . It is often only carelessness of opinion , and sometimes 
an indirect boast . ''  
 
`` And which of the two do you call MY little recent piece of 
modesty ? ''  
 
`` The indirect boast ; for you are really proud of your defects in 
writing , because you consider them as proceeding from a 
rapidity of thought and carelessness of execution , which , if not 
estimable , you think at least highly interesting . The power of 
doing anything with quickness is always prized much by the 
possessor , and often without any attention to the imperfection of 
the performance . When you told Mrs . Bennet this morning , that 
if you ever resolved upon quitting Netherfield you should be 
gone in five minutes , you meant it to be a sort of panegyric , of 
compliment to yourself -- and yet what is there so very laudable 
in a precipitance which must leave very necessary business 
undone , and can be of no real advantage to yourself or anyone 
else ? ''  
 
`` Nay , '' cried Bingley , `` this is too much , to remember at night all 
the foolish things that were said in the morning . And , yet , upon 
my honour , I believe what I said of myself to be true , and I 
believe it at this moment . At least , therefore , I did not assume 
the character of needless precipitance merely to show off before 
the ladies . ''  
 
`` I dare say you believed it ; but I am by no means convinced that 
you would be gone with such celerity . Your conduct would be 
quite as dependent on chance as that of any man I know ; and if ,  
as you were mounting your horse , a friend were to say , Bingley ,  
you had better stay till next week , ' you would probably do it ,  
you would probably not go -- and at another word , might stay a 
month . ''  
 
`` You have only proved by this , '' cried Elizabeth , `` that Mr . 
Bingley did not do justice to his own disposition . You have 
shown him off now much more than he did himself . ''  
 
`` I am exceedingly gratified , '' said Bingley , `` by your converting 
what my friend says into a compliment on the sweetness of my 
temper . But I am afraid you are giving it a turn which that 
gentleman did by no means intend ; for he would certainly think 
better of me , if under such a circumstance I were to give a flat 
denial , and ride off as fast as I could . ''  
 
`` Would Mr . Darcy then consider the rashness of your original 
intentions as atoned for by your obstinacy in adhering to it ? ''  
 
`` Upon my word , I can not exactly explain the matter ; Darcy must 
speak for himself . ''  
 
`` You expect me to account for opinions which you choose to 
call mine , but which I have never acknowledged . Allowing the 
case , however , to stand according to your representation , you 
must remember , Miss Bennet , that the friend who is supposed to 
desire his return to the house , and the delay of his plan , has 
merely desired it , asked it without offering one argument in 
favour of its propriety . ''  
 
`` To yield readily -- easily -- to the PERSUASION of a friend is 
no merit with you . ''  
 
`` To yield without conviction is no compliment to the 
understanding of either . ''  
 
`` You appear to me , Mr . Darcy , to allow nothing for the 
influence of friendship and affection . A regard for the requester 
would often make one readily yield to a request , without waiting 
for arguments to reason one into it . I am not particularly 
speaking of such a case as you have supposed about Mr . 
Bingley . We may as well wait , perhaps , till the circumstance 
occurs before we discuss the discretion of his behaviour 
thereupon . But in general and ordinary cases between friend and 
friend , where one of them is desired by the other to change a 
resolution of no very great moment , should you think ill of that 
person for complying with the desire , without waiting to be 
argued into it ? ''  
 
`` Will it not be advisable , before we proceed on this subject , to 
arrange with rather more precision the degree of importance 
which is to appertain to this request , as well as the degree of 
intimacy subsisting between the parties ? ''  
 
`` By all means , '' cried Bingley ; `` let us hear all the particulars , not 
forgetting their comparative height and size ; for that will have 
more weight in the argument , Miss Bennet , than you may be 
aware of . I assure you , that if Darcy were not such a great tall 
fellow , in comparison with myself , that I should not pay him half 
so much deference . I declare I do not know a more awful object 
than Darcy , on particular occasions , and in particular places ; at 
his own house especially , and of a Sunday evening , when he has 
nothing to do . ''  
 
Mr . Darcy smiled ; but Elizabeth thought she could perceive that 
he was rather offended , and therefore checked her laugh . Miss 
Bingley warmly resented the indignity he had received , in an 
expostulation with her brother for talking such nonsense . 
 
`` I see your design , Bingley , '' said his friend . `` You dislike an 
argument , and want to silence this . ''  
 
`` Perhaps I do . Arguments are too much like disputes . If you 
and Miss Bennet will defer yours till I am out of the room , I shall 
be very thankful ; and then you may say whatever you like of 
me . ''  
 
`` What you ask , '' said Elizabeth , `` is no sacrifice on my side ; and 
Mr . Darcy had much better finish his letter . ''  
 
Mr . Darcy took her advice , and did finish his letter . 
 
When that business was over , he applied to Miss Bingley and 
Elizabeth for an indulgence of some music . Miss Bingley moved 
with some alacrity to the pianoforte ; and , after a polite request 
that Elizabeth would lead the way which the other as politely 
and more earnestly negatived , she seated herself . 
 
Mrs . Hurst sang with her sister , and while they were thus 
employed , Elizabeth could not help observing , as she turned 
over some music-books that lay on the instrument , how 
frequently Mr . Darcy 's eyes were fixed on her . She hardly knew 
how to suppose that she could be an object of admiration to so 
great a man ; and yet that he should look at her because he 
disliked her , was still more strange . She could only imagine ,  
however , at last that she drew his notice because there was 
something more wrong and reprehensible , according to his ideas 
of right , than in any other person present . The supposition did 
not pain her . She liked him too little to care for his approbation . 
 
After playing some Italian songs , Miss Bingley varied the charm 
by a lively Scotch air ; and soon afterwards Mr . Darcy , drawing 
near Elizabeth , said to her :  
 
`` Do not you feel a great inclination , Miss Bennet , to seize such 
an opportunity of dancing a reel ? ''  
 
She smiled , but made no answer . He repeated the question , with 
some surprise at her silence . 
 
`` Oh ! '' said she , `` I heard you before , but I could not immediately 
determine what to say in reply . You wanted me , I know , to say 
Yes , ' that you might have the pleasure of despising my taste ;  
but I always delight in overthrowing those kind of schemes , and 
cheating a person of their meditated contempt . I have ,  
therefore , made up my mind to tell you , that I do not want to 
dance a reel at all -- and now despise me if you dare . ''  
 
`` `` Indeed I do not dare . ''  
 
Elizabeth , having rather expected to affront him , was amazed at 
his gallantry ; but there was a mixture of sweetness and archness 
in her manner which made it difficult for her to affront anybody ;  
and Darcy had never been so bewitched by any woman as he 
was by her . He really believed , that were it not for the inferiority 
of her connections , he should be in some danger . 
 
Miss Bingley saw , or suspected enough to be jealous ; and her 
great anxiety for the recovery of her dear friend Jane received 
some assistance from her desire of getting rid of Elizabeth . 
 
She often tried to provoke Darcy into disliking her guest , by 
talking of their supposed marriage , and planning his happiness in 
such an alliance . 
 
`` I hope , '' said she , as they were walking together in the 
shrubbery the next day , `` you will give your mother-in-law a few 
hints , when this desirable event takes place , as to the advantage 
of holding her tongue ; and if you can compass it , do sure the 
younger girls of running after officers . And , if I may mention so 
delicate a subject , endeavour to check that little something ,  
bordering on conceit and impertinence , which your lady 
possesses . ''  
 
`` Have you anything else to propose for my domestic felicity ? ''  
 
`` Oh ! yes . Do let the portraits of your uncle and aunt Phillips get 
placed in the gallery at Pemberley . Put them next to your 
great-uncle the judge . They are in the same profession , you 
know , only in different lines . As for your Elizabeth 's picture , you 
must not have it taken , for what painter could do justice to those 
beautiful eyes ? ''  
 
`` It would not be easy , indeed , to catch their expression , but their 
colour and shape , and the eyelashes , so remarkably fine , might 
be copied . ''  
 
At that moment they were met from another walk by Mrs . Hurst 
and Elizabeth herself . 
 
`` I did not know that you intended to walk , '' said Miss Bingley ,  
in some confusion , lest they had been overheard . 
 
`` You used us abominably ill , `` answered Mrs . Hurst , `` running 
away without telling us that you were coming out . ''  
 
Then taking the disengaged arm of Mr . Darcy , she left Elizabeth 
to walk by herself . The path just admitted three . Mr . Darcy felt 
their rudeness , and immediately said :  
 
`` This walk is not wide enough for our party . We had better go 
into the avenue . ''  
 
But Elizabeth , who had not the least inclination to remain with 
them , laughingly answered :  
 
`` No , no ; stay where you are . You are charmingly grouped , and 
appear to uncommon advantage . The picturesque would be 
spoilt by admitting a fourth . Good-bye . ''  
 
She then ran gaily off , rejoicing , as she rambled about , in the 
hope of being at home again in a day or two . Jane was already 
so much recovered as to intend leaving her room for a couple of 
hours that evening . 
 
 
 
Chapter 10 
 
When the ladies removed after dinner , Elizabeth ran up to her 
sister , and seeing her well guarded from cold , attended her into 
the drawing-room , where she was welcomed by her two friends 
with many professions of pleasure ; and Elizabeth had never seen 
them so agreeable as they were during the hour which passed 
before the gentlemen appeared . Their powers of conversation 
were considerable . They could describe an entertainment with 
accuracy , relate an anecdote with humour , and laugh at their 
acquaintance with spirit . 
 
But when the gentlemen entered , Jane was no longer the first 
object ; Miss Bingley 's eyes were instantly turned toward Darcy ,  
and she had something to say to him before he had advanced 
many steps . He addressed himself to Miss Bennet , with a polite 
congratulation ; Mr . Hurst also made her a slight bow , and said 
he was `` very glad '' ; but diffuseness and warmth remained for 
Bingley 's salutation . He was full of joy and attention . The first 
half-hour was spent in piling up the fire , lest she should suffer 
from the change of room ; and she removed at his desire to the 
other side of the fireplace , that she might be further from the 
door . He then sat down by her , and talked scarcely to anyone 
else . Elizabeth , at work in the opposite corner , saw it all with 
great delight . 
 
When tea was over , Mr . Hurst reminded his sister-in-law of the 
card-table -- but in vain . She had obtained private intelligence 
that Mr . Darcy did not wish for cards ; and Mr . Hurst soon found 
even his open petition rejected . She assured him that no one 
intended to play , and the silence of the whole party on the 
subject seemed to justify her . Mr . Hurst had therefore nothing to 
do , but to stretch himself on one of the sofas and go to sleep . 
Darcy took up a book ; Miss Bingley did the same ; and Mrs . 
Hurst , principally occupied in playing with her bracelets and 
rings , joined now and then in her brother 's conversation with 
Miss Bennet . 
 
Miss Bingley 's attention was quite as much engaged in watching 
Mr . Darcy 's progress through HIS book , as in reading her own ;  
and she was perpetually either making some inquiry , or looking 
at his page . She could not win him , however , to any 
conversation ; he merely answered her question , and read on . At 
length , quite exhausted by the attempt to be amused with her 
own book , which she had only chosen because it was the second 
volume of his , she gave a great yawn and said , `` How pleasant it 
is to spend an evening in this way ! I declare after all there is no 
enjoyment like reading ! How much sooner one tires of anything 
than of a book ! When I have a house of my own , I shall be 
miserable if I have not an excellent library . ''  
 
No one made any reply . She then yawned again , threw aside her 
book , and cast her eyes round the room in quest for some 
amusement ; when hearing her brother mentioning a ball to Miss 
Bennet , she turned suddenly towards him and said :  
 
`` By the bye , Charles , are you really serious in meditating a dance 
at Netherfield ? I would advise you , before you determine on it ,  
to consult the wishes of the present party ; I am much mistaken if 
there are not some among us to whom a ball would be rather a 
punishment than a pleasure . ''  
 
`` If you mean Darcy , '' cried her brother , `` he may go to bed , if he 
chooses , before it begins -- but as for the ball , it is quite a settled 
thing ; and as soon as Nicholls has made white soup enough , I 
shall send round my cards . ''  
 
`` I should like balls infinitely better , '' she replied , `` if they were 
carried on in a different manner ; but there is something 
insufferably tedious in the usual process of such a meeting . It 
would surely be much more rational if conversation instead of 
dancing were made the order of the day . ''  
 
`` Much more rational , my dear Caroline , I dare say , but it would 
not be near so much like a ball . ''  
 
Miss Bingley made no answer , and soon afterwards she got up 
and walked about the room . Her figure was elegant , and she 
walked well ; but Darcy , at whom it was all aimed , was still 
inflexibly studious . In the desperation of her feelings , she 
resolved on one effort more , and , turning to Elizabeth , said :  
 
`` Miss Eliza Bennet , let me persuade you to follow my example ,  
and take a turn about the room . I assure you it is very refreshing 
after sitting so long in one attitude . ''  
 
Elizabeth was surprised , but agreed to it immediately . Miss 
Bingley succeeded no less in the real object of her civility ; Mr . 
Darcy looked up . He was as much awake to the novelty of 
attention in that quarter as Elizabeth herself could be , and 
unconsciously closed his book . He was directly invited to join 
their party , but he declined it , observing that he could imagine 
but two motives for their choosing to walk up and down the 
room together , with either of which motives his joining them 
would interfere . `` What could he mean ? She was dying to know 
what could be his meaning ? '' -- and asked Elizabeth whether she 
could at all understand him ?  
 
`` Not at all , '' was her answer ; `` but depend upon it , he means to 
be severe on us , and our surest way of disappointing him will be 
to ask nothing about it . ''  
 
Miss Bingley , however , was incapable of disappointing Mr . 
Darcy in anything , and persevered therefore in requiring an 
explanation of his two motives . 
 
`` I have not the smallest objection to explaining them , '' said he ,  
as soon as she allowed him to speak . `` You either choose this 
method of passing the evening because you are in each other's 
confidence , and have secret affairs to discuss , or because you are 
conscious that your figures appear to the greatest advantage in 
walking ; if the first , I would be completely in your way , and if 
the second , I can admire you much better as I sit by the fire . ''  
 
`` Oh ! shocking ! '' cried Miss Bingley . `` I never heard anything so 
abominable . How shall we punish him for such a speech ? ''  
 
`` Nothing so easy , if you have but the inclination , '' said Elizabeth . 
`` We can all plague and punish one another . Tease him -- laugh 
at him . Intimate as you are , you must know how it is to be 
done . ''  
 
`` But upon my honour , I do NOT . I do assure you that my 
intimacy has not yet taught me THAT . Tease calmness of 
manner and presence of mind ! No , no -- feel he may defy us 
there . And as to laughter , we will not expose ourselves , if you 
please , by attempting to laugh without a subject . Mr . Darcy may 
hug himself . ''  
 
`` Mr . Darcy is not to be laughed at ! '' cried Elizabeth . `` That is an 
uncommon advantage , and uncommon I hope it will continue ,  
for it would be a great loss to ME to have many such 
acquaintances . I dearly love a laugh . ''  
 
`` Miss Bingley , '' said he , `` has given me more credit than can be . 
The wisest and the best of men -- nay , the wisest and best of their 
actions -- may be rendered ridiculous by a person whose first 
object in life is a joke . ''  
 
`` Certainly , '' replied Elizabeth -- `` there are such people , but I 
hope I am not one of THEM . I hope I never ridicule what is 
wise and good . Follies and nonsense , whims and 
inconsistencies , DO divert me , I own , and I laugh at them 
whenever I can . But these , I suppose , are precisely what you 
are without . ''  
 
`` Perhaps that is not possible for anyone . But it has been the 
study of my life to avoid those weaknesses which often expose a 
strong understanding to ridicule . ''  
 
`` Such as vanity and pride . ''  
 
`` Yes , vanity is a weakness indeed . But pride -- where there is a 
real superiority of mind , pride will be always under good 
regulation . ''  
 
Elizabeth turned away to hide a smile . 
 
`` Your examination of Mr . Darcy is over , I presume , '' said Miss 
Bingley ; `` and pray what is the result ? ''  
 
`` I am perfectly convinced by it that Mr . Darcy has no defect . 
He owns it himself without disguise . ''  
 
`` No , '' said Darcy , `` I have made no such pretension . I have 
faults enough , but they are not , I hope , of understanding . My 
temper I dare not vouch for . It is , I believe , too little yielding --  
certainly too little for the convenience of the world . I cannot 
forget the follies and vices of other so soon as I ought , nor their 
offenses against myself . My feelings are not puffed about with 
every attempt to move them . My temper would perhaps be 
called resentful . My good opinion once lost , is lost forever . ''  
 
`` THAT is a failing indeed ! '' cried Elizabeth . `` Implacable 
resentment IS a shade in a character . But you have chosen your 
fault well . I really can not LAUGH at it . You are safe from me . ''  
 
`` There is , I believe , in every disposition a tendency to some 
particular evil -- a natural defect , which not even the best 
education can overcome . ''  
 
`` And YOUR defect is to hate everybody . ''  
 
`` And yours , `` he replied with a smile , `` is willfully to 
misunderstand them . ''  
 
`` Do let us have a little music , '' cried Miss Bingley , tired of a 
conversation in which she had no share . `` Louisa , you will not 
mind my waking Mr . Hurst ? ''  
 
Her sister had not the smallest objection , and the pianoforte was 
opened ; and Darcy , after a few moments ' recollection , was not 
sorry for it . He began to feel the danger of paying Elizabeth too 
much attention . 
 
 
 
Chapter 12 
 
In consequence of an agreement between the sisters , Elizabeth 
wrote the next morning to their mother , to beg that the carriage 
might be sent for them in the course of the day . But Mrs . 
Bennet , who had calculated on her daughters remaining at 
Netherfield till the following Tuesday , which would exactly 
finish Jane 's week , could not bring herself to receive them with 
pleasure before . Her answer , therefore , was not propitious , at 
least not to Elizabeth 's wishes , for she was impatient to get 
home . Mrs . Bennet sent them word that they could not possibly 
have the carriage before Tuesday ; and in her postscript it was 
added , that if Mr . Bingley and his sister pressed them to stay 
longer , she could spare them very well . Against staying longer ,  
however , Elizabeth was positively resolved -- nor did she much 
expect it would be asked ; and fearful , on the contrary , as being 
considered as intruding themselves needlessly long , she urged 
Jane to borrow Mr . Bingley 's carriage immediately , and at 
length it was settled that their original design of leaving 
Netherfield that morning should be mentioned , and the request 
made . 
 
The communication excited many professions of concern ; and 
enough was said of wishing them to stay at least till the 
following day to work on Jane ; and till the morrow their going 
was deferred . Miss Bingley was then sorry that she had 
proposed the delay , for her jealousy and dislike of one sister 
much exceeded her affection for the other . 
 
The master of the house heard with real sorrow that they were 
to go so soon , and repeatedly tried to persuade Miss Bennet that 
it would not be safe for her -- that she was not enough recovered ;  
but Jane was firm where she felt herself to be right . 
 
To Mr . Darcy it was welcome intelligence -- Elizabeth had been 
at Netherfield long enough . She attracted him more than he 
liked -- and Miss Bingley was uncivil to HER , and more teasing 
than usual to himself . He wisely resolved to be particularly 
careful that no sign of admiration should NOW escape him ,  
nothing that could elevate her with the hope of influencing his 
felicity ; sensible that if such an idea had been suggested , his 
behaviour during the last day must have material weight in 
confirming or crushing it . Steady to his purpose , he scarcely 
spoke ten words to her through the whole of Saturday , and 
though they were at one time left by themselves for half-an-hour ,  
he adhered most conscientiously to his book , and would not 
even look at her . 
 
On Sunday , after morning service , the separation , so agreeable 
to almost all , took place . Miss Bingley 's civility to Elizabeth 
increased at last very rapidly , as well as her affection for Jane ;  
and when they parted , after assuring the latter of the pleasure it 
would always give her to see her either at Longbourn or 
Netherfield , and embracing her most tenderly , she even shook 
hands with the former . Elizabeth took leave of the whole party 
in the liveliest of spirits . 
 
They were not welcomed home very cordially by their mother . 
Mrs . Bennet wondered at their coming , and thought them very 
wrong to give so much trouble , and was sure Jane would have 
caught cold again . But their father , though very laconic in his 
expressions of pleasure , was really glad to see them ; he had felt 
their importance in the family circle . The evening conversation ,  
when they were all assembled , had lost much of its animation ,  
and almost all its sense by the absence of Jane and Elizabeth . 
 
They found Mary , as usual , deep in the study of thorough-bass 
and human nature ; and had some extracts to admire , and some 
new observations of threadbare morality to listen to . Catherine 
and Lydia had information for them of a different sort . Much 
had been done and much had been said in the regiment since the 
preceding Wednesday ; several of the officers had dined lately 
with their uncle , a private had been flogged , and it had actually 
been hinted that colonel Foster was going to be married . 
 
 
 
Chapter 13 
 
`` I hope , my dear , '' said Mr . Bennet to his wife , as they were at 
breakfast the next morning , `` that you have ordered a good 
dinner to-day , because I have reason to expect an addition to our 
family party . ''  
 
`` Who do you mean , my dear ? I know of nobody that is coming ,  
I am sure , unless Charlotte Lucas should happen to call in -- And 
I hope MY dinners are good enough for her . I do not believe 
she often sees such at home . ''  
 
`` The person of whom I speak is a gentleman , and a stranger . ''  
 
Mrs . Bennet 's eyes sparkled . `` A gentleman and a stranger ! It is 
Mr . Bingley , I am sure ! Well , I am sure I shall be extremely glad 
to see Mr . Bingley . But -- good Lord ! how unlucky ! There is not 
a bit of fish to be got to-day . Lydia , my love , ring the bell -- I 
must speak to Hill this moment . ''  
 
`` It is NOT Mr . Bingley , '' said her husband ; `` it is a person whom 
I never saw in the whole course of my life . ''  
 
This roused a general astonishment ; and he had the pleasure of 
being eagerly questioned by his wife and his five daughters at 
once . 
 
After amusing himself some time with their curiosity , he thus 
explained :  
 
`` About a month ago I received this letter ; and about a fortnight 
ago I answered it , for I thought it a case of some delicacy , and 
requiring early attention . It is from my cousin , Mr . Collins , who ,  
when I am dead , may turn you all out of this house as soon as he 
pleases . ''  
 
`` Oh ! my dear , '' cried his wife , `` I can not bear to hear that 
mentioned . Pray do not talk of that odious man . I do think it is 
the hardest thing in the world , that your estate should be entailed 
away from your own children ; and I am sure , if I had been you , I 
should have tried long ago to do something or other about it . ''  
 
Jane and Elizabeth tried to explain to her the nature of an entail . 
They had often attempted to do it before , but it was a subject on 
which Mrs . Bennet was beyond the reach of reason , and she 
continued to rail bitterly against the cruelty of settling and estate 
away from a family of five daughters , in favour of a man whom 
nobody cared anything about . 
 
`` It certainly is a most iniquitous affair , '' said Mr . Bennet , `` and 
nothing can clear Mr . collins from the guilt of inheriting 
Longbourn . But if you will listen to his letter , you may perhaps 
be a little softened by his manner of expressing himself . ''  
 
`` No , that I am sure I shall not ; and I think it is very impertinent 
of him to write to you at all , and very hypocritical . I hate such 
false friends . Why could he not keep on quarreling with you , as 
his father did before him ? ''  
 
`` Why , indeed ; he does seem to have had some filial scruples on 
that head , as you will hear . ''  
 
`` Hunsford , near Westerham , Kent ,  
`` 15th October . 
`` Dear Sir , --  
`` The disagreement subsisting between yourself and my late 
honoured father always gave me much uneasiness , and since I 
have had the misfortune to lose him , I have frequently wished to 
heal the breach ; but for some time I was kept back by my own 
doubts , fearing lest it might seem disrespectful to his memory for 
me to be on good terms with anyone with whom it had always 
pleased him to be at variance , -- There , Mrs . Bennet . ' -- My 
mind , however , is now made up on the subject , for having 
received ordination at Easter , I have been so fortunate as to be 
distinguished by the patronage of the Right Honourable Lady 
Catherine de Bourgh , widow of Sir Lewis de Bourgh , whose 
bounty and beneficence has preferred me to the valuable rectory 
of this parish , where it shall be my earnest endeavour to demean 
myself with grateful respect towards her Ladyship , and be ever 
ready to perform those rites and ceremonies which are instituted 
by the Church of England . As a clergyman , moreover , I feel it 
my duty to promote and establish the blessing of peace in all 
families within in the reach of my influence ; and on these 
grounds I flatter myself that my present overtures are highly 
commendable , and that the circumstance of my being next in the 
entail of Longbourn estate will be kindly overlooked on your 
side , and not lead you to reject the offered olive-branch . I 
can not otherwise than be concerned at being the means of 
injuring your amiable daughters , and beg leave to apologise for 
it , as well as to assure you of my readiness to make them every 
possible amends -- but of this hereafter . If you should have no 
objection to receive me into your house , I propose myself the 
satisfaction of waiting on you and your family , Monday ,  
November 18th , by four o'clock , and shall probably trespass on 
your hospitality till the Saturday se'ennight following , which I 
can do without any inconvenience , as Lady Catherine is far from 
objecting to my occasional absence on a Sunday , provided that 
some other clergyman is engaged to do the duty of the day . -- I 
remain , dear sir , with respectful compliments to your lady and 
daughters , your well-wisher and friend ,  
`` WILLIAM COLLINS ''  
 
`` At four o'clock , therefore , we may expect this peace-making 
gentleman , '' said Mr . Bennet , as he folded up the letter . `` He 
seems to be a most conscientious and polite young man , upon 
my word , and I doubt not will prove a valuable acquaintance ,  
especially if Lady Catherine should be so indulgent as to let him 
come to us again . ''  
 
`` There is some sense in what he says about the girls , however ,  
and if he is disposed to make them any amends , I shall not be the 
person to discourage him . ''  
 
`` Though it is difficult , '' said Jane , `` to guess in what way he can 
mean to make us the atonement he thinks our due , the wish is 
certainly to his credit . ''  
 
Elizabeth was chiefly struck by his extraordinary deference for 
Lady Catherine , and his kind intention of christening , marrying ,  
and burying his parishioners whenever it were required . 
 
`` He must be an oddity , I think , '' said she . `` I can not make him 
out . There is something very pompous in his style . And what 
can he mean by apologising for being next in the entail ? We 
can not suppose he would help it if he could . Could he be a 
sensible man , sir ? ''  
 
`` No , my dear , I think not . I have great hopes of finding him 
quite the reverse . Thee is a mixture of servility and 
self-importance in his letter , which promises well . I am 
impatient to see him . ''  
 
`` In point of composition , '' said Mary , `` the letter does not seem 
defective . The idea of the olive-branch perhaps is not wholly 
new , yet I think it is well expressed . ''  
 
To Catherine and Lydia , neither the letter nor its writer were in 
any degree interesting . It was next to impossible that their 
cousin should come in a scarlet coat , and it was now some 
weeks since they had received pleasure from the society of a 
man in any other colour . As for their mother , Mr . Collins 's letter 
had done away much of her ill-will , and she was preparing to see 
him with a degree of composure which astonished her husband 
and daughters . 
 
Mr . Collins was punctual to his time , and was received with 
great politeness by the whole family . Mr . Bennet indeed said 
little ; but the ladies were ready enough to talk , and Mr . Collins 
seemed neither in need of encouragement , nor inclined to be 
silent himself . He was a tall , heavy-looking young man of 
five-and-twenty . His air was grave and stately , and his manners 
were very formal . He had not been long seated before he 
complimented Mrs . Bennet on having so fine a family of 
daughters ; said he had heard much of their beauty , but that in 
this instance fame had fallen short of the truth ; and added , that 
he did not doubt her seeing them all in due time disposed of in 
marriage . This gallantry was not much to the taste of some of 
his hearers ; but Mrs . Bennet , who quarreled with no 
compliments , answered most readily . 
 
`` You are very kind , I am sure ; and I wish with all my heart it 
may prove so , for else they will be destitute enough . Things are 
settled so oddly . ''  
 
`` You allude , perhaps , to the entail of this estate . ''  
 
`` Ah ! sir , I do indeed . It is a grievous affair to my poor girls , you 
must confess . Not that I mean to find fault with YOU , for such 
things I know are all chance in this world . There is no knowing 
how estates will go when once they come to be entailed . ''  
 
`` I am very sensible , madam , of the hardship to my fair cousins ,  
and could say much on the subject , but that I am cautious of 
appearing forward and precipitate . But I can assure the young 
ladies that I come prepared to admire them . At present I will 
not say more ; but , perhaps , when we are better acquainted -- ``  
 
He was interrupted by a summons to dinner ; and the girls smiled 
on each other . They were not the only objects of Mr . Collin's 
admiration . The hall , the dining-room , and all its furniture , were 
examined and praised ; and his commendation of everything 
would have touched Mrs . Bennet 's heart , but for the mortifying 
supposition of his viewing it all as his own future property . The 
dinner too in its turn was highly admired ; and he begged to 
know to which of his fair cousins the excellency of its cooking 
was owing . But he was set right there by Mrs . Bennet , who 
assured him with some asperity that they were very well able to 
keep a good cook , and that her daughters had nothing to do in 
the kitchen . He begged pardon for having displeased her . In a 
softened tone she declared herself not at all offended ; but he 
continued to apologise for about a quarter of an hour . 
 
 
 
Chapter 14 
 
During dinner , Mr . Bennet scarcely spoke at all ; but when the 
servants were withdrawn , he thought it time to have some 
conversation with his guest , and therefore started a subject in 
which he expected him to shine , by observing that he seemed 
very fortunate in his patroness . Lady Catherine de Bourgh's 
attention to his wishes , and consideration for his comfort ,  
appeared very remarkable . Mr . Bennet could not have chosen 
better . Mr . Collins was eloquent in her praise . The subject 
elevated him to more than usual solemnity of manner , and with a 
most important aspect he protested that `` he had never in his life 
witnessed such behaviour in a person of rank -- such affability 
and condescension , as he had himself experienced from Lady 
Catherine . She had been graciously pleased to approve of both 
of the discourses which he had already had the honour of 
preaching before her . She had also asked him twice to dine at 
Rosings , and had sent for him only the Saturday before , to make 
up her pool of quadrille in the evening . Lady Catherine was 
reckoned proud by many people he knew , but HE had never 
seen anything but affability in her . She had always spoken to 
him as she would to any other gentleman ; she made not the 
smallest objection to his joining in the society of the 
neighbourhood nor to his leaving the parish occasionally for a 
week or two , to visit his relations . She had even condescended 
to advise him to marry as soon as he could , provided he chose 
with discretion ; and had once paid him a visit in his humble 
parsonage , where she had perfectly approved all the alterations 
he had been making , and had even vouchsafed to suggest some 
herself -- some shelves in the closet upstairs . ''  
 
`` That is all very proper and civil , I am sure , '' said Mrs . Bennet ,  
`` and I dare say she is a very agreeable woman . It is a pity that 
great ladies in general are not more like her . Does she live near 
you , sir ? ''  
 
`` The garden in which stands my humble abode is separated only 
by a lane from Rosings Park , her ladyship 's residence . ''  
 
`` I think you said she was a widow , sir ? Has she any family ? ''  
 
`` She has only one daughter , the heiress of Rosings , and of very 
extensive property . ''  
 
`` Ah ! '' said Mrs . Bennet , shaking her head , `` then she is better off 
than many girls . And what sort of young lady is she ? Is she 
handsome ? ''  
 
`` She is a most charming young lady indeed . Lady Catherine 
herself says that , in point of true beauty , Miss de Bourgh is far 
superior to the handsomest of her sex , because there is that in 
her features which marks the young lady of distinguished birth . 
She is unfortunately of a sickly constitution , which has prevented 
her from making that progress in many accomplishments which 
she could not have otherwise failed of , as I am informed by the 
lady who superintended her education , and who still resides with 
them . But she is perfectly amiable , and often condescends to 
drive by my humble abode in her little phaeton and ponies . ''  
 
`` Has she been presented ? I do not remember her name among 
the ladies at court . ''  
 
`` Her indifferent state of health unhappily prevents her being in 
town ; and by that means , as I told Lady Catherine one day , has 
deprived the British court of its brightest ornaments . Her 
ladyship seemed pleased with the idea ; and you may imagine that 
I am happy on every occasion to offer those little delicate 
compliments which are always acceptable to ladies . I have more 
than once observed to Lady Catherine , that her charming 
daughter seemed born to be a duchess , and that the most 
elevated rank , instead of giving her consequence , would be 
adorned by her . These are the kind of little things which please 
her ladyship , and it is a sort of attention which I conceive myself 
peculiarly bound to pay . ''  
 
`` You judge very properly , '' said Mr . Bennet , `` and it is happy for 
you that you possess the talent of flattering with delicacy . May I 
ask whether these pleasing attentions proceed from the impulse 
of the moment , or are the result of previous study ? ''  
 
`` They arise chiefly from what is passing at the time , and though 
I sometimes amuse myself with suggesting and arranging such 
little elegant compliments as may be adapted to ordinary 
occasions , I always wish to give them as unstudied an air as 
possible . ''  
 
Mr . Bennet 's expectations were fully answered . His cousin was 
as absurd as he had hoped , and he listened to him with the 
keenest enjoyment , maintaining at the same time the most 
resolute composure of countenance , and , except in an occasional 
glance at Elizabeth , requiring no partner in his pleasure . 
 
By tea-time , however , the dose had been enough , and Mr . 
Bennet was glad to take his guest into the drawing-room again ,  
and , when tea was over , glad to invite him to read aloud to the 
ladies . Mr . Collins readily assented , and a book was produced ;  
but , on beholding it ( for everything announced it to be from a 
circulating library ) , he started back , and begging pardon ,  
protested that he never read novels . Kitty stared at him , and 
Lydia exclaimed . Other books were produced , and after some 
deliberation he chose Fordyce 's Sermons . Lydia gaped as he 
opened the volume , and before he had , with very monotonous 
solemnity , read three pages , she interrupted him with :  
 
`` Do you know , mamma , that my uncle Phillips talks of turning 
away Richard ; and if he does , Colonel Forster will hire him . My 
aunt told me so herself on Saturday . I shall walk to Meryton 
to-morrow to hear more about it , and to ask when Mr . Denny 
comes back from town . ''  
 
Lydia was bid by her two eldest sisters to hold her tongue ; but 
Mr . Collins , much offended , laid aside his book , and said :  
 
`` I have often observed how little young ladies are interested by 
books of a serious stamp , though written solely for their benefit . 
It amazes me , I confess ; for , certainly , there can be nothing so 
advantageous to them as instruction . But I will no longer 
importune my young cousin . ''  
 
Then turning to Mr . Bennet , he offered himself as his antagonist 
at backgammon . Mr . Bennet accepted the challenge , observing 
that he acted very wisely in leaving the girls to their own trifling 
amusements . Mrs . Bennet and her daughters apologised most 
civilly for Lydia 's interruption , and promised that it should not 
occur again , if he would resume his book ; but Mr . Collins , after 
assuring them that he bore his young cousin no ill-will , and 
should never resent her behaviour as any affront , seated himself 
at another table with Mr . Bennet , and prepared for 
backgammon . 
 
 
 
Chapter 15 
 
Mr . Collins was not a sensible man , and the deficiency of nature 
had been but littleassisted by education or society ; the greatest 
part of his life having been spent under the guidance of an 
illiterate and miserly father ; and though he belonged to one of 
the universities , he had merely kept the necessary terms , without 
forming at it any useful acquaintance . The subjection in which 
his father had brought him up had given him originally great 
humility of manner ; but it was now a good deal counteracted by 
the self-conceit of a weak head , living in retirement , and the 
consequential feelings of early and unexpected prosperity . A 
fortunate chance had recommended him to Lady Catherine de 
Bourgh when the living of Hunsford was vacant ; and the respect 
which he felt for her high rank , and his veneration for her as his 
patroness , mingling with a very good opinion of himself , of his 
authority as a clergyman , and his right as a rector , made him 
altogether a mixture of pride and obsequiousness ,  
self-importance and humility . 
 
Having now a good house and a very sufficient income , he 
intended to marry ; and in seeking a reconciliation with the 
Longbourn family he had a wife in view , as he meant to choose 
one of the daughters , if he found them as handsome and amiable 
as they were represented by common report . This was his plan 
off amends -- of atonement -- for inheriting their father 's estate ;  
and he thought it an excellent one , full of eligibility and 
suitableness , and excessively generous and disinterested on his 
own part . 
 
His plan did not vary on seeing them . Miss Bennet 's lovely face 
confirmed his views , and established all his strictest notions of 
what was due to seniority ; and for the first evening SHE was his 
settled choice . The next morning , however , made an alteration ;  
for in a quarter of an hour 's tete-a-tete with Mrs . Bennet before 
breakfast , a conversation beginning with his parsonage-house ,  
and leading naturally to the avowal of his hopes , that a mistress 
might be found for it at Longbourn , produced from her , amid 
very complaisant smiles and general encouragement , a caution 
against the very Jane he had fixed on . `` As to her YOUNGER 
daughters , she could not take upon her to say -- she could not 
positively answer -- but she did not KNOW of any prepossession ;  
her ELDEST daughter , she must just mention -- she felt it 
incumbent on her to hint , was likely to be very soon engaged . ''  
 
Mr . Collins had only to change from Jane to Elizabeth -- and it 
was soon done -- done while Mrs . Bennet was stirring the fire . 
Elizabeth , equally next to Jane in birth and beauty , succeeded 
her of course . 
 
Mrs . Bennet treasured up the hint , and trusted that she might 
soon have two daughters married ; and the man whom she could 
not bear to speak of the day before was now high in her good 
graces . 
 
Lydia 's intention of walking to Meryton was not forgotten ;  
every sister except Mary agreed to go with her ; and Mr . Collins 
was to attend them , at the request of Mr . Bennet , who was most 
anxious to get rid of him , and have his library to himself ; for 
thither Mr . Collins had followed him after breakfast ; and there he 
would continue , nominally engaged with one of the largest folios 
in the collection , but really talking to Mr . Bennet , with little 
cessation , of his house and garden at Hunsford . Such doings 
discomposed Mr . Bennet exceedingly . In his library he had been 
always sure of leisure and tranquillity ; and though prepared , as 
he told Elizabeth , to meet with folly and conceit in every other 
room of the house , he was used to be free from them there ; his 
civility , therefore , was most prompt in inviting Mr . Collins to 
join his daughters in their walk ; and Mr . Collins , being in fact 
much better fitted for a walker than a reader , was extremely 
pleased to close his large book , and go . 
 
In pompous nothings on his side , and civil assents on that of his 
cousins , their time passed till they entered Meryton . The 
attention of the younger ones was then no longer to be gained by 
him . Their eyes were immediately wandering up in the street in 
quest of the officers , and nothing less than a very smart bonnet 
indeed , or a really new muslin in a shop window , could recall 
them . 
 
But the attention of every lady was soon caught by a young man ,  
whom they had never seen before , of most gentlemanlike 
appearance , walking with another officer on the other side of the 
way . The officer was the very Mr . Denny concerning whose 
return from London Lydia came to inquire , and he bowed as 
they passed . All were struck with the stranger 's air , all 
wondered who he could be ; and Kitty and Lydia , determined if 
possible to find out , led the way across the street , under pretense 
of wanting something in an opposite shop , and fortunately had 
just gained the pavement when the two gentlemen , turning back ,  
had reached the same spot . Mr . Denny addressed them directly ,  
and entreated permission to introduce his friend , Mr . Wickham ,  
who had returned with him the day before from town , and he 
was happy to say had accepted a commission in their corps . 
This was exactly as it should be ; for the young man wanted only 
regimentals to make him completely charming . His appearance 
was greatly in his favour ; he had all the best part of beauty , a 
fine countenance , a good figure , and very pleasing address . The 
introduction was followed up on his side by a happy readiness of 
conversation -- a readiness at the same time perfectly correct and 
unassuming ; and the whole party were still standing and talking 
together very agreeably , when the sound of horses drew their 
notice , and Darcy and Bingley were seen riding down the street . 
On distinguishing the ladies of the group , the two gentlemen 
came directly towards them , and began the usual civilities . 
Bingley was the principal spokesman , and Miss Bennet the 
principal object . He was then , he said , on his way to Longbourn 
on purpose to inquire after her . Mr . Darcy corroborated it with 
a bow , an was beginning to determine not to fix his eyes on 
Elizabeth , when they were suddenly arrested by the sight of the 
stranger , and Elizabeth happening to see the countenance of 
both as they looked at each other , was all astonishment at the 
effect of the meeting . Both changed colour , one looked white ,  
the other red . Mr . Wickham , after a few moments , touched his 
hat -- a salutation which Mr . Darcy just deigned to return . What 
could be the meaning of it ? It was impossible to imagine ; it was 
impossible not to long to know . 
 
In another minute , Mr . Bingley , but without seeming to have 
noticed what passed , took leave and rode on with his friend . 
 
Mr . Denny and Mr . Wickham walked with the young ladies to 
the door of Mr . Phillip 's house , and then made their bows , in 
spite of Miss Lydia 's pressing entreaties that they should come 
in , and even in spite of Mrs . Phillips throwing up the parlour 
window and loudly seconding the invitation . 
 
Mrs . Phillips was always glad to see her nieces ; and the two 
eldest , from their recent absence , were particularly welcome , and 
she was eagerly expressing her surprise at their sudden return 
home , which , as their own carriage had not fetched them , she 
should have known nothing about , if she had not happened to 
see Mr . Jones 's shop-boy in the street , who had told her that 
they were not to send any more draughts to Netherfield because 
the Miss Bennets were come away , when her civility was 
claimed towards Mr . Collins by Jane 's introduction of him . She 
received him with her very best politeness , which he returned 
with as much more , apologising for his intrusion , without any 
previous acquaintance with her , which he could not help 
flattering himself , however , might be justified by his relationship 
to the young ladies who introduced him to her notice . Mrs . 
Phillips was quite awed by such an excess of good breeding ; but 
her contemplation of one stranger was soon put to an end by 
exclamations and inquiries about the other ; of whom , however ,  
she could only tell her nieces what they already knew , that Mr . 
Denny had brought him from London , and that he was to have a 
lieutenant 's commission in the -- -- shire . She had been watching 
him the last hour , she said , as he walked up and down the street ,  
and had Mr . Wickham appeared , Kitty and Lydia would certainly 
have continued the occupation , but unluckily no one passed 
windows now except a few of the officers , who , in comparison 
with the stranger , were become `` stupid , disagreeable fellows . ''  
Some of them were to dine with the Phillipses the next day , and 
their aunt promised to make her husband call on Mr . Wickham ,  
and give him an invitation also , if the family from Longbourn 
would come in the evening . This was agreed to , and Mrs . 
Phillips protested that they would have a nice comfortable noisy 
game of lottery tickets , and a little bit of hot supper afterwards . 
The prospect of such delights was very cheering , and they parted 
in mutual good spirits . Mr . Collins repeated his apologies in 
quitting the room , and was assured with unwearying civility that 
they were perfectly needless . 
 
As they walked home , Elizabeth related to Jane what she had 
seen pass between the two gentlemen ; but though Jane would 
have defended either or both , had they appeared to be in the 
wrong , she could no more explain such behaviour than her sister . 
 
Mr . Collins on his return highly gratified Mrs . Bennet by 
admiring Mrs ' Phillips 's manners and politeness . He protested 
that , except Lady Catherine and her daughter , he had never seen 
a more elegant woman ; for she had not only received him with 
the utmost civility , but even pointedly included him in her 
invitation for the next evening , although utterly unknown to her 
before . Something , he supposed , might be attributed to his 
connection with them , but yet he had never met with so much 
attention in the whole course of his life . 
 
 
 
Chapter 16 
 
As no objection was made to the young people 's engagement 
with their aunt , and all Mr . Collins 's scruples of leaving Mr . and 
Mrs . Bennet for a single evening during his visit were most 
steadily resisted , the coach conveyed him and his five cousins at 
a suitable hour to Meryton ; and the girls had the pleasure of 
hearing , as they entered the drawing-room , that Mr . Wickham 
had accepted their uncle 's invitation , and was then in the house . 
 
When this information was given , and they had all taken their 
seats , Mr . collins was at leisure to look around him and admire ,  
and he was so much struck with the size and furniture of the 
apartment , that he declared he might almost have supposed 
himself in the small summer breakfast parlour at Rosings ; a 
comparison that did not at first convey much gratification ; but 
when Mrs . Phillips understood from him what Rosings was , and 
who was its proprietor -- when she had listened to the description 
of only one of Lady Catherine 's drawing-rooms , and found that 
the chimney-piece alone had cost eight hundred pounds , she felt 
all the force of the compliment , and would hardly have resented 
a comparison with the housekeeper 's room . 
 
In describing to her all the grandeur of Lady Catherine and her 
mansion , with occasional digressions in praise of his own humble 
abode , and the improvements it was receiving , he was happily 
employed until the gentlemen joined them ; and he found in Mrs . 
Phillips a very attentive listener , whose opinion of his 
consequence increased with what she heard , and who was 
resolving to retail it all among her neighbours as soon as she 
could . To the girls , who could not listen to their cousin , and 
who had nothing to do but to wish for an instrument , and 
examine their own indifferent imitations of china on the 
mantelpiece , the interval of waiting appeared very long . It was 
over at last , however . The gentlemen did approach , and when 
Mr . Wickham walked into the room , Elizabeth felt that she had 
neither been seeing him before , nor thinking of him since , with 
the smallest degree of unreasonable admiration . The officers of 
the -- -- shire were in general a very creditable , gentlemanlike set ,  
and the best of them were of the present party ; but Mr . 
Wickham was as far beyond them all in person , countenance , air ,  
and walk , as THEY were superior to the broad-faced , stuffy 
uncle Phillips , breathing port wine , who followed them into the 
room . 
 
Mr . Wickham was the happy man towards whom almost every 
female eye was turned , and Elizabeth was the happy woman by 
whom he finally seated himself ; and the agreeable manner in 
which he immediately fell into conversation , though it was only 
on its being a wet night , made her feel that the commonest ,  
dullest , most threadbare topic might be rendered interesting by 
the skill of the speaker . 
 
With such rivals for the notice of the fair as Mr . Wickham and 
the officers , Mr . Collins seemed to sink into insignificance ; to 
the young ladies he certainly was nothing ; but he had still at 
intervals a kind listener in Mrs . Phillips , and was by her 
watchfulness , most abundantly supplied with coffee and muffin . 
When the card-tables were placed , he had the opportunity of 
obliging her in turn , by sitting down to whist . 
 
`` I know little of the game at present , '' said he , `` but I shall be 
glad to improve myself , for in my situation in life -- '' Mrs . Phillips 
was very glad for his compliance , but could not wait for his 
reason . 
 
Mr . Wickham did not play at whist , and with ready delight was he 
received at the other table between Elizabeth and Lydia . At first 
there seemed danger of Lydia 's engrossing him entirely , for she 
was a most determined talked ; but being likewise extremely fond 
of lottery tickets , she soon grew too much interested in the 
game , too eager in making bets and exclaiming after prizes to 
have attention for anyone in particular . Allowing for the 
common demands of the game , Mr . Wickham was therefore at 
leisure to talk to Elizabeth , and she was very willing to hear him ,  
though what she chiefly wished to hear she could not hope to be 
told -- the history of his acquaintance with Mr . Darcy . She dared 
not even mention that gentleman . Her curiosity , however , was 
unexpectedly relieved . Mr . Wickham began the subject himself . 
He inquired how far Netherfield was from Meryton ; and , after 
receiving her answer , asked in a hesitating manner how long Mr . 
Darcy had been staying there . 
 
`` About a month , '' said Elizabeth ; and then , unwilling to let the 
subject drop , added , `` he is a man of very large property in 
Derbyshire , I understand . ''  
 
`` Yes , '' replied Mr . Wickham ; `` his estate there is a noble one . A 
clear ten thousand per annum . You could not have met with a 
person more capable of giving you certain information on that 
head than myself , for I have been connected with his family in a 
particular manner from my infancy . ''  
 
Elizabeth could not but look surprised . 
 
`` You may well be surprised , Miss Bennet , at such an assertion ,  
after seeing , as you probably might , the very cold manner of our 
meeting yesterday . Are you much acquainted with Mr . Darcy ? ''  
 
`` As much as I ever wish to be , '' cried Elizabeth very warmly . `` I 
have spent four days in the same house with him , and I think him 
very disagreeable . ''  
 
`` I have no right to give MY opinion , '' said Wickham , `` as to his 
being agreeable or otherwise . I am not qualified to form one . I 
have known him too long and too well to be a fair judge . It is 
impossible for ME to be impartial . But I believe your opinion of 
him would in general astonish -- and perhaps you would not 
express it quite so strongly anywhere else . Here you are in your 
own family . ''  
 
`` Upon my word , I say no more HERE than I might say in any 
house in the neighbourhood , except Netherfield . He is not at all 
liked in Hertfordshire . Everybody is disgusted with his pride . 
You will not find him more favourably spoken of by any one . ''  
 
`` I can not pretend to be sorry , '' said Wickham , after a short 
interruption , `` that he or that any man should not be estimated 
beyond their deserts ; but with HIM I believe it does not often 
happen . The world is blinded by his fortune and consequence ,  
or frightened by his high and imposing manners , and sees him 
only as he chooses to be seen . ''  
 
I should take him , even on MY slight acquaintance , to be an 
ill-tempered man . '' Wickham shook his head . 
 
`` I wonder , '' said he , at the next opportunity of speaking ,  
`` whether he is likely to be in this country much longer . ''  
 
`` I do not at all know ; but I HEARD nothing of his going away 
when I was at Netherfield . I hope your plans in favour of the 
-- -- shire will not be affected by his being in the neighbourhood . ''  
 
`` Oh ! no -- it is not for ME to be driven away by Mr . Darcy . If 
HE wishes to avoid seeing ME , he must go . We are not on 
friendly terms , and it always gives me pain to meet him , but I 
have no reason for avoiding HIM but what I might proclaim 
before all the world , a sense of very great ill-usage , and most 
painful regrets at his being what he is . His father , Miss Bennet ,  
the late Mr . Darcy , was one of the best men that ever breathed ,  
and the truest friend I ever had ; and I can never be in company 
with this Mr . Darcy without being grieved to the soul by a 
thousand tender recollections . His behaviour to myself has been 
scandalous ; but I verily believe I could forgive him anything and 
everything , rather than his disappointing the hopes and 
disgracing the memory of his father . ''  
 
Elizabeth found the interest of the subject increase , and listened 
with all her heart ; but the delicacy of it prevented further inquiry . 
 
Mr . Wickham began to speak on more general topics , Meryton ,  
the neighbourhood , the society , appearing highly pleased with all 
that he had yet seen , and speaking of the latter with gentle but 
very intelligible gallantry . 
 
`` It was the prospect of constant society , and good society , '' he 
added , `` which was my chief inducement to enter the -- -- shire . I 
knew it to be a most respectable , agreeable corps , and my friend 
Denny tempted me further by his account of their present 
quarters , and the very great attentions and excellent 
acquaintances Meryton had procured them . Society , I own , is 
necessary to me . I have been a disappointed man , and my spirits 
will not bear solitude . I MUST have employment and society . 
A military life is not what I was intended for , but circumstances 
have now made it eligible . The church OUGHT to have been 
my profession -- I was brought up for the church , and I should at 
this time have been in possession of a most valuable living , had it 
pleased the gentleman we were speaking of just now . ''  
 
`` Indeed ! ''  
 
`` Yes -- the late Mr . Darcy bequeathed me the next presentation 
of the best living in his gift . He was my godfather , and 
excessively attached to me . I can not do justice to his kindness . 
He meant to provide for me amply , and thought he had done it ;  
but when the living fell , it was given elsewhere . ''  
 
`` Good heavens ! '' cried Elizabeth ; `` but how could THAT be ?  
How could his will be disregarded ? Why did you not seek legal 
redress ? ''  
 
`` There was just such an informality in the terms of the bequest 
as to give me no hope from law . A man of honour could not 
have doubted the intention , but Mr . Darcy chose to doubt it -- or 
to treat it as a merely conditional recommendation , and to assert 
that I had forfeited all claim to it by extravagance , imprudence --  
in short anything or nothing . Certain it is , that the living became 
vacant two years ago , exactly as I was of an age to hold it , and 
that it was given to another man ; and no less certain is it , that I 
can not accuse myself of having really done anything to deserve 
to lose it . I have a warm , unguarded temper , and I may have 
spoken my opinion OF him , and TO him , too freely . I can recall 
nothing worse . But the fact is , that we are very different sort of 
men , and that he hates me . ''  
 
`` This is quite shocking ! He deserves to be publicly disgraced . ''  
 
`` Some time or other he WILL be -- but it shall not be by ME . 
Till I can forget his father , I can never defy or expose HIM . ''  
 
Elizabeth honoured him for such feelings , and thought him 
handsomer than ever as he expressed them . 
 
`` But what , '' said she , after a pause , `` can have been his motive ?  
What can have induced him to behave so cruelly ? ''  
 
`` A thorough , determined dislike of me -- a dislike which I cannot 
but attribute in some measure to jealousy . Had the late Mr . 
Darcy liked me less , his son might have borne with me better ;  
but his father 's uncommon attachment to me irritated him , I 
believe , very early in life . He had not a temper to bear the sort of 
competition in which we stood -- the sort of preference which 
was often given me . ''  
 
`` I had not thought Mr . Darcy so bad as this -- though I have 
never liked him . I had not thought so very ill of him . I had 
supposed him to be despising his fellow-creatures in general , but 
did not suspect him of descending to such malicious revenge ,  
such injustice , such inhumanity as this . ''  
 
After a few minutes ' reflection , however , she continued , `` I DO 
remember his boasting one day , at Netherfield , of the 
implacability of his resentments , of his having an unforgiving 
temper . His disposition must be dreadful . ''  
 
`` I will not trust myself on the subject , '' replied Wickham ; `` _I_ 
can hardly be just to him . ''  
 
Elizabeth was again deep in thought , and after a time exclaimed ,  
`` to treat in such a manner the godson , the friend , the favorite of 
his father ! '' She could have added , `` a young man , too , like 
YOU , whose very countenance may vouch for your being 
amiable '' -- but she contented herself with , `` and one , too , who 
had probably been his companion from childhood , connected 
together , as I think you said , in the closest manner ! ''  
 
`` We were born in the same parish , within the same park ; the 
greatest part of our youth was passed together ; inmates of the 
same house , sharing the same amusements , objects of the same 
parental care . MY father began life in the profession which your 
uncle , Mr . Phillips , appears to do so much credit to -- but he 
gave up everything to be of use to the late Mr . Darcy and 
devoted all his time to the care of the Pemberley property . He 
was most highly esteemed by Mr . Darcy , a most intimate ,  
confidential friend . Mr . Darcy often acknowledged himself to be 
under the greatest obligations to my father 's active 
superintendence , and when , immediately before my father's 
death , Mr . Darcy gave him a voluntary promise of providing for 
me , I am convinced that he felt it to be as much a debt of 
gratitude to HIM , as of his affection to myself . ''  
 
`` How strange ! '' cried Elizabeth . `` How abominable ! I wonder 
that the very pride of this Mr . Darcy has not made him just to 
you ! If from no better motive , that he should not have been too 
proud to be dishonest -- for dishonesty I must call it . ''  
 
`` It IS wonderful , '' replied Wickham , `` for almost all his actions 
may be traced to pride ; and pride had often been his best friend . 
It has connected him nearer with virtue than with any other 
feeling . But we are none of us consistent , and in his behaviour 
to me there were stronger impulses even than pride . ''  
 
`` Can such abominable pride as his have ever done him good ? ''  
 
`` Yes . It has often led him to be liberal and generous , to give his 
money freely , to display hospitality , to assist his tenants , and 
relieve the poor . Family pride , and FILIAL pride -- for he is very 
proud of what his father was -- have done this . Not to appear to 
disgrace his family , to degenerate from the popular qualities , or 
lose the influence of the Pemberley House , is a powerful motive . 
He has also BROTHERLY pride , which , with SOME brotherly 
affection , makes him a very kind and careful guardian of his 
sister , and you will hear him generally cried up as the most 
attentive and best of brothers . ''  
 
`` What sort of girl is Miss Darcy ? ''  
 
He shook his head . `` I wish I could call her amiable . It gives me 
pain to speak ill of a Darcy . But she is too much like her 
brother -- very , very proud . As a child , she was affectionate and 
pleasing , and extremely fond of me ; and I have devoted hours 
and hours to her amusement . But she is nothing to me now . 
She is a handsome girl , about fifteen or sixteen , and , I 
understand , highly accomplished . Since her father 's death , her 
home has been London , where a lady lives with her , and 
superintends her education . ''  
 
After many pauses and many trials of other subjects , Elizabeth 
could not help reverting once more to the first , and saying :  
 
`` I am astonished at his intimacy with Mr . Bingley ! How can Mr . 
Bingley , who seems good humour itself , and is , I really believe ,  
truly amiable , be in friendship with such a man ? How can they 
suit each other ? Do you know Mr . Bingley ? ''  
 
`` Not at all . ''  
 
`` He is a sweet-tempered , amiable , charming man . He cannot 
know what Mr . Darcy is . ''  
 
`` Probably not ; but Mr . Darcy can please where he chooses . He 
does not want abilities . He can be a conversible companion if he 
thinks it worth his while . Among those who are at all his equals 
in consequence , he is a very different man from what he is to the 
less prosperous . His pride never deserts him ; but with the rich 
he is liberal-minded , just , sincere , rational , honourable , and 
perhaps agreeable -- allowing something for fortune and figure . ''  
 
The whist party soon afterwards breaking up , the players 
gathered round the other table and Mr . Collins took his station 
between his cousin Elizabeth and Mrs . Phillips . The usual 
inquiries as to his success was made by the latter . It had not 
been very great ; he had lost every point ; but when Mrs . Phillips 
began to express her concern thereupon , he assured her with 
much earnest gravity that it was not of the least importance , that 
he considered the money as a mere trifle , and begged that she 
would not make herself uneasy . 
 
I know very well , madam , '' said he , `` that when persons sit down 
to a card table , they must take their chances of these things , and 
happily I am not in such circumstances as to make five shillings 
any object . There are undoubtedly many who could not say the 
same , but thanks to Lady Catherine de Bourgh , I am removed 
far beyond the necessity of regarding little matters . ''  
 
Mr . Wickham 's attention was caught ; and after observing Mr ,  . 
Collins for a few moments , he asked Elizabeth in a low voice 
whether her relation was very intimately acquainted with the 
family of de Bourgh . 
 
`` Lady Catherine de Bourgh , '' she replied , `` has very lately given 
him a living . I hardly know how Mr . Collins was first 
introduced to her notice , but he certainly has not known her 
long . ''  
 
`` You know of course that Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Lady 
Anne Darcy were sisters ; consequently that she is aunt to the 
present Mr . Darcy . ''  
 
`` No , indeed , I did not . I knew nothing at all of Lady Catherine's 
connections . I never heard of her existence till the day before 
yesterday . ''  
 
`` Her daughter , Miss de Bourgh , will have a very large fortune ,  
and it is believed that she and her cousin will unite the two 
estates . ''  
 
This information made Elizabeth smile , as she thought of poor 
Miss Bingley . Vain indeed must be all her attentions , vain and 
useless her affection for his sister and her praise of himself , if he 
were already self-destined for another . 
 
`` Mr . Collins , '' siad she , `` speaks highly both of Lady Catherine 
and her daughter ; but from some particulars that he has related 
of her ladyship , I suspect his gratitude misleads him , and that in 
spite of her being his patroness , she is an arrogant , conceited 
woman . ''  
 
`` I believe her to be both in a great degree , '' replied Wickham ; `` I 
have not seen her for many years , but I very well remember that 
I never liked her , and that her manners were dictatorial and 
insolent . She has the reputation of being remarkably sensible 
and clever ; but I rather believe she derives part of her abilities 
from her rank and fortune , part from her authoritative manner ,  
and the rest from the pride for her nephew , who chooses that 
every one connected with him should have an understanding of 
the first class . ''  
 
Elizabeth allowed that he had given a very rational account of it ,  
and they continued talking together , with mutual satisfaction till 
supper put an end to cards , and gave the rest of the ladies their 
share of Mr . Wickham 's attentions . There could be no 
conversation in the noise of Mrs . Phillips ' supper party , but his 
manners recommended him to everybody . Whatever he said ,  
was said well ; and whatever he did , done gracefully . Elizabeth 
went away with her head full of him . She could think of nothing 
but of Mr . Wickham , and of what he had told her , all the way 
home ; but there was not time for her even to mention his name 
as they went , for neither Lydia nor Mr . Collins were once silent . 
Lydia talked incessantly of lottery tickets , of the fish she had lost 
and the fish she had won ; and Mr . Collins in describing the 
civility of Mr . and Mrs . Phillips , protesting that he did not in the 
least regard his losses at whist , enumerating all the dishes at 
supper , and repeatedly fearing that he crowded his cousins , had 
more to say than he could well manage before the carriage 
stopped at Longbourn House . 
 
 
 
Chapter 17 
 
Elizabeth related to Jane the next day what had passed between 
Mr . Wickham and herself . Jane listened with astonishment and 
concern ; she knew not how to believe that Mr . Darcy could be 
so unworthy of Mr . Bingley 's regard ; and yet , it was not in her 
nature to question the veracity of a young man of such amiable 
appearance as Wickham . The possibility of his having endured 
such unkindness , was enough to interest all her tender feelings ;  
and nothing remained therefore to be done , but to think well of 
them both , to defend the conduct of each , and throw into the 
account of accident or mistake whatever could not be otherwise 
explained . 
 
`` They have both , '' said she , `` been deceived , I dare say , in some 
way or other , pf which we can form no idea . Interested people 
have perhaps misrepresented each to the other . It is , in short ,  
impossible for us to conjecture the causes or circumstances 
which may have alienated them , without actual blame on either 
side . ''  
 
`` Very true , indeed ; and now , my dear Jane , what have you got 
to say on behalf of the interested people who have probably been 
concerned in the business ? Do clear THEM too , or we shall be 
obliged to think ill of somebody ? ''  
 
`` Laugh as much as you choose , but you will not laugh me out of 
my opinion . My dearest Lizzy , do but consider in what a 
disgraceful light it places Mr . Darcy , to be treating his father's 
favourite in such a manner , one whom his father had promised to 
provide for . It is impossible . No man of common humanity , no 
man who had any value for his character , could be capable of it . 
Can his most intimate friends be so excessively deceived in him ?  
Oh ! no . ''  
 
`` I can much more easily believe Mr . Bingley 's being imposed on ,  
than that Mr . Wickham should invent such a history of himself as 
he gave me last night ; names , facts , everything mentioned 
without ceremony . If it be not so , let Mr . Darcy contradict it . 
Besides , there was truth in his looks . ''  
 
`` It is difficult indeed -- it is distressing . One does not know what 
to think . ''  
 
`` I beg your pardon ; one knows exactly what to think . ''  
 
But Jane could think with certainty on only one point -- that Mr . 
Bingley , if he HAD been imposed on , would have much to suffer 
when the affair became public . 
 
The two young ladies were summoned from the shrubbery ,  
where this conversation passed , by the arrival of the very 
persons of whom they had been speaking ; Mr . Bingley and his 
sisters came to give their personal invitation for the 
long-expected ball at Netherfield , which was fixed for the 
following Tuesday . The two ladies were delighted to see their 
dear friend again , called it an age since they had met , and 
repeatedly asked what she had been doing with herself since 
their separation . To the rest of the family they paid little 
attention ; avoiding Mrs . Bennet as much as possible , saying not 
much to Elizabeth , and nothing at all to the others . They were 
soon gone again , rising from their seats with an activity which 
took their brother by surprise , and hurrying off as if eager to 
escape from Mrs . Bennet 's civilities . 
 
The prospect of the Netherfield ball was extremely agreeable to 
every female of the family . Mrs . Bennet chose to consider it as 
given in compliment to her eldest daughter , and was particularly 
flattered by receiving the invitation from Mr . Bingley himself ,  
instead of a ceremonious card . Jane pictured to herself a happy 
evening in the society of her two friends , and the attentions of 
her brother ; and Elizabeth thought with pleasure of dancing a 
great deal with Mr . Wickham , and of seeing a confirmation of 
everything in Mr . Darcy 's look and behavior . The happiness 
anticipated by Catherine and Lydia depended less on any single 
event , or any particular person , for though they each , like 
Elizabeth , meant to dance half the evening with Mr . Wickham ,  
he was be no means the only partner who could satisfy them , and 
a ball was , at any rate , a ball . And even Mary could assure her 
family that she had no disinclination for it . 
 
`` While I can have my mornings to myself , '' said she , `` it is 
enough -- I think it is no sacrifice to join occasionally in evening 
engagements . Society has claims on us all ; and I profess myself 
one of hose who consider intervals of recreation and amusement 
as desirable for everybody . ''  
 
Elizabeth 's spirits were so high on this occasion , that though she 
did not often speak unnecessarily to Mr . Collins , she could not 
help asking him whether he intended to accept Mr . Bingley's 
invitation , and if he did , whether he would think it proper to join 
in the evening 's amusement ; and she was rather surprised to find 
that he entertained no scruple whatever on that head , and was 
very far from dreading a rebuke either from the Archbishop , or 
Lady Catherine de Bourgh , by venturing to dance . 
 
`` I am by no means of the opinion , I assure you , '' said he , `` that a 
ball of this kind , given by a young man of character , to 
respectable people , can have any evil tendency ; and I am so far 
from objecting to dancing myself , that I shall hope to be 
honoured with the hands of all my fair cousins in the course of 
the evening ; and I take this opportunity of soliciting yours , Miss 
Elizabeth , for the two first dances especially , a preference which 
I trust my cousin Jane will attribute to the right cause , and not to 
any disrespect for her . ''  
 
Elizabeth felt herself completely taken in . She had fully 
proposed being engaged by Mr . Wickham for those very dances ;  
and to have Mr . Collins instead ! her liveliness had never been 
worse times . There was no help for it , however . Mr . 
Wickham 's happiness and her own were perforce delayed a little 
longer , and Mr . Collins ' proposal accepted with as good a grace 
as she could . She was not better the pleased with his gallantry 
from the idea it suggested of something more . It now first 
struck her , that SHE was selected from among her sisters as 
worthy of being mistress of Hunsford Parsonage , and of 
assisting to form a quadrille table at Rosings , in the absence of 
more eligible visitors . The idea soon reached to conviction , as 
she observed his increasing civilities toward herself , and heard 
his frequent attempt at a compliment on her wit and vivacity ; and 
though more astonished than gratified herself by this effect of 
her charms , it was not long before her mother gave her to 
understand that the probability of their marriage was extremely 
agreeable to HER . Elizabeth , however , did not choose to take 
the hint , being well aware that a serious dispute must be the 
consequence of any reply . Mr . Collins might never make the 
offer , and , till he did , it was useless to quarrel about him . 
 
If there had not been a Netherfield ball to prepare for and talk 
of , the younger Miss Bennets would have been in a very pitiable 
state at this time , for form the day of the invitation , to the day of 
the ball , there was such a succession of rain as prevented their 
walking to Meryton once . No aunt , no officers , no news could 
be sought after -- the very shoe-roses for Netherfield were got by 
proxy . Even Elizabeth might have found some trial of her 
patience in weather which totally suspended the improvement of 
her acquaintance with Mr . Wickham ; and nothing less than a 
dance on Tuesday , could have made such a Friday , Saturday ,  
Sunday , and Monday endurable to Kitty and Lydia . 
 
 
 
Chapter 18 
 
Till Elizabeth entered the drawing-room at Netherfield , and 
looked in vain for Mr . Wickham among the cluster of red coats 
there assembled , a doubt of his being present had never occurred 
to her . The certainty of meeting him had not been checked by 
any of those recollections that might not unreasonably have 
alarmed her . She had dressed with more than usual care , and 
prepared in the highest spirits for the conquest of all that 
remained unsubdued of his heart , trusting that it was not more 
than might be won in the course of the evening . But in an 
instant arose the dreadful suspicion of his being purposely 
omitted for Mr . Darcy 's pleasure in the Bingleys ' invitation to the 
officers ; and though this was not exactly the case , the absolute 
fact of his absence was pronounced by his friend Denny , to 
whom Lydia eagerly applied , and who told them that Wickham 
had been obliged to go to town on business the day before , and 
was not yet returned ; adding , with a significant smile , `` I do not 
imagine his business would have called him away just now , if he 
had not wanted to avoid a certain gentleman here . ''  
 
This part of his intelligence , though unheard by Lydia , was 
caught by Elizabeth , and , as it assured her that Darcy was not 
less answerable for Wickham 's absence than if her first surmise 
had been just , every feeling of displeasure against the former 
was so sharpened by immediate disappointment , that she could 
hardly reply with tolerable civility to the polite inquiries which 
he directly afterwards approached to make . Attendance ,  
forbearance , patience with Darcy , was injury to Wickham . She 
was resolved against any sort of conversation with him , and 
turned away with a degree of ill-humour which she could not 
wholly surmount even in speaking to Mr . Bingley , whose blind 
partiality provoked her . 
 
But Elizabeth was not formed for ill-humour ; and though every 
prospect of her own was destroyed for the evening , it could not 
dwell long on her spirits ; and having told all her griefs to 
Charlotte Lucas , whom she had not seen for a week , she was 
soon able to make a voluntary transition to the oddities of her 
cousin , and to point him out to her particular notice . The first 
two dances , however , brought a return of distress ; they were 
dances of mortification . Mr . Collins , awkward and solemn ,  
apologising instead of attending , and often moving wrong 
without being aware of it , gave her all the shame and misery 
which disagreeable partner for a couple of dances can give . The 
moment of her release from him was ecstasy . 
 
She danced next with an officer , and had the refreshment of 
talking of Wickham , and of hearing that he was universally liked . 
When those dances were over , she returned to Charlotte Lucas ,  
and was in conversation with her , when she found herself 
suddenly addressed by Mr . Darcy who took her so much by 
surprise in his application for her hand , that , without knowing 
what she did , she accepted him . He walked away again 
immediately , and she was left to fret over her own want of 
presence of mind ; Charlotte tried to console her :  
 
`` I dare say you will find him very agreeable . ''  
 
`` Heaven forbid ! THAT would be the greatest misfortune of all !  
To find a man agreeable whom on is determined to hate ! Do not 
wish me such an evil . ''  
 
When the dancing recommenced , however , and Darcy 
approached to claim her hand , Charlotte could not help 
cautioning her in a whisper , not to be a simpleton , and allow her 
fancy for Wickham to make her appear unpleasant in the eyes of 
a man ten times his consequence . Elizabeth made no answer ,  
and took her place in the set , amazed at the dignity to which she 
was arrived in being allowed to stand opposite to Mr . Darcy ,  
and reading in her neighbours ' looks , their equal amazement in 
beholding it . They stood for some time without speaking a 
word ; and she began to imagine that their silence was to last 
through the two dances , and at first was resolved not to break it ;  
till suddenly fancying that it would be the greater punishment to 
her partner to oblige him to talk , she made some slight 
observation on the dance . He replied , and was again silent . 
After a pause of some minutes , she addressed him a second time 
with : -- `` It is YOUR turn to say something now , Mr . Darcy . I 
talked about the dance , and YOU ought to make some sort of 
remark on the size of the room , or the number of couples . ''  
 
He smiled , and assured her that whatever she wished him to say 
should be said . 
 
`` Very well . That reply will do for the present . Perhaps by and 
by I may observe that private balls are much pleasanter than 
public ones . But NOW we may be silent . ''  
 
`` Do you talk by rule , then , while you are dancing ? ''  
 
`` Sometimes . One must speak a little , you know . It would look 
odd to be entirely silent for half an hour together ; and yet for the 
advantage of SOME , conversation ought to be so arranged , as 
that they may have the trouble of saying as little as possible . ''  
 
`` Are you consulting your own feelings in the present case , or do 
you imagine that you are gratifying mine ? ''  
 
`` Both , '' replied Elizabeth archly ; `` for I have always seen a great 
similarity in the turn of our minds . We are each of an unsocial ,  
taciturn disposition , unwilling to speak , unless we expect to say 
something that will amaze the whole room , and be handed down 
to posterity with all the eclat of a proverb . ''  
 
`` This is no very striking resemblance of your own character , I 
am sure , '' said he . `` How near it may be to MINE , I cannot 
pretend to say . YOU think it a faithful portrait undoubtedly . ''  
 
`` I must not decide on my own performance . ''  
 
He made no answer , and they were again silent till they had gone 
down the dance , when he asked her if she and her sisters did not 
very often walk to Meryton ? She answered in the affirmative ,  
and , unable to resist the temptation , added , `` When you met us 
there the other day , we had just been forming a new 
acquaintance . ''  
 
The effect was immediate . A deeper shade of hauteur 
overspread his features , but he said not a word , and Elizabeth ,  
though blaming herself for her own weakness , could not go on . 
At length Darcy spoke , and in a constrained manner said , `` Mr . 
Wickham is blessed with such happy manners as may ensure his 
MAKING friends -- whether he may be equally capable of 
RETAINING them , is less certain . ''  
 
`` He has been so unlucky as to lose YOUR friendship , '' replied 
Elizabeth with emphasis , `` and in a manner which he is likely to 
suffer from all his life . ''  
 
Darcy made no answer , and seemed desirous of changing the 
subject . At that moment , Sir William Lucas appeared close to 
them , meaning to pass through the set to the other side of the 
room ; but on perceiving Mr . Darcy , he stopped with a bow of 
superior courtesy to compliment him on his dancing and his 
partner . 
 
`` I have been most highly gratified indeed , my dear sir . Such 
very superior dancing is not often seen . It is evident that you 
belong to the first circles . Allow me to say , however , that your 
fair partner does not disgrace you , and that I must hope to have 
this pleasure often repeated , especially when a certain desirable 
event , my dear Eliza ( glancing at her sister and Bingley ) shall 
take place . What congratulations will then flow in ! I appeal to 
Mr . Darcy : -- but let me not interrupt you , sir . You will not 
thank me for detaining you from the bewitching converse of that 
young lady , whose bright eyes are also upbraiding me . ''  
 
The latter part of this address was scarcely heard by Darcy ; but 
Sir William 's allusion to his friend seemed to strike him forcibly ,  
and his eyes were directed with a very serious expression 
towards Bingley and Jane , who were dancing together . 
Recovering himself , however , shortly , he turned to his partner ,  
and said , `` Sir William 's interruption has made me forget what 
we were talking of . ''  
 
`` I do not think we were speaking at all . Sir William could not 
have interrupted two people in the room who had less to say for 
themselves . We have tried two or three subjects already without 
success , and what we are to talk of next I can not imagine . ''  
 
`` What think you of books ? '' said he , smiling . 
 
`` Books -- oh ! no . I am sure we never read the same , or not with 
the same feelings . ''  
 
`` I am sorry you think so ; but if that be the case , there can at 
least be no want of subject . We may compare our different 
opinions . ''  
 
`` No -- I can not talk of books in a ball-room ; my head is always 
full of something else . ''  
 
`` The PRESENT always occupies you in such scenes -- does it ? ''  
said he , with a look of doubt . 
 
`` Yes , always , '' she replied , without knowing what she said , for 
her thoughts had wandered far from the subject , as soon 
afterwards appeared by her suddenly exclaiming , `` I remember 
hearing you once say , Mr . Darcy , that you hardly ever forgave ,  
that you resentment once created was unappeasable . You are 
very cautious , I suppose , as to its BEING CREATED . ''  
 
`` I am , '' said he , with a firm voice . 
 
`` And never allow yourself to be blinded by prejudice ? ''  
 
`` I hope not . ''  
 
`` It is particularly incumbent on those who never change their 
opinion , to be secure of judging properly at first . 
 
`` May I ask to what these questions tend ? ''  
 
`` Merely to the illustration of YOUR character , '' said she ,  
endeavouring to shake off her gravity . `` I am trying to make it 
out . ''  
 
`` And what is your success ? ''  
 
She shook her head . `` I do not get on at all . I hear such 
different accounts of you as puzzle me exceedingly . ''  
 
`` I can readily believe , '' answered he gravely , `` that reports may 
vary greatly with respect to me ; and I could wish , Miss Bennet ,  
that you were not to sketch my character at the present moment ,  
as there is reason to fear that the performance would reflect no 
credit on either . ''  
 
`` But if I do not take your likeness now , I may never have 
another opportunity . ''  
 
`` I would by no means suspend any pleasure of yours , '' he coldly 
replied . She said no more , and they went down the other dance 
and parted in silence ; and on each side dissatisfied , though not to 
an equal degree , for in Darcy 's breast there was a tolerable 
powerful feeling towards her , which soon procured her pardon ,  
and directed all his anger against another . 
 
They had not long separated , when Miss Bingley came towards 
her , and with an expression of civil disdain accosted her : -- `` So ,  
Miss Eliza , I hear you are quite delighted with George 
Wickham ! Your sister has been talking to me about him , and 
asking me a thousand questions ; and I find that the young man 
quite forgot to tell you , among his other communication , that he 
was the son of old Wickham , the late Mr . Darcy 's steward . Let 
me recommend you , however , as a friend , not to give implicit 
confidence to all his assertions ; for as to Mr . Darcy 's using him 
ill , it is perfectly false ; for , on the contrary , he has always been 
remarkably kind to him , though George Wickham has treated 
Mr . Darcy in a most infamous manner . I do not know the 
particulars , but I know very well that Mr . Darcy is not in the 
least to blame , that he can not bear to hear George Wickham 
mentioned , and that though my brother thought that he could 
not well avoid including him in his invitation to the officers , he 
was excessively glad to find that he had taken himself out of the 
way . His coming into the country at all is a most insolent thing ,  
indeed , and I wonder how he could presume to do it . I pity you ,  
Miss Eliza , for this discovery of your favourite 's guilt ; but really ,  
considering his descent , one could not expect much better . ''  
 
`` His guilt and his descent appear by your account to be the 
same , '' said Elizabeth angrily ; `` for I have heard you accuse him 
of nothing worse than of being the son of Mr . Darcy 's steward ,  
and of THAT , I can assure you , he informed me himself . ''  
 
`` I beg your pardon , '' replied Miss Bingley , turning away with a 
sneer . `` Excuse my interference : it was kindly meant . ''  
 
`` Insolent girl ! '' said Elizabeth to herself . `` You are much 
mistaken if you expect to influence me by such a paltry attack 
as this . I see nothing in it but your own wilful ignorance and the 
malice of Mr . Darcy . '' She then sought her eldest sister , who 
has undertaken to make inquiries on the same subject of Bingley . 
Jane met her with a smile of such sweet complacency , a glow of 
such happy expression , as sufficiently marked how well she was 
satisfied with the occurrences of the evening . Elizabeth instantly 
read her feelings , and at that moment solicitude for Wickham ,  
resentment against his enemies , and everything else , gave way 
before the hope of Jane 's being in the fairest way for happiness . 
 
`` I want to know , '' said she , with a countenance no less smiling 
than her sister 's , `` what you have learnt about Mr . Wickham . 
But perhaps you have been too pleasantly engaged to think of 
any third person ; in which case you may be sure of my pardon . ''  
 
`` No , '' replied Jane , `` I have not forgotten him ; but I have nothing 
satisfactory to tell you . Mr . Bingley does not know the whole of 
his history , and is quite ignorant of the circumstances which have 
principally offended Mr . Darcy ; but he will vouch for the good 
conduct , the probity , and honour of his friend , and is perfectly 
convinced that Mr . Wickham has deserved much less attention 
from Mr . Darcy than he has received ; and I am sorry to say by 
his account as well as his sister 's , Mr . Wickham is by no means a 
respectable young man . I am afraid he has been very imprudent ,  
and has deserved to lose Mr . Darcy 's regard . ''  
 
`` Mr . Bingley does not know Mr . Wickham himself ? ''  
 
`` No ; he never saw him till the other morning at Meryton . ''  
 
`` This account then is what he has received from Mr . Darcy . I 
am satisfied . But what does he say of the living ? ''  
 
`` He does not exactly recollect the circumstances , though he has 
heard them from Mr . Darcy more than once , but he believes that 
it was left to him CONDITIONALLY only . ''  
 
`` I have not a doubt of Mr . Bingley 's sincerity , '' said Elizabeth 
warmly ; `` but you must excuse my not being convinced by 
assurances only . Mr . Bingley 's defense of his friend was a very 
able one , I dare say ; but since he is unacquainted with several 
parts of the story , and has learnt the rest from that friend 
himself , I shall venture to still think of both gentlemen as I did 
before . ''  
 
She then changed the discourse to one more gratifying to each ,  
and on which there could be no difference of sentiment . 
Elizabeth listened with delight to the happy , though modest 
hopes which Jane entertained of Mr . Bingley 's regard , and said 
all in her power to heighten her confidence in it . On their being 
joined by Mr . Bingley himself , Elizabeth withdrew to Miss 
Lucas ; to whose inquiry after the pleasantness of her last partner 
she had scarcely replied , before Mr . Collins came up to them ,  
and told her with great exultation that he had just been so 
fortunate as to make a most important discovery . 
 
`` I have found out , '' said he , `` by a singular accident , that there is 
now in the room a near relation of my patroness . I happened to 
overhear the gentleman himself mentioning to the young lady 
who does the honours of the house the names of his cousin Miss 
de Bourgh , and of her mother Lady Catherine . How 
wonderfully these sort of things occur ! Who would have 
thought of my meeting with , perhaps , a nephew of Lady 
Catherine de Bourgh in his assembly ! I am most thankful that 
the discovery is made in time for me to pay my respects to him ,  
which I am now going to do , and trust he will excuse my not 
having done it before . My total ignorance of the connection 
must plead my apology . ''  
 
`` You are not going to introduce yourself to Mr . Darcy ! ''  
 
`` Indeed I am . I shall entreat his pardon for not having done it 
earlier . I believe him to be Lady Catherine 's NEPHEW . It will 
be in my power to assure him that her ladyship was quite well 
yesterday se'nnight . ''  
 
Elizabeth tried hard to dissuade him from such a scheme ,  
assuring him that Mr . Darcy would consider his addressing him 
without introduction as an impertinent freedom , rather than a 
compliment to his aunt ; that it was not in the least necessary 
there should be any notice on either side ; and that if it were , it 
must belong to Mr . Darcy , the superior in consequence , to begin 
the acquaintance . Mr . Collins listened to her with the 
determined air of following his own inclination , and , when she 
ceased speaking , replied thus : -- `` My dear Miss Elizabeth , I have 
the highest opinion in the world in your excellent judgement in 
all matters within the scope of your understanding ; but permit 
me to say , that there must be a wide difference between the 
established forms of ceremony amongst the laity , and those 
which regulate the clergy ; for , give me leave to observe that I 
consider the clerical office as equal in point of dignity with the 
highest rank in the kingdom -- provided that a proper humility of 
behaviour is at the same time maintained . You must therefore 
allow me to follow the dictates of my conscience on this 
occasion , which leads me to perform what I look on as a point 
of duty . Pardon me for neglecting to profit by your advice ,  
which on every other subject shall be my constant guide , though 
in the case before us I consider myself more fitted by education 
and habitual study to decide on what is right than a young lady 
like yourself . '' And with a low bow he left her to attack Mr . 
Darcy , whose reception of his advances she eagerly watched ,  
and whose astonishment at being so addressed was very evident . 
Her cousin prefaced his speech with a solemn bow and though 
she could not hear a word of it , she felt as if hearing it all , and 
saw in the motion of his lips the words `` apology , '' `` Hunsford , ''  
and `` Lady Catherine de Bourgh . '' It vexed her to see him 
expose himself to such a man . Mr . Darcy was eyeing him with 
unrestrained wonder , and when at last Mr . Collins allowed him 
time to speak , replied with an air of distant civility . Mr . Collins ,  
however , was not discouraged from speaking again , and Mr . 
Darcy 's contempt seemed abundantly increasing with the length 
of his second speech , and at the end of it he only made him a 
slight bow , and moved another way . Mr . Collins then returned 
to Elizabeth . 
 
`` I have no reason , I assure you , '' said he , `` to be dissatisfied with 
my reception . Mr . Darcy seemed much pleased with the 
attention . He answered me with the utmost civility , and even 
paid me the compliment of saying that he was so well convinced 
of Lady Catherine 's discernment as to be certain she could never 
bestow a favour unworthily . It was really a very handsome 
thought . Upon the whole , I am much pleased with him . ''  
 
As Elizabeth had no longer any interest of her own to pursue ,  
she turned her attention almost entirely on her sister and Mr . 
Bingley ; and the train of agreeable reflections which her 
observations gave birth to , made her perhaps almost as happy as 
Jane . She saw her in idea settled in that very house , in all the 
felicity which a marriage of true affection could bestow ; and she 
felt capable , under such circumstances , of endeavouring even to 
like Bingley 's two sisters . Her mother 's thoughts she plainly saw 
were bent the same way , and she determined not to venture near 
her , lest she might hear too much . When they sat down to 
supper , therefore , she considered it a most unlucky perverseness 
which placed them within one of each other ; and deeply was she 
vexed to find that her mother was talking to that one person 
( Lady Lucas ) freely , openly , and of nothing else but her 
expectation that Jane would soon be married to Mr . Bingley . It 
was an animating subject , and Mrs . Bennet seemed incapable of 
fatigue while enumerating the advantages of the match . His 
being such a charming young man , and so rich , and living but 
three miles from them , were the first points of self-gratulation ;  
and then it was such a comfort to think how fond the two sisters 
were of Jane , and to be certain that they must desire the 
connection as much as she could do . It was , moreover , such a 
promising thing for her younger daughters , as Jane 's marrying so 
greatly must throw them in the way of other rich men ; and lastly ,  
it was so pleasant at her time of life to be able to consign her 
single daughters to the care of their sister , that she might not be 
obliged to go into company more than she liked . It was 
necessary to make this circumstance a matter of pleasure ,  
because on such occasions it is the etiquette ; but no one was less 
likely than Mrs . Bennet to find comfort in staying home at any 
period of her life . She concluded with many good wishes that 
Lady Lucas might soon be equally fortunate , though evidently 
and triumphantly believing there was no chance of it . 
 
In vain did Elizabeth endeavour to check the rapidity of her 
mother 's words , or persuade her to describe her felicity in a less 
audible whisper ; for , to her inexpressible vexation , she could 
perceive that the chief of it was overheard by Mr . Darcy , who 
sat opposite to them . Her mother only scolded her for being 
nonsensical . 
 
`` What is Mr . Darcy to me , pray , that I should be afraid of him ?  
I am sure we owe him no such particular civility as to be obliged 
to say nothing HE may not like to hear . ''  
 
`` For heaven 's sake , madam , speak lower . What advantage can it 
be for you to offend Mr . Darcy ? You will never recommend 
yourself to his friend by so doing ! ''  
 
Nothing that she could say , however , had any influence . Her 
mother would talk of her views in the same intelligible tone . 
Elizabeth blushed and blushed again with shame and vexation . 
She could not help frequently glancing her eye at Mr . Darcy ,  
though every glance convinced her of what she dreaded ; for 
though he was not always looking at her mother , she was 
convinced that his attention was invariably fixed by her . The 
expression of his face changed gradually from indignant 
contempt to a composed and steady gravity . 
 
At length , however , Mrs . Bennet had no more to say ; and Lady 
Lucas , who had been long yawning at the repetition of delights 
which she saw no likelihood of sharing , was left to the comforts 
of cold ham and chicken . Elizabeth now began to revive . But 
not long was the interval of tranquillity ; for , when supper was 
over , singing was talked of , and she had the mortification of 
seeing Mary , after very little entreaty , preparing to oblige the 
company . By many significant looks and silent entreaties , did 
she endeavour to prevent such a proof of complaisance , but in 
vain ; Mary would not understand them ; such an opportunity of 
exhibiting was delightful to her , and she began her song . 
Elizabeth 's eyes were fixed on her with most painful sensations ,  
and she watched her progress through the several stanzas with 
an impatience which was very ill rewarded at their close ; for 
Mary , on receiving , amongst the thanks of the table , the hint of a 
hope that she might be prevailed on to favour them again , after 
the pause of half a minute began another . Mary 's powers were 
by no means fitted for such a display ; her voice was weak , and 
her manner affected . Elizabeth was in agonies . She looked at 
Jane , to see how she bore it ; but Jane was very composedly 
talking to Bingley . She looked at his two sisters , and saw them 
making signs of derision at each other , and at Darcy , who 
continued , however , imperturbably grave . She looked at her 
father to entreat his interference , lest Mary should be singing all 
night . He took the hint , and when Mary had finished her second 
song , said aloud , `` That will do extremely well , child . You have 
delighted us long enough . Let the other young ladies have time 
to exhibit . ''  
 
Mary , though pretending not to hear , was somewhat 
disconcerted ; and Elizabeth , sorry for her , and sorry for her 
father 's speech , was afraid her anxiety had done no good . 
Others of the party were now applied to . 
 
`` If I , '' said Mr . Collins , `` were so fortunate as to be able to sing ,  
I should have great pleasure , I am sure , in obliging the company 
with an air ; for I consider music as a very innocent diversion ,  
and perfectly compatible with the profession of a clergyman . I 
do not mean , however , to assert that we can be justified in 
devoting too much of our time to music , for there are certainly 
other things to be attended to . The rector of a parish has much 
to do . In the first place , he must make such an agreement for 
tithes as a may be beneficial to himself and not offensive to his 
patron . He must write his own sermons ; and the time that 
remains will not be too much for his parish duties , and the care 
and improvement of his dwelling , which he can not be excused 
from making as a comfortable as a possible . And I do not think 
it of light importance that he should have attentive and 
conciliatory manner towards everybody , especially towards 
those to whom he owes his preferment . I can not acquit him of 
that duty ; nor could I think well of the man who should omit an 
occasion of testifying his respect towards anybody connected 
with the family . '' And with a bow to Mr . Darcy , he concluded 
his speech , which had been spoken so loud as a to be heard by 
half the room . Many stared -- many smiled ; but no one looked 
more amused than Mr . Bennet himself , while his wife seriously 
commended Mr . Collins for having spoken so sensibly , and 
observed in a half-whisper to Lady Lucas , that he was a 
remarkably clever , good kind of young man . 
 
To Elizabeth it appeared that , had her family made an agreement 
to expose themselves as a much as a they could during the 
evening , it would have been impossible for them to play their 
parts with more spirit or finer success ; and happy did she think it 
for Bingley and her sister that some of the exhibition had 
escaped his notice , and that his feelings were not of a sort to be 
much distressed by the folly which he must have witnessed . 
That his two sisters and Mr . Darcy , however , should have such 
an opportunity of ridiculing her relations , was bad enough , and 
she could not determine whether the silent contempt of the 
gentleman , or the insolent smiles of the ladies , were more 
intolerable . 
 
The rest of the evening brought her little amusement . She was 
teased by Mr . Collins , who continued most perseveringly by her 
side , and though he could not prevail on her to dance with him 
again , put it out of her power to dance with others . In vain did 
she entreat him to stand up with somebody else , and offer to 
introduce him to any young lady in the room . He assured her ,  
that as to dancing , he was perfectly indifferent to it ; that his 
chief object was by delicate attentions to recommend himself to 
her and that he should therefore make a point of remaining close 
to her the whole evening . There was no arguing upon such a 
project . She owed her greatest relief to her friend Miss Lucas ,  
who often joined them , and good-naturedly engaged Mr . 
Collins 's conversation to herself . 
 
She was at least free from the offense of Mr . Darcy 's further 
notice ; though often standing within a very short distance of her ,  
quite disengaged , he never came near enough to speak . She felt 
it to be the probable consequence of her allusions to Mr . 
Wickham , and rejoiced in it . 
 
The Longbourn party were the last of all the company to depart ,  
and , by a manoeuvre of Mrs . Bennet , had to wait for their 
carriage a quarter of an hour after everybody else was gone ,  
which gave them time to see how heartily they were wished 
away by some of the family . Mrs . Hurst and her sister scarcely 
opened their mouths , except to complain of fatigue , and were 
evidently impatient to have the house to themselves . They 
repulsed every attempt of Mrs . Bennet at conversation , and by 
so doing threw a languor over the whole party , which was very 
little relieved by the long speeches of Mr . Collins , who was 
complimenting Mr . Bingley and his sisters on the elegance of 
their entertainment , and the hospitality and politeness which had 
marked their behaviour to their guests . Darcy said nothing at all . 
Mr . Bennet , in equal silence , was enjoying the scene . Mr . 
Bingley and Jane were standing together , a little detached from 
the rest , and talked only to each other . Elizabeth preserved as 
steady a silence as either Mrs . Hurst or Miss Bingley ; and even 
Lydia was too much fatigued to utter more than the occasional 
exclamation of `` Lord , how tired I am ! '' accompanied by a 
violent yawn . 
 
When at length they arose to take leave , Mrs . Bennet was most 
pressingly civil in her hope of seeing the whole family soon at 
Longbourn , and addressed herself especially to Mr . Bingley , to 
assure him how happy he would make them by eating a family 
dinner with them at any time , without the ceremony of a formal 
invitation . Bingley was all grateful pleasure , and he readily 
engaged for taking the earliest opportunity of waiting on her ,  
after his return from London , whither he was obliged to go the 
next day for a short time . 
 
Mrs . Bennet was perfectly satisfied , and quitted the house under 
the delightful persuasion that , allowing for the necessary 
preparations of settlements , new carriages , and wedding clothes ,  
she should undoubtedly see her daughter settled at Netherfield in 
the course of three or four months . Of having another daughter 
married to Mr . Collins , she thought with equal certainty , and 
with considerable , though not equal , pleasure . Elizabeth was the 
least dear to her of all her children ; and though the man and the 
match were quite good enough for HER , the worth of each was 
eclipsed by Mr . Bingley and Netherfield . 
 
 
 
Chapter 19 
 
The next day opened a new scene at Longbourn . Mr . Collins 
made his declaration in form . Having resolved to do it without 
loss of time , as his leave of absence extended only to the 
following Saturday , and having no feelings of diffidence to make 
it distressing to himself even at the moment , he set about it in a 
very orderly manner , with all the observances , which he 
supposed a regular part of the business . On finding Mrs . 
Bennet , Elizabeth , and one of the younger girls together , soon 
after breakfast , he addressed the mother in these words : `` May I 
hope , madam , for your interest with your fair daughter 
Elizabeth , when I solicit for the honour of a private audience 
with her in the course of this morning ? ''  
 
Before Elizabeth had time for anything but a blush of surprise ,  
Mrs . Bennet answered instantly , `` Oh dear ! -- yes -- certainly . I 
am sure Lizzy will be very happy -- I am sure she can have no 
objection , Come , Kitty , I want you upstairs . '' And , gathering 
her work together , she was hastening away , when Elizabeth 
called out :  
 
`` Dear madam , do not go . I beg you will not go . Mr . Collins 
must excuse me . He can have nothing to say to me that anybody 
need not hear . I am going away myself . ''  
 
`` No , no , nonsense , Lizzy . I desire you to stay where you are . ''  
And upon Elizabeth 's seeming really , with vexed and 
embarrassed looks , about to escape , she added : `` Lizzy , I 
INSIST upon your staying and hearing Mr . Collins . ''  
 
Elizabeth would not oppose such and injunction -- and a 
moment 's consideration making her also sensible that it would 
be wisest to get it over as soon and as quietly as possible , she sat 
down again and tried to conceal , by incessant employment the 
feelings which were divided between distress and diversion . 
Mrs . Bennet and Kitty walked off , and as soon as they were 
gone , Mr . Collins began . 
 
`` Believe me , my dear Miss Elizabeth , that your modesty , so far 
from doing you any disservice , rather adds to your other 
perfections . You would have been less amiable in my eyes had 
there NOT been this little unwillingness ; but allow me to assure 
you , that I have your respected mother 's permission for this 
address . You can hardly doubt the purport of my discourse ,  
however your natural delicacy may lead you to dissemble ; my 
attentions have been too marked to be mistaken . Almost as 
soon as I entered the house , I singled you out as the companion 
of my future life . But before I am run away with by my feelings 
on this subject , perhaps it would be advisable for me to state 
my reasons for marrying -- and , moreover , for coming into 
Hertfordshire with the design of selecting a wife , as I certainly 
did . ''  
 
The idea of Mr . Collins , with all his solemn composure , being 
run away with by his feelings , made Elizabeth so near laughing ,  
that she could not use the short pause he allowed in any attempt 
to stop him further , and he continued :  
 
`` My reasons for marrying are , first , that I think it a right thing 
for every clergyman in easy circumstances ( like myself ) to set 
the example of matrimony in his parish ; secondly , that I am 
convinced that it will add very greatly to my happiness ; and 
thirdly -- which perhaps I ought to have mentioned earlier , that it 
is the particular advice and recommendation of the very noble 
lady whom I have the honour of calling patroness . Twice has 
she condescended to give me her opinion ( unasked too ! ) on this 
subject ; and it was but the very Saturday night before I left 
Hunsford -- between our pools at quadrille , while Mrs . Jenkins 
was arranging Miss de Bourgh 's footstool , that she said , Mr . 
Collins , you must marry . A clergyman like you must marry . 
Choose properly , choose a gentlewoman for MY sake ; and for 
your OWN , let her be an active , useful sort of person , not brought 
up high , but able to make a small income go a good way . This is 
my advice . Find such a woman as soon as you can , bring her to 
Hunsford , and I will visit her . ' Allow me , by the way , to 
observe , my fair cousin , that I do not reckon the notice and 
kindness of Lady Catherine de Bourgh as among the least of the 
advantages in my power to offer . You will find her manners 
beyond anything I can describe ; and your wit and vivacity , I 
think , must be acceptable to her , especially when tempered with 
the silence and respect which her rank will inevitably excite . 
Thus much for my general intention in favour of matrimony ; it 
remains to be told why my views were directed towards 
Longbourn instead of my own neighbourhood , where I can 
assure you there are many amiable young women . But the fact 
is , that being , as I am , to inherit this estate after the death of 
your honoured father ( who , however , may live many years 
longer ) , I could not satisfy myself without resolving to choose a 
wife from among his daughters , that the loss to them might be as 
little as possible , when the melancholy event takes place -- which ,  
however , as I have already said , may not be for several years . 
This has been my motive , my fair cousin , and I flatter myself it 
will not sink me in your esteem . And now nothing remains but 
for me but to assure you in the most animated language of the 
violence of my affection . To fortune I am perfectly indifferent ,  
and shall make no demand of that nature on your father , since I 
am well aware that it could not be complied with ; and that one 
thousand pounds in the four per cents , which will not be yours 
till after your mother 's decease , is all that you may ever be 
entitled to . On that head , therefore , I shall be uniformly silent ;  
and you may assure yourself that no ungenerous reproach shall 
ever pass my lips when we are married . ''  
 
It was absolutely necessary to interrupt him now . 
 
`` You are too hasty , sir , '' she cried . `` You forget that I have 
made no answer . Let me do it without further loss of time . 
Accept my thanks for the compliment you are paying me . I am 
very sensible of the honour of your proposals , but it is 
impossible for me to do otherwise than to decline them . ''  
 
`` I am not now to learn , '' replied Mr . Collins , with a formal wave 
of the hand , `` that it is usual with young ladies to reject the 
addresses of the man whom they secretly mean to accept , when 
he first applies for their favour ; and that sometimes the refusal is 
repeated a second , or even a third time . I am therefore by no 
means discouraged by what you have just said , and shall hope to 
lead you to the altar ere long . ''  
 
`` Upon my word , sir , '' cried Elizabeth , `` your hope is a rather 
extraordinary one after my declaration . I do assure you that I 
am not one of those young ladies ( if such young ladies there are )  
who are so daring as to risk their happiness on the chance of 
being asked a second time . I am perfectly serious in my refusal . 
You could not make ME happy , and I am convinced that I am 
the last woman in the world who could make you so . Nay , were 
your friend Lady Catherine to know me , I am persuaded she 
would find me in every respect ill qualified for the situation . ''  
 
`` Were it certain that Lady Catherine would think so , '' said Mr . 
Collins very gravely -- `` but I can not imagine that her ladyship 
would at all disapprove of you . And you may be certain when I 
have the honour of seeing her again , I shall speak in the very 
highest terms of your modesty , economy , and other amiable 
qualification . ''  
 
`` Indeed , Mr . Collins , all praise of me will be unnecessary . You 
must give me leave to judge for myself , and pay me the 
compliment of believing what I say . I wish you very happy and 
very rich , and by refusing you hand , do all in my power to 
prevent your being otherwise . In making me the offer , you must 
have satisfied the delicacy of your feelings with regard to my 
family , and may take possession of Longbourn estate whenever 
it falls , without any self-reproach . This matter may be 
considered , therefore , as finally settled . '' And rising as she thus 
spoke , she would have quitted the room , had Mr . Collins not 
thus addressed her :  
 
`` When I do myself the honour of speaking to you next on the 
subject , I shall hope to receive a more favourable answer than 
you have now given me ; though I am far from accusing you of 
cruelty at present , because I know it to be the established 
custom of your sex to reject a man on the first application , and 
perhaps you have even now said as much to encourage my suit 
as would be consistent with the true delicacy of the female 
character . ''  
 
`` Really , Mr . Collins , '' cried Elizabeth with some warmth , `` you 
puzzle me exceedingly . If what I have hitherto said can appear 
to you in the form of encouragement , I know not how to express 
my refusal in such a way as to convince you of its being one . ''  
 
`` You must give me leave to flatter myself , my dear cousin , that 
your refusal of my addresses is merely words of course . My 
reasons for believing it are briefly these : It does not appear to 
me that my hand is unworthy your acceptance , or that the 
establishment I can offer would be any other than highly 
desirable . My situation in life , my connections with the family of 
de Bourgh , and my relationship to your own , are circumstances 
highly in my favour ; and you should take it into further 
consideration , that in spite of your manifold attractions , it is by 
no means certain that another offer of marriage may ever be 
made you . Your portion is unhappily so small that it will in all 
likelihood undo the effects of your loveliness and amiable 
qualifications . As I must therefore conclude that you are not 
serious in your rejection of me , I shall choose to attribute it to 
your wish of increasing my love by suspense , according to the 
usual practice of elegant females . ''  
 
`` I do assure you , sir , that I have no pretensions whatever to that 
kind of elegance which consists in tormenting a respectable man . 
I would rather be paid the compliment of being believed sincere . 
I thank you again and again for the honour you have done me in 
your proposals , but to accept them is absolutely impossible . My 
feelings in every respect forbid it . Can I speak plainer ? Do not 
consider me now as an elegant female , intending to plague you ,  
but as a rational creature , speaking the truth from her heart . ''  
 
`` You are uniformly charming ! '' cried he , with an air of awkward 
gallantry ; `` and I am persuaded that when sanctioned by the 
express authority of both your excellent parents , my proposals 
will not fail of being acceptable . ''  
 
To such perseverance in wilful self-deception Elizabeth would 
make no reply , and immediately and in silence withdrew ,  
determined , that if he persisted in considering her repeated 
refusals as flattering encouragement , to apply to her father ,  
whose negative might be uttered in such a manner as to be 
decisive , and whose behavior at least could not be mistaken for 
the affectation and coquetry of an elegant female . 
 
 
 
Chapter 20 
 
Mr . Collins was not left long to the silent contemplation of his 
successful love ; for Mrs . Bennet , having dawdled about in the 
vestibule to watch for the end of the conference , no sooner saw 
Elizabeth open the door and with quick step pass her towards 
the staircase , than she entered the breakfast-room , and 
congratulated both him and herself in warm terms on the happy 
prospect or their nearer connection . Mr . Collins received and 
returned these felicitations with equal pleasure , and then 
proceeded to relate the particulars of their interview , with the 
result of which he trusted he had every reason to be satisfied ,  
since the refusal which his cousin had steadfastly given him 
would naturally flow from her bashful modesty and the genuine 
delicacy of her character . 
 
This information , however , startled Mrs . Bennet ; she would 
have been glad to be equally satisfied that her daughter had 
meant to encourage him by protesting against his proposals , but 
she dared not believe it , and could not help saying so . 
 
`` Bu , depend upon it , Mr . Collins , '' she added , `` that Lizzy shall 
be brought to reason . I will speak to her about it directly . She 
is a very headstrong , foolish girl , and does not know her own 
interest but I will MAKE her know it . ''  
 
`` Pardon me for interrupting you , madam , '' cried Mr . Collins ;  
`` but if she is really headstrong and foolish , I know not whether 
she would altogether be a very desirable wife to a man in my 
situation , who naturally looks for happiness in the marriage 
state . If therefore she actually persists in rejecting my suit ,  
perhaps it were better not to force her into accepting me ,  
because if liable to such defects of temper , she could not 
contribute much to my felicity . ''  
 
`` Sir , you quite misunderstand me , '' said Mrs . Bennet , alarmed . 
`` Lizzy is only headstrong in such matters as these . In everything 
else she is as good-natured a girl as ever lived . I will go directly 
to Mr . Bennet , and we shall very soon settle it with her , I am 
sure . ''  
 
She would not give him time to reply , but hurrying instantly to 
her husband , called out as she entered the library , `` Oh ! Mr . 
Bennet , you are wanted immediately ; we are all in an uproar . 
You must come and make Lizzy marry Mr . Collins , for she vows 
she will not have him , and if you do not make haste he will 
change his mind and not have HER . ''  
 
Mr . Bennet raised his eyes from his book as she entered , and 
fixed them on her face with a calm unconcern which was not in 
the least altered by her communication . 
 
`` I have not the pleasure of understanding you , '' said he , when 
she had finished her speech . `` Of what are you talking ? ''  
 
`` Of Mr . Collins and Lizzy . Lizzy declares she will not have Mr . 
Collins , and Mr . Collins begins to say that he will not have 
Lizzy . ''  
 
`` And what am I to do on the occasion ? It seems an hopeless 
business . ''  
 
`` Speak to Lizzy about it yourself . Tell her that you insist upon 
her marrying him . ''  
 
`` Let her be called down . She shall hear my opinion . ''  
 
Mrs . Bennet rang the bell , and Miss Elizabeth was summoned to 
the library . 
 
`` Come here , child , '' cried her father as she appeared . `` I have 
sent for you on an affair of importance . I understand that Mr . 
Collins has made you an offer of marriage . Is it true ? '' Elizabeth 
replied that it was . `` Very well -- and this offer of marriage you 
have refused ? ''  
 
`` I have , sir . ''  
 
`` Very well . We now come to the point . Your mother insists 
upon your accepting it . Is it not so , Mrs . Bennet ? ''  
 
`` Yes , or I will never see her again . ''  
 
`` An unhappy alternative is before you , Elizabeth . From this day 
you must be a stranger to one of your parents . Your mother will 
never see you again if you do NOT marry Mr . Collins , and I will 
never see you again if you DO . ''  
 
Elizabeth could not but smile at such a conclusion of such a 
beginning , but Mrs . Bennet , who had persuaded herself that her 
husband regarded the affair as she wished , was excessively 
disappointed . 
 
`` What do you mean , Mr . Bennet , in talking this way ? You 
promised me to INSIST upon her marrying him . ''  
 
`` My dear , '' replied her husband , `` I have two small favours to 
request . First , that you will allow me the free use of my 
understanding on the present occasion ; and secondly , of my 
room . I shall be glad to have the library to myself as soon as 
may be . ''  
 
Not yet , however , in spite of her disappointment in her husband ,  
did Mrs . Bennet give up the point . She talked to Elizabeth again 
and again ; coaxed and threatened her by turns . She endeavoured 
to secure Jane in her interest ; but Jane , with all possible 
mildness , declined interfering ; and Elizabeth , sometimes with 
real earnestness , and sometimes with playful gaiety , replied to 
her attacks . Though her manner varied , however , her 
determination never did . 
 
Mr . Collins , meanwhile , was meditating in solitude on what had 
passed . He thought too well of himself to comprehend on what 
motives his cousin could refuse him ; and though his pride was 
hurt , he suffered in no other way . His regard for her was quite 
imaginary ; and the possibility of her deserving her mother's 
reproach prevented his feeling any regret . 
 
While the family were in this confusion , Charlotte Lucas came to 
spend the day with them . She was met in the vestibule by Lydia ,  
who , flying to her , cried in a half whisper , `` I am glad you are 
come , for there is such fun here ! What do you think has 
happened this morning ? Mr . Collins has made an offer to Lizzy ,  
and she will not have him . ''  
 
Charlotte hardly had time to answer , before they were joined by 
Kitty , who came to tell the same news ; and no sooner had they 
entered the breakfast-room , where Mrs . Bennet was alone , than 
she likewise began on the subject , calling on Miss Lucas for her 
compassion , and entreating her to persuade her friend Lizzy to 
comply with the wishes of all her family . `` Pray do , my dear 
Miss Lucas , '' she added in a melancholy tone , `` for nobody is on 
my side , nobody takes part with me . I am cruelly used , nobody 
feels for my poor nerves . ''  
 
Charlotte 's reply was spared by the entrance of Jane and 
Elizabeth . 
 
`` Aye , there she comes , '' continued Mrs . Bennet , `` looking as 
unconcerned as may be , and caring no more for us than if we 
were at York , provided she can have her own way . But I tell 
you , Miss Lizzy -- if you take it into your head to go on refusing 
every offer of marriage in this way , you will never get a husband 
at all -- and I am sure I do not know who is to maintain you 
when your father is dead . _I_ shall not be able to keep you --  
and so I warn you . I have done with you from this very day . I 
told you in the library , you know , that I should never speak to 
you again , and you will find me as good as my word . I have no 
pleasure in talking to undutiful children . Not that I have much 
pleasure , indeed , in talking to anybody . People who suffer as I 
do from nervous complaints can have no great inclination for 
talking . Nobody can tell what I suffer ! But it is always so . 
Those who do not complain are never pitied . ''  
 
Her daughters listened in silence to this effusion , sensible that 
any attempt to reason with her or soothe her would only 
increase the irritation . She talked on , therefore , without 
interruption from any of them , till they were joined by Mr . 
Collins , who entered the room with an air more stately than 
usual , and on perceiving whom , she said to the girls , `` Now , I do 
insist upon it , that you , all of you , hold your tongues , and let me 
and Mr . Collins have a little conversation together . ''  
 
Elizabeth passed quietly out of the room , Jane and Kitty 
followed , but Lydia stood her ground , determined to hear all she 
could ; and Charlotte , detained first by the civility of Mr . Collins ,  
whose inquiries after herself and all her family were very minute ,  
and then by a little curiosity , satisfied herself with walking to the 
window and pretending not to hear . In a doleful voice Mrs . 
Bennet began the projected conversation : `` Oh ! Mr . Collins ! ''  
 
`` My dear madam , `` replied he , `` let us be for ever silent on this 
point . Far be it from me , '' he presently continued , in a voice that 
marked his displeasure , `` to resent the behaviour of your daughter . 
Resignation to inevitable evils is the evil duty of us all ; the 
peculiar duty of a young man who has been so fortunate as I 
have been in early preferment ; and I trust I am resigned . 
Perhaps not the less so from feeling a doubt of my positive 
happiness had my fair cousin honoured me with her hand ; for I 
have often observed that resignation is never so perfect as when 
the blessing denied begins to lose somewhat of its value in our 
estimation . You will not , I hope , consider me as showing any 
disrespect to your family , my dear madam , by thus withdrawing 
my pretensions to your daughter 's favour , without having paid 
yourself and Mr . Bennet to compliment of requesting you to 
interpose your authority in my behalf . My conduct may , I fear ,  
be objectionable in having accepted my dismission from your 
daughter 's lips instead of your own . But we are all liable to 
error . I have certainly meant well through the whole affair . My 
object has been to secure an amiable companion for myself , with 
due consideration for the advantage of all your family , and if my 
MANNER has been at all reprehensible , I here beg leave to 
apologise . ''  
 
 
 
Chapter 21 
 
The discussion of Mr . Collins 's offer was now nearly at an end ,  
and Elizabeth had only to suffer from the uncomfortable feelings 
necessarily attending it , and occasionally from some peevish 
allusions of her mother . As for the gentleman himself , HIS 
feelings were chiefly expressed , not by embarrassment or 
dejection , or by trying to avoid her , but by stiffness of manner 
and resentful silence . He scarcely ever spoke to her , and the 
assiduous attentions which he had been so sensible of himself 
were transferred for the rest of the day to Miss Lucas , whose 
civility in listening to him was a seasonable relief to them all , and 
especially to her friend . 
 
The morrow produced no abatement of Mrs . Bennet 's ill-humour 
or ill health . Mr . Collins was also in the same state of angry 
pride . Elizabeth had hoped that his resentment might shorten his 
visit , but his plan did not appear in the least affected by it . He 
was always to have gone on Saturday , and to Saturday he meant 
to stay . 
 
After breakfast , the girls walked to Meryton to inquire if Mr . 
Wickham were returned , and to lament over his absence from 
the Netherfield ball . He joined them on their entering the town ,  
and attended them to their aunt 's where his regret and vexation ,  
and the concern of everybody , was well talked over . To 
Elizabeth , however , he voluntarily acknowledged that the 
necessity of his absence HAD been self-imposed . 
 
`` I found , '' said he , `` as the time drew near that I had better not 
meet Mr . Darcy ; that to be in the same room , the same party 
with him for so many hours together , might be more than I could 
bear , and that scenes might arise unpleasant to more than 
myself . ''  
 
She highly approved his forbearance , and they had leisure for a 
full discussion of it , and for all the commendation which they 
civilly bestowed on each other , as Wickham and another officer 
walked back with them to Longbourn , and during the walk he 
particularly attended to her . His accompanying them was a 
double advantage ; she felt all the compliment it offered to 
herself , and it was most acceptable as an occasion of introducing 
him to her father and mother . 
 
Soon after their return , a letter was delivered to Miss Bennet ; it 
came from Netherfield . The envelope contained a sheet of 
elegant , little , hot-pressed paper , well covered with a lady 's fair ,  
flowing hand ; and Elizabeth saw her sister 's countenance change 
as she read it , and saw her dwelling intently on some particular 
passages . Jane recollected herself soon , and putting the letter 
away , tried to join with her usual cheerfulness in the general 
conversation ; but Elizabeth felt an anxiety on the subject which 
drew off her attention even from Wickham ; and no sooner had 
he and he companion taken leave , than a glance from Jane 
invited her to follow her upstairs . When they had gained their 
own room , Jane , taking out her letter , said , `` This is from 
Caroline Bingley ; what it contains has surprised me a good deal . 
The whole party have left Netherfield by this time , and are on 
their way to town -- and without any intention of coming back 
again . You shall hear what she says . ''  
 
She then read the first sentence aloud , which comprised the 
information of their having just resolved to follow their brother 
to town directly , and of their meaning to dine in Grosvenor 
Street , where Mr . Hurst had a house . The next was in these 
words : `` I do not pretend to regret anything I shall leave in 
Hertfordshire , except your society , my dearest friend ; but we 
will hope , at some future period , to enjoy many returns of that 
delightful intercourse we have known , and in the meanwhile may 
lessen the pain of separation by a very frequent and most 
unreserved correspondence . I depend on you for that . '' To 
these highflown expressions Elizabeth listened with all the 
insensibility of distrust ; and though the suddenness of their 
removal surprised her , she saw nothing in it really to lament ; it 
was not to be supposed that their absence from Netherfield 
would prevent Mr . Bingley 's being there ; and as to the loss of 
their society , she was persuaded that Jane must cease to regard 
it , in the enjoyment of his . 
 
`` It is unlucky , '' said she , after a short pause , `` that you should 
not be able to see your friends before they leave the country . 
But may we not hope that the period of future happiness to 
which Miss Bingley looks forward may arrive earlier than she is 
aware , and that the delightful intercourse you have known as 
friends will be renewed with yet greater satisfaction as sisters ?  
Mr . Bingley will not be detained in London by them . ''  
 
`` Caroline decidedly says that none of the party will return into 
Hertfordshire this winter . I will read it to you :  
 
`` # When my brother left us yesterday , he imagined that the * 
business which took him to London might be concluded in three * 
or four days ; but as we are certain it can not be so , and at the * 
same time convinced that when Charles gets to town he will be * 
in no hurry to leave it again , we have determined on following * 
him thither , that he may not be obliged to spend his vacant hours * 
in a comfortless hotel . Many of my acquaintances are already * 
there for the winter ; I wish that I could hear that you , my dearest * 
friend , had any intention of making one of the crowd -- but of * 
that I despair . I sincerely hope your Christmas in Hertfordshire * 
may abound in the gaieties which that season generally brings , * 
and that your beaux will be so numerous as to prevent your * 
feeling the loss of the three of whom we shall deprive you . ' `` * 
 
`` It is evident by this , '' added Jane , `` that he comes back no more 
this winter . ''  
 
`` It is only evident that Miss Bingley does not mean that he 
SHOULD . ''  
 
`` Why will you think so ? It must be his own doing . He is his 
own master . But you do not know ALL . I WILL read you the 
passage which particularly hurts me . I will have no reserves 
from YOU . ''  
 
`` # Mr . Darcy is impatient to see his sister ; and , to confess the * 
truth , WE are scarcely less eager to meet her again . I really do * 
not think Georgiana Darcy has her equal for beauty , elegance , * 
and accomplishments ; and the affection she inspires in Louisa * 
and myself is heightened into something still more interesting , * 
from the hope we dare entertain of her being hereafter our * 
sister . I do not know whether I ever before mentioned to you * 
my feelings on this subject ; but I will not leave the country * 
without confiding them , and I trust you will not esteem them * 
unreasonable . My brother admires her greatly already ; he will * 
have frequent opportunity now of seeing her on the most * 
intimate footing ; her relations all wish the connection as much as * 
his own ; and a sister 's partiality is not misleading me , I think , * 
when I call Charles most capable of engaging any woman 's * 
heart . With all these circumstances to favour an attachment , and * 
nothing to prevent it , am I wrong , my dearest Jane , in indulging * 
the hope of an event which will secure the happiness of so * 
many ? ' `` * 
 
`` What do you think of THIS sentence , my dear Lizzy ? '' said 
Jane as she finished it . `` Is it not clear enough ? Does it not 
expressly declare that Caroline neither expects nor wishes me to 
be her sister ; that she is perfectly convinced of her brother's 
indifference ; and that if she suspects the nature of my feelings for 
him , she means ( most kindly ! ) to put me on my guard ? Can 
there be any other opinion on the subject ? ''  
 
`` Yes , there can ; for mine is totally different . Will you hear it ? ''  
 
`` Most willingly . ''  
 
You shall have it in a few words . Miss Bingley sees that her 
brother is in love with you , and wants him to marry Miss Darcy . 
She follows him to town in hope of keeping him there , and tries 
to persuade you that he does not care about you . ''  
 
Jane shook her head . 
 
`` `` Indeed , Jane , you ought to believe me . No one who has ever 
seen you together can doubt his affection . Miss Bingley , I am 
sure , cannot . She is not such a simpleton . Could she have seen 
half as much love in Mr . Darcy for herself , she would have 
ordered her wedding clothes . But the case is this : We are not 
rich enough or grand enough for them ; and she is the more 
anxious to get Miss Darcy for her brother , from the notion that 
when there has been ONE intermarriage , she may have less 
trouble in achieving a second : in which there is certainly some 
ingenuity , and I dare say it would succeed , if Miss de Bourgh 
were out of the way . But , my dearest Jane , you can not seriously 
imagine that because Miss Bingley tells you her brother greatly 
admires Miss Darcy , he is in the smallest degree less sensible of 
YOUR merit than when he took leave of you on Tuesday , or 
that it will be in her power to persuade him that , instead of being 
in love with you , he is very much in love with her friend . ''  
 
`` If we thought alike of Miss Bingley , '' replied Jane , `` your 
representation of all this might make me quite easy . But I know 
the foundation is unjust . Caroline is incapable of wilfully 
deceiving anyone ; and all that I can hope in this case is that she 
is deceiving herself . ''  
 
`` That is right . You could not have started a more happy idea ,  
since you will not take comfort in mine . Believe her to be 
deceived , by all means . You have now done your duty by her ,  
and must fret no longer . ''  
 
`` But , my dear sister , can I be happy , even supposing the best , in 
accepting a man whose sisters and friends are all wishing him to 
marry elsewhere ? ''  
 
`` You must decide for yourself , '' said Elizabeth ; `` and if , upon 
mature deliberation , you find that the misery of disobliging his 
two sisters is more than equivalent to the happiness of being his 
wife , I advise you by all means to refuse him . ''  
 
`` How can you talk so ? '' said Jane , faintly smiling . `` You must 
know that though I should be exceedingly grieved at their 
disapprobation , I could not hesitate . ''  
 
`` I did not think you would ; and that being the case , I cannot 
consider your situation with much compassion . ''  
 
`` But if he returns no more this winter , my choice will never be 
required . A thousand things may arise in six months ! ''  
 
The idea of his returning no more Elizabeth treated with the 
utmost contempt . It appeared to her merely the suggestion of 
Caroline 's interested wishes , and she could not for a moment 
suppose that those wishes , however openly or artfully spoken ,  
could influence a young man so totally independent of everyone . 
 
 
She represented to her sister as forcibly as possible what she felt 
on the subject , and had soon the pleasure of seeing its happy 
effect . Jane 's temper was not desponding , and she was 
gradually led to hope , though the diffidence of affection 
sometimes overcame the hope , that Bingley would return to 
Netherfield and answer every wish of her heart . 
 
They agreed that Mrs . Bennet should only hear of the departure 
of the family , without being alarmed on the score of the 
gentleman 's conduct ; but even this partial communication gave 
her a great deal of concern , and she bewailed it as exceedingly 
unlucky that the ladies should happen to go away just as they 
were all getting so intimate together . After lamenting it ,  
however , at some length , she had the consolation that Mr . 
Bingley would be soon down again and soon dining at 
Longbourn , and the conclusion of all was the comfortable 
declaration , that though he had been invited only to a family 
dinner , she would take care to have two full courses . 
 
 
 
Chapter 22 
 
The Bennets were engaged to dine with the Lucases and again 
during the chief of the day was Miss Lucas so kind as to listen to 
Mr . Collins . Elizabeth took an opportunity of thanking her . `` It 
keeps him in good humour , '' said she , `` and I am more obliged to 
you than I can express . '' Charlotte assured her friend of her 
satisfaction in being useful , and that it amply repaid her for the 
little sacrifice of her time . This was very amiable , but 
Charlotte 's kindness extended farther than Elizabeth had any 
conception of ; its object was nothing else than to secure her 
from any return of Mr . Collins 's addresses , by engaging them 
towards herself . Such was Miss Lucas 's scheme ; and 
appearances were so favourable , that when they parted at night ,  
she would have felt almost secure of success if he had not been 
to leave Hertfordshire so very soon . But here she did injustice 
to the fire and independence of his character , for it led him to 
escape out of Longbourn House the next morning with 
admirable slyness , and hasten to Lucas Lodge to throw himself 
at her feet . He was anxious to avoid the notice of his cousins ,  
from a conviction that if they saw him depart , they could not fail 
to conjecture his design , and he was not willing to have the 
attempt known till its success might be known likewise ; for 
though feeling almost secure , and with reason , for Charlotte had 
been tolerably encouraging , he was comparatively diffident since 
the adventure of Wednesday . His reception , however , was of 
the most flattering kind . Miss Lucas perceived him from an 
upper window as he walked towards the house , and instantly set 
out to meet him accidentally in the lane . But little had she dared 
to hope that so much love and eloquence awaited her there . 
 
In as short a time as Mr . Collins 's long speeches would allow ,  
everything was settled between them to the satisfaction of both ;  
and as they entered the house he earnestly entreated her to name 
the day that was to make him the happiest of men ; and though 
such a solicitation must be waived for the present , the lady felt 
no inclination to trifle with his happiness . The stupidity with 
which he was favoured by nature must guard his courtship from 
any charm that could make a woman wish for its continuance ;  
and Miss Lucas , who accepted him solely from the pure and 
disinterested desire of an establishment , cared not how soon that 
establishment were gained . 
 
Sir William and Lady Lucas were speedily applied to for their 
consent ; and it was bestowed with a most joyful alacrity . Mr . 
Collins 's present circumstances made it a most eligible match for 
their daughter , to whom they could give little fortune ; and his 
prospects of future wealth were exceedingly fair . Lady Lucas 
began directly to calculate , with more interest than the 
matter had ever excited before , how many years longer Mr . 
Bennet was likely to live ; and Sir William gave it as his decided 
opinion , that whenever Mr . Collins should be in possession of the 
Longbourn estate , it would be highly expedient that both he and 
his wife should make their appearance at St . James's . The whole 
family , in short , were properly overjoyed on the occasion . The 
younger girls formed hopes of COMING OUT a year or two 
sooner than they might otherwise have done ; and the boys were 
relieved from their apprehension of Charlotte 's dying an old 
maid . Charlotte herself was tolerably composed . She had 
gained her point , and had time to consider of it . Her reflections 
were in general satisfactory . Mr . Collins , to be sure , was neither 
sensible nor agreeable ; his society was irksome , and his 
attachment to her must be imaginary . But still he would be her 
husband . Without thinking highly either of men or matrimony ,  
marriage had always been her object ; it was the only provision 
for well-educated young women of small fortune , and however 
uncertain of giving happiness , must be their pleasantest 
preservative from want . This preservative she had now 
obtained ; and at the age of twenty-seven , without having ever 
been handsome , she felt all the good luck of it . The least 
agreeable circumstance in the business was the surprise it must 
occasion to Elizabeth Bennet , whose friendship she valued 
beyond that of any other person . Elizabeth would wonder , and 
probably would blame her ; and though her resolution was not to 
be shaken , her feelings must be hurt by such a disapprobation . 
She resolved to give her the information herself , and therefore 
charged Mr . Collins , when he returned to Longbourn to dinner ,  
to drop no hint of what had passed before any of the family . A 
promise of secrecy was of course very dutifully given , but it 
could not be kept without difficulty ; for the curiosity excited by 
his long absence burst forth in such very direct questions on his 
return as required some ingenuity to evade , and he was at the 
same time exercising great self-denial , for he was longing to 
publish his prosperous love . 
 
As he was to begin his journey too early on the morrow to see 
any of the family , the ceremony of leave-taking was performed 
when the ladies moved for the night ; and Mrs . Bennet , with 
great politeness and cordiality , said how happy they should be to 
see him at Longbourn again , whenever his engagements might 
allow him to visit them . 
 
`` My dear madam , '' he replied , `` this invitation is particularly 
gratifying , because it is what I have been hoping to receive ; and 
you may be very certain that I shall avail myself of it as soon as 
possible . ''  
 
They were all astonished ; and Mr . Bennet , who could by no 
means wish for so speedy a return , immediately said :  
 
`` But is there not danger of Lady Catherine 's disapprobation 
here , my good sir ? You had better neglect your relations than 
run the risk of offending your patroness . ''  
 
`` My dear sir , '' replied Mr . Collins , '' I am particularly obliged to 
you for this friendly caution , and you may depend upon my not 
taking so material a step without her ladyship 's concurrence . ''  
 
`` You can not be too much upon your guard . Risk anything 
rather than her displeasure ; and if you find it likely to be raised by 
your coming to us again , which I should think exceedingly 
probable , stay quietly at home , and be satisfied that WE shall 
take no offence . ''  
 
`` Believe me , my dear sir , my gratitude is warmly excited , by 
such affectionate attention ; and depend upon it , you will speedily 
receive from me a letter of thanks for this , and for every other 
mark of your regard during my stay in Hertfordshire . As for my 
fair cousins , though my absence may not be long enough to 
render it necessary , I shall now take the liberty of wishing them 
health and happiness , not excepting my cousin Elizabeth . ''  
 
With proper civilities the ladies then withdrew ; all of them 
equally surprised that he meditated a quick return . Mrs . Bennet 
wished to understand by it that he thought of paying his 
addresses to one of her younger girls , and Mary might have been 
prevailed on to accept him . She rated his abilities much higher 
than any of the others ; there was a solidity in his reflections 
which often struck her , and though by no means so clever as 
herself , she thought that if encouraged to read and improve 
himself by such an example as hers , he might become a very 
agreeable companion . But on the following morning , every 
hope of this kind was done away . Miss Lucas called soon after 
breakfast , and in a private conference with Elizabeth related the 
event of the day before . 
 
The possibility of Mr . Collins 's fancying herself in love with her 
friend had once occurred to Elizabeth within the last day or two ;  
but that Charlotte could encourage him seemed almost as far 
from possibility as she could encourage him herself , and her 
astonishment was consequently so great as to overcome at first 
the bounds of decorum , and she could not help crying out :  
 
`` Engaged to Mr . Collins ! My dear Charlotte -- impossible ! ''  
 
The steady countenance which Miss Lucas had commanded in 
telling her story , gave way to a momentary confusion here on 
receiving so direct a reproach ; though , as it was no more than 
she expected , she soon regained her composure , and calmly 
replied :  
 
`` Why should you be surprised , my dear Eliza ? Do you think it 
incredible that Mr . Collins should be able to procure any 
woman 's good opinion , because he was not so happy as to 
succeed with you ? ''  
 
But Elizabeth had now recollected herself , and making a strong 
effort for it , was able to assure with tolerable firmness that the 
prospect of their relationship was highly grateful to her , and that 
she wished her all imaginable happiness . 
 
`` I see what you are feeling , '' replied Charlotte . `` You must be 
surprised , very much surprised -- so lately as Mr . Collins was 
wishing to marry you . But when you have had time to think it 
over , I hope you will be satisfied with what I have done . I amd 
not romantic , you know ; I never was . I ask only a comfortable 
home ; and considering Mr . Collins 's character , connection , and 
situation in life , I am convinced that my chance of happiness 
with him is as fair as most people can boast on entering the 
marriage state . ''  
 
Elizabeth quietly answered `` Undoubtedly '' ; and after an 
awkward pause , they returned to the rest of the family . 
Charlotte did not stay much longer , and Elizabeth was then left 
to reflect on what she had heard . It was a long time before she 
became at all reconciled to the idea of so unsuitable a match . 
The strangeness of Mr . Collins 's making two offers of marriage 
within three days was nothing in comparison of his being now 
accepted . She had always felt that Charlotte 's opinion of 
matrimony was not exactly like her own , but she had not 
supposed it to be possible that , when called into action , she 
would have sacrificed every better feeling to worldly advantage . 
Charlotte the wife of Mr . Collins was a most humiliating picture !  
And to the pang of a friend disgracing herself and sunk in her 
esteem , was added the distressing conviction that it was 
impossible for that friend to be tolerably happy in the lot she had 
chosen . 
 
Chapter 23 
 
Elizabeth was sitting with her mother and sisters , reflecting on 
what she had heard , and doubting whether she was authorised to 
mention it , when Sir William Lucas himself appeared , sent by his 
daughter , to announce her engagement to the family . With many 
compliments to them , and much self-gratulation on the prospect 
of a connection between the houses , he unfolded the matter -- to 
an audience not merely wondering , but incredulous ; for Mrs . 
Bennet , with more perseverance than politeness , protested he 
must be entirely mistaken ; and Lydia , always unguarded and 
often uncivil , boisterously exclaimed :  
 
`` Good Lord ! Sir William , how can you tell such a story ? Do not 
you know that Mr . Collins wants to marry Lizzy ? ''  
 
Nothing less than the complaisance of a courtier could have 
borne without anger such treatment ; but Sir William 's good 
breeding carried him through it all ; and though he begged leave 
to be positive as to the truth of his information , he listened to all 
their impertinence with the most forbearing courtesy . 
 
Elizabeth , feeling it incumbent on her to relieve him from so 
unpleasant a situation , now put herself forward to confirm his 
account , by mentioning her prior knowledge of it from Charlotte 
herself ; and endeavoured to put a stop to the exclamations of her 
mother and sisters by the earnestness of her congratulations to 
Sir William , in which she was readily joined by Jane , and by 
making a variety of remarks on the happiness that might be 
expected from the match , the excellent character of Mr . Collins ,  
and the convenient distance of Hunsford from London . 
 
Mrs . Bennet was in fact too much overpowered to say a great 
deal while Sir William remained ; but no sooner had he left them 
than her feelings found a rapid vent . In the first place , she 
persisted in disbelieving the whole of the matter ; secondly , she 
was very sure that Mr . Collins had been taken in ; thirdly , she 
trusted that they would never be happy together ; and fourthly ,  
that the match might be broken off . Two inferences , however ,  
were plainly deduced from the whole : one , that Elizabeth was 
the real cause of the mischief ; and the other that she herself had 
been barbarously misused by them all ; and on these two points 
she principally dwelt during the rest of the day . Nothing could 
console and nothing could appease her . Nor did that day wear 
out her resentment . A week elapsed before she could see 
Elizabeth without scolding her , a month passed away before she 
could speak to Sir William or Lady Lucas without being rude ,  
and many months were gone before she could at all forgive her 
daughter . 
 
Mr . Bennet 's emotions were much more tranquil on the 
occasion , and such as he did experience he pronounced to be of 
a most agreeable sort ; for it gratified him , he said , to discover 
that Charlotte Lucas , whom he had been used to think tolerably 
sensible , was as foolish as his wife , and more foolish than his 
daughter !  
 
Jane confessed herself a little surprised at the match ; but she said 
less of her astonishment than of her earnest desire for their 
happiness ; nor could Elizabeth persuade her to consider it as 
improbable . Kitty and Lydia were far from envying Miss Lucas ,  
for Mr . Collins was only a clergyman ; and it affected them in no 
other way than as a piece of news to spread at Meryton . 
 
Lady Lucas could not be insensible of triumph on being able to 
retort on Mrs . Bennet the comfort of having a daughter well 
married ; and she called at Longbourn rather oftener than usual 
to say how happy she was , though Mrs . Bennet 's sour looks and 
ill-natured remarks might have been enough to drive happiness 
away . 
 
Between Elizabeth and Charlotte there was a restraint which 
kept them mutually silent on the subject ; and Elizabeth felt 
persuaded that no real confidence could ever subsist between 
them again . Her disappointment in Charlotte made her turn with 
fonder regard to her sister , of whose rectitude and delicacy she 
was sure her opinion could never be shaken , and for whose 
happiness she grew daily more anxious , as Bingley had now been 
gone a week and nothing more was heard of his return . 
 
Jane had sent Caroline an early answer to her letter , and was 
counting the days till she might reasonably hope to hear again . 
The promised letter of thanks from Mr . Collins arrived on 
Tuesday , addressed to their father , and written with all the 
solemnity of gratitude which a twelvemonth 's abode in the 
family might have prompted . After discharging his conscience 
on that head , he proceeded to inform them , with many rapturous 
expressions , of his happiness in having obtained the affection of 
their amiable neighbour , Miss Lucas , and then explained that it 
was merely with the view of enjoying her society that he had 
been so ready to close with their kind wish of seeing him again 
at Longbourn , whither he hoped to be able to return on Monday 
fortnight ; for Lady Catherine , he added , so heartily approved 
his marriage , that she wished it to take place as soon as possible ,  
which he trusted would be an unanswerable argument with his 
amiable Charlotte to name an early day for making him the 
happiest of men . 
 
Mr . Collins 's return into Hertfordshire was no longer a matter of 
pleasure to Mrs . Bennet . On the contrary , she was as much 
disposed to complain of it as her husband . It was very strange 
that he should come to Longbourn instead of to Lucas Lodge ; it 
was also very inconvenient and exceedingly troublesome . She 
hated having visitors in the house while her health was so 
indifferent , and lovers were of all people the most disagreeable . 
Such were the gentle murmurs of Mrs . Bennet , and they gave 
way only to the greater distress of Mr . Bingley 's continued 
absence . 
 
Neither Jane nor Elizabeth were comfortable on this subject . 
Day after day passed away without bringing any other tidings of 
him than the report which shortly prevailed in Meryton of his 
coming no more to Netherfield the whole winter ; a report which 
highly incensed Mrs . Bennet , and which she never failed to 
contradict as a most scandalous falsehood . 
 
Even Elizabeth began to fear -- not that Bingley was indifferent --  
but that his sisters would be successful in keeping him away . 
Unwilling as she was to admit an idea so destructive of Jane's 
happiness , and so dishonorable to the stability of her lover , she 
could not prevent its frequently occurring . The united efforts of 
his two unfeeling sisters and of his overpowering friend , assisted 
by the attractions of Miss Darcy and the amusements of London 
might be too much , she feared , for the strength of his 
attachment . 
 
As for Jane , HER anxiety under this suspense was , of course ,  
more painful than Elizabeth 's , but whatever she felt she was 
desirous of concealing , and between herself and Elizabeth ,  
therefore , the subject was never alluded to . But as no such 
delicacy restrained her mother , an hour seldom passed in which 
she did not talk of Bingley , express her impatience for his arrival ,  
or even require Jane to confess that if he did not come back she 
would think herself very ill used . It needed all Jane 's steady 
mildness to bear these attacks with tolerable tranquillity . 
 
Mr . Collins returned most punctually on Monday fortnight , but 
his reception at Longbourn was not quite so gracious as it had 
been on his first introduction . He was too happy , however , to 
need much attention ; and luckily for the others , the business of 
love-making relieved them from a great deal of his company . 
The chief of every day was spent by him at Lucas Lodge , and he 
sometimes returned to Longbourn only in time to make an 
apology for his absence before the family went to bed . 
 
Mrs . Bennet was really in a most pitiable state . The very 
mention of anything concerning the match threw her into an 
agony of ill-humour , and wherever she went she was sure of 
hearing it talked of . The sight of Miss Lucas was odious to her . 
As her successor in that house , she regarded her with jealous 
abhorrence . Whenever Charlotte came to see them , she 
concluded her to be anticipating the hour of possession ; and 
whenever she spoke in a low voice to Mr . Collins , was 
convinced that they were talking of the Longbourn estate , and 
resolving to turn herself and her daughters out of the house , as 
soon as Mr . Bennet were dead . She complained bitterly of all 
this to her husband . 
 
`` Indeed , Mr . Bennet , '' said she , `` it is very hard to think that 
Charlotte Lucas should ever be mistress of this house , that _I_ 
should be forced to make way for HER , and live to see her take 
her place in it ! ''  
 
`` My dear , do not give way to such gloomy thoughts . Let us 
hope for better things . Let us flatter ourselves that _I_ may be 
the survivor . ''  
 
This is not very consoling to Mrs . Bennet , and therefore , instead 
of making any answer , she went on as before . 
 
`` I can not bear to think that they should have all this estate . If it 
was not for the entail , I should not mind it . ''  
 
`` What should not you mind ? ''  
 
`` I should not mind anything at all . ''  
 
`` Let us be thankful that you are preserved from a state of such 
insensibility . ''  
 
`` I never can be thankful , Mr . Bennet , for anything about the 
entail . How anyone could have the conscience to entail away an 
estate from one 's own daughters , I can not understand ; and all 
for the sake of Mr . Collins too ! Why should HE have it more 
than anybody else ? ''  
 
`` I leave it to yourself to determine , '' said Mr . Bennet . 
 
 
 
Chapter 24 
 
Miss Bingley 's letter arrived , and put an end to doubt . The very 
first sentence conveyed the assurance of their being all settled in 
London for the winter , and concluded with her brother 's regret 
at not having had time to pay his respects to his friends in 
Hertfordshire before he left the country . 
 
Hope was over , entirely over ; and when Jane could attend to the 
rest of the letter , she found little , except the professed affection 
of the writer , that could give her any comfort . Miss Darcy's 
praise occupied the chief of it . Her many attractions were again 
dwelt on , and Caroline boasted joyfully of their increasing 
intimacy , and ventured to predict the accomplishment of the 
wishes which had been unfolded in her former letter . She wrote 
also with great pleasure of her brother 's being an inmate of Mr . 
Darcy 's house , and mentioned with raptures some plans of the 
latter with regard to new furniture . 
 
Elizabeth , to whom Jane very soon communicated the chief of 
all this , heard it in silent indignation . Her heart was divided 
between concern for her sister , and resentment against all others . 
To Caroline 's assertion of her brother 's being partial to Miss 
Darcy she paid no credit . That he was really fond of Jane , she 
doubted no more than she had ever done ; and much as she had 
always been disposed to like him , she could not think without 
anger , hardly without contempt , on that easiness of temper , that 
want of proper resolution , which now made him the slave of his 
designing friends , and led him to sacrifice of his own happiness 
to the caprice of their inclination . Had his own happiness ,  
however , been the only sacrifice , he might have been allowed to 
sport with it in whatever manner he thought best , but her sister's 
was involved in it , as she thought he must be sensible himself . It 
was a subject , in short , on which reflection would be long 
indulged , and must be unavailing . She could think of nothing 
else ; and yet whether Bingley 's regard had really died away , or 
were suppressed by his friends ' interference ; whether he had 
been aware of Jane 's attachment , or whether it had escaped his 
observation ; whatever were the case , though her opinion of him 
must be materially affected by the difference , her sister's 
situation remained the same , her peace equally wounded . 
 
A day or two passed before Jane had courage to speak of her 
feelings to Elizabeth ; but at last , on Mrs . Bennet 's leaving them 
together , after a longer irritation than usual about Netherfield 
and its master , she could not help saying :  
 
`` Oh , that my dear mother had more command over herself ! She 
can have no idea of the pain she gives me by her continual 
reflections on him . But I will not repine . It can not last long . He 
will be forgot , and we shall all be as we were before . ''  
 
Elizabeth looked at her sister with incredulous solicitude , but 
said nothing . 
 
`` You doubt me , '' cried Jane , slightly colouring ; `` indeed , you 
have no reason . He may live in my memory as the most amiable 
man of my acquaintance , but that is all . I have nothing either to 
hope or fear , and nothing to reproach him with . Thank God ! I 
have not THAT pain . A little time , therefore -- I shall certainly 
try to get the better . ''  
 
With a stronger voice she soon added , `` I have this comfort 
immediately , that it has not been more than an error of fancy on 
my side , and that it has done no harm to anyone but myself . ''  
 
`` My dear Jane ! '' exclaimed Elizabeth , `` you are too good . Your 
sweetness and disinterestedness are really angelic ; I do not know 
what to say to you . I feel as if I had never done you justice , or 
loved you as you deserve . ''  
 
Miss Bennet eagerly disclaimed all extraordinary merit , and 
threw back the praise on her sister 's warm affection . 
 
`` Nay , '' said Elizabeth , `` this is not fair . YOU wish to think all 
the world respectable , and are hurt if I speak ill of anybody . _I_ 
only want to think YOU perfect , and you set yourself against it . 
Do not be afraid of my running into any excess , of my 
encroaching on your privilege of universal good-will . You need 
not . There are few people whom I really love , and still fewer of 
whom I think well . The more I see of the world , the more am I 
dissatisfied with it ; and every day confirms my belief of the 
inconsistency of all human characters , and of the little 
dependence that can be placed on the appearance of merit or 
sense . I have met with two instances lately , one I will not 
mention ; the other is Charlotte 's marriage . It is unaccountable !  
In every view it is unaccountable ! ''  
 
`` My dear Lizzy , do not give way to such feelings as these . They 
will ruin your happiness . You do not make allowance enough 
for difference of situation and temper . Consider Mr . Collins's 
respectability , and Charlotte 's steady , prudent character . 
Remember that she is one of a large family ; that as to fortune , it 
is a most eligible match ; and be ready to believe , for everybody's 
sake , that she may feel something like regard and esteem for our 
cousin . ''  
 
`` To oblige you , I would try to believe almost anything , but no 
one else could be benefited by such a belief as this ; for were I 
persuaded that Charlotte had any regard for him , I should only 
think worse of her understanding than I now do of her heart . 
My dear Jane , Mr . Collins is a conceited , pompous , narrow- 
minded , silly man ; you know he is , as well as I do ; and you must 
feel , as well as I do , that the woman who married him cannot 
have a proper way of thinking . You shall not defend her , though 
it is Charlotte Lucas . You shall not , for the sake of one 
individual , change the meaning of principle and integrity , nor 
endeavour to persuade yourself or me , that selfishness is 
prudence , and insensibility of danger security for happiness . ''  
 
`` I musty think your language too strong in speaking of both , ''  
replied Jane ; `` and I hope you will be convinced of it by seeing 
them happy together . But enough of this . You alluded to 
something else . You mentioned TWO instances . I cannot 
misunderstand you , but I entreat you , dear Lizzy , not to pain me 
by thinking THAT PERSON to blame , and saying your opinion 
of him is sunk . We must not be so ready to fancy ourselves 
intentionally injured . We must not expect a lively young man to 
be always so guarded and circumspect . It is very often nothing 
but our own vanity that deceives us . Women fancy admiration 
means more than it does . ''  
 
`` And men take care that they should . ''  
 
`` If it is designedly done , they can not be justified ; but I have no 
idea of there being so much design in the world as some persons 
imagine . 
 
`` I am far from attributing any part of Mr . Bingley 's conduct to 
design , '' said Elizabeth ; `` but without scheming to do wrong , or 
to make others unhappy , there may be error , and there may be 
misery . Thoughtlessness , want of attention to other people's 
feelings , and want of resolution , will do the business . ''  
 
`` And do you impute it to either of those ? ''  
 
`` Yes ; to the last . But if I go on , I shall displease you by saying 
what I think of persons you esteem Stop me whilst you can . ''  
 
`` You persist , then , in supposing his sisters influence him ? ''  
 
Yes , in conjunction with his friend . ''  
 
`` I can not believe it . Why should they try to influence him ?  
They can only wish his happiness ; and if he is attached to me , no 
other woman can secure it . ''  
 
`` Your first position is false . They may wish many things besides 
his happiness ; they may wish his increase of wealth and 
consequence ; they may wish him to marry a girl who has all the 
importance of money , great connections , and pride . ''  
 
`` Beyond a doubt , they do wish him to choose Miss Darcy , ''  
replied Jane ; `` but this may be from better feelings than you are 
supposing . They have known her much longer than they have 
known me ; no wonder if they love her better . But , whatever 
may be their own wishes , it is very unlikely they should have 
opposed their brother's . What sister would think herself at 
liberty to do it , unless there were something very objectionable ?  
If they believed him attached to me , they would not try to part 
us ; if he were so , they could not succeed . By supposing such an 
affection , you make everybody acting unnaturally and wrong ,  
and me most unhappy . Do not distress me by the idea . I am not 
ashamed of having been mistaken -- or , at least , it is light , it is 
nothing in comparison of what I should feel in thinking ill of him 
or his sisters . Let me take it in the best light , in the light in 
which it may be understood . ''  
 
Elizabeth could not oppose such a wish ; and from this time Mr . 
Bingley 's name was scarcely ever mentioned between them . ''  
 
Mrs . Bennet still continued to wonder and repine at his returning 
no more , and though a day seldom passed in which Elizabeth did 
not account for it clearly , there was little chance of her ever 
considering it with less perplexity . Her daughter endeavoured to 
convince her of what she did not believe herself , that his 
attentions to Jane had been merely the effect of a common and 
transient liking , which ceased when he saw her no more ; but 
though the probability of the statement was admitted at the time ,  
she had the same story to repeat every day . Mrs . Bennet 's best 
comfort was that Mr . Bingley must be down again in the 
summer . 
 
Mr . Bennet treated the matter differently . `` So , Lizzy , '' said he 
one day , `` your sister is crossed in love , I find . I congratulate 
her . Next to being married , a girl likes to be crossed a little in 
love now and then . It is something to think of , and it gives her a 
sort of distinction among her companions . When is your turn to 
come ? You will hardly bear to be long outdone by Jane . Now is 
your time . Here are officers enough in Meryton to disappoint all 
the young ladies in the country . Let Wickham be your man . He 
is a pleasant fellow , and would jilt you creditably . ''  
 
`` Thank you , sir , but a less agreeable man would satisfy me . We 
must not all expect Jane 's good fortune . ''  
 
`` True , '' said Mr . Bennet , `` but it is a comfort to think that 
whatever of that kind may befall you , you have an affectionate 
mother who will make the most of it . ''  
 
Mr . Wickham 's society was of material service in dispelling the 
gloom which the late perverse occurrences had thrown on many 
of the Longbourn family . They saw him often , and to his other 
recommendations was now added that of general unreserve . 
The whole of what Elizabeth had already heard , his claims on 
Mr . Darcy , and all that he had suffered from him , was now 
openly acknowledged and publicly canvassed ; and everybody 
was pleased to know how much they had always disliked Mr . 
Darcy before they had known anything of the matter . 
 
Miss Bennet was the only creature who could suppose there 
might be any extenuating circumstances in the case , unknown to 
the society of Hertfordshire ; her mild and steady candour always 
pleaded for allowances , and urged the possibility of mistakes --  
but by everybody else Mr . Darcy was condemned as the worst of 
men . 
 
 
 
Chapter 25 
 
After a week spent in professions of love and schemes of felicity ,  
Mr . Collins was called from his amiable Charlotte by the arrival 
of Saturday . The pain of separation , however , might be 
alleviated on his side , by preparations for the reception of his 
bride ; as he had reason to hope , that shortly after his return into 
Hertfordshire , the day would be fixed that was to make him the 
happiest of men . He took leave of his relations at Longbourn 
with as much solemnity as before ; wished his fair cousins health 
and happiness again , and promised their father another letter of 
thanks . 
 
On the following Monday , Mrs . Bennet had the pleasure of 
receiving her brother and his wife , who came as usual to spend 
the Christmas at Longbourn . Mr . Gardiner was a sensible ,  
gentlemanlike man , greatly superior to his sister , as well by 
nature as education . The Netherfield ladies would have had 
difficulty in believing that a man who lived by trade , and within 
view of his own warehouses , could have been so well-bred and 
agreeable . Mrs . Gardiner , who was several years younger than 
Mrs . Bennet and Mrs . Phillips , was an amiable , intelligent ,  
elegant woman , and a great favourite with all her Longbourn 
nieces . Between the two eldest and herself especially , there 
subsisted a particular regard . They had frequently been staying 
with her in town . 
 
The first part of Mrs . Gardiner 's business on her arrival was to 
distribute her presents and describe the newest fashions . When 
this was done she had a less active part to play . It became her 
turn to listen . Mrs . Bennet had many grievances to relate , and 
much to complain of . They had all been very ill-used since she 
last saw her sister . Two of her girls had been upon the point of 
marriage , and after all there was nothing in it . 
 
`` I do not blame Jane , '' she continued , `` for Jane would have got 
Mr . Bingley if she could . But Lizzy ! Oh , sister ! It is very hard 
to think that she might have been Mr . Collins 's wife by this time ,  
had it not been for her own perverseness . He made her an offer 
in this very room , and she refused him . The consequence of it is ,  
that Lady Lucas will have a daughter married before I have , and 
that the Longbourn estate is just as much entailed as ever . The 
Lucases are very artful people indeed , sister . They are all for 
what they can get . I am sorry to say it of them , but so it is . It 
makes me very nervous and poorly , to be thwarted so in my own 
family , and to have neighbours who think of themselves before 
anybody else . However , your coming just at this time is the 
greatest of comforts , and I am very glad to hear what you tell us ,  
of long sleeves . ''  
 
Mrs . Gardiner , to whom the chief of this news had been given 
before , in the course of Jane and Elizabeth 's correspondence 
with her , made her sister a slight answer , and , in compassion to 
her nieces , turned the conversation . 
 
When alone with Elizabeth afterwards , she spoke more on the 
subject . `` It seems likely to have been a desirable match for 
Jane , '' said she . `` I am sorry it went off . But these things happen 
so often ! A young man , such as you describe Mr . Bingley , so 
easily falls in love with a pretty girl for a few weeks , and when 
accident separates them , so easily forgets her , that these sort of 
inconsistencies are very frequent . ''  
 
`` An excellent consolation in its way , '' said Elizabeth , `` but it will 
not do for US . We do not suffer by accident . It does not often 
happen that the interference of friends will persuade a young 
man of independent fortune to think no more of a girl whom he 
was violently in love with only a few days before . ''  
 
`` But that expression of violently in love ' is so hackneyed , so 
doubtful , so indefinite , that it gives me very little idea . It is as 
often applied to feelings which arise from a half-hour's 
acquaintance , as to a real , strong attachment . Pray , how 
VIOLENT WAS Mr . Bingley 's love ? ''  
 
`` I never saw a more promising inclination ; he was growing quite 
inattentive to other people , and wholly engrossed by her . Every 
time they met , it was more decided and remarkable . At his own 
ball he offended two or three young ladies , by not asking them 
to dance ; and I spoke to him twice myself , without receiving an 
answer . Could there be finer symptoms ? Is not general incivility 
the very essence of love ? ''  
 
`` Oh , yes ! of that kind of love which I suppose him to have felt . 
Poor Jane ! I am sorry for her , because , with her disposition , she 
may not get over it immediately . It had better have happened to 
YOU , Lizzy ; you would have laughed yourself out of it sooner . 
But do you think she would be prevailed upon to go back with 
us ? Change of scene might be of service -- and perhaps a little 
relief from home may be as useful as anything . ''  
 
Elizabeth was exceedingly pleased with this proposal , and felt 
persuaded of her sister 's ready acquiescence . 
 
`` I hope , '' added Mrs . Gardiner , `` that no consideration with 
regard to this young man will influence her . We live in so 
different a part of town , all our connections are so different , and ,  
as you well know , we go out so little , that it is very improbable 
that they should meet at all , unless he really comes to see her . ''  
 
`` And THAT is quite impossible ; for he is now in the custody of 
his friend , and Mr . Darcy would no more suffer him to call on 
Jane in such a part of London ! My dear aunt , how could you 
think of it ? Mr . Darcy may perhaps have HEARD of such a 
place as Gracechurch Street , but he would hardly think a 
month 's ablution enough to cleanse him from its impurities , were 
he once to enter it ; and depend upon it , Mr . Bingley never stirs 
without him . ''  
 
`` So much the better . I hope they will not meet at all . But does 
not Jane correspond with his sister ? SHE will not be able to 
help calling . ''  
 
`` She will drop the acquaintance entirely . ''  
 
But in spite of the certainty in which Elizabeth affected to place 
this point , as well as the still more interesting one of Bingley's 
being withheld from seeing Jane , she felt a solicitude on the 
subject which convinced her , on examination , that she did not 
consider it entirely hopeless . It was possible , and sometimes she 
thought it probable , that his affection might be reanimated , and 
the influence of his friends successfully combated by the more 
natural influence of Jane 's attractions . 
 
Miss Bennet accepted her aunt 's invitation with pleasure ; and 
the Bingleys were no otherwise in her thoughts at the same time ,  
than as she hoped by Caroline 's not living in the same house 
with her brother , she might occasionally spend a morning with 
her , without any danger of seeing him . 
 
The Gardiners stayed a week at Longbourn ; and what with the 
Plillipses , the Lucases , and the officers , there was not a day 
without its engagement . Mrs . Bennet had so carefully provided 
for the entertainment of her brother and sister , that they did not 
once sit down to a family dinner . When the engagement was for 
home , some of the officers always made part of it -- of which 
officers Mr . Wickham was sure to be one ; and on these 
occasion , Mrs . Gardiner , rendered suspicious by Elizabeth's 
warm commendation , narrowly observed them both . Without 
supposing them , from what she saw , to be very seriously in love ,  
their preference of each other was plain enough to make her a 
little uneasy ; and she resolved to speak to Elizabeth on the 
subject before she left Hertfordshire , and represent to her the 
imprudence of encouraging such an attachment . 
 
To Mrs . Gardiner , Wickham had one means of affording 
pleasure , unconnected with his general powers . About ten or a 
dozen years ago , before her marriage , she had spent a 
considerable time in that very part of Derbyshire to which he 
belonged . They had , therefore , many acquaintances in common ;  
and though Wickham had been little there since the death of 
Darcy 's father , it was yet in his power to give her fresher 
intelligence of her former friends than she had been in the way of 
procuring . 
 
Mrs . Gardiner had seen Pemberly , and known the late Mr . Darcy 
by character perfectly well . Here consequently was an 
inexhaustible subject of discourse . In comparing her recollection 
of Pemberly with the minute description which Wickham could 
give , and in bestowing her tribute of praise on the character of 
its late possessor , she was delighting both him and herself . On 
being made acquainted with the present Mr . Darcy 's treatment 
of him , she tried to remember some of that gentleman 's reputed 
disposition when quite a lad which might agree with it , and was 
confident at last that she recollected having heard Mr . 
Fitzwilliam Darcy formerly spoken of as a very proud , ill-natured 
boy . 
 
 
 
Chapter 26 
 
Mrs . Gardiner 's caution to Elizabeth was punctually and kindly 
given on the first favourable opportunity of speaking to her 
alone ; after honestly telling her what she thought , she thus went 
on :  
 
`` You are too sensible a girl , Lizzy , to fall in love merely because 
you are warned against it ; and , therefore , I am not afraid of 
speaking openly . Seriously , I would have you be on your guard . 
Do not involve yourself or endeavour to involve him in an 
affection which the want of fortune would make so very 
imprudent . I have nothing to say against HIM ; he is a most 
interesting young man ; and if he had the fortune he ought to 
have , I should think you could not do better . But as it is , you 
must not let your fancy run away with you . You have sense , and 
we all expect you to use it . Your father would depend on 
YOUR resolution and good conduct , I am sure . You must not 
disappoint your father . ''  
 
`` My dear aunt , this is being serious indeed . ''  
 
`` Yes , and I hope to engage you to be serious likewise . ''  
 
`` Well , then , you need not be under any alarm . I will take care of 
myself , and of Mr . Wickham too . He shall not be in love with 
me , if I can prevent it . ''  
 
`` Elizabeth , you are not serious now . ''  
 
`` I beg your pardon , I will try again . At present I am not in love 
with Mr . Wickham ; no , I certainly am not . But he is , beyond all 
comparison , the most agreeable man I ever saw -- and if he 
becomes really attached to me -- I believe it will be better that he 
should not . I see the imprudence of it . Oh ! THAT abominable 
Mr . Darcy ! My father 's opinion of me does me the greatest 
honour , and I should be miserable to forfeit it . My father ,  
however , is partial to Mr . Wickham . In short , my dear aunt , I 
should be very sorry to be the means of making any of you 
unhappy ; but since we see every day that where there is 
affection , young people are seldom withheld by immediate want 
of fortune from entering into engagements with each other , how 
can I promise to be wiser than so many of my fellow-creatures if 
I am tempted , or how am I even to know that it would be 
wisdom to resist ? All that I can promise you , therefore , is not 
to be in a hurry . I will not be in a hurry to believe myself his first 
object . When I am in company with him , I will not be wishing . 
In short , I will do my best . ''  
 
`` Perhaps it will be as well if you discourage his coming here so 
very often . At least , you should not REMIND you mother of 
inviting him . ''  
 
`` As I did the other day , '' said Elizabeth with a conscious smile :  
`` very true , it will be wise in me to refrain from THAT . But do 
not imagine that he is always here so often . It is on your 
account that he has been so frequently invited this week . You 
know my mother 's ideas as to the necessity of constant company 
for her friends . But really , and upon my honour , I will try to do 
what I think to be the wisest ; and now I hope you are satisfied . ''  
 
Her aunt assured her that she was , and Elizabeth having thanked 
her for the kindness of her hints , they parted ; a wonderful 
instance of advice being given on such a point , without being 
resented . 
 
Mr . Collins returned into Hertfordshire soon after it had been 
quitted by the Gardiners and Jane ; but as he took up his abode 
with the Lucases , his arrival was no great inconvenience to Mrs . 
Bennet . His marriage was now fast approaching , and she was at 
length so far resigned as to think it inevitable , and even 
repeatedly to say , in an ill-natured tone , that she `` WISHED they 
might be happy . '' Thursday was to be the wedding day , and on 
Wednesday Miss Lucas paid her farewell visit ; and when she 
rose to take leave , Elizabeth , ashamed of her mother's 
ungracious and reluctant good wishes , and sincerely affected 
herself , accompanied her out of the room . As they went 
downstairs together , Charlotte said :  
 
`` I shall depend on hearing from you very often , Eliza . ''  
 
`` THAT you certainly shall . ''  
 
`` And I have another favour to ask you . Will you come and see 
me ? ''  
 
`` We shall often meet , I hope , in Hertfordshire . ''  
 
`` I am not likely to leave Kent for some time . Promise me ,  
therefore , to come to Hunsford . ''  
 
Elizabeth could not refuse , though she foresaw little pleasure in 
the visit . 
 
`` My father and Maria are coming to me in March , '' added 
Charlotte , `` and I hope you will consent to be of the party . 
Indeed , Eliza , you will be as welcome as either of them . ''  
 
The wedding took place : the bride and bridegroom set off for 
Kent from the church door , and everybody had as much to say ,  
or to hear , on the subject as usual . Elizabeth soon heard from 
her friend ; and their correspondence was as regular and frequent 
as it had ever been ; that it should be equally unreserved was 
impossible . Elizabeth could never address her without feeling 
that all the comfort of intimacy was over , and though determined 
not to slacken as a correspondent , it was for the sake of what 
had been , rather than what was . Charlotte 's first letters were 
received with a good deal of eagerness ; there could not but be 
curiosity to know how she would speak of her new home , how 
she would like Lady Catherine , and how happy she would dare 
pronounce herself to be ; though , when the letters were read ,  
Elizabeth felt that Charlotte expressed herself on every point 
exactly as she might have foreseen . She wrote cheerfully ,  
seemed surrounded with comforts , and mentioned nothing which 
she could not praise . The house , furniture , neighbourhood , and 
roads , were all to her taste , and Lady Catherine 's behaviour was 
most friendly and obliging . It was Mr . Collins 's picture of 
Hunsford and Rosings rationally softened ; and Elizabeth 
perceived that she must wait for her own visit there to know the 
rest . 
 
Jane had already written a few lines to her sister to announce 
their safe arrival in London ; and when she wrote again , Elizabeth 
hoped it would be in her power to say something of the 
Bingleys . 
 
Her impatience for this second letter was as well rewarded as 
impatience generally is . Jane had been a week in town without 
either seeing or hearing from Caroline . She accounted for it ,  
however , by supposing that her last letter to her friend from 
Longbourn had by some accident been lost . 
 
`` My aunt , '' she continued , `` is going to-morrow into that part of 
the town , and I shall take the opportunity of calling in Grosvenor 
Street . ''  
 
She wrote again when the visit was paid , and she had seen Miss 
Bingley . `` I did not think Caroline in spirits , '' were her words ,  
`` but she was very glad to see me , and reproached me for giving 
her no notice of my coming to London . I was right , therefore ,  
my last letter had never reached her . I inquired after their 
brother , of course . He was well , but so much engaged with Mr . 
Darcy that they scarcely ever saw him . I found that Miss Darcy 
was expected to dinner . I wish I could see her . My visit was 
not long , as Caroline and Mrs . Hurst were going out . I dare say 
I shall see them soon here . ''  
 
Elizabeth shook her head over this letter . It convinced her that 
accident only could discover to Mr . Bingley her sister 's being in 
town . 
 
Four weeks passed away , and Jane saw nothing of him . She 
endeavoured to persuade herself that she did not regret it ; but 
she could no longer be blind to Miss Bingley 's inattention . After 
waiting at home every morning for a fortnight , and inventing 
every evening a fresh excuse for her , the visitor did at last 
appear ; but the shortness of her stay , and yet more , the alteration 
of her manner would allow Jane to deceive herself no longer . 
The letter which she wrote on this occasion to her sister will 
prove what she felt . 
 
`` My dearest Lizzy will , I am sure , be incapable of triumphing in 
her better judgement , at my expense , when I confess myself to 
have been entirely deceived in Miss Bingley 's regard for me . 
But , my dear sister , though the event has proved you right , do 
not think me obstinate if I still assert that , considering what her 
behaviour was , my confidence was as natural as your suspicion . 
I do not at all comprehend her reason for wishing to be intimate 
with me ; but if the same circumstances were to happen again , I 
am sure I should be deceived again . Caroline did not return my 
visit till yesterday ; and not a note , not a line , did I receive in the 
meantime . When she did come , it was very evident that she had 
no pleasure in it ; she made a slight , formal apology , for not 
calling before , said not a word of wishing to see me again , and 
was in every respect so altered a creature , that when she went 
away I was perfectly resolved to continue the acquaintance no 
longer . I pity , though I can not help blaming her . She was very 
wrong in singling me out as she did ; I can safely say that every 
advance to intimacy began on her side . But I pity her , because 
she must feel that she has been acting wrong , and because I am 
very sure that anxiety for her brother is the cause of it . I need 
not explain myself farther ; and though WE know this anxiety to 
be quite needless , yet if she feels it , it will easily account for her 
behaviour to me ; and so deservedly dear as he is to his sister ,  
whatever anxiety she must feel on his behalf is natural and 
amiable . I can not but wonder , however , at her having any such 
fears now , because , if he had at all cared about me , we must 
have met , long ago . He knows of my being in town , I am 
certain , from something she said herself ; and yet it would seem ,  
by her manner of talking , as if she wanted to persuade herself 
that he is really partial to Miss Darcy . I can not understand it . If 
I were not afraid of judging harshly , I should be almost tempted 
to say that there is a strong appearance of duplicity in all this . 
But I will endeavour to banish every painful thought , and think 
only of what will make me happy -- your affection , and the 
invariable kindness of my dear uncle and aunt . Let me hear from 
you very soon . Miss Bingley said something of his never 
returning to Netherfield again , of giving up the house , but not 
with any certainty . We had better not mention it . I am 
extremely glad that you have such pleasant accounts from our 
friends at Hunsford . Pray go to see them , with Sir William and 
Maria . I am sure you will be very comfortable there . -- Yours ,  
etc . ''  
 
This letter gave Elizabeth some pain ; but her spirits returned as 
she considered that Jane wold no longer be duped , by the sister 
at least . All expectation from the brother was now absolutely 
over . She would not even wish for a renewal of his attentions . 
His character sunk on every review of it ; and as a punishment for 
him , as well as a possible advantage to Jane , she seriously hoped 
he might really soon marry Mr . Darcy 's sister , as by Wickham's 
account , she would make him abundantly regret what he had 
thrown away . 
 
Mrs . Gardiner about this time reminded Elizabeth of her promise 
concerning that gentleman , and required information ; and 
Elizabeth had such to send as might rather give contentment to 
her aunt than to herself . His apparent partiality had subsided , his 
attentions were over , he was the admirer of some one else . 
Elizabeth was watchful enough to see it all , but she could see it 
and write of it without material pain . Her heart had been but 
slightly touched , and her vanity was satisfied with believing that 
SHE would have been his only choice , had fortune permitted it . 
The sudden acquisition of ten thousand pounds was the 
most remarkable charm of the young lady to whom he was now 
rendering himself agreeable ; but Elizabeth , less clear-sighted 
perhaps in this case than in Charlotte 's , did not quarrel with him 
for his wish of independence . Nothing , on the contrary , could 
be more natural ; and while able to suppose that it cost him a few 
struggle to relinquish her , she was ready to allow it a wise and 
desirable measure for both , and could very sincerely wish him 
happy . 
 
All this was acknowledged to Mrs . Gardiner ; and after relating 
the circumstances , she thus went on : -- `` I am now convinced , my 
dear aunt , that I have never been much in love ; for had I really 
experiences that pure and elevating passion , I should at present 
detest his very name , and wish him all manner of evil . But my 
feelings are not only cordial towards HIM ; they are even 
impartial towards Miss King . I can not find out that I hate her at 
all , or that I am in the least unwilling to think her a very good 
sort of girl . There can be no love in all this . My watchfulness 
has been effectual ; and though I certainly should be a more 
interesting object to all my acquaintances were I distractedly in 
love with him , I can not say that I regret my comparative 
insignificance . Importance may sometimes be purchased too 
dearly . Kitty and Lydia take his defection much more to heart 
than I do . They are young in the ways of the world , and not yet 
open to the mortifying conviction that handsome young men 
must have something to live on as well as the plain . ''  
 
 
 
Chapter 27 
 
With no greater events than these in the Longbourn family , and 
otherwise diversified by little beyond the walks to Meryton ,  
sometimes dirty and sometimes cold , did January and February 
pass away . March was to take Elizabeth to Hunsford . She had 
not at first thought very seriously of going thither ; but Charlotte ,  
she soon found , was depending on the plan and she gradually 
learned to consider it herself with greater pleasure as well as 
greater certainty . Absence had increased her desire of seeing 
Charlotte again , and weakened her disgust of Mr . Collins . There 
was novelty in the scheme , and as , with such a mother and such 
uncompanionable sisters , home could not be faultless , a little 
change was not unwelcome for its own sake . The journey 
would moreover give her a peep at Jane ; and , in short , as the 
time drew near , she would have been very sorry for any delay . 
Everything , however , went on smoothly , and was finally settled 
according to Charlotte 's first sketch . She was to accompany Sir 
William and his second daughter . The improvement of spending 
a night in London was added in time , and the plan became 
perfect as plan could be . 
 
The only pain was in leaving her father , who would certainly 
miss her , and who , when it came to the point , so little liked her 
going , that he told her to write to him , and almost promised to 
answer her letter . 
 
The farewell between herself and Mr . Wickham was perfectly 
friendly ; on his side even more . His present pursuit could not 
make him forget that Elizabeth had been the first to excite and to 
deserve his attention , the first to listen and to pity , the first to be 
admired ; and in his manner of bidding her adieu , wishing her 
every enjoyment , reminding her of what she was to expect in 
Lady Catherine de Bourgh , and trusting their opinion of her --  
their opinion of everybody -- would always coincide , there was a 
solicitude , an interest which she felt must ever attach her to him 
with a most sincere regard ; and she parted from him convinced 
that , whether married or single , he must always be her model of 
the amiable and pleasing . 
 
Her fellow-travellers the next day were not of a kind to make her 
think him less agreeable . Sir William Lucas , and his daughter 
Maria , a good-humoured girl , but as empty-headed as himself ,  
had nothing to say that could be worth hearing , and were 
listened to with about as much delight as the rattle of the chaise . 
Elizabeth loved absurdities , but she had known Sir William 's too 
long . He could tell her nothing new of the wonders of his 
presentation and knighthood ; and his civilities were worn out ,  
like his information . 
 
It was a journey of only twenty-four miles , and they began it so 
early as to be in Gracechurch Street by noon . As they drove to 
Mr . Gardiner 's door , Jane was at a drawing-room window 
watching their arrival ; when they entered the passage she was 
there to welcome them , and Elizabeth , looking earnestly in her 
face , was pleased to see it healthful and lovely as ever . On the 
stairs were a troop of little boys and girls , whose eagerness for 
their cousin 's appearance would not allow them to wait in the 
drawing-room , and whose shyness , as they had not seen her for 
a twelvemonth , prevented their coming lower . All was joy and 
kindness . The day passed most pleasantly away ; the morning in 
bustle and shopping , and the evening at one of the theatres . 
 
Elizabeth then contrived to sit by her aunt . Their first object was 
her sister ; and she was more grieved than astonished to hear , in 
reply to her minute inquiries , that though Jane always struggled 
to support her spirits , there were periods of dejection . It was 
reasonable , however , to hope that they would not continue long . 
Mrs . Gardiner gave her the particulars also of Miss Bingley's 
visit in Gracechurch Street , and repeated conversations 
occurring at different times between Jane and herself , which 
proved that the former had , from her heart , given up the 
acquaintance . 
 
Mrs . Gardiner then rallied her niece on Wickham 's desertion ,  
and complimented her on bearing it so well . 
 
`` But my dear Elizabeth , '' she added , `` what sort of girl is Miss 
King ? I should be sorry to think our friend mercenary . ''  
 
`` Pray , my dear aunt , what is the difference in matrimonial 
affairs , between the mercenary and the prudent motive ? Where 
does discretion end , and avarice begin ? Last Christmas you 
were afraid of his marrying me , because it would be imprudent ;  
and now , because he is trying to get a girl with only ten 
thousand pounds , you want to find out that he is mercenary . ''  
 
`` If you will only tell me what sort of girl Miss King is , I shall 
know what to think . ''  
 
`` She is a very good kind of girl , I believe . I know no harm of 
her . ''  
 
`` But he paid her not the smallest attention till her grandfather's 
death made her mistress of this fortune . ''  
 
`` No -- what should he ? If it were not allowable for him to gain 
MY affections because I had no money , what occasion could 
there be for making love to a girl whom he did not care about ,  
and who was equally poor ? ''  
 
`` But there seems an indelicacy in directing his attentions 
towards her so soon after this event . ''  
 
`` A man in distressed circumstances has not time for all those 
elegant decorums which other people may observe . If SHE does 
not object to it , why should WE ? ''  
 
`` HER not objecting does not justify HIM . It only shows her 
being deficient in something herself -- sense or feeling . ''  
 
`` Well , '' cried Elizabeth , `` have it as you choose . HE shall be 
mercenary , and SHE shall be foolish . ''  
 
`` No , Lizzy , that is what I do NOT choose . I should be sorry ,  
you know , to think ill of a young man who has lived so long in 
Derbyshire . ''  
 
`` Oh ! if that is all , I have a very poor opinion of young men who 
live in Derbyshire ; and their intimate friends who live in 
Hertfordshire are not much better . I am sick of them all . Thank 
Heaven ! I am going tomorrow where I shall find a man who has 
not one agreeable quality , who has neither manner nor sense to 
recommend him . Stupid men are the only ones worth knowing ,  
after all . ''  
 
`` Take care , Lizzy ; that speech savours strongly of 
disappointment . ''  
 
Before they were separated by the conclusion of the play , she 
had the unexpected happiness of an invitation to accompany her 
uncle and aunt in a tour of pleasure which they proposed taking 
in the summer . 
 
`` We have not determined how far it shall carry us , '' said Mrs . 
Gardiner , `` but , perhaps , to the Lakes . ''  
 
No scheme could have been more agreeable to Elizabeth , and 
her acceptance of the invitation was most ready and grateful . 
`` Oh , my dear , dear aunt , '' she rapturously cried , `` what delight !  
what felicity ! You give me fresh life and vigour . Adieu to 
disappointment and spleen . What are young men to rocks and 
mountains ? Oh ! what hours of transport we shall spend ! And 
when we DO return , it shall not be like other travellers , without 
being able to give one accurate idea of anything . We WILL 
know where we have gone -- we WILL recollect what we have 
seen . Lakes , mountains , and rivers shall not be jumbled together 
in our imaginations ; nor when we attempt to describe any 
particular scene , will we begin quarreling about its relative 
situation . Let OUR first effusions be less insupportable than 
those of the generality of travellers . ''  
 
 
 
Chapter 28 
 
Every object in the next day 's journey was new and interesting 
to Elizabeth ; and her spirits were in a state of enjoyment ; for she 
had seen her sister looking so well as to banish all fear for her 
health , and the prospect of her northern tour was a constant 
source of delight . 
 
When they left the high road for the lane to Hunsford , every eye 
was in search of the Parsonage , and every turning expected to 
bring it in view . The palings of Rosings Park was their boundary 
on one side . Elizabeth smiled at the recollection of all that she 
had heard of its inhabitants . 
 
At length the Parsonage was discernible . The garden sloping to 
the road , the house standing in it , the green pales , and the laurel 
hedge , everything declared they were arriving . Mr . Collins and 
Charlotte appeared at the door , and the carriage stopped at the 
small gate which led by a short gravel walk to the house , amidst 
the nods and smiles of the whole party . In a moment they were 
all out of the chaise , rejoicing at the sight of each other . Mrs . 
Collins welcomed her friend with the liveliest pleasure , and 
Elizabeth was more and more satisfied with coming when she 
found herself so affectionately received . She saw instantly that 
her cousin 's manner were not altered by his marriage ; his formal 
civility was just what it had been , and he detained her some 
minutes at the gate to hear and satisfy his inquiries after all 
her family . They were then , with no other delay than his 
pointing out the neatness of the entrance taken into the house ;  
and as soon as they were in the parlour , he welcomed them a 
second time , with ostentatious formality to his humble abode ,  
and punctually repeated all his wife 's offers of refreshment . 
 
Elizabeth was prepared to see him in his glory ; and she could not 
help in fancying that in displaying the good proportion of the 
room , its aspect and its furniture , he addressed himself 
particularly to her , as if wishing to make her feel what she had 
lost in refusing him . But though everything seemed neat and 
comfortable , she was not able to gratify him by any sigh of 
repentance , and rather looked with wonder at her friend that she 
could have so cheerful an air with such a companion . When 
Mr . Collins said anything of which his wife might reasonably be 
ashamed , which certainly was not unseldom , she involuntarily 
turned her eye on Charlotte . Once of twice she could discern a 
faint blush ; but in general Charlotte wisely did not hear . After 
sitting long enough to admire every article of furniture in the 
room , from the sideboard to the fender , to give an account of 
their journey , and of all that had happened in London , Mr . 
Collins invited them to take a stroll in the garden , which was 
large and well laid out , and to the cultivation of which he 
attended himself . To work in this garden was one of his most 
respectable pleasures ; and Elizabeth admired the command of 
countenance with which Charlotte talked of the healthfulness of 
the exercise , and owned she encouraged it as much as possible . 
Here , leading the way through every walk and cross walk , and 
scarcely allowing them an interval to utter the praises he asked 
for , every view was pointed out with a minuteness which left 
beauty entirely behind . He could number the fields in every 
direction , and could tell how many tress there were in the most 
distant clump . But of all the views which his garden , or which 
the country or kingdom could boast , none were to be compared 
with the prospect of Rosings , afforded by an opening in the trees 
that bordered the park nearly opposite the front of his house . It 
was a handsome modern building , well situated on rising ground . 
 
From his garden , Mr . Collins would have led them round his two 
meadows ; but the ladies , not having shoes to encounter the 
remains of a white frost , turned back ; and while Sir William 
accompanied him , Charlotte took her sister and friend over the 
house , extremely well pleased , probably , to have the opportunity 
of showing it without her husband 's help . It was rather small ,  
but well built and convenient ; and everything was fitted up and 
arranged with a neatness and consistency of which Elizabeth 
gave Charlotte all the credit . When Mr . Collins could be 
forgotten , there was really an air of great comfort throughout ,  
and by Charlotte 's evident enjoyment of it , Elizabeth supposed 
he must be often forgotten . 
 
She had already learnt that Lady Catherine was still in the 
country . It was spoken of again while they were at dinner , when 
Mr . Collins joining in , observed :  
 
`` Yes , Miss Elizabeth , you will have the honour of seeing Lady 
Catherine de Bourgh on the ensuing Sunday at church , and I 
need not say you will be delighted with her . She is all affability 
and condescension , and I doubt not but you will be honoured 
with some portion of her notice when service is over . I have 
scarcely any hesitation in saying she will include you and my 
sister Maria in every invitation with which she honours us during 
your stay here . Her behaviour to my dear Charlotte is charming . 
We dine at Rosings twice every week , and are never allowed to 
walk home . Her ladyship 's carriage is regularly ordered for us . 
I SHOULD say , one of her ladyship 's carriages , for she has 
several . ''  
 
`` Lady Catherine is a very respectable , sensible woman indeed ,  
added Charlotte , `` and a most attentive neighbour . ''  
 
`` Very true , my dear , that is exactly what I say . She is the sort of 
woman whom one can not regard with too much deference . ''  
 
The evening was spent chiefly in talking over Hertfordshire 
news , and telling again what had already been written ; and when 
it closed , Elizabeth , in the solitude of her chamber , had to 
meditate upon Charlotte 's degree of contentment , to understand 
her address in guiding , and composure in bearing with , her 
husband , and to acknowledge that it was all done very well . She 
had also to anticipate how her visit would pass , the quiet tenor 
of their usual employments , the vexatious interruptions of Mr . 
Collins , and the gaieties of their intercourse with Rosings . A 
lively imagination soon settled it all . 
 
About the middle of the next day , as she was in her room getting 
ready for a walk , a sudden noise below seemed to speak the 
whole house in confusion ; and , after listening a moment , she 
heard somebody running upstairs in a violent hurry , and calling 
loudly after her . She opened the door and met Maria in the 
landing place , who , breathless with agitation , cried out --  
 
`` Oh , my dear Eliza ! pray make haste and come into the 
dining-room , for there is such a sight to be seen ! I will not tell 
you what it is . Make haste , and come down this moment . ''  
 
Elizabeth asked questions in vain ; Maria would tell her nothing 
more , and down they ran into the dining-room , which fronted 
the lane , in quest of this wonder ! It was two ladies stopping in a 
low phaeton at the garden gate . 
 
`` And is this all ? '' cried Elizabeth . `` I expected at least that the 
pigs were got into the garden , and here is nothing but Lady 
Catherine and her daughter . ''  
 
`` La ! my dear , '' said Maria , quite shocked at the mistake , `` it is 
not Lady Catherine . The old lady is Mrs . Jenkins , who lives 
with them ; the other is Miss de Bourgh . Only look at her . She 
is quite a little creature . Who would have thought that she could 
be so thin and small ? ''  
 
`` She is abominably rude to keep Charlotte out of doors in all this 
wind . Why does she not come in ? ''  
 
`` Oh , Charlotte says she hardly ever does . It is the greatest of 
favours when Miss de Bourgh comes in . ''  
 
`` I like her appearance , '' said Elizabeth , struck with other ideas . 
`` She looks sickly and cross . Yes , she will do for him very well . 
She will make him a very proper wife . ''  
 
Mr . Collins and Charlotte were both standing at the gate in 
conversation with the ladies ; and Sir William , to Elizabeth 's high 
diversion , was stationed in the doorway , in earnest 
contemplation of the greatness before him , and constantly 
bowing whenever Miss de Bourgh looked that way . 
 
At length there was nothing more to be said ; the ladies drove on ,  
and the others returned into the house . Mr . Collins no sooner 
saw the two girls than he began to congratulate them on their 
good fortune , which Charlotte explained by letting them know 
that the whole party was asked to dine at Rosings the next day . 
 
 
 
Chapter 29 
 
Mr . Collins 's triumph , in consequence of this invitation , was 
complete . The power of displaying the grandeur of his patroness 
to his wondering visitors , and of letting them see her civility 
towards himself and his wife , was exactly what he had wished 
for ; and that an opportunity of doing it should be given so soon ,  
was such an instance of Lady Catherine 's condescension , as he 
knew not how to admire enough . 
 
`` I confess , '' said he , `` that I should not have been at all surprised 
by her ladyship 's asking us on Sunday to drink tea and spend the 
evening at Rosings . I rather expected , from my knowledge of 
her affability , that it would happen . But who could have 
foreseen such an attention as this ? Who could have imagined 
that we should receive an invitation to dine there ( an invitation ,  
moreover , including the whole party ) so immediately after your 
arrival ! ''  
 
`` I am the less surprised at what has happened , '' replied Sir 
William , `` from that knowledge of what the manners of the great 
really are , which my situation in life has allowed me to acquire . 
About the court , such instances of elegant breeding are not 
uncommon . ''  
 
Scarcely anything was talked of the whole day or next morning 
but their visit to Rosings . Mr . Collins was carefully instructing 
them in what they were to expect , that the sight of such rooms ,  
so many servants , and so splendid a dinner , might not wholly 
overpower them . 
 
When the ladies were separating for the toilette . Her said to 
Elizabeth --  
 
`` Do not make yourself uneasy , my dear cousin , about your 
apparel . Lady Catherine is far from requiring that elegance of 
dress in us which becomes herself and her daughter . I would 
advise you merely to put on whatever of your clothes is superior 
to the rest -- there is no occasion for anything more . Lady 
Catherine will not think the worse of you for being simply 
dressed . She likes to have the distinction of rank preserved . ''  
 
While they were dressing , he came two or three times to their 
different doors , to recommend their being quick , as Lady 
Catherine very much objected to be kept waiting for her dinner . 
Such formidable accounts of her ladyship , and her manner of 
living , quite frightened Maria Lucas who had been little used to 
company , and she looked forward to her introduction at Rosings 
with as much apprehension as her father had done to his 
presentation at St . James's . 
 
As the weather was fine , they had a pleasant walk of about half a 
mile across the park . Every park has its beauty and its 
prospects ; and Elizabeth saw much to be pleased with , though 
she could not be in such raptures as Mr . Collins expected the 
scene to inspire , and was but slightly affected by his enumeration 
of the windows in front of the house , and his relation of what the 
glazing altogether had originally cost Sir Lewis de Bourgh . 
 
When they ascended the steps to the hall , Maria 's alarm was 
every moment increasing , and even Sir William did not look 
perfectly calm . Elizabeth 's courage did not fail her . She had 
heard nothing of Lady Catherine that spoke her awful from any 
extraordinary talents or miraculous virtue , and the mere 
stateliness of money or rank she thought she could witness 
without trepidation . 
 
From the entrance-hall , of which Mr . Collins pointed out , with a 
rapturous air , the fine proportion and the finished ornaments ,  
they followed the servants through an ante-chamber , to the room 
where Lady Catherine , her daughter , and Mrs . Jenkinson were 
sitting . Her ladyship , with great condescension , arose to receive 
them ; and as Mrs . Collins had settled it with her husband that the 
office of introduction should be hers , it was performed in a 
proper manner , without any of those apologies and thanks which 
he would have thought necessary . 
 
In spite of having been at St . James 's Sir William was so 
completely awed by the grandeur surrounding him , that he had 
but just courage enough to make a very low bow , and take his 
seat without saying a word ; and his daughter , frightened almost 
out of her senses , sat on the edge of her chair , not knowing 
which way to look . Elizabeth found herself quite equal to the 
scene , and could observe the three ladies before her composedly . 
Lady Catherine was a tall , large woman , with strongly-marked 
features , which might once have been handsome . Her air was 
not conciliating , nor was her manner of receiving them such as 
to make her visitors forget their inferior rank . She was not 
rendered formidable by silence ; but whatever she said was 
spoken in so authoritative a tone , as marked her self-importance ,  
and brought Mr . Wickham immediately to Elizabeth 's mind ; and 
from the observation of the day altogether , she believed Lady 
Catherine to be exactly what he represented . 
 
When , after examining the mother , in whose countenance and 
deportment she soon found some resemblance of Mr . Darcy ,  
she turned her eyes on the daughter , she could almost have 
joined in Maria 's astonishment at her being so thin and so small . 
There was neither in figure nor face any likeness between the 
ladies . Miss de Bourgh was pale and sickly ; her features , though 
not plain , were insignificant ; and she spoke very little , except in 
a low voice , to Mrs . Jenkinson , in whose appearance there was 
nothing remarkable , and who was entirely engaged in listening to 
what she said , and placing a screen in the proper direction before 
her eyes . 
 
After sitting a few minutes , they were all sent to one of the 
windows to admire the view , Mr . Collins attending them to 
point out its beauties , and Lady Catherine kindly informing them 
that it was much better worth looking at in the summer . 
 
The dinner was exceedingly handsome , and there were all the 
servants and all the articles of plate which Mr . Collins had 
promised ; and , as he had likewise foretold , he took his seat at 
the bottom of the table , by her ladyship 's desire , and looked as if 
he felt that life could furnish nothing greater . He carved , and 
ate , and praised with delighted alacrity ; and every dish was 
commended , first by him and then by Sir William , who was now 
enough recovered to echo whatever his son-in-law said , in a 
manner which Elizabeth wondered Lady Catherine could bear . 
But Lady Catherine seemed gratified by their excessive 
admiration , and gave most gracious smiles , especially when any 
dish on the table proved a novelty to them . The party did not 
supply much conversation . Elizabeth was ready to speak 
whenever there was an opening , but she was seated between 
Charlotte and Miss de Bourgh -- the former of whom was 
engaged in listening to Lady Catherine , and the latter said not a 
word to her all dinner-time . Miss Jenkinson was chiefly 
employed in watching how little Miss de Bourgh ate , pressing 
her to try some other dish , and fearing she was indisposed . 
Maria thought speaking out of the question , and the gentlemen 
did nothing but eat and admire . 
 
When the ladies returned to the drawing-room , there was little 
to be done but to hear Lady Catherine talk , which she did 
without any intermission till coffee came in , delivering her 
opinion on every subject in so decisive a manner , as proved that 
she was not used to have her judgement controverted . She 
inquired into Charlotte 's domestic concerns familiarly and 
minutely , gave her a great deal of advice as to the management 
of them all ; told her how everything ought to be regulated in so 
small a family as hers , and instructed her as to the care of her 
cows and her poultry . Elizabeth found that nothing was beneath 
this great lady 's attention , which could furnish her with an 
occasion of dictating to others . In the intervals of her discourse 
with Mrs . Collins , she addressed a variety of questions to Maria 
and Elizabeth , but especially to the latter , of whose connections 
she knew the least , and who she observed to Mrs . Collins was a 
very genteel , pretty kind of girl . She asked her , at different 
times , how many sisters she had , whether they were older or 
younger than herself , whether any of them were likely to be 
married , whether they were handsome , where they had been 
educated , what carriage her father kept , and what had been her 
mother 's maiden name ? Elizabeth felt all the impertinence of her 
questions but answered them very composedly . Lady Catherine 
then observed ,  
 
`` Your father 's estate is entailed on Mr . Collins , I think . For 
your sake , '' turning to Charlotte , `` I am glad of it ; but otherwise I 
see no occasion for entailing estates from the female line . It was 
not thought necessary in Sir Lewis de Bourgh 's family . Do you 
play and sing , Miss Bennet ? ''  
 
`` A little . ''  
 
`` Oh ! then -- some time or other we shall be happy to hear you . 
Our instrument is a capital one , probably superior to -- -- You 
shall try it some day . Do your sisters play and sing ? ''  
 
`` One of them does . ''  
 
`` Why did not you all learn ? You ought all to have learned . The 
Miss Webbs all play , and their father has not so good an income 
as yours . Do you draw ? ''  
 
`` No , not at all . ''  
 
`` What , none of you ? ''  
 
`` Not one . ''  
 
`` That is very strange . But I suppose you had no opportunity . 
Your mother should have taken you to town every spring for the 
benefit of masters . ''  
 
`` My mother would have had no objection , but my father hates 
London . ''  
 
`` Has your governess left you ? ''  
 
`` We never had any governess . ''  
 
`` No governess ! How was that possible ? Five daughters brought 
up at home without a governess ! I never heard of such a thing . 
Your mother must have been quite a slave to your education . ''  
 
Elizabeth could hardly help smiling as she assured her that had 
not been the case . 
 
`` Then , who taught you ? who attended to you ? Without a 
governess , you must have been neglected . ''  
 
`` Compared with some families , I believe we were ; but such of us 
as wished to learn never wanted the means . We were always 
encouraged to read , and had all the masters that were necessary . 
Those who chose to be idle , certainly might . ''  
 
`` Aye , no doubt ; but that is what a governess will prevent , and if 
I had known your mother , I should have advised her most 
strenuously to engage one . I always say that nothing is to be 
done in education without steady and regular instruction , and 
nobody but a governess can give it . It is wonderful how many 
families I have been the means of supplying in that way . I am 
always glad to get a young person well placed out . Four nieces 
of Mrs . Jenkinson are most delightfully situated through my 
means ; and it was but the other day that I recommended another 
young person , who was merely accidentally mentioned to me ,  
and the family are quite delighted with her . Mrs . Collins , did I 
tell you of Lady Metcalf 's calling yesterday to thank me ? She * 
finds Miss Pope a treasure . # Lady Catherine , ' said she , # you * 
have given me a treasure . ' Are any of your younger sisters out , * 
Miss Bennet ? ''  
 
`` Yes , ma'am , all . ''  
 
`` All ! What , all five out at once ? Very odd ! And you only the 
second . The younger ones out before the elder ones are 
married ! Your younger sisters must be very young ? ''  
 
`` Yes , my youngest is not sixteen . Perhaps SHE is full young to 
be much in company . But really , ma'am , I think it would be 
very hard upon younger sisters , that they should not have their 
share of society and amusement , because the elder may not have 
the means or inclination to marry early . The last-born has as 
good a right to the pleasures of youth at the first . And to be 
kept back on SUCH a motive ! I think it would not be very likely 
to promote sisterly affection or delicacy of mind . ''  
 
`` Upon my word , '' said her ladyship , `` you give your opinion very 
decidedly for so young a person . Pray , what is your age ? ''  
 
`` With three younger sisters grown up , '' replied Elizabeth ,  
smiling , `` your ladyship can hardly expect me to own it . ''  
 
Lady Catherine seemed quite astonished at not receiving a direct 
answer ; and Elizabeth suspected herself to be the first creature 
who had ever dared to trifle with so much dignified 
impertinence . 
 
`` You can not be more than twenty , I am sure , therefore you need 
not conceal your age . ''  
 
`` I am not one-and-twenty . ''  
 
When the gentlemen had joined them , and tea was over , the 
card-tables were placed . Lady Catherine , Sir William , and Mr . 
and Mrs . Collins sat down to quadrille ; and as Miss de Bourgh 
chose to play at cassino , the two girls had the honour of 
assisting Mrs . Jenkinson to make up her party . Their table was 
superlatively stupid . Scarcely a syllable was uttered that did not 
relate to the game , except when Mrs . Jenkinson expressed her 
fears of Mis de Bourgh 's being too hot or too cold , or having 
too much or too little light . A great deal more passed at the 
other table . Lady Catherine was generally speaking -- stating the 
mistakes of the three others , or relating some anecdote of 
herself . Mr . Collins was employed in agreeing to everything her 
ladyship said , thanking her for every fish he won , and 
apologising if he thought he won too many . Sir William did not 
say much . He was storing his memory with anecdotes and noble 
names . 
 
When Lady Catherine and her daughter had played as long as 
they chose , the tables were broken up , the carriage was offered 
to Mrs . Collins , gratefully accepted and immediately ordered . 
The party then gathered round the fire to hear Lady Catherine 
determine what weather they were to have on the morrow . 
From these instructions they were summoned by the arrival of 
the coach ; and with many speeches of thankfulness on Mr . 
Collins 's side and as many bows on Sir William 's they departed . 
As soon as they had driven from the door , Elizabeth was called 
on by her cousin to give her opinion of all that she had seen at 
Rosings , which , for Charlotte 's sake , she made more favourable 
than it really was . But her commendation , though costing her 
some trouble , could by no means satisfy Mr . Collins , and he was 
very soon obliged to take her ladyship 's praise into his own 
hands . 
 
 
 
Chapter 30 
 
Sir William stayed only a week at Hunsford , but his visit was 
long enough to convince him of his daughter 's being most 
comfortably settled , and of her possessing such a husband and 
such a neighbour as were not often met with . While Sir William 
was with them , Mr . Collins devoted his morning to driving him 
out in his gig , and showing him the country ; but when he went 
away , the whole family returned to their usual employments , and 
Elizabeth was thankful to find that they did not see more of her 
cousin by the alteration , for the chief of the time between 
breakfast and dinner was now passed by him either at work in 
the garden or in reading and writing , and looking out of the 
window in his own book-room , which fronted the road . The 
room in which the ladies sat was backwards . Elizabeth had at 
first rather wondered that Charlotte should not prefer the 
dining-parlour for common use ; it was a better sized room , and 
had a more pleasant aspect ; but she soon saw that her friend had 
an excellent reason for what she did , for Mr . Collins would 
undoubtedly have been much less in his own apartment had they 
sat in one equally lively ; and she gave Charlotte credit for the 
arrangement . 
 
> From the drawing-room they could distinguish nothing in the 
lane , and were indebted to Mr . Collins for the knowledge of 
what carriages went along , and how often especially Miss de 
Bourgh drove by in her phaeton , which he never failed coming 
to inform them of , though it happened almost every day . She 
not unfrequently stopped at the Parsonage , and had a few 
minutes ' conversation with Charlotte , but was scarcely ever 
prevailed upon to get out . 
 
Very few days passed in which Mr . Collins did not walk to 
Rosings , and not many in which his wife did not think it 
necessary to go likewise ; and till Elizabeth recollected that there 
might be other family livings to be disposed of , she could not 
understand the sacrifice of so many hours . Now and then they 
were honoured with a call from her ladyship , and nothing 
escaped her observation that was passing in the room during 
these visits . She examined into their employments , looked at 
their work , and advised them to do it differently ; found fault 
with the arrangement of the furniture ; or detected the housemaid 
in negligence ; and if she accepted any refreshment , seemed to do 
it only for the sake of finding out that Mrs . Collins 's joints of 
 
eat were too large for her family . 
 
Elizabeth soon perceived , that though this great lady was not in 
commission of the peace of the county , she was a most active 
magistrate in her own parish , the minutest concerns of which 
were carried to her by Mr . Collins ; and whenever any of the 
cottagers were disposed to be quarrelsome , discontented , or too 
poor , she sallied forth into the village to settle their differences ,  
silence their complaints , and scold them into harmony and 
plenty . 
 
The entertainment of dining at Rosings was repeated about twice 
a week ; and , allowing for the loss of Sir William , and there being 
only one card-table in the evening , every such entertainment was 
the counterpart of the first . Their other engagements were few ,  
as the style of living in the neighbourhood in general was beyond 
Mr . Collins 's reach . This , however , was no evil to Elizabeth ,  
and upon the whole she spent her time comfortably enough ;  
there were half-hours of pleasant conversation with Charlotte ,  
and the weather was so fine for the time of year that she had 
often great enjoyment out of doors . Her favourite walk , and 
where she frequently went while the others were calling on Lady 
Catherine , was along the open grove which edged that side of 
the park , where there was a nice sheltered path , which no one 
seemed to value but herself , and where she felt beyond the reach 
of Lady Catherine 's curiosity . 
 
In this quiet way , the first fortnight of her visit soon passed 
away . Easter was approaching , and the week preceding it was 
to bring an addition to the family at Rosings , which in so small a 
circle must be important . Elizabeth had heard soon after her 
arrival that Mr . Darcy was expected there in the course of a few 
weeks , and though there were not many of her acquaintances 
whom she did not prefer , his coming would furnish one 
comparatively new to look at in their Rosings parties , and she 
might be amused in seeing how hopeless Miss Bingley 's designs 
on him were , by his behaviour to his cousin , for whom he was 
evidently destined by Lady Catherine , who talked of his coming 
with the greatest satisfaction , spoke of him in terms of the 
highest admiration , and seemed almost angry to find that he had 
already been frequently seen by Miss Lucas and herself . 
 
His arrival was soon known at the Parsonage ; for Mr . Collins 
was walking the whole morning within view of the lodges 
opening into Hunsford Lane , in order to have the earliest 
 
assurance of it , and after making his bow as the carriage turned 
into the Park , hurried home with the great intelligence . On the 
following morning he hastened to Rosings to pay his respects . 
There were two nephews of Lady Catherine to require them , for 
Mr . Darcy had brought with him a Colonel Fitzwilliam , the 
younger son of his uncle Lord -- -- , and , to the great surprise of 
all the party , when Mr . Collins returned , the gentleman 
accompanied him . Charlotte had seen them from her husband's 
room , crossing the road , and immediately running into the other ,  
told the girls what an honour they might expect , adding :  
 
`` I may thank you , Eliza , for this piece of civility . Mr . Darcy 
would never have come so soon to wait upon me . ''  
 
 
Elizabeth had scarcely time to disclaim all right to the 
compliment , before their approach was announced by the 
door-bell , and shortly afterwards the three gentlemen entered 
the room . Colonel Fitzwilliam , who led the way , was about 
thirty , not handsome , but in person and address most truly the 
gentleman  . Mr . Darcy looked just as he had been used to look 
in Hertfordshire -- paid his compliments , with his usual reserve ,  
to Mrs . Collins , and whatever might be his feelings toward her 
friend , met her with every appearance of composure . Elizabeth 
merely curtseyed to him without saying a word . 
 
Colonel Fitzwilliam entered into conversation directly with the 
readiness and ease of a well-bred man , and talked very 
pleasantly ; but his cousin , after having addressed a slight 
observation on the house and garden to Mrs . Collins , sat for 
some time without speaking to anybody . At length , however ,  
his civility was so far awakened as to inquire of Elizabeth after 
the health of her family . She answered him in the usual way ,  
and after a moment 's pause , added :  
 
`` My eldest sister has been in town these three months . Have 
you never happened to see her there ? ''  
 
She was perfectly sensible that he never had ; but she wished to 
see whether he would betray any consciousness of what had 
passed between the Bingleys and Jane , and she thought he 
looked a little confused as he answered that he had never been 
so fortunate as to meet Miss Bennet . The subject was pursued 
no farther , and the gentlemen soon afterwards went away . 
 
 
Chapter 31 
 
Colonel Fitzwilliam 's manners were very much admired at the 
Parsonage , and the ladies all felt that he must add considerably 
to the pleasures of their engagements at Rosings . It was some 
days , however , before they received any invitation thither -- for 
 
while there were visitors in the house , they could not be 
necessary ; and it was not till Easter-day , almost a week after the 
gentlemen 's arrival , that they were honoured by such an 
attention , and then they were merely asked on leaving church to 
come there in the evening . For the last week they had seen very 
little of Lady Catherine or her daughter . Colonel Fitzwilliam had 
called at the Parsonage more than once during the time , but Mr . 
Darcy they had seen only at church . 
 
The invitation was accepted of course , and at a proper hour they 
joined the party in Lady Catherine 's drawing-room . Her ladyship 
received them civilly , but it was plain that their company was by 
no means so acceptable as when she could get nobody else ; and 
she was , in fact , almost engrossed by her nephews , speaking to 
them , especially to Darcy , much more than to any other person 
in the room . 
 
Colonel Fitzwilliam seemed really glad to see them ; anything 
was a welcome relief to him at Rosings ; and Mrs . Collins's 
pretty friend had moreover caught his fancy very much . He now 
seated himself by her , and talked so agreeably of Kent and 
Hertfordshire , of travelling and staying at home , of new books 
and music , that Elizabeth had never been half so well entertained 
in that room before ; and they conversed with so much spirit and 
flow , as to draw the attention of Lady Catherine herself , as well 
as of Mr . Darcy . HIS eyes had been soon and repeatedly turned 
towards them with a look of curiosity ; and that her ladyship ,  
after a while , shared the feeling , was more openly 
acknowledged , for she did not scruple to call out :  
 
`` What is that you are saying , Fitzwilliam ? What is it you are 
talking of ? What are you telling Miss Bennet ? Let me hear 
what it is . ''  
 
`` We are speaking of music , madam , '' said he , when no longer 
able to avoid a reply . 
 
`` Of music ! Then pray speak aloud . It is of all subjects my 
 
delight . I must have my share in the conversation if you are 
speaking of music . There are few people in England , I suppose ,  
who have more true enjoyment of music than myself , or a better 
natural taste . If I had ever learnt , I should have been a great 
proficient . And so would Anne , if her health had allowed her to 
apply . I am confident that she would have performed 
delightfully . How does Georgiana get on , Darcy ? ''  
 
Mr . Darcy spoke with affectionate praise of his sister's 
proficiency . 
 
`` I am very glad to hear such a good account of her , '' said Lady 
Catherine ; `` and pray tell her from me , that she can not expect to 
excel if she does not practice a good deal . ''  
 
`` I assure you , madam , '' he replied , `` that she does not need such 
advice . She practises very constantly . ''  
 
`` So much the better . It can not be done too much ; and when I 
next write to her , I shall charge her not to neglect it on any 
account . I often tell young ladies that no excellence in music is 
to be acquired without constant practice . I have told Miss 
Bennet several times , that she will never play really well unless 
she practises more ; and though Mrs . Collins has no instrument ,  
she is very welcome , as I have often told her , to come to 
Rosings every day , and play on the pianoforte in Mrs . 
Jenkinson 's room . She would be in nobody 's way , you know , in 
that part of the house . ''  
 
Mr . Darcy looked a little ashamed of his aunt 's ill-breeding , and 
made no answer . 
 
When coffee was over , Colonel Fitzwilliam reminded Elizabeth 
of having promised to play to him ; and she sat down directly to 
the instrument . He drew a chair near her . Lady Catherine 
listened to half a song , and then talked , as before , to her other 
nephew ; till the latter walked away from her , and making with 
his usual deliberation towards the pianoforte stationed himself so 
as to command a full view of the fair performer 's countenance . 
Elizabeth saw what he was doing , and at the first convenient 
pause , turned to him with an arch smile , and said :  
 
`` You mean to frighten me , Mr . Darcy , by coming in all this state 
to hear me ? I will not be alarmed though your sister DOES play 
so well . There is a stubbornness about me that never can bear to 
 
be frightened at the will of others . My courage always rises at 
every attempt to intimidate me . ''  
 
`` I shall not say you are mistaken , '' he replied , `` because you 
could not really believe me to entertain any design of alarming 
you ; and I have had the pleasure of your acquaintance long 
enough to know that you find great enjoyment in occasionally 
professing opinions which in fact are not your own . ''  
 
Elizabeth laughed heartily at this picture of herself , and said to 
Colonel Fitzwilliam , `` Your cousin will give you a very pretty 
notion of me , and teach you not to believe a word I say . I am 
particularly unlucky in meeting with a person so able to expose 
my real character , in a part of the world where I had hoped to 
pass myself off with some degree of credit . Indeed , Mr . Darcy ,  
it is very ungenerous in you to mention all that you knew to my 
disadvantage in Hertfordshire -- and , give me leave to say , very 
impolitic too -- for it is provoking me to retaliate , and such things 
may come out as will shock your relations to hear . ''  
 
`` I am not afraid of you , '' said he , smilingly . 
 
`` Pray let me hear what you have to accuse him of , '' cried 
Colonel Fitzwilliam . `` I should like to know how he behaves 
among strangers . ''  
 
`` You shall hear then -- but prepare yourself for something very 
dreadful . The first time of my ever seeing him in Hertfordshire ,  
you must know , was at a ball -- and at this ball , what do you 
think he did ? He danced only four dances , though gentlemen 
were scarce ; and , to my certain knowledge , more than one 
young lady was sitting down in want of a partner . Mr . Darcy ,  
you can not deny the fact . ''  
 
`` I had not at that time the honour of knowing any lady in the 
assembly beyond my own party . ''  
 
`` True ; and nobody can ever be introduced in a ball-room . Well ,  
Colonel Fitzwilliam , what do I play next ? My fingers wait your 
orders . ''  
 
`` Perhaps , '' said Darcy , `` I should have judged better , had I 
sought an introduction ; but I am ill-qualified to recommend 
myself to strangers . ''  
 
 
Shall we ask your cousin the reason of this ? '' said Elizabeth ,  
still addressing Colonel Fitzwilliam . `` Shall we ask him why a 
man of sense and education , and who has lived in the world , is ill 
qualified to recommend himself to strangers ? ''  
 
`` I can answer your question , '' said Fitzwilliam , `` without 
applying to him . It is because he will not give himself the 
trouble . ''  
 
`` I certainly have not the talent which some people possess , '' said 
Darcy , `` of conversing easily with those I have never seen before . 
 
I can not catch their tone of conversation , or appear interested in 
their concerns , as I often see done . ''  
 
`` My fingers , '' said Elizabeth , `` do not move over this instrument 
in the masterly manner which I see so many women 's do . They 
have not the same force or rapidity , and do not produce the 
same expression . But then I have always supposed it to be my 
own fault -- because I will not take the trouble of practising . It is 
not that I do not believe MY fingers as capable as any other 
woman 's of superior execution . ''  
 
Darcy smiled and said , `` You are perfectly right . You have 
employed your time much better . No one admitted to the 
privilege of hearing you can think anything wanting . We neither 
of us perform to strangers . ''  
 
Here they were interrupted by Lady Catherine , who called out to 
know what they were talking of . Elizabeth immediately began 
playing again . Lady Catherine approached , and , after listening 
for a few minutes , said to Darcy :  
 
`` Miss Bennet would not play at all amiss if she practised more ,  
and could have the advantage of a London master . She has a 
very good notion of fingering , though her taste is not equal to 
Anne's . Anne would have been a delightful performer , had her 
health allowed her to learn . ''  
 
Elizabeth looked at Darcy to see how cordially he assented to 
his cousin 's praise ; but neither at that moment nor at any other 
could she discern any symptom of love ; and from the whole of 
his behaviour to Miss de Bourgh she derived this comfort for 
Miss Bingley , that he might have been just as likely to marry 
HER , had she been his relation . 
 
Lady Catherine continued her remarks on Elizabeth's 
performance , mixing with them many instructions on execution 
and taste . Elizabeth received them with all the forbearance of 
civility , and , at the request of the gentlemen , remained at the 
instrument till her ladyship 's carriage was ready to take them all 
home . 
 
 
 
Chapter 32 
 
Elizabeth was sitting by herself the next morning , and writing to 
Jane while Mrs . Collins and Maria were gone on business into 
the village , when she was startled by a ring at the door , the 
certain signal of a visitor . As she had heard no carriage , she 
thought it not unlikely to be Lady Catherine , and under that 
apprehension was putting away her half-finished letter that she 
might escape all impertinent questions , when the door opened ,  
and , to her very great surprise , Mr . Darcy , and Mr . Darcy only ,  
entered the room . 
 
He seemed astonished too on finding her alone , and apologised 
for his intrusion by letting her know that he had understood all 
the ladies were to be within . 
 
They then sat down , and when her inquiries after Rosings were 
made , seemed in danger of sinking into total silence . It was 
absolutely necessary , therefore , to think of something , and in this 
emergence recollecting WHEN she had seen him last in 
Hertfordshire , and feeling curious to know what he would say 
on the subject of their hasty departure , she observed :  
 
`` How very suddenly you all quitted Netherfield last November ,  
Mr . Darcy ! It must have been a most agreeable surprise to Mr . 
Bingley to see you all after him so soon ; for , if I recollect right ,  
he went but the day before . He and his sisters were well , I hope ,  
when you left London ? ''  
 
`` Perfectly so , I thank you . ''  
 
She found that she was to receive no other answer , and , after a 
short pause added :  
 
`` I think I have understood that Mr . Bingley has not much idea of 
ever returning to Netherfield again ? ''  
 
`` I have never heard him say so ; but it is probable that he may 
spend very little of his time there in the future . He has many 
friends , and is at a time of life when friends and engagements are 
continually increasing . ''  
 
`` If he means to be but little at Netherfield , it would be better for 
the neighbourhood that he should give up the place entirely , for 
then we might possibly get a settled family there . But , perhaps ,  
Mr . Bingley did not take the house so much for the convenience 
of the neighbourhood as for his own , and we must expect him to 
keep it or quit it on the same principle . ''  
 
`` I should not be surprised , '' said Darcy , `` if he were to give it up 
as soon as any eligible purchase offers . ''  
 
Elizabeth made no answer . She was afraid of talking longer of 
his friend ; and , having nothing else to say , was now determined 
to leave the trouble of finding a subject to him . 
 
He took the hint , and soon began with , `` This seems a very 
comfortable house . Lady Catherine , I believe , did a great deal to 
it when Mr . Collins first came to Hunsford . ''  
 
`` I believe she did -- and I am sure she could not have bestowed 
her kindness on a more grateful object . ''  
 
`` Mr . Collins appears to be very fortunate in his choice of a 
wife . ''  
 
`` Yes , indeed , his friends may well rejoice in his having met with 
one of the very few sensible women who would have accepted 
him , or have made him happy if they had . My friend has an 
excellent understanding -- though I am not certain that I consider 
her marrying Mr . Collins as the wisest thing she ever did . She 
seems perfectly happy , however , and in a prudential light it is 
certainly a very good match for her . ''  
 
`` It must be very agreeable for her to be settled within so easy a 
distance of her own family and friends . ''  
 
`` An easy distance , do you call it ? It is nearly fifty miles . ''  
 
`` And what is fifty miles of good road ? Little more than half a 
day 's journey . Yes , I call it a very easy distance . ''  
 
 
I should never have considered the distance as one of the 
ADVANTAGES of the match , '' cried Elizabeth . `` I should never 
have said Mrs . Collins was settled NEAR her family . ''  
 
`` It is a proof of your own attachment to Hertfordshire . 
Anything beyond the very neighbourhood of Longbourn , I 
suppose , would appear far . ''  
 
As he spoke there was a sort of smile which Elizabeth fancied 
she understood ; he must be supposing her to be thinking of Jane 
and Netherfield , and she blushed as she answered :  
 
`` I do not mean to say that a woman may not be settled too near 
her family . The far and the near must be relative , and depend on 
many varying circumstances . Where there is fortune to make the 
expenses of travelling unimportant , distance becomes no evil . 
But that is not the case HERE . Mr . and Mrs . Collins have a 
comfortable income , but not such a one as will allow of frequent 
journeys -- and I am persuaded my friend would not call herself 
NEAR her family under less than HALF the present distance . ''  
 
Mr . Darcy drew his chair a little towards her , and said , `` YOU 
can not have a right to such very strong local attachment . YOU 
can not have been always at Longbourn . ''  
 
Elizabeth looked surprised . The gentleman experienced some 
change of feeling ; he drew back his chair , took a newspaper 
from the table , and glancing over it , said , in a colder voice :  
 
`` Are you pleased with Kent ? ''  
 
A short dialogue on the subject of the county ensued , on either 
side calm and concise -- and soon put an end to by the entrance 
of Charlotte and her sister , just returned from her walk . The 
tete-a-tete surprised them . Mr . Darcy related the mistake which 
had occasioned his intruding on Miss Bennet , and after sitting a 
few minutes longer without saying much to anybody , went away . 
 
`` What can be the meaning of this ? '' said Charlotte , as soon as he 
was gone . `` My dear , Eliza , he must be in love with you , or he 
would never have called us in this familiar way . ''  
 
But when Elizabeth told of his silence ; it did not seem very 
likely , even to Charlotte 's wishes , to be the case ; and after 
various conjectures , they could at last only suppose his visit to 
 
proceed from the difficulty of finding anything to do , which was 
the more probable from the time of year . All field sports were 
over . Within doors there was Lady Catherine , books , and a 
billiard-table , but gentlemen can not always be within doors ; and 
in the nearness of the Parsonage , or the pleasantness of the walk 
to it , or of the people who lived in it , the two cousins found a 
temptation from this period of walking thither almost every day . 
They called at various times of the morning , sometimes 
separately , sometimes together , and now and then accompanied 
by their aunt . It was plain to them all that Colonel Fitzwilliam 
came because he had pleasure in their society , a persuasion 
which of course recommended him still more ; and Elizabeth was 
reminded by her own satisfaction in being with him , as well as by 
his evident admiration of her , of her former favourite George 
Wickham ; and though , in comparing them , she saw there was 
less captivating softness in Colonel Fitzwilliam 's manners , she 
believed he might have the best informed mind . 
 
But why Mr . Darcy came so often to the Parsonage , it was more 
difficult to understand . It could not be for society , as he 
frequently sat there ten minutes together without opening his 
lips ; and when he did speak , it seemed the effect of necessity 
rather than of choice -- a sacrifice to propriety , not a pleasure to 
himself . He seldom appeared really animated . Mrs . Collins 
knew not what to make of him . Colonel Fitzwilliam's 
occasionally laughing at his stupidity , proved that he was 
generally different , which her own knowledge of him could not 
have told her ; and as she would liked to have believed this 
change the effect of love , and the object of that love her friend 
Eliza , she set herself seriously to work to find it out . She 
watched him whenever they were at Rosings , and whenever he 
came to Hunsford ; but without much success . He certainly 
looked at her friend a great deal , but the expression of that look 
was disputable . It was an earnest , steadfast gaze , but she often 
doubted whether there were much admiration in it , and 
sometimes it seemed nothing but absence of mind . 
 
She had once or twice suggested to Elizabeth the possibility of 
his being partial to her , but Elizabeth always laughed at the idea ;  
and Mrs . Collins did not think it right to press the subject , from 
the danger of raising expectations which might only end in 
disappointment ; for in her opinion it admitted not of a doubt ,  
that all her friend 's dislike would vanish , if she could suppose 
him to be in her power . 
 
 
In her kind schemes for Elizabeth , she sometimes planned her 
marrying colonel Fitzwilliam . He was beyond comparison the 
most pleasant man ; he certainly admired her , and his situation in 
life was most eligible ; but , to counterbalance these advantages ,  
Mr . Darcy had considerable patronage in the church , and his 
cousin could have none at all . 
 
 
 
Chapter 33 
 
More than once did Elizabeth , in her ramble within the park ,  
unexpectedly meet Mr . Darcy . She felt all the perverseness of 
the mischance that should bring him where no one else was 
brought , and , to prevent its ever happening again , took care to 
inform him at first that it was a favourite haunt of hers . How it 
could occur a second time , therefore , was very odd ! Yet it did ,  
and even a third . It seemed like wilful ill-nature , or a voluntary 
penance , for on these occasions it was not merely a few formal 
inquiries and an awkward pause and then away , but he actually 
thought it necessary to turn back and walk with her . He never 
said a great deal , nor did she give herself the trouble of talking 
or of listening much ; but it struck her in the course of their third 
rencontre that he was asking some odd unconnected questions --  
about her pleasure in being at Hunsford , her love of solitary 
walks , and her opinion of Mr . and Mrs . Collins 's happiness ; and 
that in speaking of Rosings and her not perfectly understanding 
the house , he seemed to expect that whenever she came into 
Kent again she would be staying THERE too . His words 
seemed to imply it . Could he have Colonel Fitzwilliam in his 
thoughts ? She supposed , if he meant anything , he must mean 
and allusion to what might arise in that quarter . It distressed 
her a little , and she was quite glad to find herself at the gate in 
the pales opposite the Parsonage . 
 
She was engaged one day as she walked in perusing Jane 's last 
letter , and dwelling on some passages which proved that Jane 
had not written in spirits , when , instead of being again surprised 
by Mr . Darcy , she saw on looking up that Colonel Fitzwilliam 
was meeting her . Putting away the letter immediately and 
forcing a smile , she said :  
 
`` I did not know before that you ever walked this way . ''  
 
`` I have been making the tour of the park , '' he replied , `` as I 
 
generally do every year , and intend to close it with a call at the 
Parsonage . Are you going much farther ? ''  
 
`` No , I should have turned in a moment . ''  
 
And accordingly she did turn , and they walked towards the 
Parsonage together . 
 
`` Do you certainly leave Kent on Saturday ? '' said she . 
 
`` Yes -- if Darcy does not put it off again . But I am at his 
disposal . He arranges the business just as he pleases . ''  
 
`` And if not able to please himself in the arrangement , he has at 
least pleasure in the great power of choice . I do not know 
anybody who seems more to enjoy the power of doing what he 
likes than Mr . Darcy . ''  
 
`` He likes to have his own way very well , '' replied Colonel 
Fitzwilliam . `` But so we all do . It is only that he has better 
means of having it than many others , because he is rich , and 
many others are poor . I speak feelingly . A younger son , you 
know , must be inured to self-denial and dependence . ''  
 
`` In my opinion , the younger son of an earl can know very little 
of either . Now seriously , what have you ever known of 
self-denial and dependence ? When have you been prevented by 
want of money from going wherever you chose , or procuring 
anything you had a fancy for ? ''  
 
`` These are home questions -- and perhaps I can not say that I 
have experienced many hardships of that nature . But in matters 
of greater weight , I may suffer from want of money . Younger 
sons can not marry where they like . ''  
 
`` Unless where they like women of fortune , which I think they 
very often do . ''  
 
Our habits of expense make us too dependent , and there are too 
many in my rank of life who can afford to marry without some 
attention to money . ''  
 
`` Is this , '' thought Elizabeth , `` meant for me ? '' and she coloured 
at the idea ; but , recovering herself , said in a lively tone , `` And 
pray , what is the usual price of an earl 's younger son ? Unless 
 
the elder brother is very sickly , I suppose you would not ask 
above fifty thousand pounds . ''  
 
He answered her in the same style , and the subject dropped . To 
interrupt a silence which might make him fancy her affected with 
what had passed , she soon afterwards said :  
 
`` I imagine your cousin brought you down with him chiefly for 
the sake of having someone at his disposal . I wonder he does 
not marry , to secure a lasting convenience of that kind . But ,  
perhaps , his sister does as well for the present , and , as she is 
under his sole care , he may do what he likes with her . ''  
 
`` No , '' said Colonel Fitzwilliam , `` that is an advantage which he 
must divide with me . I am joined with him in the guardianship 
of Miss Darcy . ''  
 
`` Are you indeed ? And pray what sort of guardians do you 
make ? Does your charge give you much trouble ? Young ladies 
of her age are sometimes a little difficult to manage , and if she 
has the true Darcy spirit , she may like to have her own way . ''  
 
As she spoke she observed him looking at her earnestly ; and the 
manner in which he immediately asked her why she supposed 
Miss Darcy likely to give them any uneasiness , convinced her 
that she had somehow or other got pretty near the truth . She 
directly replied :  
 
`` You need not be frightened . I never heard any harm of her ; and 
I dare say she is one of the most tractable creatures in the world . 
She is a very great favourite with some ladies of my 
acquaintance , Mrs . Hurst and Miss Bingley . I think I have heard 
you say that you know them . ''  
 
`` I know them a little . Their brother is a pleasant gentlemanlike 
man -- he is a great friend of Darcy's . ''  
 
`` Oh ! yes , '' said Elizabeth drily ; `` Mr . Darcy is uncommonly kind 
to Mr . Bingley , and takes a prodigious deal of care of him . ''  
 
`` Care of him ! Yes , I really believe Darcy DOES take care of 
him in those points where he most wants care . From something 
that he told me in our journey hither , I have reason to think 
Bingley very much indebted to him . But I ought to beg his 
pardon , for I have no right to suppose that Bingley was the 
 
person meant . It was all conjecture . ''  
 
`` What is it you mean ? ''  
 
`` It is a circumstance which Darcy could not wish to be generally 
known , because if it were to get round to the lady 's family , it 
would be an unpleasant thing . ''  
 
`` You may depend upon my not mentioning it . ''  
 
`` And remember that I have not much reason for supposing it to 
be Bingley . What he told me was merely this : that he 
congratulated himself on having lately saved a friend from the 
inconveniences of a most imprudent marriage , but without 
mentioning names or any other particulars , and I only suspected 
it to be Bingley from believing him the kind of young man to get 
into a scrape of that sort , and from knowing them to have been 
together the whole of last summer . ''  
 
`` Did Mr . Darcy give you reasons for this interference ? ''  
 
`` I understood that there were some very strong objections 
against the lady . ''  
 
`` And what arts did he use to separate them ? ''  
 
`` He did not talk to me of his own arts , '' said Fitzwilliam , smiling . 
`` He only told me what I have now told you . ''  
 
Elizabeth made no answer , and walked on , her heart swelling 
with indignation . After watching her a little , Fitzwilliam asked 
her why she was so thoughtful . 
 
`` I am thinking of what you have been telling me , '' said she . 
`` Your cousin 's conduct does not suit my feelings . Why was he 
to be the judge ? ''  
 
`` You are rather disposed to call his interference officious ? ''  
 
`` I do not see what right Mr . Darcy had to decide on the 
propriety of his friend 's inclination , or why , upon his own 
judgement alone , he was to determine and direct in what manner 
his friend was to be happy . But , '' she continued , recollecting 
herself , `` as we know none of the particulars , it is not fair to 
condemn him . It is not to be supposed that there was much 
 
affection in the case . ''  
 
`` That is not an unnatural surmise , '' said Fitzwilliam , `` but it is a 
lessening of the honour of my cousin 's triumph very sadly . ''  
 
 
This was spoken jestingly ; but it appeared to her so just a picture 
of Mr . Darcy , that she would not trust herself with an answer ,  
and therefore , abruptly changing the conversation talked on 
indifferent matters until they reached the Parsonage . There , shut 
into her own room , as soon as their visitor left them , she could 
think without interruption of all that she had heard . It was not 
to be supposed that any other people could be meant than those 
with whom she was connected . There could not exist in the 
world TWO men over whom Mr . Darcy could have such 
boundless influence . That he had been concerned in the 
measures taken to separate Bingley and Jane she had never 
doubted ; but she had always attributed to Miss Bingley the 
principal design and arrangement of them . If his own vanity ,  
however , did not mislead him , HE was the cause , his pride and 
caprice were the cause , of all that Jane had suffered , and still 
continued to suffer . He had ruined for a while every hope of 
happiness for the most affectionate , generous heart in the world ;  
and no one could say how lasting an evil he might have inflicted . 
 
`` There were some very strong objections against the lady , '' were 
Colonel Fitzwilliam 's words ; and those strong objections 
probably were , her having one uncle who was a country 
attorney , and another who was in business in London . 
 
`` To Jane herself , '' she exclaimed , `` there could be no possibility 
of objection ; all loveliness and goodness as she is ! -- her 
understanding excellent , her mind improved , and her manners 
captivating . Neither could anything be urged against my father ,  
who , though with some peculiarities , has abilities Mr . Darcy 
himself need not disdain , and respectability which he will 
probably never each . '' When she thought of her mother , her 
confidence gave way a little ; but she would not allow that any 
objections THERE had material weight with Mr . Darcy , whose 
pride , she was convinced , would receive a deeper wound from 
the want of importance in his friend 's connections , than from 
their want of sense ; and she was quite decided , at last , that he 
had been partly governed by this worst kind of pride , and partly 
by the wish of retaining Mr . Bingley for his sister . 
 
 
 
The agitation and tears which the subject occasioned , brought on 
a headache ; and it grew so much worse towards the evening ,  
that , added to her unwillingness to see Mr . Darcy , it determined 
her not to attend her cousins to Rosings , where they were 
engaged to drink tea . Mrs . Collins , seeing that she was really 
unwell , did not press her to go and as much as possible 
prevented her husband from pressing her ; but Mr . Collins could 
not conceal his apprehension of Lady Catherine 's being rather 
displeased by her staying at home . 
 
 
 
Chapter 34 
 
When they were gone , Elizabeth , as if intending to exasperate 
herself as much as possible against Mr . Darcy , chose for her 
employment the examination of all the letters which Jane had 
written to her since her being in Kent . They contained no actual 
complaint , nor was there any revival of past occurrences , or any 
communication of present suffering . But in all , and in almost 
every line of each , there was a want of that cheerfulness which 
had been used to characterise her style , and which , proceeding 
from the serenity of a mind at ease with itself and kindly 
disposed towards everyone , had been scarcely ever clouded . 
Elizabeth noticed every sentence conveying the idea of 
uneasiness , with an attention which it had hardly received on the 
first perusal . Mr . Darcy 's shameful boast of what misery he had 
been able to inflict gave her a keener sense of her sister's 
sufferings . It was some consolation to think that his visit to 
Rosings was to end on the day after the next -- and , a still 
greater , that in less than a fortnight she should herself be with 
Jane again , and enabled to contribute to the recovery of her 
spirits , by all that affection could do . 
 
She could not think of Darcy 's leaving Kent without 
remembering that his cousin was to go with him ; but Colonel 
Fitzwilliam had made it clear that he had no intentions at all , and 
agreeable as he was , she did not mean to be unhappy about him . 
 
While settling this point , she was suddenly roused by the sound 
of the door-bell , and her spirits were a little fluttered by the idea 
of its being Colonel Fitzwilliam himself , who had once before 
called late in the evening , and might now come to inquire 
particularly after her . But this idea was soon banished , and her 
 
spirits were very differently affected , when , to her utter 
amazement , she saw Mr . Darcy walk into the room . In an 
hurried manner he immediately began an inquiry after her health ,  
imputing his visit to a wish of hearing that she were better . She 
answered him with cold civility . He sat down for a few 
moments , and then getting up , walked about the room . 
Elizabeth was surprised , but said not a word . After a silence of 
several minutes , he came towards her in an agitated manner , and 
thus began :  
 
`` In vain I have struggled . It will not do . My feelings will not be 
repressed . You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire 
and love you . ''  
 
Elizabeth 's astonishment was beyond expression . She stared ,  
coloured , doubted , and was silent . This he considered sufficient 
encouragement ; and the avowal of all that he felt , and had long 
felt for her , immediately followed . He spoke well ; but there 
were feelings besides those of the heart to be detailed ; and he 
was not more eloquent on the subject of tenderness than of 
pride . His sense of her inferiority -- of its being a degradation --  
of the family obstacles which had always opposed to inclination ,  
were dwelt on with a warmth which seemed due to the 
consequence he was wounding , but was very unlikely to 
recommend his suit . 
 
In spite of her deeply-rooted dislike , she could not be insensible 
to the compliment of such a man 's affection , and though her 
intentions did not vary for an instant , she was at first sorry for 
the pain he was to receive ; till , roused to resentment by his 
subsequent language , she lost all compassion in anger . She 
tried , however , to compose herself to answer him with patience ,  
when he should have done . He concluded with representing to 
her the strength of that attachment which , in spite of all his 
endeavours , he had found impossible to conquer ; and with 
expressing his hope that it would now be rewarded by her 
acceptance of his hand . As he said this , she could easily see that 
he had no doubt of a favourable answer . He SPOKE of 
apprehension and anxiety , but his countenance expressed real 
security . Such a circumstance could only exasperate farther ,  
and , when he ceased , the colour rose into her cheeks , and she 
said :  
 
`` In such cases as this , it is , I believe , the established mode to 
express a sense of obligation for the sentiments avowed ,  
 
however unequally they may be returned . It is natural that 
obligation should be felt , and if I could FEEL gratitude , I would 
now thank you . But I can not -- I have never desired your good 
opinion , and you have certainly bestowed it most unwillingly . I 
 
am sorry to have occasioned pain to anyone . It has been most 
unconsciously done , however , and I hope will be of short 
duration . The feelings which , you tell me , have long prevented 
the acknowledgment of your regard , can have little difficulty in 
overcoming it after this explanation . ''  
 
Mr . Darcy , who was leaning against the mantelpiece with his 
eyes fixed on her face , seemed to catch her words with no less 
resentment than surprise . His complexion became pale with 
anger , and the disturbance of his mind was visible in every 
feature . He was struggling for the appearance of composure ,  
and would not open his lips till he believed himself to have 
attained it . The pause was to Elizabeth 's feelings dreadful . At 
length , with a voice of forced calmness , he said :  
 
`` And this is the reply which I am to have the honour of 
expecting : I might , perhaps , wish to be informed why , with so 
little ENDEAVOUR at civility , I am thus rejected . But it is of 
small importance . ''  
 
`` I might as well inquire , '' replied she , `` why with so evident a 
desire of offending and insulting me , you chose to tell me that 
you liked me against your will , against your reason , and even 
against your character ? Was not this some excuse for incivility ,  
if I WAS uncivil ? But I have other provocations . You know I 
have . Had not my feelings decided against you -- had they been 
indifferent , or had they even been favourable , do you think that 
any consideration would tempt me to accept the man who has 
been the means of ruining , perhaps for ever , the happiness of a 
most beloved sister ? ''  
 
As she pronounced these words , Mr . Darcy changed colour ; but 
the emotion was short , and he listened without attempting 
to interrupt her while she continued :  
 
`` I have every reason in the world to think ill of you . No motive 
can excuse the unjust and ungenerous part you acted THERE . 
You dare not , you can not deny , that you have been the principal ,  
if not the only means of dividing them from each other -- of 
exposing one to the censure of the world for caprice and 
 
instability , and the other to its derision for disappointed hopes ,  
and involving them both in misery of the acutest kind . ''  
 
She paused , and saw with no slight indignation that he was 
listening with an air which proved him wholly unmoved by any 
feeling of remorse . He even looked at her with a smile of 
affected incredulity . 
 
`` Can you deny that you have done it ? '' she repeated . 
 
With assumed tranquillity he then replied : `` I have no wish of 
denying that I did everything in my power to separate my friend 
from your sister , or that I rejoice in my success . Towards HIM I 
have been kinder than towards myself . ''  
 
Elizabeth disdained the appearance of noticing this civil 
reflection , but its meaning did not escape , nor was it likely to 
conciliate her . 
 
`` But it is not merely this affair , '' she continued , `` on which my 
dislike is founded . Long before it had taken place my opinion of 
you was decided . Your character was unfolded in the recital 
which I received many months ago from Mr . Wickham . On this 
subject , what can you have to say ? In what imaginary act of 
friendship can you here defend yourself ? or under what 
misrepresentation can you here impose upon others ? ''  
 
`` You take an eager interest in that gentleman 's concerns , '' said 
Darcy , in a less tranquil tone , and with a heightened colour . 
 
`` Who that knows what his misfortunes have been , can help 
feeling an interest in him ? ''  
 
`` His misfortunes ! '' repeated Darcy contemptuously ; `` yes , his 
misfortunes have been great indeed . ''  
 
`` And of your infliction , '' cried Elizabeth with energy . `` You 
have reduced him to his present state of poverty -- comparative 
poverty . You have withheld the advantages which you must 
know to have been designed for him . You have deprived the 
best years of his life of that independence which was no less his 
due than his desert . You have done all this ! and yet you can 
treat the mention of his misfortune with contempt and ridicule . ''  
 
`` And this , '' cried Darcy , as he walked with quick steps across 
 
the room , `` Is your opinion of me ! This is the estimation in 
which you hold me ! I thank you for explaining it so fully . My 
faults , according to this calculation , are heavy indeed ! But 
perhaps , '' added he , stopping in his walk , and turning towards 
her , `` these offenses might have been overlooked , had not your 
pride been hurt by my honest confession of the scruples that had 
long prevented my forming any serious design . These bitter 
accusations might have been suppressed , had I , with greater 
policy , concealed my struggles , and flattered you into the belief 
of my being impelled by unqualified , unalloyed inclination ; by 
reason , by reflection , by everything . But disguise of every sort is 
my abhorrence . Nor am I ashamed of the feelings I related . 
They were natural and just . Could you expect me to rejoice in 
the inferiority of your connections ? -- to congratulate myself on 
the hope of relations , whose condition in life is so decidedly 
beneath my own ? ''  
 
Elizabeth felt herself growing more angry every moment ; yet she 
tried to the utmost to speak with composure when she said :  
 
`` You are mistaken , Mr . Darcy , if you suppose that the mode of 
your declaration affected me in any other way , than as it spared 
the concern which I might have felt in refusing you , had you 
behaved in a more gentlemanlike manner . ''  
 
She saw him start at this , but he said nothing , and she continued :  
 
`` You could not have made the offer of your hand in any possible 
way that would have tempted me to accept it . ''  
 
Again his astonishment was obvious ; and he looked at her with 
an expression of mingled incredulity and mortification . She went 
on :  
 
`` From the very beginning -- from the first moment , I may almost 
say -- of my acquaintance with you , your manners , impressing me 
with the fullest belief of your arrogance , your conceit , and your 
selfish disdain of the feelings of others , were such as to form the 
groundwork of disapprobation on which succeeding events have 
built so immovable a dislike ; and I had not known you a month 
before I felt that you were the last man in the world whom I 
could ever be prevailed on to marry . ''  
 
`` You have said quite enough , madam . I perfectly comprehend 
your feelings , and have now only to be ashamed of what my own 
 
have been . Forgive me for having taken up so much of your 
time , and accept my best wishes for your health and happiness . ''  
 
And with these words he hastily left the room , and Elizabeth 
heard him the next moment open the front door and quit the 
house . 
 
The tumult of her mind , was now painfully great . She knew not 
how to support herself , and from actual weakness sat down and 
cried for half-an-hour . Her astonishment , as she reflected on 
what had passed , was increased by every review of it . That she 
should receive an offer of marriage from Mr . Darcy ! That he 
should have been in love with her for so many months ! So much 
in love as to wish to marry her in spite of all the objections 
which had made him prevent his friend 's marrying her sister , and 
which must appear at least with equal force in his own case --  
was almost incredible ! It was gratifying to have inspired 
unconsciously so strong an affection . But his pride , his 
abominable pride -- his shameless avowal of what he had done 
with respect to Jane -- his unpardonable assurance in 
acknowledging , though he could not justify it , and the unfeeling 
manner in which he had mentioned Mr . Wickham , his cruelty 
towards whom he had not attempted to deny , soon overcame the 
pity which the consideration of his attachment had for a moment 
excited . She continued in very agitated reflections till the sound 
of Lady Catherine 's carriage made her feel how unequal she was 
to encounter Charlotte 's observation , and hurried her away to 
her room . 
 
 
 
Chapter 35 
 
Elizabeth awoke the next morning to the same thoughts and 
meditations which had at length closed her eyes . She could not 
yet recover from the surprise of what had happened ; it was 
impossible to think of anything else ; and , totally indisposed for 
employment , she resolved , soon after breakfast , to indulge 
herself in air and exercise . She was proceeding directly to her 
favourite walk , when the recollection of Mr . Darcy 's sometimes 
coming there stopped her , and instead of entering the park , she 
turned up the lane , which led farther from the turnpike-road . 
The park paling was still the boundary on one side , and she soon 
passed one of the gates into the ground . 
 
 
After walking two or three times along that part of the lane , she 
was tempted , by the pleasantness of the morning , to stop at the 
gates and look into the park . The five weeks which she had now 
passed in Kent had made a great difference in the country , and 
every day was adding to the verdure of the early trees . She was 
on the point of continuing her walk , when she caught a glimpse 
of a gentleman within the sort of grove which edged the park ; he 
was moving that way ; and , fearful of its being Mr . Darcy , she was 
directly retreating . But the person who advanced was now near 
enough to see her , and stepping forward with eagerness ,  
pronounced her name . She had turned away ; but on hearing 
herself called , though in a voice which proved it to be Mr . 
Darcy , she moved again towards the gate . He had by that time 
reached it also , and , holding out a letter , which she instinctively 
took , said , with a look of haughty composure , `` I have been 
walking in the grove some time in the hope of meeting you . Will 
you do me the honour of reading that letter ? '' And then , with a 
slight bow , turned again into the plantation , and was soon out of 
sight . 
 
With no expectation of pleasure , but with the strongest curiosity ,  
Elizabeth opened the letter , and , to her still increasing wonder ,  
perceived an envelope containing two sheets of letter-paper ,  
written quite through , in a very close hand . The envelope itself 
was likewise full . Pursuing her way along the lane , she then 
began it . It was dated from Rosings , at eight o'clock in the 
morning , and was as follows : --  
 
`` Be not alarmed , madam , on receiving this letter , by the 
apprehension of its containing any repetition of those sentiments 
or renewal of those offers which were last night so disgusting to 
you . I write without any intention of paining you , or humbling 
myself , by dwelling on wishes which , for the happiness of both ,  
can not be too soon forgotten ; and the effort which the formation 
and the perusal of this letter must occasion , should have been 
spared had not my character required it to be written and read . 
You must , therefore , pardon the freedom with which I demand 
your attention ; your feelings , I know , will bestow it unwillingly ,  
but I demand it of your justice . 
 
`` Two offenses of a very different nature , and by no means of 
equal magnitude , you last night laid to my charge . The first 
mentioned was , that , regardless of the sentiments of either , I had 
detached Mr . Bingley from your sister , and the other , that I had ,  
in defiance of various claims , in defiance of honour and 
 
humanity , ruined the immediate prosperity and blasted the 
prospects of Mr . Wickham . Wilfully and wantonly to have 
thrown off the companion of my youth , the acknowledged 
favourite of my father , a young man who had scarcely any other 
dependence than on our patronage , and who had been brought 
up to expect its exertion , would be a depravity , to which the 
separation of two young persons , whose affection could be the 
growth of only a few weeks , could bear no comparison . But 
from the severity of that blame which was last night so liberally 
bestowed , respecting each circumstance , I shall hope to be in the 
future secured , when the following account of my actions and 
their motives has been read . If , in the explanation of them ,  
which is due to myself , I am under the necessity of relating 
feelings which may be offensive to yours , I can only say that I 
am sorry . The necessity must be obeyed , and further apology 
would be absurd . 
 
`` I had not been long in Hertfordshire , before I saw , in common 
with others , that Bingley preferred your elder sister to any other 
young woman in the country . But it was not till the evening of 
the dance at Netherfield that I had any apprehension of his 
feeling a serious attachment . I had often seen him in love before . 
At that ball , while I had the honour of dancing with you , I was 
first made acquainted , by Sir William Lucas 's accidental 
information , that Bingley 's attentions to your sister had given 
rise to a general expectation of their marriage . He spoke of it as 
a certain event , of which the time alone could be undecided . 
> From that moment I observed my friend 's behaviour attentively ;  
and I could then perceive that his partiality for Miss Bennet was 
beyond what I had ever witnessed in him . Your sister I also 
watched . Her look and manners were open , cheerful , and 
engaging as ever , but without any symptom of peculiar regard ,  
and I remained convinced from the evening 's scrutiny , that 
though she received his attentions with pleasure , she did not 
invite them by any participation of sentiment . If YOU have not 
been mistaken here , _I_ must have been in error . Your superior 
knowledge of your sister must make the latter probable . If it be 
so , if I have been misled by such error to inflict pain on her , your 
resentment has not been unreasonable . But I shall not scruple to 
assert , that the serenity of your sister 's countenance and air was 
such as might have given the most acute observer a conviction 
that , however amiable her temper , her heart was not likely to be 
easily touched . That I was desirous of believing her indifferent 
is certain -- but I will venture to say that my investigation and 
decisions are not usually influenced by my hopes or fears . I did 
 
not believe her to be indifferent because I wished it ; I believed it 
on impartial conviction , as truly as I wished it in reason . My 
objections to the marriage were not merely those which I last 
night acknowledged to have the utmost force of passion to put 
aside , in my own case ; the want of connection could not be so 
great an evil to my friend as to me . But there were other causes 
of repugnance ; causes which , though still existing , and existing 
to an equal degree in both instances , I had myself endeavoured 
to forget , because they were not immediately before me . These 
causes must be stated , though briefly . The situation of your 
mother 's family , though objectionable , was nothing in 
comparison to that total want of propriety so frequently , so 
almost uniformly betrayed by herself , by your three younger 
sisters , and occasionally even by your father . Pardon me . It 
pains me to offend you . But amidst your concern for the defects 
of your nearest relations , and your displeasure at this 
representation of them , let it give you consolation to consider 
that , to have conducted yourselves so as to avoid any share of 
the like censure , is praise no less generally bestowed on you and 
your elder sister , than it is honourable to the sense and 
disposition of both . I will only say farther that from what passed 
that evening my opinion of all parties was confirmed , and every 
inducement heightened which could have led me before to 
preserve my friend from what I esteemed a most unhappy 
connection . He left Netherfield for London , on the day 
following , as you , I am certain , remember , with the design of 
soon returning . 
 
`` The part which I acted is now to be explained . His sisters' 
uneasiness had been equally excited with my own ; our 
coincidence of feeling was soon discovered , and , alike sensible 
that no time was to be lost in detaching their brother , we shortly 
resolved on joining him directly in London . We accordingly 
went -- and there I readily engaged in the office of pointing out 
to my friend the certain evils of such a choice . I described , and 
enforced them earnestly . But , however this remonstrance might 
have staggered or delayed his determination , I do not suppose 
that it would ultimately have prevented the marriage , had it not 
been seconded by the assurance that I hesitated not in giving , of 
your sister 's indifference . He had before believed her to return 
his affection with sincere , if not with equal regard . But Bingley 
has great natural modesty , with a stronger dependence on my 
judgement than on his own . To convince him , therefore , that he 
had deceived himself , was no very difficult point . To persuade 
him against returning into Hertfordshire , when that conviction 
 
had been given , was scarcely the work of a moment . I cannot 
blame myself for having done thus much . There is but one part 
of my conduct in the whole affair on which I do not reflect with 
satisfaction ; it is , that I condescended to adopt the measures of 
art so far as to conceal from him your sister 's being in town . I 
knew it myself , as it was known to Miss Bingley ; but her brother 
is even yet ignorant of it . That they might have met without ill 
consequence is perhaps probable ; but his regard did not appear 
to me enough extinguished for him to see her without some 
danger . Perhaps this concealment , this disguise was beneath me ;  
it is done , however , and it was done for the best . On this subject 
I have nothing more to say , no other apology to offer . If I have 
wounded your sister 's feelings , it was unknowingly done and 
though the motives which governed me may to you very 
naturally appear insufficient , I have not yet learnt to condemn 
them . 
 
`` With respect to that other , more weighty accusation , of having 
injured Mr . Wickham , I can only refute it by laying before you 
the whole of his connection with my family . Of what he has 
PARTICULARLY accused me I am ignorant ; but of the truth of 
what I shall relate , I can summon more than one witness of 
undoubted veracity . 
 
`` Mr . Wickham is the son of a very respectable man , who had for 
many years the management of all the Pemberley estates , and 
whose good conduct in the discharge of his trust naturally 
inclined my father to be of service to him ; and on George 
Wickham , who was his godson , his kindness was therefore 
liberally bestowed . My father supported him at school , and 
afterwards at Cambridge -- most important assistance , as his own 
father , always poor from the extravagance of his wife , would 
have been unable to give him a gentleman 's education . My 
father was not only fond of this young man 's society , whose 
manner were always engaging ; he had also the highest opinion of 
him , and hoping the church would be his profession , intended to 
provide for him in it . As for myself , it is many , many years since 
I first began to think of him in a very different manner . The 
vicious propensities -- the want of principle , which he was careful 
to guard from the knowledge of his best friend , could not escape 
the observation of a young man of nearly the same age with 
himself , and who had opportunities of seeing him in unguarded 
moments , which Mr . Darcy could not have . Here again shall 
give you pain -- to what degree you only can tell . But whatever 
may be the sentiments which Mr . Wickham has created , a 
 
suspicion of their nature shall not prevent me from unfolding his 
real character -- it adds even another motive . 
 
`` My excellent father died about five years ago ; and his 
attachment to Mr . Wickham was to the last so steady , that in his 
will he particularly recommended it to me , to promote his 
advancement in the best manner that his profession might 
allow -- and if he took orders , desired that a valuable family living 
might be his as soon as it became vacant . There was also a 
legacy of one thousand pounds . His own father did not long 
survive mine , and within half a year from these events , Mr . 
Wickham wrote to inform me that , having finally resolved 
against taking orders , he hoped I should not think it 
unreasonable for him to expect some more immediate pecuniary 
advantage , in lieu of the preferment , by which he could not be 
benefited . He had some intention , he added , of studying law ,  
and I must be aware that the interest of one thousand pounds 
would be a very insufficient support therein . I rather wished ,  
than believed him to be sincere -- but , at any rate , was perfectly 
ready to accede to his proposal . I knew that Mr . Wickham 
ought not to be a clergyman ; the business was therefore soon 
settled -- he resigned all claim to assistance in the church , were it 
possible that he could ever be in a situation to receive it , and 
accepted in return three thousand pounds . All connection 
between us seemed now dissolved . I thought too ill of him to 
invite him to Pemberley , or admit his society in town . In town I 
believe he chiefly lived , but his studying the law was a mere 
pretence , and being now free from all restraint , his life was a life 
of idleness and dissipation . For about three years I heard little of 
him ; but on the decease of the incumbent of the living which had 
been designed for him , he applied to me again by letter for the 
presentation . His circumstances , he assured me , and I had no 
difficulty in believing it , were exceedingly bad . He had found 
the law a most unprofitable study , and was now absolutely 
resolved on being ordained , if I would present him to the living 
in question -- of which he trusted there could be little doubt , as 
he was well assured that I had no other person to provide for ,  
and I could not have forgotten my revered father 's intentions . 
You will hardly blame me for refusing to comply with this 
entreaty , or for resisting every repetition to it . His resentment 
was in proportion to the distress of his circumstances -- and he 
was doubtless as violent in his abuse of me to others as in his 
reproaches to myself . After this period every appearance of 
acquaintance was dropped . How he lived I know not . But last 
summer he was again most painfully obtruded on my notice . 
 
 
`` I must now mention a circumstance which I would wish to 
forget myself , and which no obligation less than the present 
should induce me to unfold to any human being . Having said 
thus much , I feel no doubt of your secrecy . My sister , who is 
more than ten years my junior , was left to the guardianship of 
my mother 's nephew , Colonel Fitzwilliam , and myself . About a 
year ago , she was taken from school , and an establishment 
formed for her in London ; and last summer she went with the 
lady who presided over it , to Ramsgate ; and thither also went 
Mr . Wickham , undoubtedly by design ; for there proved to have 
been a prior acquaintance between him and Mrs . Younge , in 
whose character we were most unhappily deceived ; and by her 
connivance and aid , he so far recommended himself to 
Georgiana , whose affectionate heart retained a strong impression 
of his kindness to her as a child , that she was persuaded to 
believe herself in love , and to consent to an elopement . She was 
then but fifteen , which must be her excuse ; and after stating her 
imprudence , I am happy to add , that I owed the knowledge of it 
to herself . I joined them unexpectedly a day or two before the 
intended elopement , and then Georgiana , unable to support the 
idea of grieving and offending a brother whom she almost 
looked up to as a father , acknowledged the whole to me . You 
may imagine what I felt and how I acted . Regard for my sister's 
credit and feelings prevented any public exposure ; but I wrote to 
Mr . Wickham , who left the place immediately , and Mrs . Younge 
was of course removed from her charge . Mr . Wickham 's object 
was unquestionably my sister 's fortune , which is thirty thousand 
pounds ; but I can not help supposing that the hope of revenging 
himself on me was a strong inducement . His revenge would 
have been complete indeed . 
 
`` This , madam , is a faithful narrative of every event in which we 
have been concerned together ; and if you do not absolutely 
reject it as false , you will , I hope , acquit me henceforth of 
cruelty towards Mr . Wickham . I know not in what manner ,  
under what form of falsehood he had imposed on you ; but his 
success is not perhaps to be wondered at , ignorant as you 
previously were of everything concerning either . Detection 
could not be in your power , and suspicion certainly not in your 
inclination . 
 
`` You may possibly wonder why all this was not told you last 
night ; but I was not then master enough of myself to know what 
could or ought to be revealed . For the truth of everything here 
 
related , I can appeal more particularly to the testimony of 
Colonel Fitzwilliam , who , from our near relationship and 
constant intimacy , and , still more , as one of the executors of my 
father 's will , has been unavoidably acquainted with every 
particular of these transactions . If your abhorrence of ME 
should make MY assertions valueless , you can not be prevented 
by the same cause from confiding in my cousin ; and that there 
may be the possibility of consulting him , I shall endeavour to 
find some opportunity of putting this letter in your hands in the 
course of the morning . I will only add , God bless you ,  
`` FITZWILLIAM DARCY ''  
 
 
 
Chapter 36 
 
If Elizabeth , when Mr . Darcy gave her the letter , did not expect 
it to contain a renewal of his offers , she had formed no 
expectation at all of its contents . But such as they were , it may 
well be supposed how eagerly she went through them , and what 
a contrariety of emotion they excited . Her feelings as she read 
were scarcely to be defined . With amazement did she first 
understand that he believed any apology to be in his power ; and 
steadfastly was she persuaded , that he could have no explanation 
to give , which a just sense of shame would not conceal . With a 
strong prejudice against everything he might say , she began his 
account of what had happened at Netherfield . She read with an 
eagerness which hardly left her power of comprehension , and 
from impatience of knowing what the next sentence might bring ,  
was incapable of attending to the sense of the one before her 
eyes . His belief of her sister 's insensibility she instantly resolved 
to be false ; and his account of the real , the worst objections to 
the match , made her too angry to have any wish of doing him 
justice . He expressed no regret for what he had done which 
satisfied her ; his style was not penitent , but haughty . It was all 
pride and insolence . 
 
But when this subject was succeeded by his account of Mr . 
Wickham -- when she read with somewhat clearer attention a 
relation of events which , if true , must overthrow every cherished 
opinion of his worth , and which bore so alarming an affinity to 
his own history of himself -- her feelings were yet more acutely 
painful and more difficult of definition . Astonishment ,  
apprehension , and even horror , oppressed her . She wished to 
discredit it entirely , repeatedly exclaiming , `` This must be false !  
 
This can not be ! This must be the grossest falsehood ! '' -- and 
when she had gone through the whole letter , though scarcely 
knowing anything of the last page or two , put it hastily away ,  
protesting that she would not regard it , that she would never 
look in it again . 
 
In this perturbed state of mind , with thoughts that could rest on 
nothing , she walked on ; but it would not do ; in half a minute the 
letter was unfolded again , and collecting herself as well as she 
could , she again began the mortifying perusal of all that related 
to Wickham , and commanded herself so far as to examine the 
meaning of every sentence . The account of his connection with 
the Pemberley family was exactly what he had related himself ;  
and the kindness of the late Mr . Darcy , though she had not 
before known its extent , agreed equally well with his own 
words . So far each recital confirmed the other ; but when she 
came to the will , the difference was great . What Wickham had 
said of the living was fresh in her memory , and as she recalled 
his very words , it was impossible not to feel that there was gross 
duplicity on one side or the other ; and , for a few moments , she 
flattered herself that her wishes did not err . But when she read 
and re-read with the closest attention , the particulars 
immediately following of Wickham 's resigning all pretensions to 
the living , of his receiving in lieu so considerable a sum as three 
thousand pounds , again was she forced to hesitate . She put 
down the letter , weighed every circumstance with what she 
meant to be impartiality -- deliberated on the probability of each 
statement -- but with little success . On both sides it was only 
assertion . Again she read on ; but every line proved more clearly 
that the affair , which she had believed it impossible that any 
contrivance could so represent as to render Mr . Darcy 's conduct 
in it less than infamous , was capable of a turn which must make 
him entirely blameless throughout the whole . 
 
The extravagance and general profligacy which he scrupled not 
to lay at Mr . Wickham 's charge , exceedingly shocked her ; the 
more so , as she could bring no proof of its injustice . She had 
never heard of him before his entrance into the -- -- shire Militia ,  
in which he had engaged at the persuasion of the young man 
who , on meeting him accidentally in town , had there renewed a 
slight acquaintance . Of his former way of life nothing had been 
known in Hertfordshire but what he told himself . As to his real 
character , had information been in her power , she had never felt 
a wish of inquiring . His countenance , voice , and manner had 
established him at once in the possession of every virtue . She 
 
tried to recollect some instance of goodness , some distinguished 
trait of integrity or benevolence , that might rescue him from the 
attacks of Mr . Darcy ; or at least , by the predominance of virtue ,  
atone for those casual errors under which she would endeavour 
to class what Mr . Darcy had described as the idleness and vice of 
many years ' continuance . But no such recollection befriended 
her . She could see him instantly before her , in every charm of 
air and address ; but she could remember no more substantial 
good than the general approbation of the neighbourhood , and 
the regard which his social powers had gained him in the mess . 
After pausing on this point a considerable while , she once more 
continued to read . But , alas ! the story which followed , of his 
designs on Miss Darcy , received some confirmation from what 
had passed between Colonel Fitzwilliam and herself only the 
morning before ; and at last she was referred for the truth of 
every particular to Colonel Fitzwilliam himself -- from whom she 
had previously received the information of his near concern in all 
his cousin 's affairs , and whose character she had no reason to 
question . At one time she had almost resolved on applying to 
him , but the idea was checked by the awkwardness of the 
application , and at length wholly banished by the conviction that 
Mr . Darcy would never have hazarded such a proposal , if he had 
not been well assured of his cousin 's corroboration . 
 
She perfectly remembered everything that had passed in 
conversation between Wickham and herself , in their first evening 
at Mr . Phillips's . Many of his expressions were still fresh in her 
memory . She was NOW struck with the impropriety of such 
communications to a stranger , and wondered it had escaped her 
before . She saw the indelicacy of putting himself forward as he 
had done , and the inconsistency of his professions with his 
conduct . She remembered that he had boasted of having no fear 
of seeing Mr . Darcy -- that Mr . Darcy might leave the country ,  
but that HE should stand his ground ; yet he had avoided the 
Netherfield ball the very next week . She remembered also that ,  
till the Netherfield family had quitted the country , he had told his 
story to no one but herself ; but that after their removal it had 
been everywhere discussed ; that he had then no reserves , no 
scruples in sinking Mr . Darcy 's character , though he had assured 
her that respect for the father would always prevent his exposing 
the son . 
 
How differently did everything now appear in which he was 
concerned ! His attentions to Miss King were now the 
consequence of views solely and hatefully mercenary ; and the 
 
mediocrity of her fortune proved no longer the moderation of his 
wishes , but his eagerness to grasp at anything . His behaviour to 
herself could now have had no tolerable motive ; he had either 
been deceived with regard to her fortune , or had been gratifying 
his vanity by encouraging the preference which she believed she 
had most incautiously shown . Every lingering struggle in his 
favour grew fainter and fainter ; and in farther justification of Mr . 
Darcy , she could not but allow Mr . Bingley , when questioned by 
Jane , had long ago asserted his blamelessness in the affair ; that 
proud and repulsive as were his manners , she had never , in the 
whole course of their acquaintance -- an acquaintance which 
had latterly brought them much together , and given her a sort of 
intimacy with his ways -- seen anything that betrayed him to be 
unprincipled or unjust -- anything that spoke him of irreligious or 
immoral habits ; that among his own connections he was 
esteemed and valued -- that even Wickham had allowed him 
merit as a brother , and that she had often heard him speak so 
affectionately of his sister as to prove him capable of some 
amiable feeling ; that had his actions been what Mr . Wickham 
represented them , so gross a violation of everything right could 
hardly have been concealed from the world ; and that friendship 
between a person capable of it , and such an amiable man as 
Bingley , was incomprehensible . 
 
She grew absolutely ashamed of herself . Of neither Darcy nor 
Wickham could she think without feeling she had been blind ,  
partial , prejudiced , absurd . 
 
`` How despicably I have acted ! '' she cried ; `` I , who have prided 
myself on my discernment ! I , who have valued myself on my 
abilities ! who have often disdained the generous candour of my 
sister , and gratified my vanity in useless or blameable mistrust !  
How humiliating is this discovery ! yet , how just a humiliation !  
Had I been in love , I could not have been more wretchedly blind !  
But vanity , not love , has been my folly . Pleased with the 
preference of one , and offended by the neglect of the other , on 
the very beginning of our acquaintance , I have courted 
prepossession and ignorance , and driven reason away , where 
either were concerned . Till this moment I never knew myself . ''  
 
> From herself to Jane -- from Jane to Bingley , her thoughts were 
in a line which soon brought to her recollection that Mr . Darcy's 
explanation THERE had appeared very insufficient , and she read 
it again . Widely different was the effect of a second perusal . 
How could she deny that credit to his assertions in one instance ,  
 
which she had been obliged to give in the other ? He declared 
himself to be totally unsuspicious of her sister 's attachment ; and 
she could not help remembering what Charlotte 's opinion had 
always been . Neither could she deny the justice of his 
description of Jane . She felt that Jane 's feelings , though fervent ,  
were little displayed , and that there was a constant complacency 
in her air and manner not often united with great sensibility . 
 
When she came to that part of the letter in which her family were 
mentioned in terms of such mortifying , yet merited reproach , her 
sense of shame was severe . The justice of the charge struck her 
too forcibly for denial , and the circumstances to which he 
particularly alluded as having passed at the Netherfield ball , and 
as confirming all his first disapprobation , could not have made a 
stronger impression on his mind than on hers . 
 
The compliment to herself and her sister was not unfelt . It 
soothed , but it could not console her for the contempt which had 
thus been self-attracted by the rest of her family ; and as she 
considered that Jane 's disappointment had in fact been the work 
of her nearest relations , and reflected how materially the credit 
of both must be hurt by such impropriety of conduct , she felt 
depressed beyond anything she had ever known before . 
 
After wandering along the lane for two hours , giving way to 
every variety of thought -- re-considering events , determining 
probabilities , and reconciling herself , as well as she could , to a 
change so sudden and so important , fatigue , and a recollection 
of her long absence , made her at length return home ; and she 
entered the house with the wish of appearing cheerful as usual ,  
and the resolution of repressing such reflections as must make 
her unfit for conversation . 
 
She was immediately told that the two gentlemen from Rosings 
had each called during her absence ; Mr . Darcy , only for a few 
minutes , to take leave -- but that Colonel Fitzwilliam had been 
sitting with them at least an hour , hoping for her return , and 
almost resolving to walk after her till she could be found . 
Elizabeth could but just AFFECT concern in missing him ; she 
really rejoiced at it . Colonel Fitzwilliam was no longer an 
object ; she could think only of her letter . 
 
 
 
Chapter 37 
 
The two gentlemen left Rosings the next morning , and Mr . 
Collins having been in waiting near the lodges , to make them his 
parting obeisance , was able to bring home the pleasing 
intelligence , of their appearing in very good health , and in as 
tolerable spirits as could be expected , after the melancholy scene 
so lately gone through at Rosings . To Rosings he then hastened ,  
to console Lady Catherine and her daughter ; and on his return 
brought back , with great satisfaction , a message from her 
ladyship , importing that she felt herself so dull as to make her 
very desirous of having them all to dine with her . 
 
Elizabeth could not see Lady Catherine without recollecting that ,  
had she chosen it , she might by this time have been presented to 
her as her future niece ; nor could she think , without a smile , of 
what her ladyship 's indignation would have been . `` What would 
she have said ? how would she have behaved ? '' were questions 
with which she amused herself . 
 
Their first subject was the diminution of the Rosings party . `` I 
assure you , I feel it exceedingly , '' said Lady Catherine ; `` I believe 
no one feels the loss of friends so much as I do . But I am 
particularly attached to these young men , and know them to be 
so much attached to me ! They were excessively sorry to go !  
But so they always are . The dear Colonel rallied his spirits 
tolerably till just at last ; but Darcy seemed to feel it most acutely ,  
more , I think , than last year . His attachment to Rosings 
certainly increases . ''  
 
Mr . Collins had a compliment , and an allusion to throw in here ,  
which were kindly smiled on by the mother and daughter . 
 
Lady Catherine observed , after dinner , that Miss Bennet seemed 
out of spirits . And immediately accounting for it by herself , by 
supposing that she did not like to go home again so soon , she 
added :  
 
`` But if that is the case , you must write to your mother and beg 
that you may stay a little longer . Mrs . Collins will be very glad 
of your company , I am sure . ''  
 
`` I am much obliged to your ladyship for your kind invitation , ''  
replied Elizabeth , `` but it is not in my power to accept it . I must 
be in town next Saturday . ''  
 
 
 
`` Why , at that rate , you will have been here only six weeks . I 
expected you to stay two months . I told Mrs . Collins so before 
you came . There can be no occasion for your going so soon . 
Mrs . Bennet could certainly spare you for another fortnight . ''  
 
`` But my father cannot . He wrote last week to hurry my return . ''  
 
`` Oh ! your father of course may spare you , if your mother can . 
Daughters are never of so much consequence to a father . And if 
you will stay another MONTH complete , it will be in my power 
to take one of you as far as London , for I am going there early in 
June , for a week ; and as Dawson does not object to the 
barouche-box , there will be very good room for one of you --  
and indeed , if the weather should happen to be cool , I should not 
object to taking you both , as you are neither of you large . ''  
 
`` You are all kindness , madam ; but I believe we must abide by 
our original plan . ''  
 
Lady Catherine seemed resigned . `` Mrs . Collins , you must send 
a servant with them . You know I always speak my mind , and I 
can not bear the idea of two young women travelling post by 
themselves . It is highly improper . You must contrive to send 
somebody . I have the greatest dislike in the world to that sort of 
thing . Young women should always be properly guarded and 
attended , according to their situation in life . When my niece 
Georgiana went to Ramsgate last summer , I made a point of her 
having two men-servants go with her . Miss Darcy , the daughter 
of Mr . Darcy , of Pemberley , and Lady Anne , could not have 
appeared with propriety in a different manner . I am excessively 
attentive to all those things . You must send John with the young 
ladies , Mrs . Collins . I am glad it occurred to me to mention it ;  
for it would really be discreditable to YOU to let them go 
alone . ''  
 
`` My uncle is to send a servant for us . ''  
 
`` Oh ! Your uncle ! He keeps a man-servant , does he ? I am very 
glad you have somebody who thinks of these things . Where 
shall you change horses ? Oh ! Bromley , of course . If you 
mention my name at the Bell , you will be attended to . ''  
 
Lady Catherine had many other questions to ask respecting their 
journey , and as she did not answer them all herself , attention was 
necessary , which Elizabeth believed to be lucky for her ; or , with 
 
a mind so occupied , she might have forgotten where she was . 
 
Reflection must be reserved for solitary hours ; whenever she 
was alone , she gave way to it as the greatest relief ; and not a day 
went by without a solitary walk , in which she might indulge in all 
the delight of unpleasant recollections . 
 
Mr . Darcy 's letter she was in a fair way of soon knowing by 
heart . She studied every sentence ; and her feelings towards its 
writer were at times widely different . When she remembered the 
style of his address , she was still full of indignation ; but when she 
considered how unjustly she had condemned and upbraided him ,  
her anger was turned against herself ; and his disappointed 
feelings became the object of compassion . His attachment 
excited gratitude , his general character respect ; but she could 
not approve him ; nor could she for a moment repent her refusal ,  
or feel the slightest inclination ever to see him again . In her 
own past behaviour , there was a constant source of vexation 
and regret ; and in the unhappy defects of her family , a constant 
source of vexation and regret ; and in the unhappy defects of her 
family , a subject of yet heavier chagrin . They were hopeless of 
remedy . Her father , contented with laughing at them , would 
never exert himself to restrain the wild giddiness of his youngest 
daughters ; and her mother , with manners so far from right 
herself , was entirely insensible of the evil . Elizabeth had 
frequently united with Jane in an endeavour to check the 
imprudence of Catherine and Lydia ; but while they were 
supported by their mother 's indulgence , what chance could there 
be of improvement ? Catherine , weak-spirited , irritable , and 
completely under Lydia 's guidance , had been always affronted 
by their advice ; and Lydia , self-willed and careless , would 
scarcely give them a hearing . They were ignorant , idle , and vain . 
While there was an officer in Meryton , they would flirt with him ;  
and while Meryton was within a walk of Longbourn , they would 
be going there forever . 
 
Anxiety on Jane 's behalf was another prevailing concern ; and 
Mr . Darcy 's explanation , by restoring Bingley to all her former 
good opinion , heightened the sense of what Jane had lost . His 
affection was proved to have been sincere , and his conduct 
cleared of all blame , unless any could attach to the implicitness 
of his confidence in his friend . How grievous then was the 
thought that , of a situation so desirable in every respect , so 
replete with advantage , so promising for happiness , Jane had 
been deprived , by the folly and indecorum of her own family !  
 
Their engagements at Rosings were as frequent during the last 
week of her stay as they had been at first . The very last evening 
was spent there ; and her ladyship again inquired minutely into 
the particulars of their journey , gave them directions as to the 
best method of packing , and was so urgent on the necessity of 
placing gowns in the only right way , that Maria thought herself 
obliged , on her return , to undo all the work of the morning , and 
pack her trunk afresh . 
 
When they parted , Lady Catherine , with great condescension ,  
wished them a good journey , and invited them to come to 
Hunsford again next year ; and Miss de Bourgh exerted herself so 
far as to curtsey and hold out her hand to both . 
 
 
 
Chapter 38 
 
On Saturday morning Elizabeth and Mr . Collins met for 
breakfast a few minutes before the others appeared ; and he took 
the opportunity of paying the parting civilities which he deemed 
indispensably necessary . 
 
`` I know not , Miss Elizabeth , '' said he , `` whether Mrs . Collins has 
yet expressed her sense of your kindness in coming to us ; but I 
am very certain you will not leave the house without receiving 
her thanks for it . The favor of your company has been much 
felt , I assure you . We know how little there is to tempt any one 
to our humble abode . Our plain manner of living , our small 
rooms and few domestics , and the little we see of the world ,  
must make Hunsford extremely dull to a young lady like 
yourself ; but I hope you will believe us grateful for the 
condescension , and that we have done everything in our power 
to prevent your spending your time unpleasantly . ''  
 
Elizabeth was eager with her thanks and assurances of 
happiness . She had spent six weeks with great enjoyment ; and 
the pleasure of being with Charlotte , and the kind attentions she 
had received , must make HER feel the obliged . Mr . Collins was 
gratified , and with a more smiling solemnity replied :  
 
`` It gives me great pleasure to hear that you have passed your 
time not disagreeably . We have certainly done our best ; and 
most fortunately having it in our power to introduce you to very 
superior society , and , from our connection with Rosings , the 
 
frequent means of varying the humble home scene , I think we 
may flatter ourselves that your Hunsford visit can not have been 
entirely irksome . Our situation with regard to Lady Catherine's 
family is indeed the sort of extraordinary advantage and blessing 
which few can boast . You see on what a footing we are . You 
see how continually we are engaged there . In truth I must 
acknowledge that , with all the disadvantages of this humble 
parsonage , I should not think anyone abiding in it an object of 
compassion , while they are sharers of our intimacy at Rosings . ''  
 
Words were insufficient for the elevation of his feelings ; and he 
was obliged to walk about the room , while Elizabeth tried to 
unite civility and truth in a few short sentences . 
 
`` You may , in fact , carry a very favourable report of us into 
Hertfordshire , my dear cousin . I flatter myself at least that you 
will be able to do so . Lady Catherine 's great attentions to Mrs . 
Collins you have been a daily witness of ; and altogether I trust it 
does not appear that your friend has drawn an unfortunate -- --  
But on this point it will be as well to be silent . Only let me 
assure you , my dear Miss Elizabeth , that I can from my heart 
most cordially wish you equal felicity in marriage . My dear 
Charlotte and I have but one mind and one way of thinking . 
There is in everything a most remarkable resemblance of 
character and ideas between us . We seem to have been designed 
for each other . ''  
 
Elizabeth could safely say that it was a great happiness where 
that was the case , and with equal sincerity could add , that she 
firmly believed and rejoiced in his domestic comforts . She was 
not sorry , however , to have the recital of them interrupted by the 
lady from whom they sprang . Poor Charlotte ! it was 
melancholy to leave her to such society ! But she had chosen it 
with her eyes open ; and though evidently regretting that her 
visitors were to go , she did not seem to ask for compassion . 
Her home and her housekeeping , her parish and her poultry , and 
all their dependent concerns , had not yet lost their charms . 
 
At length the chaise arrived , the trunks were fastened on , the 
parcels placed within , and it was pronounced to be ready . After 
an affectionate parting between the friends , Elizabeth was 
attended to the carriage by Mr . Collins , and as they walked 
down the garden he was commissioning her with his best 
respects to all her family , not forgetting his thanks for the 
kindness he had received at Longbourn in the winter , and his 
 
compliments to Mr . and Mrs . Gardiner , though unknown . He 
then handed her in , Maria followed , and the door was on the 
point of being closed , when he suddenly reminded them , with 
some consternation , that they had hitherto forgotten to leave any 
message for the ladies at Rosings . 
 
`` But , '' he added , `` you will of course wish to have your humble 
respects delivered to them , with your grateful thanks for their 
kindness to you while you have been here . ''  
 
Elizabeth made no objection ; the door was then allowed to be 
shut , and the carriage drove off . 
 
`` Good gracious ! '' cried Maria , after a few minutes ' silence , `` it 
seems but a day or two since we first came ! and yet how many 
things have happened ! ''  
 
`` A great many indeed , '' said her companion with a sigh . 
 
`` We have dined nine times at Rosings , besides drinking tea there 
twice ! How much I shall have to tell ! ''  
 
Elizabeth added privately , `` And how much I shall have to 
conceal ! ''  
 
Their journey was performed without much conversation , or any 
alarm ; and within four hours of their leaving Hunsford they 
reached Mr . Gardiner 's house , where they were to remain a few 
days . 
 
Jane looked well , and Elizabeth had little opportunity of 
studying her spirits , amidst the various engagements which the 
kindness of her aunt had reserved for them . But Jane was to go 
home with her , and at Longbourn there would be leisure enough 
for observation . 
 
It was not without an effort , meanwhile , that she could wait 
even for Longbourn , before she told her sister of Mr . Darcy's 
proposals . To know that she had the power of revealing what 
would so exceedingly astonish Jane , and must , at the same time ,  
so highly gratify whatever of her own vanity she had not yet 
been able to reason away , was such a temptation to openness as 
nothing could have conquered but the state of indecision in 
which she remained as to the extent of what she should 
communicate ; and her fear , if she once entered on the subject , of 
 
being hurried into repeating something of Bingley which might 
only grieve her sister further . 
 
 
Chapter 30 
 
It was the second week in May , in which the three young ladies 
set out together from Gracechurch Street for the town of -- -- , in 
Hertfordshire ; and , as they drew near the appointed inn where 
Mr . Bennet 's carriage was to meet them , they quickly perceived ,  
in token of the coachman 's punctuality , both Kitty and Lydia 
looking out of a dining-room upstairs . These two girls had been 
above an hour in the place , happily employed in visiting an 
opposite milliner , watching the sentinel on guard , and dressing a 
salad and cucumber . 
 
After welcoming their sisters , they triumphantly displayed a table 
set out with such cold meat as an inn larder usually affords ,  
exclaiming , `` Is not this nice ? Is not this an agreeable surprise ? ''  
 
`` And we mean to treat you all , '' added Lydia , `` but you must 
lend us the money , for we have just spent ours at the shop out 
there . '' Then , showing her purchases -- `` Look here , I have 
bought this bonnet . I do not think it is very pretty ; but I thought 
I might as well buy it as not . I shall pull it to pieces as soon as I 
get home , and see if I can not make it up any better . ''  
 
And when her sisters abused it as ugly , she added , with perfect 
unconcern , `` Oh ! but there were two or three much uglier in the 
shop ; and when I have bought some prettier-coloured satin to 
trim it with fresh , I think it will be very tolerable . Besides , it will 
not much signify what one wears this summer , after the -- -- shire 
have left Meryton , and they are going in a fortnight . ''  
 
`` Are they indeed ! '' cried Elizabeth , with the greatest satisfaction . 
 
`` They are going to be encamped near Brighton ; and I do so 
want papa to take us all there for the summer ! It would be such 
a delicious scheme ; and I dare say would hardly cost anything at 
all . Mamma would like to go too of all things ! Only think what 
a miserable summer else we shall have ! ''  
 
`` Yes , '' thought Elizabeth , `` THAT would be a delightful scheme 
indeed , and completely do for us at once . Good Heaven !  
Brighton , and a whole campful of soldiers , to us , who have been 
 
overset already by one poor regiment of militia , and the monthly 
balls of Meryton ! ''  
 
`` Now I have got some news for you , '' said Lydia , as they sat 
down at table . `` What do you think ? It is excellent news --  
capital news -- and about a certain person we all like ! ''  
 
Jane and Elizabeth looked at each other , and the waiter was told 
he need not stay . Lydia laughed , and said :  
 
`` Aye , that is just like your formality and discretion . You 
thought the waiter must not hear , as if he cared ! I dare say he 
often hears worse things said than I am going to say . But he is 
an ugly fellow ! I am glad he is gone . I never saw such a long 
chin in my life . Well , but now for my news ; it is about dear 
Wickham ; too good for the waiter , is it not ? There is no danger 
of Wickham 's marrying Mary King . There 's for you ! She is 
gone down to her uncle at Liverpool : gone to stay . Wickham is 
safe . ''  
 
`` And Mary King is safe ! '' added Elizabeth ; `` safe from a 
connection imprudent as to fortune . ''  
 
`` She is a great fool for going away , if she liked him . ''  
 
`` But I hope there is no strong attachment on either side , '' said 
Jane . 
 
`` I am sure there is not on HIS . I will answer for it , he never 
cared three straws about her -- who could about such a nasty 
little freckled thing ? ''  
 
Elizabeth was shocked to think that , however incapable of such 
coarseness of EXPRESSION herself , the coarseness of the 
SENTIMENT was little other than her own breast had 
harboured and fancied liberal !  
 
As soon as all had ate , and the elder ones paid , the carriage was 
ordered ; and after some contrivance , the whole party , with all 
their boxes , work-bags , and parcels , and the unwelcome addition 
of Kitty 's and Lydia 's purchases , were seated in it . 
 
`` How nicely we are all crammed in , '' cried Lydia . `` I am glad I 
bought my bonnet , if it is only for the fun of having another 
bandbox ! Well , now let us be quite comfortable and snug , and 
 
talk and laugh all the way home . And in the first place , let us 
hear what has happened to you all since you went away . Have 
you seen any pleasant men ? Have you had any flirting ? I was in 
great hopes that one of you would have got a husband before 
you came back . Jane will be quite an old maid soon , I declare . 
She is almost three-and-twenty ! My aunt Phillips wants you so 
to get husbands , you ca n't think . She says Lizzy had better have 
taken Mr . Collins ; but _I_ do not think there would have been 
any fun in it . Lord ! how I should like to be married before any 
of you ! and then I would chaperon you about to all the balls . 
Dear me ! we had such a good piece of fun the other day at 
Colonel Forster's . Kitty and me were to spend the day there ,  
and Mrs . Forster promised to have a little dance in the evening ;  
( by the bye , Mrs . Forster and me are SUCH friends ! ) and so she 
asked the two Harringtons to come , but Harriet was ill , and so 
Pen was forced to come by herself ; and then , what do you think 
we did ? We dressed up Chamberlayne in woman 's clothes on 
purpose to pass for a lady , only think what fun ! Not a soul 
knew of it , but Colonel and Mrs . Forster , and Kitty and me ,  
except my aunt , for we were forced to borrow one of her 
gowns ; and you can not imagine how well he looked ! When 
Denny , and Wickham , and Pratt , and two or three more of the 
men came in , they did not know him in the least . Lord ! how I 
laughed ! and so did Mrs . Forster . I thought I should have died . 
And THAT made the men suspect something , and then they 
soon found out what was the matter . ''  
 
With such kinds of histories of their parties and good jokes , did 
Lydia , assisted by Kitty 's hints and additions , endeavour to 
amuse her companions all the way to Longbourn . Elizabeth 
listened as little as she could , but there was no escaping the 
frequent mention of Wickham 's name . 
 
Their reception at home was most kind . Mrs . Bennet rejoiced to 
see Jane in undiminished beauty ; and more than once during 
dinner did Mr . Bennet say voluntarily to Elizabeth :  
 
`` I am glad you are come back , Lizzy . ''  
 
Their party in the dining-room was large , for almost all the 
Lucases came to meet Maria and hear the news ; and various 
were the subjects that occupied them : Lady Lucas was inquiring 
of Maria , after the welfare and poultry of her eldest daughter ;  
Mrs . Bennet was doubly engaged , on one hand collecting an 
account of the present fashions from Jane , who sat some way 
 
below her , and , on the other , retailing them all to the younger 
Lucases ; and Lydia , in a voice rather louder than any other 
person 's , was enumerating the various pleasures of the morning 
to anybody who would hear her . 
 
`` Oh ! Mary , '' said she , `` I wish you had gone with us , for we had 
such fun ! As we went along , Kitty and I drew up the blinds , and 
pretended there was nobody in the coach ; and I should have 
gone so all the way , if Kitty had not been sick ; and when we got 
to the George , I do think we behaved very handsomely , for we 
treated the other three with the nicest cold luncheon in the 
world , and if you would have gone , we would have treated you 
too . And then when we came away it was such fun ! I thought 
we never should have got into the coach . I was ready to die of 
laughter . And then we were so merry all the way home ! we 
talked and laughed so loud , that anybody might have heard us 
ten miles off ! ''  
 
To this Mary very gravely replied , `` Far be it from me , my dear 
sister , to depreciate such pleasures ! They would doubtless be 
congenial with the generality of female minds . But I confess 
they would have no charms for ME -- I should infinitely prefer a 
book . ''  
 
But of this answer Lydia heard not a word . She seldom listened 
to anybody for more than half a minute , and never attended to 
Mary at all . 
 
In the afternoon Lydia was urgent with the rest of the girls to 
walk to Meryton , and to see how everybody went on ; but 
Elizabeth steadily opposed the scheme . It should not be said 
that the Miss Bennets could not be at home half a day before 
they were in pursuit of the officers . There was another reason 
too for her opposition . She dreaded seeing Mr . Wickham again ,  
and was resolved to avoid it as long as possible . The comfort to 
HER of the regiment 's approaching removal was indeed beyond 
expression . In a fortnight they were to go -- and once gone , she 
hoped there could be nothing more to plague her on his account . 
 
She had not been many hours at home before she found that the 
Brighton scheme , of which Lydia had given them a hint at the 
inn , was under frequent discussion between her parents . 
Elizabeth saw directly that her father had not the smallest 
intention of yielding ; but his answers were at the same time so 
vague and equivocal , that her mother , though often 
 
disheartened , had never yet despaired of succeeding at last . 
 
 
 
Chapter 40 
 
Elizabeth 's impatience to acquaint Jane with what had happened 
could no longer be overcome ; and at length , resolving to 
suppress every particular in which her sister was concerned , and 
preparing her to be surprised , she related to her the next 
morning the chief of the scene between Mr . Darcy and herself . 
 
Miss Bennet 's astonishment was soon lessened by the strong 
sisterly partiality which made any admiration of Elizabeth appear 
perfectly natural ; and all surprise was shortly lost in other 
feelings . She was sorry that Mr . Darcy should have delivered his 
sentiments in a manner so little suited to recommend them ; but 
still more was she grieved for the unhappiness which her sister's 
refusal must have given him . 
 
`` His being so sure of succeeding was wrong , '' said she , `` and 
certainly ought not to have appeared ; but consider how much it 
must increase his disappointment ! ''  
 
`` Indeed , '' replied Elizabeth , `` I am heartily sorry for him ; but he 
has other feelings , which will probably soon drive away his 
regard for me . You do not blame me , however , for refusing 
him ? ''  
 
`` Blame you ! Oh , no . ''  
 
`` But you blame me for having spoken so warmly of Wickham ? ''  
 
`` No -- I do not know that you were wrong in saying what you 
did . ''  
 
`` But you WILL know it , when I tell you what happened the very 
next day . ''  
 
She then spoke of the letter , repeating the whole of its contents 
as far as they concerned George Wickham . What a stroke was 
this for poor Jane ! who would willingly have gone through the 
world without believing that so much wickedness existed in the 
whole race of mankind , as was here collected in one individual . 
Nor was Darcy 's vindication , though grateful to her feelings ,  
 
capable of consoling her for such discovery . Most earnestly did 
she labour to prove the probability of error , and seek to clear the 
one without involving the other . 
 
`` This will not do , '' said Elizabeth ; `` you never will be able to 
make both of them good for anything . Take your choice , but 
you must be satisfied with only one . There is but such a quantity 
of merit between them ; just enough to make one good sort of 
man ; and of late it has been shifting about pretty much . For my 
part , I am inclined to believe it all Darcy 's ; but you shall do as 
you choose . ''  
 
It was some time , however , before a smile could be extorted 
from Jane . 
 
`` I do not know when I have been more shocked , '' said she . 
`` Wickham so very bad ! It is almost past belief . And poor Mr . 
Darcy ! Dear Lizzy , only consider what he must have suffered . 
Such a disappointment ! and with the knowledge of your ill 
opinion , too ! and having to relate such a thing of his sister ! It is 
really too distressing . I am sure you must feel it so . ''  
 
`` Oh ! no , my regret and compassion are all done away by seeing 
you so full of both . I know you will do him such ample justice ,  
that I am growing every moment more unconcerned and 
indifferent . Your profusion makes me saving ; and if you lament 
over him much longer , my heart will be as light as a feather . ''  
 
`` Poor Wickham ! there is such an expression of goodness in his 
countenance ! such an openness and gentleness in his manner ! ''  
 
`` There certainly was some great mismanagement in the 
education of those two young men . One has got all the 
goodness , and the other all the appearance of it . ''  
 
`` I never thought Mr . Darcy so deficient in the APPEARANCE 
of it as you used to do . ''  
 
`` And yet I meant to be uncommonly clever in taking so decided 
a dislike to him , without any reason . It is such a spur to one's 
genius , such an opening for wit , to have a dislike of that kind . 
One may be continually abusive without saying anything just ; but 
one can not always be laughing at a man without now and then 
stumbling on something witty . ''  
 
`` Lizzy , when you first read that letter , I am sure you could not 
treat the matter as you do now . ''  
 
`` Indeed , I could not . I was uncomfortable enough , I may say 
unhappy . And with no one to speak to about what I felt , no 
Jane to comfort me and say that I had not been so very weak and 
vain and nonsensical as I knew I had ! Oh ! how I wanted you ! ''  
 
`` How unfortunate that you should have used such very strong 
expressions in speaking of Wickham to Mr . Darcy , for now they 
DO appear wholly undeserved . ''  
 
`` Certainly . But the misfortune of speaking with bitterness is a 
most natural consequence of the prejudices I had been 
encouraging . There is one point on which I want your advice . I 
want to be told whether I ought , or ought not , to make our 
acquaintances in general understand Wickham 's character . ''  
 
Miss Bennet paused a little , and then replied , `` Surely there can 
be no occasion for exposing him so dreadfully . What is your 
opinion ? ''  
 
`` That it ought not to be attempted . Mr . Darcy has not 
authorised me to make his communication public . On the 
contrary , every particular relative to his sister was meant to be 
kept as much as possible to myself ; and if I endeavour to 
undeceive people as to the rest of his conduct , who will believe 
me ? The general prejudice against Mr . Darcy is so violent , that 
it would be the death of half the good people in Meryton to 
attempt to place him in an amiable light . I am not equal to it . 
Wickham will soon be gone ; and therefore it will not signify to 
anyone here what he really is . Some time hence it will be all 
found out , and then we may laugh at their stupidity in not 
knowing it before . At present I will say nothing about it . ''  
 
`` You are quite right . To have his errors made public might ruin 
him for ever . He is now , perhaps , sorry for what he has done ,  
and anxious to re-establish a character . We must not make him 
desperate . ''  
 
The tumult of Elizabeth 's mind was allayed by this conversation . 
She had got rid of two of the secrets which had weighed on her 
for a fortnight , and was certain of a willing listener in Jane ,  
whenever she might wish to talk again of either . But there was 
still something lurking behind , of which prudence forbade the 
 
disclosure . She dared not relate the other half of Mr . Darcy's 
letter , nor explain to her sister how sincerely she had been 
valued by her friend . Here was knowledge in which no one 
could partake ; and she was sensible that nothing less than a 
perfect understanding between the parties could justify her in 
throwing off this last encumbrance of mystery . `` And then , '' said 
she , `` if that very improbable event should ever take place , I shall 
merely be able to tell what Bingley may tell in a much more 
agreeable manner himself . The liberty of communication cannot 
be mine till it has lost all its value ! ''  
 
She was now , on being settled at home , at leisure to observe the 
real state of her sister 's spirits . Jane was not happy . She still 
cherished a very tender affection for Bingley . Having never even 
fancied herself in love before , her regard had all the warmth of 
first attachment , and , from her age and disposition , greater 
steadiness than most first attachments often boast ; and so 
fervently did she value his remembrance , and prefer him to every 
other man , that all her good sense , and all her attention to the 
feelings of her friends , were requisite to check the indulgence of 
those regrets which must have been injurious to her own health 
and their tranquillity . 
 
`` Well , Lizzy , '' said Mrs . Bennet one day , `` what is your opinion 
NOW of this sad business of Jane 's ? For my part , I am 
determined never to speak of it again to anybody . I told my 
sister Phillips so the other day . But I can not find out that Jane 
saw anything of him in London . Well , he is a very undeserving 
young man -- and I do not suppose there 's the least chance in the 
world of her ever getting him now . There is no talk of his 
coming to Netherfield again in the summer ; and I have inquired 
of everybody , too , who is likely to know . ''  
 
`` I do not believe he will ever live at Netherfield any more . ''  
 
`` Oh well ! it is just as he chooses . Nobody wants him to come . 
Though I shall always say he used my daughter extremely ill ; and 
if I was her , I would not have put up with it . Well , my comfort 
is , I am sure Jane will die of a broken heart ; and then he will be 
sorry for what he has done . ''  
 
But as Elizabeth could not receive comfort from any such 
expectation , she made no answer . 
 
`` Well , Lizzy , '' continued her mother , soon afterwards , `` and so 
 
the Collinses live very comfortable , do they ? Well , well , I only 
hope it will last . And what sort of table do they keep ? Charlotte 
is an excellent manager , I dare say . If she is half as sharp as her 
mother , she is saving enough . There is nothing extravagant in 
THEIR housekeeping , I dare say . ''  
 
`` No , nothing at all . ''  
 
`` A great deal of good management , depend upon it . Yes , yes . 
THEY will take care not to outrun their income . THEY will 
never be distressed for money . Well , much good may it do 
them ! And so , I suppose , they often talk of having Longbourn 
when your father is dead . They look upon it as quite their own ,  
I dare say , whenever that happens . ''  
 
`` It was a subject which they could not mention before me . ''  
 
`` No ; it would have been strange if they had ; but I make no 
doubt they often talk of it between themselves . Well , if they can 
be easy with an estate that is not lawfully their own , so much the 
better . _I_ should be ashamed of having one that was only 
entailed on me . ''  
 
 
 
Chapter 41 
 
The first week of their return was soon gone . The second began . 
It was the last of the regiment 's stay in Meryton , and all the 
young ladies in the neighbourhood were drooping apace . The 
dejection was almost universal . The elder Miss Bennets alone 
were still able to eat , drink , and sleep , and pursue the usual 
course of their employments . Very frequently were they 
reproached for this insensibility by Kitty and Lydia , whose own 
misery was extreme , and who could not comprehend such 
hard-heartedness in any of the family . 
 
`` Good Heaven ! what is to become of us ? What are we to do ? ''  
would they often exclaiming the bitterness of woe . `` How can 
you be smiling so , Lizzy ? ''  
 
Their affectionate mother shared all their grief ; she remembered 
what she had herself endured on a similar occasion , five-and 
twenty years ago . 
 
 
`` I am sure , '' said she , `` I cried for two days together when 
Colonel Miller 's regiment went away . I thought I should have 
broken my heart . ''  
 
`` I am sure I shall break MINE , '' said Lydia . 
 
`` If one could but go to Brighton ! '' observed Mrs . Bennet . 
 
`` Oh , yes ! -- if one could but go to Brighton ! But papa is so 
disagreeable . ''  
 
`` A little sea-bathing would set me up forever . ''  
 
`` And my aunt Phillips is sure it would do ME a great deal of 
good , '' added Kitty . 
 
Such were the kind of lamentations resounding perpetually 
through Longbourn House . Elizabeth tried to be diverted by 
them ; but all sense of pleasure was lost in shame . She felt anew 
the justice of Mr . Darcy 's objections ; and never had she been so 
much disposed to pardon his interference in the views of his 
friend . 
 
But the gloom of Lydia 's prospect was shortly cleared away ; for 
she received an invitation from Mrs . Forster , the wife of the 
colonel of the regiment , to accompany her to Brighton . This 
invaluable friend was a very young woman , and very lately 
married . A resemblance in good humour and good spirits had 
recommended her and Lydia to each other , and out of their 
THREE months ' acquaintance they had been intimate TWO . 
 
The rapture of Lydia on this occasion , her adoration of Mrs . 
Forster , the delight of Mrs . Bennet , and the mortification of 
Kitty , are scarcely to be described . Wholly inattentive to her 
sister 's feelings , Lydia flew about the house in restless ecstasy ,  
calling for every one 's congratulations , and laughing and talking 
with more violence than ever ; whilst the luckless Kitty continued 
in the parlour repined at her fate in terms as unreasonable as her 
accent was peevish . 
 
`` I can not see why Mrs . Forster should not ask ME as well as 
Lydia , '' said she , `` Though I am NOT her particular friend . I 
have just as much right to be asked as she has , and more too , for 
I am two years older . ''  
 
 
In vain did Elizabeth attempt to make her reasonable , and Jane 
to make her resigned . As for Elizabeth herself , this invitation 
was so far from exciting in her the same feelings as in her mother 
and Lydia , that she considered it as the death warrant of all 
possibility of common sense for the latter ; and detestable as such 
a step must make her were it known , she could not help secretly 
advising her father not to let her go . She represented to him all 
the improprieties of Lydia 's general behaviour , the little 
advantage she could derive from the friendship of such a woman 
as Mrs . Forster , and the probability of her being yet more 
imprudent with such a companion at Brighton , where the 
temptations must be greater than at home . He heard her 
attentively , and then said :  
 
`` Lydia will never be easy until she has exposed herself in some 
public place or other , and we can never expect her to do it with 
so little expense or inconvenience to her family as under the 
present circumstances . ''  
 
`` If you were aware , '' said Elizabeth , `` of the very great 
disadvantage to us all which must arise from the public notice of 
Lydia 's unguarded and imprudent manner -- nay , which has 
already arisen from it , I am sure you would judge differently in 
the affair . ''  
 
`` Already arisen ? '' repeated Mr . Bennet . `` What , has she 
frightened away some of your lovers ? Poor little Lizzy ! But do 
not be cast down . Such squeamish youths as can not bear to be 
connected with a little absurdity are not worth a regret . Come ,  
let me see the list of pitiful fellows who have been kept aloof by 
Lydia 's folly . ''  
 
`` Indeed you are mistaken . I have no such injuries to resent . It is 
not of particular , but of general evils , which I am now 
complaining . Our importance , our respectability in the world 
must be affected by the wild volatility , the assurance and disdain 
of all restraint which mark Lydia 's character . Excuse me , for I 
must speak plainly . If you , my dear father , will not take the 
trouble of checking her exuberant spirits , and of teaching her 
that her present pursuits are not to be the business of her life , she 
will soon be beyond the reach of amendment . Her character will 
be fixed , and she will , at sixteen , be the most determined flirt 
that ever made herself or her family ridiculous ; a flirt , too , in the 
worst and meanest degree of flirtation ; without any attraction 
beyond youth and a tolerable person ; and , from the ignorance 
 
and emptiness of her mind , wholly unable to ward off any 
portion of that universal contempt which her rage for admiration 
will excite . In this danger Kitty also is comprehended . She will 
follow wherever Lydia leads . Vain , ignorant , idle , and 
absolutely uncontrolled ! Oh ! my dear father , can you suppose it 
possible that they will not be censured and despised wherever 
they are known , and that their sisters will not be often involved 
in the disgrace ? ''  
 
Mr . Bennet saw that her whole heart was in the subject , and 
affectionately taking her hand said in reply :  
 
`` Do not make yourself uneasy , my love . Wherever you and Jane 
are known you must be respected and valued ; and you will not 
appear to less advantage for having a couple of -- or I may say ,  
three -- very silly sisters . We shall have no peace at Longbourn if 
Lydia does not go to Brighton . Let her go , then . Colonel 
Forster is a sensible man , and will keep her out of any real 
mischief ; and she is luckily too poor to be an object of prey to 
anybody . At Brighton she will be of less importance even as a 
common flirt than she has been here . The officers will find 
women better worth their notice . Let us hope , therefore , that 
her being there may teach her her own insignificance . At any 
rate , she can not grow many degrees worse , without authorising 
us to lock her up for the rest of her life . ''  
 
With this answer Elizabeth was forced to be content ; but her 
own opinion continued the same , and she left him disappointed 
and sorry . It was not in her nature , however , to increase her 
vexations by dwelling on them . She was confident of having 
performed her duty , and to fret over unavoidable evils , or 
augment them by anxiety , was no part of her disposition . 
 
Had Lydia and her mother known the substance of her 
conference with her father , their indignation would hardly have 
found expression in their united volubility . In Lydia's 
imagination , a visit to Brighton comprised ever possibility of 
earthly happiness . She saw , with the creative eye of fancy , the 
streets of that gay bathing-place covered with officers . She saw 
herself the object to tens and to scores of them at present 
unknown . She saw all the glories of the camp -- its tents 
stretched forth in beauteous uniformity of lines , crowded with 
the young and the gay , and dazzling with scarlet ; and , to 
complete the view , she saw herself seated beneath a tent ,  
tenderly flirting with at least six officers at once . 
 
Had she known her sister sought to tear her from such prospects 
and such realities as these , what would have been her 
sensations ? They could have been understood only by her 
mother , who might have felt nearly the same . Lydia 's going to 
Brighton was all that consoled her for her melancholy conviction 
of her husband 's never intending to go there himself . 
 
But they were entirely ignorant of what had passed ; and their 
raptures continued , with little intermission , to the very day of 
Lydia 's leaving home . 
 
Elizabeth was now to see Mr . Wickham for the last time . 
Having been frequently in company with him since her return ,  
agitation was pretty well over ; the agitations of formal partiality 
entirely so . She had even learnt to detect , in the very gentleness 
which had first delighted her , an affectation and a sameness to 
disgust and weary . In his present behaviour to herself ,  
moreover , she had a fresh source of displeasure , for the 
inclination he soon testified of renewing those intentions which 
had marked the early part of their acquaintance could only serve ,  
after what had since passed , to provoke her . She lost all concern 
for him in finding herself thus selected as the object of such idle 
and frivolous gallantry ; and while she steadily repressed it , could 
not but feel the reproof contained in his believing , that however 
long , and for whatever cause , his attentions had been withdrawn ,  
her vanity would be gratified , and her preference secured at any 
time by their renewal . 
 
On the very last day of the regiment 's remaining at Meryton , he 
dined , with other of the officers , at Longbourn ; and so little was 
Elizabeth disposed to part from him in good humour , that on his 
making some inquiry as to the manner in which her time had 
passed at Hunsford , she mentioned Colonel Fitzwilliam 's and 
Mr . Darcy 's having both spent three weeks at Rosings , and 
asked him , if he was acquainted with the former . 
 
He looked surprised displeased , alarmed ; but with a moment's 
recollection and a returning smile , replied , that he had formerly 
seen him often ; and , after observing that he was a very 
gentlemanlike man , asked her how she had liked him . Her 
answer was warmly in his favour . With an air of indifference he 
soon afterwards added :  
 
`` How long did you say he was at Rosings ? ''  
 
 
`` Nearly three weeks . ''  
 
`` And you saw him frequently ? ''  
 
`` Yes , almost every day . ''  
 
`` His manners are very different from his cousin's . ''  
 
`` Yes , very different . But I think Mr . Darcy improves upon 
acquaintance . ''  
 
`` Indeed ! '' cried Mr . Wickham with a look which did not escape 
her . `` And pray , may I ask ? -- `` But checking himself , he added ,  
in a gayer tone , `` Is it in address that he improves ? Has he 
deigned to add aught of civility to his ordinary style ? -- for I dare 
not hope , '' he continued in a lower and more serious tone , `` that 
he is improved in essentials . ''  
 
`` Oh , no ! '' said Elizabeth . `` In essentials , I believe , he is very 
much what he ever was . ''  
 
While she spoke , Wickham looked as if scarcely knowing 
whether to rejoice over her words , or to distrust their meaning . 
There was a something in her countenance which made him 
listen with an apprehensive and anxious attention , while she 
added :  
 
`` When I said that he improved on acquaintance , I did not mean 
that his mind or his manners were in a state of improvement , but 
that , from knowing him better , his disposition was better 
understood . ''  
 
Wickham 's alarm now appeared in a heightened complexion and 
agitated look ; for a few minuted he was silent , till , shaking off 
his embarrassment , he turned to her again , and said in the 
gentlest of accents :  
 
`` You , who so well know my feeling towards Mr . Darcy , will 
readily comprehend how sincerely I must rejoice that he is wise 
enough to assume even the APPEARANCE of what is right . 
His pride , in that direction , may be of service , if not to himself ,  
to many others , for it must only deter him from such foul 
misconduct as I have suffered by . I only fear that the sort of 
cautiousness to which you , I imagine , have been alluding , is 
merely adopted on his visits to his aunt , of whose good opinion 
 
and judgement he stands much in awe . His fear of her has 
always operated , I know , when they were together ; and a good 
deal is to be imputed to his wish of forwarding the match with 
Miss de Bourgh , which I am certain he has very much at heart . ''  
 
Elizabeth could not repress a smile at this , but she answered only 
by a slight inclination of the head . She saw that he wanted to 
engage her on the old subject of his grievances , and she was in 
no humour to indulge him . The rest of the evening passed with 
the APPEARANCE , on his side , of usual cheerfulness , but with 
no further attempt to distinguish Elizabeth ; and they parted at 
last with mutual civility , and possibly a mutual desire of never 
meeting again . 
 
When the party broke up , Lydia returned with Mrs . Forster to 
Meryton , from whence they were to set out early the next 
morning . The separation between her and her family was rather 
noisy than pathetic . Kitty was the only one who shed tears ; but 
she did weep from vexation and envy . Mrs . Bennet was diffuse 
in her good wishes for the felicity of her daughter , and 
impressive in her injunctions that she should not miss the 
opportunity of enjoying herself as much as possible -- advice 
which there was every reason to believe would be well attended 
to ; and in the clamorous happiness of Lydia herself in bidding 
farewell , the more gentle adieux of her sisters were uttered 
without being heard . 
 
 
 
Chapter 42 
 
Had Elizabeth 's opinion been all drawn from her own family , she 
could not have formed a very pleasing opinion of conjugal 
felicity or domestic comfort . Her father , captivated by youth 
and beauty , and that appearance of good humour which youth 
and beauty generally give , had married a woman whose weak 
understanding and illiberal mind had very early in their marriage 
put and end to all real affection for her . Respect , esteem , and 
confidence had vanished for ever ; and all his views of domestic 
happiness were overthrown . But Mr . Bennet was not of a 
disposition to seek comfort for the disappointment which his 
own imprudence had brought on , in any of those pleasures which 
too often console the unfortunate for their folly of their vice . He 
was fond of the country and of books ; and from these tastes had 
arisen his principal enjoyments . To his wife he was very little 
 
otherwise indebted , than as her ignorance and folly had 
contributed to his amusement . This is not the sort of happiness 
which a man would in general wish to owe to his wife ; but 
where other powers of entertainment are wanting , the true 
philosopher will derive benefit from such as are given . 
 
Elizabeth , however , had never been blind to the impropriety of 
her father 's behaviour as a husband . She had always seen it with 
pain ; but respecting his abilities , and grateful for his affectionate 
treatment of herself , she endeavoured to forget what she could 
not overlook , and to banish from her thoughts that continual 
breach of conjugal obligation and decorum which , in exposing 
his wife to the contempt of her own children , was so highly 
reprehensible . But she had never felt so strongly as now the 
disadvantages which must attend the children of so unsuitable a 
marriage , nor ever been so fully aware of the evils arising from 
so ill-judged a direction of talents ; talents , which , rightly used ,  
might at least have preserved the respectability of his daughters ,  
even if incapable of enlarging the mind of his wife . 
 
When Elizabeth had rejoiced over Wickham 's departure she 
found little other cause for satisfaction in the loss of the 
regiment . Their parties abroad were less varied than before , and 
at home she had a mother and sister whose constant repinings at 
the dullness of everything around them threw a real gloom over 
their domestic circle ; and , though Kitty might in time regain her 
natural degree of sense , since the disturbers of her brain were 
removed , her other sister , from whose disposition greater evil 
might be apprehended , was likely to be hardened in all her folly 
and assurance by a situation of such double danger as a 
watering-place and a camp . Upon the whole , therefore , she 
found , what has been sometimes been found before , that an 
event to which she had been looking with impatient desire did 
not , in taking place , bring all the satisfaction she had promised 
herself . It was consequently necessary to name some other 
period for the commencement of actual felicity -- to have some 
other point on which her wishes and hopes might be fixed , and 
by again enjoying the pleasure of anticipation , console herself for 
the present , and prepare for another disappointment . Her tour 
to the Lakes was now the object of her happiest thoughts ; it was 
her best consolation for all the uncomfortable hours which the 
discontentedness of her mother and Kitty made inevitable ; and 
could she have included Jane in the scheme , every part of it 
would have been perfect . 
 
 
`` But it is fortunate , '' thought she , `` that I have something to wish 
for . Were the whole arrangement complete , my disappointment 
would be certain . But here , by carrying with me one ceaseless 
source of regret in my sister 's absence , I may reasonably hope to 
have all my expectations of pleasure realised . A scheme of 
which every part promises delight can never be successful ; and 
general disappointment is only warded off by the defence of 
some little peculiar vexation . ''  
 
When Lydia went away she promised to write very often and 
very minutely to her mother and Kitty ; but her letters were 
always long expected , and always very short . Those to her 
mother contained little else than that they were just returned 
from the library , where such and such officers had attended 
them , and where she had seen such beautiful ornaments as made 
her quite wild ; that she had a new gown , or a new parasol , which 
she would have described more fully , but was obliged to leave 
off in a violent hurry , as Mrs . Forster called her , and they were 
going off to the camp ; and from her correspondence with her 
sister , there was still less to be learnt -- for her letters to Kitty ,  
though rather longer , were much too full of lines under the 
words to be made public . 
 
After the first fortnight or three weeks of her absence , health ,  
good humour , and cheerfulness began to reappear at Longbourn . 
Everything wore a happier aspect . The families who had been in 
town for the winter came back again , and summer finery and 
summer engagements arose . Mrs . Bennet was restored to her 
usual querulous serenity ; and , by the middle of June , Kitty was 
so much recovered as to be able to enter Meryton without tears ;  
an event of such happy promise as to make Elizabeth hope that 
by the following Christmas she might be so tolerably reasonable 
as not to mention an officer above once a day , unless , by some 
cruel and malicious arrangement at the War Office , another 
regiment should be quartered in Meryton . 
 
The time fixed for the beginning of their northern tour was now 
fast approaching , and a fortnight only was wanting of it , when a 
letter arrived from Mrs . Gardiner , which at once delayed its 
commencement and curtailed its extent . Mr . Gardiner would be 
prevented by business from setting out till a fortnight later in 
July , and must be in London again within a month , and as that 
left too short a period for them to go so far , and see so much 
as they had proposed , or at least to see it with the leisure and 
comfort they had built on , they were obliged to give up the 
 
Lakes , and substitute a more contracted tour , and , according to 
the present plan , were to go no farther northwards than 
Derbyshire . In that county there was enough to be seen to 
occupy the chief of their three weeks ; and to Mrs . Gardiner it 
had a peculiarly strong attraction . The town where she had 
formerly passed some years of her life , and where they were now 
to spend a few days , was probably as great an object of her 
curiosity as all the celebrated beauties of Matlock , Chatsworth ,  
Dovedale , or the Peak . 
 
Elizabeth was excessively disappointed ; she had set her heart on 
seeing the Lakes , and still thought there might have been time 
enough . But it was her business to be satisfied -- and certainly 
her temper to be happy ; and all was soon right again . 
 
With the mention of Derbyshire there were many ideas 
connected . It was impossible for her to see the word without 
thinking of Pemberley and its owner . `` But surely , '' said she , `` I 
may enter his county without impunity , and rob it of a few 
petrified spars without his perceiving me . ''  
 
The period of expectation was now doubled . Four weeks were 
to pass away before her uncle and aunt 's arrival . But they did 
pass away , and Mr . and Mrs . Gardiner , with their four children ,  
did at length appear at Longbourn . The children , two girls of six 
and eight years old , and two younger boys , were to be left under 
the particular care of their cousin Jane , who was the general 
favourite , and whose steady sense and sweetness of temper 
exactly adapted her for attending to them in every way --  
teaching them , playing with them , and loving them . 
 
The Gardiners stayed only one night at Longbourn , and set off 
the next morning with Elizabeth in pursuit of novelty and 
amusement . One enjoyment was certain -- that of suitableness of 
companions ; a suitableness which comprehended health and 
temper to bear inconveniences -- cheerfulness to enhance every 
pleasure -- and affection and intelligence , which might supply it 
among themselves if there were disappointments abroad . 
 
It is not the object of this work to give a description of 
Derbyshire , nor of any of the remarkable places through which 
their route thither lay ; Oxford , Blenheim , Warwick , Kenilworth ,  
Birmingham , & c . , are sufficiently known . A small part of 
Derbyshire is all the present concern . To the little town of 
Lambton , the scene of Mrs . Gardiner 's former residence , and 
 
where she had lately learned some acquaintance still remained ,  
they bent their steps , after having seen all the principal wonders 
of the country ; and within five miles of Lambton , Elizabeth 
found from her aunt that Pemberley was situated . It was not in 
their direct road , nor more than a mile or two out of it . In 
talking over their route the evening before , Mrs . Gardiner 
expressed an inclination to see the place again . Mr . Gardiner 
declared his willingness , and Elizabeth was applied to for her 
approbation . 
 
`` My love , should not you like to see a place of which you have 
heard so much ? '' said her aunt ; `` a place , too , with which so 
many of your acquaintances are connected . Wickham passed all 
his youth there , you know . ''  
 
Elizabeth was distressed . She felt that she had no business at 
Pemberley , and was obliged to assume a disinclination for seeing 
it . She must own that she was tired of seeing great houses ; after 
going over so many , she really had no pleasure in fine carpets or 
satin curtains . 
 
Mrs . Gardiner abused her stupidity . If it were merely a fine 
house richly furnished , '' said she , `` I should not care about it 
myself ; but the grounds are delightful . They have some of the 
finest woods in the country . ''  
 
Elizabeth said no more -- but her mind could not acquiesce . The 
possibility of meeting Mr . Darcy , while viewing the place ,  
instantly occurred . It would be dreadful ! She blushed at the 
very idea , and thought it would be better to speak openly to her 
aunt than to run such a risk . But against this there were 
objections ; and she finally resolved that it could be the last 
resource , if her private inquiries to the absence of the family 
were unfavourably answered . 
 
Accordingly , when she retired at night , she asked the 
chambermaid whether Pemberley were not a very fine place ?  
what was the name of its proprietor ? and , with no little alarm ,  
whether the family were down for the summer ? A most 
welcome negative followed the last question -- and her alarms 
now being removed , she was at leisure to feel a great deal of 
curiosity to see the house herself ; and when the subject was 
revived the next morning , and she was again applied to , could 
readily answer , and with a proper air of indifference , that she had 
not really any dislike to the scheme . To Pemberley , therefore ,  
they were to go . 
 
 
 
Chapter 43 
 
Elizabeth , as they drove along , watched for the first appearance 
of Pemberley Woods with some perturbation ; and when at 
length they turned in at the lodge , her spirits were in a high 
flutter . 
 
The park was very large , and contained great variety of ground . 
They entered it in one of its lowest points , and drove for some 
time through a beautiful wood stretching over a wide extent . 
 
Elizabeth 's mind was too full for conversation , but she saw and 
admired every remarkable spot and point of view . They 
gradually ascended for half-a-mile , and then found themselves 
at the top of a considerable eminence , where the wood ceased ,  
and the eye was instantly caught by Pemberley House , situated 
on the opposite side of a valley , into which the road with some 
abruptness wound . It was a large , handsome stone building ,  
standing well on rising ground , and backed by a ridge of high 
woody hills ; and in front , a stream of some natural importance 
was swelled into greater , but without any artificial appearance . 
Its banks were neither formal nor falsely adorned . Elizabeth 
was delighted . She had never seen a place for which nature had 
done more , or where natural beauty had been so little 
counteracted by an awkward taste . They were all of them warm 
in their admiration ; and at that moment she felt that to be 
mistress of Pemberley might be something !  
 
They descended the hill , crossed the bridge , and drove to the 
door ; and , while examining the nearer aspect of the house , all 
her apprehension of meeting its owner returned . She dreaded 
lest the chambermaid had been mistaken . On applying to see 
the place , they were admitted into the hall ; and Elizabeth , as 
they waited for the housekeeper , had leisure to wonder at her 
being where she was . 
 
The housekeeper came ; a respectable-looking elderly woman ,  
much less fine , and more civil , than she had any notion of 
finding her . They followed her into the dining-parlour . It was 
a large , well proportioned room , handsomely fitted up . 
Elizabeth , after slightly surveying it , went to a window to enjoy 
its prospect . The hill , crowned with wood , which they had 
descended , receiving increased abruptness from the distance ,  
was a beautiful object . Every disposition of the ground was 
good ; and she looked on the whole scene , the river , the trees 
scattered on its banks and the winding of the valley , as far as 
she could trace it , with delight . As they passed into other 
rooms these objects were taking different positions ; but from 
every window there were beauties to be seen . The rooms were 
lofty and handsome , and their furniture suitable to the fortune 
of its proprietor ; but Elizabeth saw , with admiration of his taste ,  
that it was neither gaudy nor uselessly fine ; with less of 
splendour , and more real elegance , than the furniture of Rosings . 
 
`` And of this place , '' thought she , `` I might have been mistress !  
With these rooms I might now have been familiarly acquainted !  
Instead of viewing them as a stranger , I might have rejoiced in 
them as my own , and welcomed to them as visitors my uncle 
and aunt . But no , '' recollecting herself -- `` that could never be ;  
my uncle and aunt would have been lost to me ; I should not 
have been allowed to invite them . ''  
 
This was a lucky recollection -- it saved her from something 
very like regret . 
 
She longed to inquire of the housekeeper whether her master 
was really absent , but had not the courage for it . At length 
however , the question was asked by her uncle ; and she turned 
away with alarm , while Mrs . Reynolds replied that he was ,  
adding , `` But we expect him to-morrow , with a large party of 
friends . '' How rejoiced was Elizabeth that their own journey 
had not by any circumstance been delayed a day !  
 
Her aunt now called her to look at a picture . She approached 
and saw the likeness of Mr . Wickham , suspended , amongst 
several other miniatures , over the mantelpiece . Her aunt asked 
her , smilingly , how she liked it . The housekeeper came forward ,  
and told them it was a picture of a young gentleman , the son of 
her late master 's steward , who had been brought up by him at 
his own expense . `` He is now gone into the army , '' she added ;  
`` but I am afraid he has turned out very wild . ''  
 
Mrs . Gardiner looked at her niece with a smile , but Elizabeth 
could not return it . 
 
`` And that , '' said Mrs Reynolds , pointing to another of the 
miniatures , `` is my master -- and very like him . It was drawn at 
the same time as the other -- about eight years ago . ''  
 
`` I have heard much of your master 's fine person , '' said Mrs . 
Gardiner , looking at the picture ; `` it is a handsome face . But ,  
Lizzy , you can tell us whether it is like or not . ''  
 
Mrs . Reynolds respect for Elizabeth seemed to increase on this 
intimation of her knowing her master . 
 
`` Does that young lady know Mr . Darcy ? ''  
 
Elizabeth coloured , and said : `` A little . ''  
 
`` And do not you think him a very handsome gentleman , ma'am ? ''  
 
`` Yes , very handsome . ''  
 
`` I am sure _I_ know none so handsome ; but in the gallery 
upstairs you will see a finer , larger picture of him than this . 
This room was my late master 's favourite room , and these 
miniatures are just as they used to be then . He was very fond 
of them . ''  
 
This accounted to Elizabeth for Mr . Wickham 's being among 
them . 
 
Mrs . Reynolds then directed their attention to one of Miss 
Darcy , drawn when she was only eight 
years old . 
 
`` And is Miss Darcy as handsome as her brother ? '' said Mrs . 
Gardiner . 
 
`` Oh ! yes -- the handsomest young lady that ever was seen ; and 
so accomplished ! -- She plays and sings all day long . In the next 
room is a new instrument just come down for her -- a present 
from my master ; she comes here to-morrow with him . ''  
 
Mr . Gardiner , whose manners were very easy and pleasant ,  
encouraged her communicativeness by his questions and 
remarks : Mrs . Reynolds , either by pride or attachment , had 
evidently great pleasure in talking of her master and his sister . 
 
`` Is your master much at Pemberley in the course of the year ? ''  
 
`` Not so much as I could wish , sir ; but I dare say he may spend 
half his time here ; and Miss Darcy is always down for the 
summer months . ''  
 
`` Except , '' thought Elizabeth , `` when she goes to Ramsgate . ''  
 
`` If your master would marry , you might see more of him . ''  
 
`` Yes , sir ; but I do not know when THAT will be . I do not 
know who is good enough for him . ''  
 
Mr . and Mrs . Gardiner smiled . Elizabeth could not help saying ,  
`` It is very much to his credit , I am sure , that you should think 
so . ''  
 
`` I say no more than the truth , and everybody will say that 
knows him , '' replied the other . Elizabeth thought this was 
going pretty far ; and she listened with increasing astonishment 
as the housekeeper added , `` I have never known a cross word 
from him in my life , and I have known him ever since he was 
four years old . ''  
 
This was praise , of all others most extraordinary , most opposite 
to her ideas . That he was not a good-tempered man had been 
her firmest opinion . Her keenest attention was awakened ; she 
longed to hear more , and was grateful to her uncle for saying :  
 
`` There are very few people of whom so much can be said . You 
are lucky in having such a master . ''  
 
`` Yes , sir , I know I am . If I were to go through the world , I 
could not meet with a better . But I have always observed , that 
they who are good-natured when children , are good-natured 
when they grow up ; and he was always the sweetest-tempered ,  
most generous-hearted boy in the world . ''  
 
Elizabeth almost stared at her . `` Can this be Mr . Darcy ? ''  
thought she . 
 
`` His father was an excellent man , '' said Mrs . Gardiner . 
 
`` Yes , ma'am , that he was indeed ; and his son will be just like 
him -- just as affable to the poor . ''  
 
Elizabeth listened , wondered , doubted , and was impatient for 
more . Mrs . Reynolds could interest her on no other point . She 
related the subjects of the pictures , the dimensions of the rooms ,  
and the price of the furniture , in vain , Mr . Gardiner , highly 
amused by the kind of family prejudice to which he attributed 
her excessive commendation of her master , soon led again to 
the subject ; and she dwelt with energy on his many merits as 
they proceeded together up the great staircase . 
 
`` He is the best landlord , and the best master , '' said she , `` that 
ever lived ; not like the wild young men nowadays , who think of 
nothing but themselves . There is not one of his tenants or 
servants but will give him a good name . Some people call him 
proud ; but I am sure I never saw anything of it . To my fancy , it 
is only because he does not rattle away like other young men . ''  
 
`` In what an amiable light does this place him ! '' thought 
Elizabeth . 
 
`` This fine account of him , '' whispered her aunt as they walked ,  
`` is not quite consistent with his behaviour to our poor friend . ''  
 
`` Perhaps we might be deceived . ''  
 
`` That is not very likely ; our authority was too good . ''  
 
On reaching the spacious lobby above they were shown into a 
very pretty sitting-room , lately fitted up with greater elegance 
and lightness than the apartments below ; and were informed that 
it was but just done to give pleasure to Miss Darcy , who had 
taken a liking to the room when last at Pemberley . 
 
`` He is certainly a good brother , '' said Elizabeth , as she walked 
towards one of the windows . 
 
Mrs . Reynolds anticipated Miss Darcy 's delight , when she 
should enter the room . `` And this is always the way with him , ''  
she added . `` Whatever can give his sister any pleasure is sure to 
be done in a moment . There is nothing he would not do for 
her . ''  
 
The picture-gallery , and two or three of the principal bedrooms ,  
were all that remained to be shown . In the former were many 
good paintings ; but Elizabeth knew nothing of the art ; and from 
such as had been already visible below , she had willingly turned 
to look at some drawings of Miss Darcy 's , in crayons , whose 
subjects were usually more interesting , and also more intelligible . 
 
In the gallery there were many family portraits , but they could 
have little to fix the attention of a stranger . Elizabeth walked in 
quest of the only face whose features would be known to her . 
At last it arrested her -- and she beheld a striking resemblance to 
Mr . Darcy , with such a smile over the face as she remembered 
to have sometimes seen when he looked at her . She stood 
several minutes before the picture , in earnest contemplation ,  
and returned to it again before they quitted the gallery . Mrs . 
Reynolds informed them that it had been taken in his father's 
lifetime . 
 
There was certainly at this moment , in Elizabeth 's mind , a more 
gentle sensation towards the original than she had ever felt at 
the height of their acquaintance . The commendation bestowed 
on him by Mrs . Reynolds was of no trifling nature . What praise 
is more valuable than the praise of an intelligent servant ? As a 
brother , a landlord , a master , she considered how many people's 
happiness were in his guardianship ! -- how much of pleasure or 
pain was it in his power to bestow ! -- how much of good or evil 
must be done by him ! Every idea that had been brought forward 
by the housekeeper was favourable to his character , and as she 
stood before the canvas on which he was represented , and fixed 
his eyes upon herself , she thought of his regard with a deeper 
sentiment of gratitude than it had ever raised before ; she 
remembered its warmth , and softened its impropriety of 
expression . 
 
When all of the house that was open to general inspection had 
been seen , they returned downstairs , and , taking leave of the 
housekeeper , were consigned over to the gardener , who met 
them at the hall-door . 
 
As they walked across the hall towards the river , Elizabeth 
turned back to look again ; her uncle and aunt stopped also , and 
while the former was conjecturing as to the date of the building ,  
the owner of it himself suddenly came forward from the road ,  
which led behind it to the stables . 
 
They were within twenty yards of each other , and so abrupt was 
his appearance , that it was impossible to avoid his sight . Their 
eyes instantly met , and the cheeks of both were overspread with 
the deepest blush . He absolutely started , and for a moment 
seemed immovable from surprise ; but shortly recovering himself ,  
advanced towards the party , and spoke to Elizabeth , if not in 
terms of perfect composure , at least of perfect civility . 
 
She had instinctively turned away ; but stopping on his approach ,  
received his compliments with an embarrassment impossible to 
be overcome . Had his first appearance , or his resemblance to 
the picture they had just been examining , been insufficient to 
assure the other two that they now saw Mr . Darcy , the 
gardener 's expression of surprise , on beholding his master ,  
must immediately have told it . They stood a little aloof while 
he was talking to their niece , who , astonished and confused ,  
scarcely dared lift her eyes to his face , and knew not what 
answer she returned to his civil inquiries after her family . 
Amazed at the alteration of his manner since they last parted ,  
every sentence that he uttered was increasing her 
embarrassment ; and every idea of the impropriety of her 
being found there recurring to her mind , the few minutes in 
which they continued were some of the most uncomfortable in 
her life . Nor did he seem much more at ease ; when he spoke ,  
his accent had none of its usual sedateness ; and he repeated his 
inquiries as to the time of her having left Longbourn , and of her 
having stayed in Derbyshire , so often , and in so hurried a way ,  
as plainly spoke the distraction of his thoughts . 
 
At length every idea seemed to fail him ; and , after standing a 
few moments without saying a word , he suddenly recollected 
himself , and took leave . 
 
The others then joined her , and expressed admiration of his 
figure ; but Elizabeth heard not a word , and wholly engrossed 
by her own feelings , followed them in silence . She was 
overpowered by shame and vexation . Her coming there was 
the most unfortunate , the most ill-judged thing in the world !  
How strange it must appear to him ! In what a disgraceful light 
might it not strike so vain a man ! It might seem as if she had 
purposely thrown herself in his way again ! Oh ! why did she 
come ? Or , why did he thus come a day before he was expected ?  
Had they been only ten minutes sooner , they should have been 
beyond the reach of his discrimination ; for it was plain that he 
was that moment arrived -- that moment alighted from his horse 
or his carriage . She blushed again and again over the 
perverseness of the meeting . And his behaviour , so strikingly 
altered -- what could it mean ? That he should even speak to her 
was amazing ! -- but to speak with such civility , to inquire after 
her family ! Never in her life had she seen his manners so little 
dignified , never had he spoken with such gentleness as on this 
unexpected meeting . What a contrast did it offer to his last 
address in Rosings Park , when he put his letter into her hand !  
She knew not what to think , or how to account for it . 
 
They had now entered a beautiful walk by the side of the water ,  
and every step was bringing forward a nobler fall of ground , or 
a finer reach of the woods to which they were approaching ; but 
it was some time before Elizabeth was sensible of any of it ; and ,  
though she answered mechanically to the repeated appeals of 
her uncle and aunt , and seemed to direct her eyes to such 
objects as they pointed out , she distinguished no part of the 
scene . Her thoughts were all fixed on that one spot of 
Pemberley House , whichever it might be , where Mr . Darcy then 
was . She longed to know what at the moment was passing in 
his mind -- in what manner he thought of her , and whether , in 
defiance of everything , she was still dear to him . Perhaps he 
had been civil only because he felt himself at ease ; yet there had 
been THAT in his voice which was not like ease . Whether he 
had felt more of pain or of pleasure in seeing her she could not 
tell , but he certainly had not seen her with composure . 
 
At length , however , the remarks of her companions on her 
absence of mind aroused her , and she felt the necessity of 
appearing more like herself . 
 
They entered the woods , and bidding adieu to the river for a 
while , ascended some of the higher grounds ; when , in spots 
where the opening of the trees gave the eye power to wander ,  
were many charming views of the valley , the opposite hills ,  
with the long range of woods overspreading many , and 
occasionally part of the stream . Mr . Gardiner expressed a wish 
of going round the whole park , but feared it might be beyond a 
walk . With a triumphant smile they were told that it was ten 
miles round . It settled the matter ; and they pursued the 
accustomed circuit ; which brought them again , after some time ,  
in a descent among hanging woods , to the edge of the water ,  
and one of its narrowest parts . They crossed it by a simple 
bridge , in character with the general air of the scene ; it was a 
spot less adorned than any they had yet visited ; and the valley ,  
here contracted into a glen , allowed room only for the stream ,  
and a narrow walk amidst the rough coppice-wood which 
bordered it . Elizabeth longed to explore its windings ; but when 
they had crossed the bridge , and perceived their distance from 
the house , Mrs . Gardiner , who was not a great walker , could go 
no farther , and thought only of returning to the carriage as 
quickly as possible . Her niece was , therefore , obliged to submit ,  
and they took their way towards the house on the opposite side 
of the river , in the nearest direction ; but their progress was 
slow , for Mr . Gardiner , though seldom able to indulge the taste ,  
was very fond of fishing , and was so much engaged in watching 
the occasional appearance of some trout in the water , and 
talking to the man about them , that he advanced but little . 
Whilst wandering on in this slow manner , they were again 
surprised , and Elizabeth 's astonishment was quite equal to what 
it had been at first , by the sight of Mr . Darcy approaching them ,  
and at no great distance . The walk here being here less 
sheltered than on the other side , allowed them to see him before 
they met . Elizabeth , however astonished , was at least more 
prepared for an interview than before , and resolved to appear 
and to speak with calmness , if we really intended to meet them . 
For a few moments , indeed , she felt that he would probably 
strike into some other path . The idea lasted while a turning in 
the walk concealed him from their view ; the turning past , he 
was immediately before them . With a glance , she saw that he 
had lost none of his recent civility ; and , to imitate his 
politeness , she began as they to admire the beauty of the place ;  
but she had not got beyond the words `` delightful , '' and 
`` charming , '' when some unlucky recollections obtruded , and she 
fancied that praise of Pemberley from her might be 
mischievously construed . Her colour changed , and she said no 
more . 
 
Mrs . Gardiner was standing a little behind ; and on her pausing ,  
he asked her if she would do him the honour of introducing him 
to her friends . This was a stroke of civility for which she was 
quite unprepared ; and she could hardly suppress a smile at his 
being now seeking the acquaintance of some of those very 
people against whom his pride had revolted in his offer to 
herself . `` What will be his surprise , '' thought she , `` when he 
knows who they are ? He takes them now for people of 
fashion . ''  
 
The introduction , however , was immediately made ; and as she 
named their relationship to herself , she stole a sly look at him ,  
to see how he bore it , and was not without the expectation of 
his decamping as fast as he could from such disgraceful 
companions . That he was SURPRISED by the connection was 
evident ; he sustained it , however , with fortitude , and so far from 
going away , turned his back with them , and entered into 
conversation with Mr . Gardiner . Elizabeth could not but be 
pleased , could not but triumph . It was consoling that he should 
know she had some relations for whom there was no need to 
blush . She listened most attentively to all that passed between 
them , and gloried in every expression , every sentence of her 
uncle , which marked his intelligence , his taste , or his good 
manners . 
 
The conversation soon turned upon fishing ; and she heard Mr . 
Darcy invite him , with the greatest civility , to fish there as often 
as he chose while he continued in the neighbourhood , offering 
at the same time to supply him with fishing tackle , and pointing 
out those parts of the stream where there was usually most 
sport . Mrs . Gardiner , who was walking arm-in-arm with 
Elizabeth , gave her a look expressive of wonder . Elizabeth 
said nothing , but it gratified her exceedingly ; the compliment 
must be all for herself . Her astonishment , however , was 
extreme , and continually was she repeating , `` Why is he so 
altered ? From what can it proceed ? It can not be for ME -- it 
can not be for MY sake that his manners are thus softened . My 
reproofs at Hunsford could not work such a change as this . It 
is impossible that he should still love me . ''  
 
After walking some time in this way , the two ladies in front , the 
two gentlemen behind , on resuming their places , after 
descending to the brink of the river for the better inspection of 
some curious water-plant , there chanced to be a little alteration . 
It originated in Mrs . Gardiner , who , fatigued by the exercise of 
the morning , found Elizabeth 's arm inadequate to her support ,  
and consequently preferred her husband's . Mr . Darcy took her 
place by her niece , and they walked on together . After a short 
silence , the lady first spoke . She wished him to know that she 
had been assured of his absence before she came to the place ,  
and accordingly began by observing , that his arrival had been 
very unexpected -- `` for your housekeeper , '' she added ,  
`` informed us that you would certainly not be here till 
to-morrow ; and indeed , before we left Bakewell , we 
understood that you were not immediately expected in the 
country . '' He acknowledged the truth of it all , and said that 
business with his steward had occasioned his coming forward a 
few hours before the rest of the party with whom he had been 
travelling . `` They will join me early to-morrow , '' he continued ,  
`` and among them are some who will claim an acquaintance with 
you -- Mr . Bingley and his sisters . ''  
 
Elizabeth answered only by a slight bow . Her thoughts were 
instantly driven back to the time when Mr . Bingley 's name had 
been the last mentioned between them ; and , if she might judge 
by his complexion , HIS mind was not very differently engaged . 
 
`` There is also one other person in the party , '' he continued after 
a pause , `` who more particularly wishes to be known to you . 
Will you allow me , or do I ask too much , to introduce my sister 
to your acquaintance during your stay at Lambton ? ''  
 
The surprise of such an application was great indeed ; it was too 
great for her to know in what manner she acceded to it . She 
immediately felt that whatever desire Miss Darcy might have of 
being acquainted with her must be the work of her brother , and ,  
without looking farther , it was satisfactory ; it was gratifying to 
know that is resentment had not made him think really ill of her . 
 
They now walked on in silence , each of them deep in thought . 
Elizabeth was not comfortable ; that was impossible ; but she was 
flattered and pleased . His wish of introducing his sister to her 
was a compliment of the highest kind . They soon outstripped the 
others , and when they had reached the carriage , Mr . and Mrs . 
Gardiner were half a quarter of a mile behind . 
 
He then asked her to walk into the house -- but she declared 
herself not tired , and they stood together on the lawn . At such 
a time much might have been said , and silence was very 
awkward . She wanted to talk , but there seemed to be an 
embargo on every subject . At last she recollected that she had 
been travelling , and they talked of Matlock and Dovedale with 
great perseverance . Yet time and her aunt moved slowly -- and 
her patience and her ideas were nearly worn our before the 
tete-a-tete was over . On Mr . and Mrs ' Gardiner 's coming up 
they were all pressed to go into the house and take some 
refreshment ; but this was declined , and they parted on each 
side with utmost politeness . Mr . Darcy handed the ladies into 
the carriage ; and when it drove off , Elizabeth saw him walking 
slowly towards the house . 
 
The observations of her uncle and aunt now began ; and each of 
them pronounced him to be infinitely superior to anything they 
had expected . `` He is perfectly well behaved , polite , and 
unassuming , '' said her uncle . 
 
`` There IS something a little stately in him , to be sure , '' replied her 
aunt , `` but it is confined to his air , and is not unbecoming . I can 
now say with the housekeeper , that though some people may 
call him proud , _I_ have seen nothing of it . ''  
 
`` I was never more surprised than by his behaviour to us . It was 
more than civil ; it was really attentive ; and there was no necessity 
for such attention . His acquaintance with Elizabeth was very 
trifling . ''  
 
`` To be sure , Lizzy , '' said her aunt , `` he is not so handsome as 
Wickham ; or , rather , he has not Wickham 's countenance , for 
his features are perfectly good . But how came you to tell me 
that he was so disagreeable ? ''  
 
Elizabeth excused herself as well as she could ; said that she had 
liked him better when they had met in Kent than before , and that 
she had never seen him so pleasant as this morning . 
 
`` But perhaps he may be a little whimsical in his civilities , ''  
replied her uncle . `` Your great men often are ; and therefore I 
shall not take him at his word , as he might change his mind 
another day , and warn me off his grounds . ''  
 
Elizabeth felt that they had entirely misunderstood his character ,  
but said nothing . 
 
`` From what we have seen of him , '' continued Mrs . Gardiner , `` I 
really should not have thought that he could have behaved in so 
cruel a way by anybody as he has done by poor Wickham . He 
has not an ill-natured look . On the contrary , there is something 
pleasing about his mouth when he speaks . And there is 
something of dignity in his countenance that would not give one 
an unfavourable idea of his heart . But , to be sure , the good lady 
who showed us his house did give him a most flaming character !  
I could hardly help laughing aloud sometimes . But he is a liberal 
master , I suppose , and THAT in the eye of a servant 
comprehends every virtue . ''  
 
Elizabeth here felt herself called on to say something in 
vindication of his behaviour to Wickham ; and therefore gave 
them to understand , in as guarded a manner as she could , that 
by what she had heard from his relations in Kent , his actions 
were capable of a very different construction ; and that his 
character was by no means so faulty , nor Wickham 's so amiable ,  
as they had been considered in Hertfordshire . In confirmation 
of this , she related the particulars of all the pecuniary 
transactions in which they had been connected , without actually 
naming her authority , but stating as such as might be relied on . 
 
Mrs . Gardiner was surprised and concerned ; but as they were 
now approaching the scene of her former pleasures , every idea 
gave way to the charm of recollection ; and she was too much 
engaged in pointing out to her husband all the interesting spots 
in its environs to think of anything else . Fatigued as she had 
been by the morning 's walk they had no sooner dined than she 
set off again in quest of her former acquaintance , and the 
evening was spent in the satisfactions of a intercourse renewed 
after many years ' discontinuance . 
 
The occurrences of the day were too full of interest to leave 
Elizabeth much attention for any of these new friends ; and she 
could do nothing but think , and think with wonder , of Mr . 
Darcy 's civility , and , above all , of his wishing her to be 
acquainted with his sister . 
 
 
 
Chapter 44 
 
Elizabeth had settled it that Mr . Darcy would bring his sister to 
visit her the very day after her reaching Pemberley ; and was 
consequently resolved not to be out of sight of the inn the whole 
of that morning . But her conclusion was false ; for on the very 
morning after their arrival at Lambton , these visitors came . 
They had been walking about the place with some of their new 
friends , and were just returning to the inn to dress themselves 
for dining with the same family , when the sound of a carriage 
drew them to a window , and they saw a gentleman and a lady 
in a curricle driving up the street . Elizabeth immediately 
recognizing the livery , guessed what it meant , and imparted no 
small degree of her surprise to her relations by acquainting them 
with the honour which she expected . Her uncle and aunt were 
all amazement ; and the embarrassment of her manner as she 
spoke , joined to the circumstance itself , and many of the 
circumstances of the preceding day , opened to them a new idea 
on the business . Nothing had ever suggested it before , but they 
felt that there was no other way of accounting for such attentions 
from such a quarter than by supposing a partiality for their niece . 
While these newly-born notions were passing in their heads , the 
perturbation of Elizabeth 's feelings was at every moment 
increasing . She was quite amazed at her own discomposure ; but 
amongst other causes of disquiet , she dreaded lest the partiality 
of the brother should have said too much in her favour ; and , more 
than commonly anxious to please , she naturally suspected that 
every power of pleasing would fail her . 
 
She retreated from the window , fearful of being seen ; and as she 
walked up and down the room , endeavouring to compose 
herself , saw such looks of inquiring surprise in her uncle and 
aunt as made everything worse . 
 
Miss Darcy and her brother appeared , and this formidable 
introduction took place . With astonishment did Elizabeth see 
that her new acquaintance was at least as much embarrassed as 
herself . Since her being at Lambton , she had heard that Miss 
Darcy was exceedingly proud ; but the observation of a very few 
minutes convinced her that she was only exceedingly shy . She 
found it difficult to obtain even a word from her beyond a 
monosyllable . 
 
Miss Darcy was tall , and on a larger scale than Elizabeth ; and ,  
though little more than sixteen , her figure was formed , and her 
appearance womanly and graceful . She was less handsome than 
her brother ; but there was sense and good humour in her face ,  
and her manners were perfectly unassuming and gentle . 
Elizabeth , who had expected to find in her as acute and 
unembarrassed an observer as ever Mr . Darcy had been , was 
much relieved by discerning such different feelings . 
 
They had not long been together before Mr . Darcy told her that 
Bingley was also coming to wait on her ; and she had barely time 
to express her satisfaction , and prepare for such a visitor , when 
Bingley 's quick step was heard on the stairs , and in a moment he 
entered the room . All Elizabeth 's anger against him had been 
long done away ; but had she still felt any , it could hardly have 
stood its ground against the unaffected cordiality with which he 
expressed himself on seeing her again . He inquired in a friendly ,  
though general way , after her family , and looked and spoke with 
the same good-humoured ease that he had ever done . 
 
To Mr . and Mrs . Gardiner he was scarcely a less interesting 
personage than to herself . They had long wished to see him . 
The whole party before them , indeed , excited a lively attention . 
The suspicions which had just arisen of Mr . Darcy and their 
niece directed their observation towards each with an earnest 
though guarded inquiry ; and they soon drew from those 
inquiries the full conviction that one of them at least knew what 
it was to love . Of the lady 's sensations they remained a little in 
doubt ; but that the gentleman was overflowing with admiration 
was evident enough . 
 
Elizabeth , on her side , had much to do . She wanted to 
ascertain the feelings of each of her visitors ; she wanted to 
compose her own , and to make herself agreeable to all ; and in 
the latter object , where she feared most to fail , she was most 
sure of success , for those to whom she endeavoured to give 
pleasure were prepossessed in her favour . Bingley was ready ,  
Georgiana was eager , and Darcy determined , to be pleased . 
 
In seeing Bingley , her thoughts naturally flew to her sister ; and ,  
oh ! how ardently did she long to know whether any of his were 
directed in a like manner . Sometimes she could fancy that he 
talked less than on former occasions , and once or twice pleased 
herself with the notion that , as he looked at her , he was trying to 
trace a resemblance  . But , though this might be imaginary , she 
could not be deceived as to his behaviour to Miss Darcy , who 
had been set up as a rival to Jane . No look appeared on either 
side that spoke particular regard . Nothing occurred between 
them that could justify the hopes of his sister . On this point she 
was soon satisfied ; and two or three little circumstances 
occurred ere they parted , which , in her anxious interpretation ,  
denoted a recollection of Jane not untinctured by tenderness ,  
and a wish of saying more that might lead to the mention of her ,  
had he dared . He observed to her , at a moment when the others 
were talking together , and in a tone which had something of real 
regret , that it `` was a very long time since he had had the 
pleasure of seeing her '' ; and , before she could reply , he added ,  
`` It is above eight months . We have not met since the 26th of 
November , when we were all dancing together at Netherfield . ''  
 
Elizabeth was pleased to find his memory so exact ; and he 
afterwards took occasion to ask her , when unattended to by 
any of the rest , whether ALL her sisters were at Longbourn . 
There was not much in the question , nor in the preceding 
remark ; but there was a look and a manner which gave them 
meaning . 
 
It was not often that she could turn her eyes on Mr . Darcy 
himself ; but , whenever she did catch a glimpse , she saw an 
expression of general complaisance , and in all that he said she 
heard an accent so removed from hauteur or disdain of his 
companions , as convinced her that the improvement of manners 
which she had yesterday witnessed however temporary its 
existence might prove , had at least outlived one day . When she 
saw him thus seeking the acquaintance and courting the good 
opinion of people with whom any intercourse a few months ago 
would have been a disgrace -- when she saw him thus civil , not 
only to herself , but to the very relations whom he had openly 
disdained , and recollected their last lively scene in Hunsford 
Parsonage -- the difference , the change was so great , and struck 
so forcibly on her mind , that she could hardly restrain her 
astonishment from being visible . Never , even in the company of 
his dear friends at Netherfield , or his dignified relations at 
Rosings , had she seen him so desirous to please , so free from 
self-consequence or unbending reserve , as now , when no 
importance could result from the success of his endeavours , and 
when even the acquaintance of those to whom his attentions 
were addressed would draw down the ridicule and censure of 
the ladies both of Netherfield as Rosings . 
 
Their visitors stayed with them above half-an-hour ; and when 
they arose to depart , Mr . Darcy called on his sister to join him 
in expressing their wish of seeing Mr . and Mrs . Gardiner , and 
Miss Bennet , to dinner at Pemberley , before they left the 
country . Miss Darcy , though with a diffidence which marked 
her little in the habit of giving invitations , readily obeyed . Mrs . 
Gardiner looked at her niece , desirous of knowing how SHE ,  
whom the invitation most concerned , felt disposed as to its 
acceptance , but Elizabeth had turned away her head . Presuming 
however , that this studied avoidance spoke rather a momentary 
embarrassment than any dislike of the proposal , and seeing in her 
husband , who was fond or society , a perfect willingness to 
accept it , she ventured to engage for her attendance , and the 
day after the next was fixed on . 
 
Bingley expressed great pleasure in the certainty of seeing 
Elizabeth again , having still a great deal to say to her , and many 
inquiries to make after all their Hertfordshire friends . Elizabeth ,  
construing all this into a wish of hearing her speak of her sister ,  
was pleased , and on this account , as well as some others , found 
herself , when their visitors left them , capable of considering the 
last half-hour with some satisfaction , though while it was 
passing , the enjoyment of it had been little . Eager to be alone ,  
and fearful of inquiries or hints from her uncle and aunt , she 
stayed with them only long enough to hear their favourable 
opinion of Bingley , and then hurried away to dress . 
 
But she had no reason to fear Mr . and Mrs . Gardiner 's curiosity ;  
it was not their wish to force her communication . It was evident 
that she was much better acquainted with Mr . Darcy than they 
had before any idea of ; it was evident that he was very much in 
love with her . They saw much to interest , but nothing to justify 
inquiry . 
 
Of Mr . Darcy it was now a matter of anxiety to think well ; and ,  
as far as their acquaintance reached , there was no fault to find . 
They could not be untouched by his politeness ; and had they 
drawn his character from their own feelings and his servant's 
report , without any reference to any other account , the circle in 
Hertfordshire to which he was known would not have 
recognized it for Mr . Darcy . There was now an interest ,  
however , in believing the housekeeper ; and they soon became 
sensible that the authority of a servant who had known him 
since he was four years old , and whose own manners indicated 
respectability , was not to be hastily rejected . Neither had 
anything occurred in the intelligence of their Lambton friends 
that could materially lessen its weight . They had nothing to 
accuse him of but pride ; pride he probably had , and if not , it 
would certainly be imputed by the inhabitants of a small 
market-town where the family did not visit . It was 
acknowledged , however , that he was a liberal man , and did 
much good among the poor . 
 
With respect to Wickham , the travellers soon found that he was 
not held there in much estimation ; for though the chief of his 
concerns with the son of his patron were imperfectly 
understood , it was yet a well-known fact that , on his quitting 
Derbyshire , he had left many debts behind him , which Mr . 
Darcy afterwards discharged . 
 
As for Elizabeth , her thoughts were at Pemberley this evening 
more than the last ; and the evening , though as it passed it 
seemed long , was not long enough to determine her feelings 
towards ONE in that mansion ; and she lay awake two whole 
hours endeavouring to make them out . She certainly did not 
hate him . No ; hatred had vanished long ago , and she had 
almost as long been ashamed of ever feeling a dislike against 
him , that could be so called . The respect created by the 
conviction of his valuable qualities , though at first unwillingly 
admitted , had for some time ceased to be repugnant to her 
feeling ; and it was now heightened into somewhat of a friendlier 
nature , by the testimony so highly in his favour , and bringing 
forward his disposition in so amiable a light , which yesterday 
had produced . But above all , above respect and esteem , there 
was a motive within her of goodwill which could not be 
overlooked . It was gratitude ; gratitude , not merely for having 
once loved her , but for loving her still well enough to forgive all 
the petulance and acrimony of her manner in rejecting him , and 
all the unjust accusations accompanying her rejection . He who ,  
she had been persuaded , would avoid her as his greatest enemy ,  
seemed , on this accidental meeting , most eager to preserve the 
acquaintance , and without any indelicate display of regard , or 
any peculiarity of manner , where their two selves only were 
concerned , was soliciting the good opinion of her friends , and 
bent on making her known to his sister . Such a change in a 
man of so much pride exciting not only astonishment but 
gratitude -- for to love , ardent love , it must be attributed ; and as 
such its impression on her was of a sort to be encouraged , as by 
no means unpleasing , though it could not be exactly defined . 
She respected , she esteemed , he was grateful to him , she felt a 
real interest in his welfare ; and she only wanted to know how 
far she wished that welfare to depend upon herself , and how far 
it would be for the happiness of both that she should employ the 
power , which her fancy told her she still possessed , of bringing 
on her the renewal of his addresses . 
 
It had been settled in the evening between the aunt and the 
niece , that such a striking civility as Miss Darcy 's in coming to 
see them on the very day of her arrival at Pemberley , for she 
had reached it only to a late breakfast , ought to be imitated ,  
though it could not be equalled , by some exertion of politeness 
on their side ; and , consequently , that it would be highly 
expedient to wait on her at Pemberley the following morning . 
They were , therefore , to go . Elizabeth was pleased ; though 
when she asked herself the reason , she had very little to say in 
reply . 
 
Mr . Gardiner left them soon after breakfast . The fishing scheme 
had been renewed the day before , and a positive engagement 
made of his meeting some of the gentlemen at Pemberley before 
noon . 
 
 
 
Chapter 45 
 
Convinced as Elizabeth now was that Miss Bingley 's dislike of 
her had originated in jealousy , she could not help feeling how 
unwelcome her appearance at Pemberley must be to her , and 
was curious to know with how much civility on that lady 's side 
the acquaintance would now be renewed . 
 
On reaching the house , they were shown through the hall into 
the saloon , whose northern aspect rendered it delightful for 
summer . Its windows opening to the ground , admitted a most 
refreshing view of the high woody hills behind the house , and 
of the beautiful oaks and Spanish chestnuts which were 
scattered over the intermediate lawn . 
 
In this house they were received by Miss Darcy , who was 
sitting there with Mrs . Hurst and Miss Bingley , and the lady 
with whom she lived in London . Georgiana 's reception of them 
was very civil , but attended with all the embarrassment which ,  
though proceeding from shyness and the fear of doing wrong ,  
would easily give to those who felt themselves inferior the belief 
of her being proud and reserved . Mrs . Gardiner and her niece ,  
however , did her justice , and pitied her . 
 
By Mrs . Hurst and Miss Bingley they were noticed only by a 
curtsey ; and , on their being seated , a pause , awkward as such 
pauses must always be , succeeded for a few moments . It was 
first broken by Mrs . Annesley , a genteel , agreeable-looking 
woman , whose endeavour to introduce some kind of discourse 
proved her to be more truly well-bred than either of the others ;  
and between her and Mrs . Gardiner , with occasional help from 
Elizabeth , the conversation was carried on . Miss Darcy looked 
as if she wished for courage enough to join in it ; and sometimes 
did venture a short sentence when there was least danger of its 
being heard . 
 
Elizabeth soon saw that she was herself closely watched by Miss 
Bingley , and that she could not speak a word , especially to Miss 
Darcy , without calling her attention . This observation would not 
have prevented her from trying to talk to the latter , had they not 
been seated at an inconvenient distance ; but she was not sorry to 
be spared the necessity of saying much . Her own thoughts were 
employing her . She expected every moment that some of the 
gentlemen would enter the room . She wished , she feared that 
the master of the house might be amongst them ; and whether 
she wished or feared it most , she could scarcely determine . 
After sitting in this manner a quarter of an hour without hearing 
Miss Bingley 's voice , Elizabeth was roused by receiving from 
her a cold inquiry after the health of her family . She answered 
with equal indifference and brevity , and the others said no more . 
 
The next variation which their visit afforded was produced by 
the entrance of the servants with cold meat , cake , and a variety 
of all the entrance of servants with cold meat , cake , and a 
variety of all the finest fruits in season ; but this did not take 
place till after many a significant look and smile from Mrs . 
Annesley to Miss Darcy had been given , to remind her of her 
post . There was now employment for the whole party -- for 
though they could not all talk , they could all eat ; and the 
beautiful pyramids of grapes , nectarines , and peaches soon 
collected them round the table . 
 
While thus engaged , Elizabeth had a fair opportunity of deciding 
whether she most feared or wished for the appearance of Mr . 
Darcy , by the feelings which prevailed on his entering the room ;  
and then , though but a moment before she had believed her 
wishes to predominate , she began to regret that he came . 
 
He had been some time with Mr . Gardiner , who , with two or 
three other gentlemen from the house , was engaged by the river ,  
and had left him only on learning that the ladies of the family 
intended a visit to Georgiana that morning . No sooner did he 
appear than Elizabeth wisely resolved to be perfectly easy and 
unembarrassed ; a resolution the more necessary to be made , but 
perhaps not the more easily kept , because she saw that the 
suspicions of the whole party were awakened against them , and 
that there was scarcely an eye which did not watch his 
behaviour when he first came into the room . In no countenance 
was attentive curiosity so strongly marked as in Miss Bingley 's ,  
in spite of the smiles which overspread her face whenever she 
spoke to one of its objects ; for jealousy had not yet made her 
desperate , and her attentions to Mr . Darcy were by no means 
over . Miss Darcy , on her brother 's entrance , exerted herself 
much more to talk , and Elizabeth saw that she was anxious for 
his sister and herself to get acquainted , and forwarded as much 
as possible , every attempt at conversation on either side . Miss 
Bingley saw all this likewise ; and , in the imprudence of anger ,  
took the first opportunity of saying , with sneering civility :  
 
`` Pray , Miss Eliza , are not the -- -- shire Militia removed from 
Meryton ? They must be a great loss to YOUR family . ''  
 
In Darcy 's presence she dared not mention Wickham 's name ;  
but Elizabeth instantly comprehended that he was uppermost in 
her thoughts ; and the various recollections connected with him 
gave her a moment 's distress ; but exerting herself vigorously to 
repel the ill-natured attack , she presently answered the question 
in a tolerably detached tone . While she spoke , an involuntary 
glance showed her Darcy , with a heightened complexion ,  
earnestly looking at her , and his sister overcome with confusion ,  
and unable to lift up her eyes . Had Miss Bingley know what 
pain she was then giving her beloved friend , she undoubtedly 
would have refrained from the hint ; but she had merely intended 
to discompose Elizabeth by bringing forward the idea of a man 
to whom she believed her partial , to make her betray a sensibility 
which might injure her in Darcy 's opinion , and , perhaps , to 
remind the latter of all the follies and absurdities by which some 
part of her family were connected with that corps . Not a 
syllable had ever reached her of Miss Darcy 's meditated 
elopement . To no creature had it been revealed , where secrecy 
was possible , except to Elizabeth ; and from all Bingley's 
connections her brother was particularly anxious to conceal it ,  
from the very wish which Elizabeth had long ago attributed to 
him , of their becoming hereafter her own . He had certainly 
formed such a plan , and without meaning that it should effect 
his endeavour to separate him from Miss Bennet , it is probable 
that it might add something to his lively concern for the welfare 
of his friend . 
 
Elizabeth 's collected behaviour , however , soon quieted his 
emotion ; and as Miss Bingley , vexed and disappointed , dared 
not approach nearer to Wickham , Georgiana also recovered in 
time , though not enough to be able to speak any more . Her 
brother , whose eye she feared to meet , scarcely recollected her 
interest in the affair , and the very circumstance which had been 
designed to turn his thoughts from Elizabeth seemed to have 
fixed them on her more and more cheerfully . 
 
Their visit did not continue long after the question and answer 
above mentioned ; and while Mr . Darcy was attending them to 
their carriage Miss Bingley was venting her feelings in criticisms 
on Elizabeth 's person , behaviour , and dress . But Georgiana 
would not join her . Her brother 's recommendation was enough 
to ensure her favour ; his judgement could not err . And he had 
spoken in such terms of Elizabeth as to leave Georgiana without 
the power of finding her otherwise than lovely and amiable . 
When Darcy returned to the saloon , Miss Bingley could not help 
repeating to him some part of what she had been saying to his 
sister . 
 
`` How very ill Miss Eliza Bennet looks this morning , Mr . Darcy , ''  
she cried ; `` I never in my life saw anyone so much altered as she 
is since the winter . She is grown so brown and coarse ! Louisa 
and I were agreeing that we should not have known her again . ''  
 
However little Mr . Darcy might have liked such an address , he 
contented himself with coolly replying that he perceived no 
other alteration than her being rather tanned , no miraculous 
consequence of travelling in the summer . 
 
`` For my own part , '' she rejoined , `` I must confess that I never 
could see any beauty in her . Her face is too thin ; her 
complexion has no brilliancy ; and her features are not at all 
handsome . Her nose wants character -- there is nothing marked 
in its lines . Her teeth are tolerable , but not out of the common 
way ; and as for her eyes , which have sometimes been called so 
fine , I could never see anything extraordinary in them . They 
have a sharp , shrewish look , which I do not like at all ; and in her 
air altogether there is a self-sufficiency without fashion , which is 
intolerable . ''  
 
Persuaded as Miss Bingley was that Darcy admired Elizabeth ,  
this was not the best method of recommending herself ; but 
angry people are not always wise ; and in seeing him at last look 
somewhat nettled , she had all the success she expected . He was 
resolutely silent , however , and , from a determination of making 
him speak , she continued :  
 
`` I remember , when we first knew her in Hertfordshire , how 
amazed we all were to find that she was a reputed beauty ; and I 
particularly recollect your saying one night , after they had been 
dining at Netherfield , SHE a beauty ! I should as soon call her 
mother a wit . ' But afterwards she seemed to improve on you ,  
and I believe you thought her rather pretty at one time . ''  
 
`` Yes , '' replied Darcy , who could contain himself no longer , `` but 
THAT was only when I first saw her , for it is many months 
since I have considered her as one of the handsomest women of 
my acquaintances . ''  
 
He then went away , and Miss Bingley was left to all the 
satisfaction of having forced him to say what gave no one any 
pain but herself . 
 
Mrs . Gardiner and Elizabeth talked of all that had occurred during their visit , as they returned ,  
except what had particularly interested them both . The look and behaviour of everybody they had 
seen were discussed , except of the person who had mostly engaged their attention . They talked 
of his sister , his friends , his house , his fruit -- of everything but himself ; yet Elizabeth was longing 
to know what Mrs . Gardiner thought of him , and Mrs . Gardiner would have been highly gratified 
by her niece 's beginning the subject . 
 
 
 
Chapter 46 
 
Elizabeth had been a good deal disappointed in not finding a letter from Jane on their first arrival 
at Lambton ; and this disappointment had been renewed on each of the mornings that had now 
been spent there ; but on the third her repining was over , and her sister justified , by the receipt of 
two letters from her at once , on one of which was marked that it had been missent elsewhere . 
Elizabeth was not surprised at it , as Jane had written the direction remarkably ill . 
 
They had just been preparing to walk as the letters came in ; and her uncle and aunt , leaving her to 
enjoy them in quiet , set off by themselves . The one missent must first be attended to ; it had been 
written five days ago . The beginning contained an account of 
all their little parties and engagements , with such news as the 
country afforded ; but the latter half , which was dated a day 
later , and written in evident agitation , gave more important 
intelligence . It was to this effect :  
 
`` Since writing the above , dearest Lizzy , something has occurred 
of a most unexpected and serious nature ; but I am afraid of 
alarming you -- be assured that we are all well . What I have to 
say relates to poor Lydia . An express came at twelve last night ,  
just as we were all gone to bed , from Colonel Forster , to 
inform us that she was gone off to Scotland with one of his 
officers ; to own the truth , with Wickham ! Imagine our surprise . 
To Kitty , however , it does not seem so wholly unexpected . I 
am very , very sorry . So imprudent a match on both sides ! But I 
am willing to hope the best , and that his character has been 
misunderstood . Thoughtless and indiscreet I can easily believe 
him , but this step ( and let us rejoice over it ) marks nothing bad 
at heart . His choice is disinterested at least , for he must know 
my father can give her nothing . Our poor mother is sadly 
grieved . My father bears it better . How thankful am I that we 
never let them know what has been said against him ! we must 
forget it ourselves . They were off Saturday night about twelve ,  
as is conjectured , but were not missed till yesterday morning at 
eight . The express was sent off directly . My dear Lizzy , they 
must have passed within ten miles of us . Colonel Forster gives 
us reason to expect him here soon . Lydia left a few lines for his 
wife , informing her of their intention . I must conclude , for I 
can not be long from my poor mother . I am afraid you will not 
be able to `make it out , but I hardly know what I have written . ''  
 
Without allowing herself time for consideration , and scarcely 
knowing what she felt , Elizabeth on finishing this letter instantly 
seized the other , and opening it with the utmost impatience , read 
as follows : it had been written a day later than the conclusion of 
the first . 
 
`` By this time , my dearest sister , you have received my hurried 
letter ; I wish this may be more intelligible , but though not 
confined for time , my head is so bewildered that I can not answer 
for being coherent . Dearest Lizzy , I hardly know what I would 
write , but I have bad news for you , and it can not be delayed . 
Imprudent as the marriage between Mr . Wickham and our poor 
Lydia would be , we are now anxious to be assured it has taken 
place , for there is but too much reason to fear they are not gone 
to Scotland . Colonel Forster came yesterday , having left 
Brighton the day before , not many hours after the express . 
Though Lydia 's short letter to Mrs . F . gave them to understand 
that they were going to Gretna Green , something was dropped 
by Denny expressing his belief that W . never intended to go 
there , or to marry Lydia at all , which was repeated to Colonel 
F . , who , instantly taking the alarm , set off from B . , intending to 
trace their route . He did trace them easily to Clapham , but no 
further ; for on entering that place , they removed into a hackney 
coach , and dismissed the chaise that brought them from Epsom . 
All that is known after this is , that they were seen to continue 
the London road . I know not what to think . After making 
every possible inquiry on that side London , Colonel F . came on 
into Hertfordshire , anxiously renewing them at all the turnpikes ,  
and at the inns in Barnet and Hatfield , but without any success --  
no such people had been seen to pass through . With the kindest 
concern he came on to Longbourn , and broke his apprehensions 
to us in a manner most creditable to his heart . I am sincerely 
grieved for him and Mrs . F . , but no one can throw any blame 
on them . Our distress , my dear Lizzy , is very great . My father 
and mother believe the worst , but I can not think so ill of him . 
Many circumstances might make it more eligible for them to be 
married privately in town than to pursue their first plan ; and even 
if HE could form such a design against a young woman of 
Lydia 's connections , which is not likely , can I suppose her so 
lost to everything ? Impossible ! I grieve to find , however , that 
Colonel F . is not disposed to depend upon their marriage ; he 
shook his head when I expressed my hopes , and said he fear W . 
was not a man to be trusted . My poor mother is really ill , and 
keeps her room . Could she exert herself , it would be better ; but 
this is not to be expected . And as to my father , I never in my 
life saw him so affected . Poor Kitty has anger for having 
concealed their attachment ; but as it was a matter of confidence ,  
one can not wonder . I am truly glad , dearest Lizzy , that you 
have been spared something of these distressing scenes ; but 
now , as the first shock is over , shall I own that I long for your 
return ? I am not so selfish , however , as to press for it , if 
inconvenient . Adieu ! I take up my pen again to do what I 
have just told you I would not ; but circumstances are such that 
I can not help earnestly begging you all to come here as soon as 
possible . I know my dear uncle and aunt so well , that I am not 
afraid of requesting it , though I have still something more to 
ask of the former . My father is going to London with Colonel 
Forster instantly , to try to discover her . What he means to do 
I am sure I know not ; but his excessive distress will not allow 
him to pursue any measure in the best and safest way , and 
Colonel Forster is obliged to be at Brighton again to-morrow 
evening . In such and exigence , my uncle 's advice and assistance 
would be everything in the world ; he will immediately 
comprehend what I must feel , and I rely upon his goodness . ''  
 
`` Oh ! where , where is my uncle ? '' cried Elizabeth , darting from 
her seat as she finished the letter , in eagerness to follow him ,  
without losing a moment of the time so precious ; but as she 
reached the door it was opened by a servant , and Mr . Darcy 
appeared . Her pale face and impetuous manner made him start ,  
and before he could recover himself to speak , she , in whose 
mind every idea was superseded by Lydia 's situation , hastily 
exclaimed , `` I beg your pardon , but I must leave you . I must 
find Mr . Gardiner this moment , on business that can not be 
delayed ; I have not an instant to loose . ''  
 
`` Good God ! what is the matter ? '' cried he , with more feeling 
than politeness ; then recollecting himself , `` I will not detain you 
a minute ; but let me , or let the servant go after Mr . and Mrs . 
Gardiner . You are not well enough ; you can not go yourself . ''  
 
Elizabeth hesitated , but her knees trembled under her and she 
felt how little would be gained by her attempting to pursue them . 
Calling back the servant , therefore , she commissioned him ,  
though in so breathless an accent as made her almost 
unintelligible , to fetch his master and mistress home instantly . 
 
On his quitting the room she sat down , unable to support 
herself , and looking so miserably ill , that it was impossible for 
Darcy to leave her , or to refrain from saying , in a tone of 
gentleness and commiseration , `` Let me call your maid . Is 
there nothing you could take to give you present relief ? A 
glass of wine ; shall I get you one ? You are very ill . ''  
 
`` No , I thank you , '' she replied , endeavouring to recover herself . 
`` There is nothing the matter with me . I am quite well ; I am 
only distressed by some dreadful news which I have just 
received from Longbourn . ''  
 
She burst into tears as she alluded to it , and for a few minutes 
could not speak another word . Darcy , in wretched suspense ,  
could only say something indistinctly of his concern , and 
observe her in compassionate silence . At length she spoke 
again . `` I have just had a letter from Jane , with such dreadful 
news . It can not be concealed from any one . My younger sister 
has left all her friends -- has eloped ; has thrown herself into the 
power of -- of Mr . Wickham . They are gone off together from 
Brighton . YOU know him too well to doubt the rest . She has 
no money , no connections , nothing that can tempt him to -- she 
is lost for ever . ''  
 
Darcy was fixed in astonishment . `` When I consider , '' she added 
in a yet more agitated voice , `` that _I_ might have prevented it !  
_I_ , who knew what he was . Had I but explained some part of 
it only -- some part of what I learnt , to my own family ! Had his 
character been known , this could not have happened . But it is 
all -- all too late now . ''  
 
`` I am grieved indeed , '' cried Darcy ; `` grieved -- shocked . But is 
it certain -- absolutely certain ? ''  
 
`` Oh , yes ! They left Brighton together on Sunday night , and 
were traced almost to London , but not beyond ; they are 
certainly not gone to Scotland . ''  
 
`` And what has been done , what has been attempted , to recover 
her ? ''  
 
`` My father is gone to London , and Jane has written to beg my 
uncle 's immediate assistance ; and we shall be off , I hope , in 
half-an-hour . But nothing can be done -- I know very well that 
nothing can be done . How is such a man to be worked on ?  
How are they even to be discovered ? I have not the smallest 
hope . It is every way horrible ! ''  
 
Darcy shook his head in silent acquiescence . 
 
`` When MY eyes were opened to his real character -- Oh ! had I 
known what I ought , what I dared to do ! But I knew not -- I 
was afraid of doing too much . Wretched , wretched mistake ! ''  
 
Darcy made no answer . He seemed scarcely to hear her , and 
was walking up and down the room in earnest meditation , his 
brow contracted , his air gloomy . Elizabeth soon observed , and 
instantly understood it . Her power was sinking ; everything 
MUST sink under such a proof of family weakness , such an 
assurance of the deepest disgrace . She could neither wonder 
nor condemn , but the belief of his self-conquest brought nothing 
to her consolatory to her bosom , afforded no palliation of her 
distress . It was , on the contrary , exactly calculated to make her 
understand her own wishes ; and never had she so honestly felt 
that she could have loved him , as now , when all love must be 
vain . 
 
But self , though it would intrude , could not engross her . Lydia --  
the humiliation , the misery she was bringing on them all , soon 
swallowed up every private care ; and covering her face with her 
handkerchief , Elizabeth was soon lost to everything else ; and ,  
after a pause of several minutes , was only recalled to a sense of 
her situation by the voice of her companion , who , in a manner 
which , though it spoke compassion , spoke likewise restraint ,  
said , `` I am afraid you have been long desiring my absence , nor 
have I anything to plead in excuse of my stay , but real , though 
unavailing concern . Would to Heaven that anything could be 
either said or done on my part that might offer consolation to 
such distress ! But I will not torment you with vain wishes ,  
which may seem purposely to ask for your thanks . This 
unfortunate affair will , I fear , prevent my sister 's having the 
pleasure of seeing you at Pemberley to-day . ''  
 
`` Oh , yes . Be so kind as to apologise for us to Miss Darcy . Say 
that urgent business calls us home immediately . Conceal the 
unhappy truth as long as it is possible , I know it can not be long . ''  
 
He readily assured her of his secrecy ; again expressed his 
sorrow for her distress , wished it a happier conclusion than 
there was at present reason to hope , and leaving his 
compliments for her relations , with only one serious , parting 
look went away . 
 
As he quitted the room , Elizabeth felt how improbable it was 
that they should ever see each other again on such terms of 
cordiality as had marked their several meetings in Derbyshire ;  
and as she threw a retrospective glance over the whole of their 
acquaintance , so full of contradictions and varieties , sighed at 
the perverseness of those feelings which would now have 
promoted its continuance , and would formerly have rejoiced in 
its termination . 
 
If gratitude and esteem are good foundations of affection ,  
Elizabeth 's change of sentiment will be neither improbable nor 
faulty . But if otherwise -- if regard springing from such sources 
is unreasonable or unnatural , in comparison of what is so often 
described as arising on a first interview with its object , and even 
before two words have been exchanged , nothing can be said in 
her defence , except that she had given somewhat of a trial to the 
latter method in her partiality for Wickham , and that its ill 
success might , perhaps , authorise her to seek the other less 
interesting mode of attachment . Be that as it may , she saw him 
go with regret ; and in this early example of what Lydia 's infamy 
must produce , found additional anguish as she reflected on that 
wretched business . Never , since reading Jane 's second letter ,  
had she entertained a hope of Wickham 's meaning to marry her . 
No one but Jane , she thought , could flatter herself with such an 
expectation . Surprise was the least of her feelings on this 
development . While the contents of the first letter remained in 
her mind , she was all surprise -- all astonishment that Wickham 
should marry a girl whom it was impossible he could marry for 
money ; and how Lydia could ever have attached him had 
appeared incomprehensible . But no it was all too natural . For 
such an attachment as this she might have sufficient charm ; and 
though she did not suppose Lydia to be deliberately engaging in 
an elopement without the intention of marriage , she had no 
difficulty in believing that neither her virtue nor her 
understanding would preserve her from falling an easy prey . 
 
She had never perceived , while the regiment was in 
Hertfordshire , that Lydia had any partiality for him ; but she was 
convinced that Lydia wanted only encouragement to attach 
herself to anybody . Sometimes one officer , sometimes another ,  
had been her favourite , as their attentions raised them in her 
opinion . Her affections had continually been fluctuating but 
never without an object . The mischief of neglect and mistaken 
indulgence towards such a girl -- oh ! how acutely did she now 
feel it !  
 
She was wild to be at home -- to hear , to see , to be upon the 
spot to share with Jane in the cares that must now fall wholly 
upon her , in a family so deranged , a father absent , a mother 
incapable of exertion , and requiring constant attendance ; and 
though almost persuaded that nothing could be done for Lydia ,  
her uncle 's interference seemed of the utmost importance , and 
till he entered the room her impatience was severe . Mr . and 
Mrs . Gardiner had hurried back in alarm , supposing by the 
servant 's account that their niece was taken suddenly ill ; but 
satisfying them instantly on that head , she eagerly communicated 
the cause of their summons , reading the two letters aloud , and 
dwelling on the postscript of the last with trembling energy ,  
though Lydia had never been a favourite with them , Mr . and 
Mrs . Gardiner could not but be deeply afflicted . Not Lydia 
only , but all were concerned in it ; and after the first 
exclamations of surprise and horror , Mr . Gardiner promised 
every assistance in his power . Elizabeth , though expecting no 
less , thanked him with tears of gratitude ; and all three being 
actuated by one spirit , everything relating to their journey was 
speedily settled . They were to be off as soon as possible . `` But 
what is to be done about Pemberley ? '' cried Mrs . Gardiner . 
`` John told us Mr . Darcy was here when you sent for us ; was it 
so ? ''  
 
`` Yes ; and I told him we should not be able to keep our 
engagement . THAT is all settled . ''  
 
`` What is all settled ? '' repeated the other , as she ran into her 
room to prepare . `` And are they upon such terms as for her to 
disclose the real truth ? Oh , that I knew how it was ! ''  
 
But wishes were vain , or at least could only serve to amuse her 
in the hurry and confusion of the following hour . Had Elizabeth 
been at leisure to be idle , she would have remained certain that 
all employment was impossible to one so wretched as herself ;  
but she had her share of business as well as her aunt , and 
amongst the rest there were notes to be written to all their 
friends at Lambton , with false excuses for their sudden 
departure . An hour , however , saw the whole completed ; and 
Mr . Gardiner meanwhile having settled his account at the inn ,  
nothing remained to be done but to go ; and Elizabeth , after all 
the misery of the morning , found herself , in a shorter space of 
time than she could have supposed , seated in the carriage , and 
on the road to Longbourn . 
 
 
Chapter 47 
 
`` I have been thinking it over again , Elizabeth , '' said her uncle ,  
as they drove from the town ; `` and really , upon serious 
consideration , I am much more inclined than I was to judge as 
your eldest sister does on the matter . It appears to me so very 
unlikely that any young man should form such a design against 
a girl who is by no means unprotected or friendless , and who 
was actually staying in his colonel 's family , that I am strongly 
inclined to hope the best . Could he expect that her friends 
would not step forward ? Could he expect to be noticed again 
by the regiment , after such an affront to Colonel Forster ? His 
temptation is not adequate to the risk ! ''  
 
`` Do you really think so ? '' cried Elizabeth , brightening up for a 
moment . 
 
`` Upon my word , '' said Mrs . Gardiner , `` I begin to be of your 
uncle 's opinion . It is really too great a violation of decency ,  
honour , and interest , for him to be guilty of . I can not think so 
very ill of Wickham . Can you yourself , Lizzy , so wholly give 
him up , as to believe him capable of it ? ''  
 
`` Not , perhaps , of neglecting his own interest ; but of every other 
neglect I can believe him capable . If , indeed , it should be so !  
But I dare not hope it . Why should they not go on to Scotland 
if that had been the case ? ''  
 
`` In the first place , '' replied Mr . Gardiner , `` there is no absolute 
proof that they are not gone to Scotland . ''  
 
`` Oh ! but their removing from the chaise into a hackney coach is 
such a presumption ! And , besides , no traces of them were to be 
found on the Barnet road . ''  
 
`` Well , then -- supposing them to be in London . They may be there ,  
though for the purpose of concealment , for no more exceptional 
purpose . It is not likely that money should be very abundant on 
either side ; and it might strike them that they could be more 
economically , though less expeditiously , married in London 
than in Scotland . ''  
 
But why all this secrecy ? Why any fear of detection ? Why must 
their marriage be private ? Oh , no , no -- this is not likely . His 
most particular friend , you see by Jane 's account , was 
persuaded of his never intending to marry her . Wickham will 
never marry a woman without some money . He can not afford 
it . And what claims has Lydia -- what attraction has she beyond 
youth , health , and good humour that could make him , for her 
sake , forego every chance of benefiting himself by marrying 
well ? As to what restraint the apprehensions of disgrace in the 
corps might throw on a dishonourable elopement with her , I am 
not able to judge ; for I know nothing of the effects that such a 
step might produce . But as to your other objection , I am afraid 
it will hardly hold good . Lydia has no brothers to step forward ;  
and he might imagine , from my father 's behaviour , from his 
indolence and the little attention he has ever seemed to give to 
what was going forward in his family , that HE would do as 
little , and think as little about it , as any father could do , in such 
a matter . ''  
 
`` But can you think that Lydia is so lost to everything but love 
of him as to consent to live with him on any terms other than 
marriage ? ''  
 
`` It does seem , and it is most shocking indeed , '' replied Elizabeth ,  
with tears in her eyes , `` that a sister 's sense of decency and 
virtue in such a point should admit of doubt . But , really , I 
know not what to say . Perhaps I am not doing her justice . But 
she is very young ; she has never been taught to think on 
serious subjects ; and for the last half-year , nay , for a 
twelvemonth -- she has been given up to nothing but amusement 
and vanity . She has been allowed to dispose of her time in the 
most idle and frivolous manner , and to adopt any opinions that 
came in her way . Since the -- -- shire were first quartered in 
Meryton , nothing but love , flirtation , and officers have been in 
her head . She has been doing everything in her power by 
thinking and talking on the subject , to give greater -- what shall 
I call it ? susceptibility to her feelings ; which are naturally lively 
enough . And we all know that Wickham has every charm of 
person and address that can captivate a woman . ''  
 
`` But you see that Jane , '' said her aunt , `` does not think so very 
ill of Wickham as to believe him capable of the attempt . ''  
 
`` Of whom does Jane ever think ill ? And who is there , whatever 
might be their former conduct , that she would think capable of 
such an attempt , till it were proved against them ? But Jane 
knows , as well as I do , what Wickham really is . We both know 
that he has been profligate in every sense of the word ; that he 
has neither integrity nor honour ; that he is as false and deceitful 
as he is insinuating . ''  
 
`` And do you really know all this ? '' cried Mrs . Gardiner , whose 
curiosity as to the mode of her intelligence was all alive . 
 
`` I do indeed , '' replied Elizabeth , colouring . `` I told you , the 
other day , of his infamous behaviour to Mr . Darcy ; and you 
yourself , when last at Longbourn , heard in what manner he 
spoke of the man who had behaved with such forbearance and 
liberality towards him . And there are other circumstances which 
I am not at liberty -- which it is not worth while to relate ; but his 
lies about the whole Pemberley family are endless . From what 
he said of Miss Darcy I was thoroughly prepared to see a proud ,  
reserved , disagreeable girl . Yet he knew to the contrary himself . 
He must know that she was as amiable and unpretending as we 
have found her . ''  
 
`` But does Lydia know nothing of this ? can she be ignorant of 
what you and Jane seem so well to understand ? ''  
 
`` Oh , yes ! that , that is the worst of all . Till I was in Kent , and 
saw so much both of Mr . Darcy and his relation Colonel 
Fitzwilliam , I was ignorant of the truth myself . And when I 
returned home , the -- -- shire was to leave Meryton in a week or 
fortnight 's time . As that was the case , neither Jane , to whom I 
related the whole , nor I , thought it necessary to make our 
knowledge public ; for of what use could it apparently be to any 
one , that the good opinion which all the neighbourhood had of 
him should then be overthrown ? And even when it was settled 
that Lydia should go with Mrs . Forster , the necessity of opening 
her eyes to his character never occurred to me . That SHE could 
be in any danger from the deception never entered my head . 
That such a consequence as THIS could ensue , you may easily 
believe , was far enough from my thoughts . ''  
 
`` When they all removed to Brighton , therefore , you had no 
reason , I suppose , to believe them fond of each other ? ''  
 
`` Not the slightest . I can remember no symptom of affection on 
either side ; and had anything of the kind been perceptible , you 
must be aware that ours is not a family on which it could be 
thrown away . When first he entered the corps , she was ready 
enough to admire him ; but so we all were . Every girl in or near 
Meryton was out of her senses about him for the first two 
months ; but he never distinguished HER by any particular 
attention ; and , consequently , after a moderate period of 
extravagant and wild admiration , her fancy for him gave way ,  
and others of the regiment , who treated her with more 
distinction , again became her favourites . ''  
 
 
It may be easily believed , that however little of novelty could be 
added to their fears , hopes , and conjectures , on this interesting 
subject , by its repeated discussion , no other could detain them 
from it long , during the whole of the journey . From Elizabeth's 
thoughts it was never absent . Fixed there by the keenest of all 
anguish , self-reproach , she could find no interval of ease or 
forgetfulness . 
 
They travelled as expeditiously as possible , and , sleeping one 
night on the road , reached Longbourn by dinner time the next 
day . It was a comfort to Elizabeth to consider that Jane could 
not have been wearied by long expectations . 
 
The little Gardiners , attracted by the sight of a chaise , were 
standing on the steps of the house as they entered the paddock ;  
and , when the carriage drove up to the door , the joyful surprise 
that lighted up their faces , and displayed itself over their whole 
bodies , in a variety of capers and frisks , was the first pleasing 
earnest of their welcome . 
 
Elizabeth jumped out ; and , after giving each of them a hasty 
kiss , hurried into the vestibule , where Jane , who came running 
down from her mother 's apartment , immediately met her . 
 
Elizabeth , as she affectionately embraced her , whilst tears filled 
the eyes of both , lost not a moment in asking whether anything 
had been heard of the fugitives . 
 
`` Not yet , '' replied Jane . `` But now that my dear uncle is come , I 
hope everything will be well . ''  
 
`` Is my father in town ? ''  
 
`` Yes , he went on Tuesday , as I wrote you word . ''  
 
`` And have you heard from him often ? ''  
 
`` We have heard only twice . He wrote me a few lines on 
Wednesday to say that he had arrived in safety , and to give me 
his directions , which I particularly begged him to do . He merely 
added that he should not write again till he had something of 
importance to mention . ''  
 
`` And my mother -- how is she ? How are you all ? ''  
 
`` My mother is tolerably well , I trust ; though her spirits are 
greatly shaken . She is upstairs and will have great satisfaction 
in seeing you all . She does not yet leave her dressing-room . 
Mary and Kitty are , thank Heaven , are quite well . ''  
 
`` But you -- how are you ? '' cried Elizabeth . `` You look pale . 
How much you must have gone through ! ''  
 
Her sister , however , assured her of her being perfectly well ; and 
their conversation , which had been passing while Mr . and Mrs . 
Gardiner were engaged with their children ,  . Was now put an end 
to by the approach of the whole party . Jane ran to her uncle and 
aunt , and welcomed and thanked them both , with alternate 
smiles and tears . 
 
When they were all in the drawing-room , the questions which 
Elizabeth had already asked were of course repeated by the 
others , and they soon found that Jane had no intelligence to 
give . The sanguine hope of good , however , which the 
benevolence of her heart suggested had not yet deserted her ;  
she still expected that it would all end well , and that every 
morning would bring some letter , either from Lydia or her 
father , to explain their proceedings , and , perhaps , announce 
their marriage . 
 
Mrs . Bennet , to whose apartment they all repaired , after a few 
minutes ' conversation together , received them exactly as might 
be expected ; with tears and lamentations of regret , invectives 
against the villainous conduct of Wickham , and complaints of 
her own sufferings and ill-usage ; blaming everybody but the 
person to whose ill-judging indulgence the errors of her 
daughter must principally be owing . 
 
`` If I had been able , '' said she , `` to carry my point in going to 
Brighton , with all my family , THIS would not have happened ;  
but poor dear Lydia had nobody to take care of her . Why did 
the Forsters ever let her go out of their sight ? I am sure there 
was some great neglect or other on their side , for she is not the 
kind of girl to do such a thing if she had been well looked after . 
I always thought they were very unfit to have the charge of her ;  
but I was overruled , as I always am . Poor dear child ! And now 
here 's Mr . Bennet gone away , and I know he will fight 
Wickham , wherever he meets him and then he will be killed , and 
what is to become of us all ? The Collinses will turn us out 
before he is cold in his grave , and if you are not kind to us ,  
brother , I do not know what we shall do . ''  
 
They all exclaimed against such terrific ideas ; and Mr . Gardiner ,  
after general assurances of his affection for her and all her 
family , told her that he meant to be in London the very next day ,  
and would assist Mr . Bennet in every endeavour for recovering 
Lydia . 
 
`` Do not give way to useless alarm , '' added he ; `` though it is 
right to be prepared for the worst , there is no occasion to look 
on it a certain . It is not quite a week since they left Brighton . 
In a few days more we may gain some news of them ; and till we 
know that they are not married , and have no design of marrying ,  
do not let us give the matter over as lost . As soon as I get to 
town I shall go to my brother , and make him come home with 
me to Gracechurch Street ; and then we may consult together as 
to what is to be done . ''  
 
`` Oh ! my dear brother , '' replied Mrs . Bennet , `` that is exactly 
what I could most wish for . And now do , when you get to 
town , find them out , wherever they may be ; and if they are not 
married already , MAKE them marry . And as for wedding 
clothes , do not let them wait for that , but tell Lydia she shall 
have as much money as she chooses to buy them , after they 
are married . And , above all , keep Mr . Bennet from fighting . 
Tell him what a dreadful state I am in , that I am frighted out 
of my wits -- and have such tremblings , such flutterings , all 
over me -- such spasms in my side and pains in my head , and 
such beatings at heart , that I can get no rest by night nor by day . 
And tell my dear Lydia not to give any directions about her 
clothes till she has seen me , for she does not know which are 
the best warehouses . Oh , brother , how kind you are ! I know 
you will contrive it all . ''  
 
But Mr . Gardiner , though he assured her again of his earnest 
endeavours in the cause , could not avoid recommending 
moderation to her , as well in her hopes as her fear ; and after 
talking with her in this manner till dinner was on the table , they 
all left her to vent all her feelings on the housekeeper , who 
attended in the absence of her daughters . 
 
Though her brother and sister were persuaded that there was no 
real occasion for such a seclusion from the family , they did not 
attempt to oppose it , for they knew that she had not prudence 
enough to hold her tongue before the servants , while they 
waited at table , and judged it better that ONE only of the 
household , and the one whom they could most trust should 
comprehend all her fears and solicitude on the subject . 
 
In the dining-room they were soon joined by Mary and Kitty ,  
who had been too busily engaged in their separate apartments 
to make their appearance before . One came from her books ,  
and the other from her toilette . The faces of both , however ,  
were tolerably calm ; and no change was visible in either , except 
that the loss of her favourite sister , or the anger which she had 
herself incurred in this business , had given more of fretfulness 
than usual to the accents of Kitty . As for Mary , she was 
mistress enough of herself to whisper to Elizabeth , with a 
countenance of grave reflection , soon after they were seated at 
table :  
 
`` This is a most unfortunate affair , and will probably be much 
talked of . But we must stem the tide of malice , and pour into 
the wounded bosoms of each other the balm of sisterly 
consolation . ''  
 
Then , perceiving in Elizabeth no inclination of replying , she 
added , `` Unhappy as the event must be for Lydia , we may draw 
from it this useful lesson : that loss of virtue in a female is 
irretrievable ; that one false step involves her in endless ruin ;  
that her reputation is no less brittle than it is beautiful ; and that 
she can not be too much guarded in her behaviour towards the 
undeserving of the other sex . ''  
 
Elizabeth lifted up her eyes in amazement , but was too much 
oppressed to make any reply . Mary , however , continued to 
console herself with such kind of moral extractions from the evil 
before them . 
 
In the afternoon , the two elder Miss Bennets were able to be for 
half-an-hour by themselves ; and Elizabeth instantly availed 
herself of the opportunity of making any inquiries , which Jane 
was equally eager to satisfy . After joining in general 
lamentations over the dreadful sequel of this event , which 
Elizabeth considered as all but certain , and Miss Bennet could 
not assert to be wholly impossible , the former continued the 
subject , by saying , `` But tell me all and everything about it which 
I have not already heard . Give me further particulars . What did 
Colonel Forster say ? Had they no apprehension of anything 
before the elopement took place ? They must have seen them 
together for ever . ''  
 
`` Colonel Forster did own that he had often suspected some 
partiality , especially on Lydia 's side , but nothing to give him any 
alarm . I am so grieved for him ! His behaviour was attentive and 
kind to the utmost . He WAS coming to us , in order to assure us 
of his concern , before he had any idea of their not being gone to 
Scotland : when that apprehension first got abroad , it hastened 
his journey . ''  
 
`` And was Denny convinced that Wickham would not marry ?  
Did he know of their intending to go off ? Had Colonel Forster 
seen Denny himself ? ''  
 
`` Yes ; but , when questioned by HIM , Denny denied knowing 
anything of their plans , and would not give his real opinion 
about it . He did not repeat his persuasion of their not 
marrying -- and from THAT , I am inclined to hope , he might 
have been misunderstood before . ''  
 
`` And till Colonel Forster came himself , not one of you 
entertained a doubt , I suppose , of their being really married ? ''  
 
`` How was it possible that such an idea should enter our brains ?  
I felt a little uneasy -- a little fearful of my sister 's happiness with 
him in marriage , because I knew that his conduct had not been 
always quite right . My father and mother knew nothing of that ;  
they only felt how imprudent a match it must be . Kitty then 
owned , with a very natural triumph on knowing more than the 
rest of us , that in Lydia 's last letter she had prepared her for 
such a step . She had known , it seems , of their being in love with 
each other , many weeks . ''  
 
`` But not before they went to Brighton ? ''  
 
`` No , I believe not . ''  
 
`` And did Colonel Forster appear to think well of Wickham 
himself ? Does he know he real character ? ''  
 
`` I must confess that he did not speak so well of Wickham as he 
formerly did . He believed him to be imprudent and extravagant . 
And since this sad affair has taken place , it is said that he left 
Meryton greatly in debt ; but I hope this may be false . ''  
 
`` Oh , Jane , had we been less secret , had we told what we knew 
of him , this could not have happened ! ''  
 
`` Perhaps it would have been better , '' replied her sister . `` But to 
expose the former faults of any person without knowing what 
their present feelings were , seemed unjustifiable . We acted with 
the best intentions . ''  
 
`` Could Colonel Forster repeat the particulars of Lydia 's note to 
his wife ? ''  
 
`` He brought it with him for us to see . ''  
 
Jane then took it from her pocket-book , and gave it to Elizabeth . 
These were the contents :  
 
`` MY DEAR HARRIET , --  
`` You will laugh when you know where I am gone , and I cannot 
help laughing myself at your surprise to-morrow morning , as 
soon as I am missed . I am going to Gretna Green , and if you 
can not guess with who , I shall think you a simpleton , for there 
is but one man in the world I love , and he is an angel . I should 
never be happy without him , so think it no harm to be off . You 
need not send them word at Longbourn of my going , if you do 
not like it , for it will make the surprise the greater , when I write 
to them and sign my name Lydia Wickham . ' What a good joke 
it will be ! I can hardly write for laughing . Pray make my 
excuses to Pratt for not keeping my engagement , and dancing 
with him to-night . Tell him I hope he will excuse me when he 
knows all ; and tell him I will dance with him at the next ball we 
meet , with great pleasure . I shall send for my clothes when I 
get to Longbourn ; but I wish you would tell Sally to mend a 
great slit in my worked muslin gown before they are packed up . 
Good-bye . Give my love to Colonel Forster . I hope you will 
drink to our good journey . Your affectionate friend ,  
`` Lydia Bennet . ''  
 
`` Oh ! thoughtless , thoughtless Lydia ! '' cried Elizabeth when she 
had finished it . What a letter is this , to be written at such a 
moment ! But at least it shows that SHE was serious on the 
subject of their journey . Whatever he might afterwards 
persuade her to , it was not on her side a SCHEME of 
infamy . My poor father ! how he must have felt it ! ''  
 
I never saw any one so shocked . He could not speak a word 
for full ten minutes . My mother was taken ill immediately , and 
the whole house in such confusion ! ''  
 
`` Oh ! Jane , '' cried Elizabeth , `` was there a servant belonging to it 
who did not know the whole story before the end of the day ? ''  
 
`` I do not know . I hope there was . But to be guarded at such a 
time is very difficult . My mother was in hysterics , and though I 
endeavoured to give her every assistance in my power , I am 
afraid I did not do so much as I might have done ! But the 
horror of what might possibly happen almost took from me 
my faculties . ''  
 
`` Your attendance upon her has been too much for you . You do 
not look well . Oh that I had been with you ! you have had every 
care and anxiety upon yourself alone . ''  
 
`` Mary and Kitty have been very kind , and would have shared in 
every fatigue , I am sure ; but I did not think it right for either of 
them . Kitty is slight and delicate ; and Mary studies so much ,  
that her hours of repose should not be broken in on . My aunt 
Phillips came to Longbourn on Tuesday , after my father went 
away ; and was so good as to stay till Thursday with me . She 
was of great use and comfort to us all . And Lady Lucas has 
been very kind ; she walked here on Wednesday morning to 
condole with us , and offered her services , or any of her 
daughters ' , if they should be of use to us . ''  
 
`` She had better have stayed at home , '' cried Elizabeth ; `` perhaps 
she MEANT well , but , under such a misfortune as this , one 
can not see too little of one 's neighbours . Assistance is 
impossible ; condolence insufferable . Let them triumph over us 
at a distance , and be satisfied . ''  
 
She then proceeded to inquire into the measures which her 
father had intended to pursue , while in town , for the recovery of 
his daughter . 
 
`` He meant I believe , '' replied Jane , `` to go to Epsom , the place 
where they last changed horses , see the postilions and try if 
anything could be made out from them . His principal object 
must be to discover the number of the hackney coach which 
took them from Clapham . It had come with a fare from 
London ; and as he thought that the circumstance of a 
gentleman and lady 's removing from one carriage into another 
might be remarked he meant to make inquiries at Clapham . If 
he could anyhow discover at what house the coachman had 
before set down his fare , he determined to make inquiries there ,  
and hoped it might not be impossible to find out the stand and 
number of the coach . I do not know of any other designs that 
he had formed ; but he was in such a hurry to be gone , and his 
spirits so greatly discomposed , that I had difficulty in finding 
out even so much as this . ''  
 
 
 
Chapter 48 
 
The whole party were in hopes of a letter from Mr . Bennet the 
next morning , but the post came in without bringing a single line 
from him . His family knew him to be , on all common occasions ,  
a most negligent and dilatory correspondent ; but at such a time 
they had hoped for exertion . They were forced to conclude that 
he had no pleasing intelligence to send ; but even of THAT they 
would have been glad to be certain . Mr . Gardiner had waited 
only for the letters before he set off . 
When he was gone , they were certain at least of receiving 
constant information of what was going on , and their uncle 
promised , at parting , to prevail on Mr . Bennet to return to 
Longbourn , as soon as he could , to the great consolation of his 
sister , who considered it as the only security for her husband's 
not being killed in a duel . 
 
Mrs . Gardiner and the children were to remain in Hertfordshire 
a few days longer , as the former thought her presence might be 
serviceable to her nieces . She shared in their attendance on Mrs . 
Bennet , and was a great comfort to them in their hours of 
freedom . Their other aunt also visited them frequently , and 
always , as she said , with the design of cheering and heartening 
them up -- though , as she never came without reporting some 
fresh instance of Wickham 's extravagance or irregularity , she 
seldom went away without leaving them more dispirited than 
she found them . 
 
All Meryton seemed striving to blacken the man who , but three 
months before , had been almost an angel of light . He was 
declared to be in debt to every tradesman in the place , and his 
intrigues all honoured with the title of seduction , had been 
extended into every tradesman 's family . Everybody declared 
that he was the wickedest young man in the world ; and 
everybody began to find out that they had always distrusted 
the appearance of his goodness . Elizabeth , though she did not 
credit above half of what was said , believed enough to make 
her former assurance of her sister 's ruin more certain ; and even 
Jane , who believed still less of it , became almost hopeless , more 
especially as the time was now come when , if they had gone to 
Scotland , which she had never before entirely despaired of , they 
must in all probability have gained some news of them . 
 
Mr . Gardiner left Longbourn on Sunday ; on Tuesday his wife 
received a letter from him ; it told them that , on his arrival , he 
had immediately found out his brother , and persuaded him to 
come to Gracechurch Street ; that Mr . Bennet had been to 
Epsom and Clapham , before his arrival , but without gaining 
any satisfactory information ; and that he was now determined 
to inquire at all the principal hotels in town , as Mr . Bennet 
thought it possible they might have gone to one of them , on 
their first coming to London , before they procured lodgings . 
Mr . Gardiner himself did not expect any success from this 
measure , but as his brother was eager in it , he meant to assist 
him in pursuing it . He added that Mr . Bennet seemed wholly 
disinclined at present to leave London and promised to write 
again very soon . There was also a postscript to this effect :  
 
`` I have written to Colonel Forster to desire him to find out , if 
possible , from some of the young man 's intimates in the 
regiment , whether Wickham has any relations or connections 
who would be likely to know in what part of town he has now 
concealed himself . If there were any one that one could apply 
to with a probability of gaining such a clue as that , it might be 
of essential consequence . At present we have nothing to guide 
us . Colonel Forster will , I dare say , do everything in his power 
to satisfy us on this head . But , on second thoughts , perhaps ,  
Lizzy could tell us what relations he has now living , better than 
any other person . ''  
 
Elizabeth was at no loss to understand from whence this 
deference to her authority proceeded ; but it was not in her 
power to give any information of so satisfactory a nature as the 
compliment deserved . She had never heard of his having had 
any relations , except a father and mother , both of whom had 
been dead many years . It was possible , however , that some of 
his companions in the -- -- shire might be able to give more 
information ; and though she was not very sanguine in expecting 
it , the application was a something to look forward to . 
 
Every day at Longbourn was now a day of anxiety ; but the most 
anxious part of each was when the post was expected . The 
arrival of letters was the grand object of every morning's 
impatience . Through letters , whatever of good or bad was to be 
told would be communicated , and every succeeding day was 
expected to bring some news of importance . 
 
But before they heard again from Mr . Gardiner , a letter arrived 
for their father , from a different quarter , from Mr . Collins ;  
which , as Jane had received directions to open all that came for 
him in his absence , she accordingly read ; and Elizabeth , who 
knew what curiosities his letters always were , looked over her ,  
and read it likewise . It was s follows :  
 
`` MY DEAR SIR , --  
`` I feel myself called upon , by our relationship , and my situation in 
life , to condole with you on the grievous affliction you are now 
suffering under , of which we were yesterday informed by a letter 
from Hertfordshire . Be assured , my dear sir , that Mrs . Collins 
and myself sincerely sympathise with you and all your 
respectable family , in your present distress , which must be of 
the bitterest kind , because proceeding from a cause which no 
time can remove . No arguments shall be wanting on my part 
that can alleviate so severe a misfortune -- or that may comfort 
you , under a circumstance that must be of all others the most 
afflicting to a parent 's mind . The death of your daughter would 
have been a blessing in comparison of this . And it is the more 
to be lamented , because there is reason to suppose as my dear 
Charlotte informs me , that this licentiousness of behaviour in 
your daughter has proceeded from a faulty degree of indulgence ;  
though , at the same time , for the consolation of yourself and 
Mrs . Bennet , I am inclined to think that her own disposition 
must be naturally bad , or she could not be guilty of such an 
enormity , at so early an age . Howsoever that may be , you are 
grievously to be pitied ; in which opinion I am not only joined by 
Mrs . Collins , but likewise by Lady Catherine and her daughter ,  
to whom I have related the affair . They agree with me in 
apprehending that this false step in one daughter will be 
injurious to the fortunes of all the others ; for who , as Lady 
Catherine herself condescendingly says , will connect themselves 
with such a family ? And this consideration leads me moreover 
to reflect , with augmented satisfaction , on a certain event of last 
November ; for had it been otherwise , I must have been involved 
in all your sorrow and disgrace . Let me then advise you , dear 
sir , to console yourself as much as possible , to throw off your 
unworthy child from your affection for ever , and leave her to 
reap the fruits of her own heinous offense . -- I am , dear sir , etc . ,  
etc . ''  
 
Mr . Gardiner did not write again till he had received an answer 
from Colonel Forster ; and then he had nothing of a pleasant 
nature to send . It was not known that Wickham had a single 
relationship with whom he kept up any connection , and it was 
certain that he had no near one living . His former 
acquaintances had been numerous ; but since he had been in the 
militia , it did not appear that he was on terms of particular 
friendship with any of them . There was no one , therefore , who 
could be pointed out as likely to give any news of him . And in 
the wretched state of his own finances , there was a very 
powerful motive for secrecy , in addition to his fear of discovery 
by Lydia 's relations , for it had just transpired that he had left 
gaming debts behind him to a very considerable amount . 
Colonel Forster believed that more than a thousand pounds 
would be necessary to clear his expenses at Brighton . He owed 
a good deal in town , but his debts of honour were still more 
formidable . Mr . Gardiner did not attempt to conceal these 
particulars from the Longbourn family . Jane heard them with 
horror . `` A gamester ! '' she cried . `` This is wholly unexpected . 
I had not an idea of it . ''  
 
Mr . Gardiner added in his letter , that they might expect to see 
their father at home on the following day , which was Saturday . 
Rendered spiritless by the ill-success of all their endeavours , he 
had yielded to his brother-in-law 's entreaty that he would return 
to his family , and leave it to him to do whatever occasion might 
suggest to be advisable for continuing their pursuit . When Mrs . 
Bennet was told of this , she did not express so much satisfaction 
as her children expected , considering what her anxiety for his 
life had been before . 
 
`` What , is he coming home , and without poor Lydia ? '' she cried . 
`` Sure he will not leave London before he has found them . Who 
is to fight Wickham , and make him marry her , if he comes 
away ? ''  
 
As Mrs . Gardiner began to wish to be at home , it was settled 
that she and the children should go to London , at the same time 
that Mr . Bennet came from it . The coach , therefore , took them 
the first stage of their journey , and brought its master back to 
Longbourn . 
 
Mrs . Gardiner went away in all the perplexity about Elizabeth 
and her Derbyshire friend that had attended her from that part 
of the world . His name had never been voluntarily mentioned 
before them by her niece ; and the kind of half-expectation which 
Mrs . Gardiner had formed , of their being followed by a letter 
from him , had ended in nothing . Elizabeth had received none 
since her return that could come from Pemberley . 
 
The present unhappy state of the family rendered any other 
excuse for the lowness of her spirits unnecessary ; nothing ,  
therefore , could be fairly conjectured from THAT , though 
Elizabeth , who was by this time tolerably well acquainted with 
her own feelings , was perfectly aware that , had she known 
nothing of Darcy , she could have borne the dread of Lydia's 
infamy somewhat better . It would have spared her , she thought ,  
one sleepless night out of two . 
 
When Mr . Bennet arrived , he had all the appearance of his usual 
philosophic composure . He said as little as he had ever been in 
the habit of saying ; made no mention of the business that had 
taken him away , and it was some time before his daughters had 
courage to speak of it . 
 
It was not till the afternoon , when he had joined them at tea ,  
that Elizabeth ventured to introduce the subject ; and then , on 
her briefly expressing her sorrow for what he must have 
endured , he replied , `` Say nothing of that . Who should suffer 
but myself ? It has been my own doing , and I ought to feel it . ''  
 
`` You must not be too severe upon yourself , '' replied Elizabeth . 
 
`` You may well warn me against such an evil . Human nature is 
so prone to fall into it ! No , Lizzy , let me once in my life feel 
how much I have been to blame . I am not afraid of being 
overpowered by the impression . It will pass away soon enough . ''  
 
`` Do you suppose them to be in London ? ''  
 
`` Yes ; where else can they be so well concealed ? ''  
 
`` And Lydia used to want to go to London , '' added Kitty . 
 
`` She is happy then , '' said her father drily ; `` and her residence 
there will probably be of some duration . ''  
 
Then after a short silence he continued :  
 
`` Lizzy , I bear you no ill-will for being justified in your advice to 
me last May , which , considering the event , shows some 
greatness of mind . ''  
 
They were interrupted by Miss Bennet , who came to fetch her 
mother 's tea . 
 
`` This is a parade , '' he cried , `` which does one good ; it gives such 
an elegance to misfortune ! Another day I will do the same ; I 
will sit in my library , in my nightcap and powdering gown , and 
give as much trouble as I can ; or , perhaps , I may defer it till 
Kitty runs away . ''  
 
`` I am not going to run away , papa , '' said Kitty fretfully . `` If _I_ 
should ever go to Brighton , I would behave better than Lydia . ''  
 
`` YOU go to Brighton . I would not trust you so near it as 
Eastbourne for fifty pounds ! No , Kitty , I have at last learnt to 
be cautious , and you will feel the effects of it . No officer is ever 
to enter into my house again , nor even to pass through the 
village . Balls will be absolutely prohibited , unless you stand up 
with one of your sisters . And you are never to stir out of doors 
till you can prove that you have spent ten minutes of every day 
in a rational manner . ''  
 
Kitty , who took all these threats in a serious light , began to cry . 
 
`` Well , well , '' said he , `` do not make yourself unhappy . If you 
are a good girl for the next ten years , I will take you to a review 
at the end of them . ''  
 
 
 
Chapter 49 
 
Two days after Mr . Bennet 's return , as Jane and Elizabeth were 
walking together in the shrubbery behind the house , they saw 
the housekeeper coming towards them , and , concluding that she 
came to call them to their mother , went forward to meet her ;  
but , instead of the expected summons , when they approached 
her , she said to Miss Bennet , `` I beg your pardon , madam , for 
interrupting you , but I was in hopes you might have got some 
good news from town , so I took the liberty of coming to ask . ''  
 
`` What do you mean , Hill ? We have heard nothing from town . ''  
 
`` Dear madam , '' cried Mrs . Hill , in great astonishment , `` don't 
you know there is an express come for master from Mr . 
Gardiner ? He has been here this half-hour , and master has had 
a letter . ''  
 
Away ran the girls , too eager to get in to have time for speech . 
They ran through the vestibule into the breakfast-room ; from 
thence to the library ; their father was in neither ; and they were 
on the point of seeking him upstairs with their mother , when 
they were met by the butler , who said :  
 
`` If you are looking for my master , ma'am , he is walking 
towards the little copse . ''  
 
Upon this information , they instantly passed through the hall 
once more , and ran across the lawn after their father , who was 
deliberately pursuing his way towards a small wood on one side 
of the paddock . 
 
Jane , who was not so light nor so much in the habit of running 
as Elizabeth , soon lagged behind , while her sister , panting for 
breath , came up with him , and eagerly cried out :  
 
`` Oh , papa , what news -- what news ? Have you heard from my 
uncle ? ''  
 
`` Yes I have had a letter from him by express . ''  
 
`` Well , and what news does it bring -- good or bad ? ''  
 
`` What is there of good to be expected ? '' said he , taking the 
letter from his pocket . `` But perhaps you would like to read it . ''  
 
Elizabeth impatiently caught it from his hand . Jane now came 
up . 
 
`` Read it aloud , '' said their father , `` for I hardly know myself what 
it is about . ''  
 
`` Gracechurch Street , Monday , ''  
`` August 2 . 
`` MY DEAR BROTHER , --  
`` At last I am able to send you some tidings of my niece , and 
such as , upon the whole , I hope it will give you satisfaction . 
Soon after you left me on Saturday , I was fortunate enough to 
find out in what part of London they were . The particulars I 
reserve till we meet ; it is enough to know they are discovered . 
I have seen them both -- ``  
 
`` Then it is as I always hoped , '' cried Jane ; `` they are married ! ''  
 
Elizabeth read on :  
 
`` I have seen them both . They are not married , nor can I find 
there was any intention of being so ; but if you are willing to 
perform the engagements which I have ventured to make on 
your side , I hope it will not be long before they are . All that is 
required of you is , to assure to your daughter , by settlement , her 
equal share of the five thousand pounds secured among your 
children after the decease of yourself and my sister ; and ,  
moreover , to enter into an engagement of allowing her , during 
your life , one hundred pounds per annum . These are conditions 
which , considering everything , I had no hesitation in complying 
with , as far as I thought myself privileged , for you . I shall send 
this by express , that no time may be lost in bringing me your 
answer . You will easily comprehend , from these particulars ,  
that Mr . Wickham 's circumstances are not so hopeless as they 
are generally believed to be . The world has been deceived in 
that respect ; and I am happy to say there will be some little 
money , even when all his debts are discharged , to settle on my 
niece , in addition to her own fortune . If , as I conclude will be 
the case , you send me full powers to act in your name 
throughout the whole of this business , I will immediately give 
directions to Haggerston for preparing a proper settlement . 
There will not be the smallest occasion for your coming to town 
again ; therefore stay quiet at Longbourn , and depend on my 
diligence and care . Send back your answer as fast as you can ,  
and be careful to write explicitly . We have judged it best that 
my niece should be married from this house , of which I hope 
you will approve . She comes to us to-day . I shall write again as 
soon as anything more is determined on . Yours , etc . ,  
`` EDW . GARDINER . ''  
 
`` Is it possible ? '' cried Elizabeth , when she had finished . `` Can it 
be possible that he will marry her ? ''  
 
`` Wickham is not so undeserving , then , as we thought him , '' said 
her sister . `` My dear father , I congratulate you . ''  
 
`` And have you answered the letter ? '' cried Elizabeth . 
 
`` No ; but it must be done soon . ''  
 
Most earnestly did she then entreaty him to lose no more time 
before he wrote . 
 
`` Oh ! my dear father , '' she cried , `` come back and write 
immediately . Consider how important every moment is in such 
a case . ''  
 
`` Let me write for you , '' said Jane , `` if you dislike the trouble 
yourself . ''  
 
`` I dislike it very much , '' he replied ; `` but it must be done . ''  
 
And so saying , he turned back with them , and walked towards 
the house . 
 
`` And may I ask -- '' said Elizabeth ; `` but the terms , I suppose ,  
must be complied with . ''  
 
`` Complied with ! I am only ashamed of his asking so little . ''  
 
`` And they MUST marry ! Yet he is SUCH a man ! ''  
 
`` Yes , yes , they must marry . There is nothing else to be done . 
But there are two things that I want very much to know ; one is ,  
how much money your uncle has laid down to bring it about ;  
and the other , how am I ever to pay him . ''  
 
`` Money ! My uncle ! '' cried Jane , `` what do you mean , sir ? ''  
 
`` I mean , that no man in his senses would marry Lydia on so 
slight a temptation as one hundred a year during my life , and 
fifty after I am gone . ''  
 
`` That is very true , '' said Elizabeth ; `` though it had not occurred 
to me before . His debts to be discharged , and something still to 
remain ! Oh ! it must be my uncle 's doings ! Generous , good 
man , I am afraid he has distressed himself . A small sum could 
not do all this . ''  
 
`` No , '' said her father ; `` Wickham 's a fool if he takes her with a 
farthing less than ten thousand pounds . I should be sorry to 
think so ill of him , in the very beginning of our relationship . ''  
 
`` Ten thousand pounds ! Heaven forbid ! How is half such a 
sum to be repaid ? ''  
 
Mr . Bennet made no answer , and each of them , deep in thought ,  
continued silent till they reached the house . Their father then 
went on to the library to write , and the girls walked into the 
breakfast-room . 
 
`` And they are really to be married ! '' cried Elizabeth , as soon 
as they were by themselves . `` How strange this is ! And for 
THIS we are to be thankful . That they should marry , small as 
is their chance of happiness , and wretched as is his character ,  
we are forced to rejoice . Oh , Lydia ! ''  
 
`` I comfort myself with thinking , '' replied Jane , `` that he certainly 
would not marry Lydia if he had not a real regard for her . 
Though our kind uncle has done something towards clearing 
him , I can not believe that ten thousand pounds , or anything like 
it , has been advanced . He has children of his own , and may 
have more . How could he spare half ten thousand pounds ? ''  
 
`` If he were ever able to learn what Wickham 's debts have been , ''  
said Elizabeth , `` and how much is settled on his side on our 
sister , we shall exactly know what Mr . Gardiner has done for 
them , because Wickham has not sixpence of his own . The 
kindness of my uncle and aunt can never be requited . Their 
taking her home , and affording her their personal protection and 
countenance , is such a sacrifice to her advantage as years of 
gratitude can not enough acknowledge . By this time she is 
actually with them ! If such goodness does not make her 
miserable now , she will never deserve to be happy ! What a 
meeting for her , when she first sees my aunt ! ''  
 
`` We must endeavour to forget all that has passed on either side , ''  
said Jane : `` I hope and trust they will yet be happy . His 
consenting to marry her is a proof , I will believe , that he is come 
to a right way of thinking . Their mutual affection will steady 
them ; and I flatter myself they will settle so quietly , and live in 
so rational a manner , as may in time make their past imprudence 
forgotten . ''  
 
`` Their conduct has been such , '' replied Elizabeth , `` as neither 
you , nor I , nor anybody can ever forget . It is useless to talk of 
it . ''  
 
It now occurred to the girls that their mother was in all 
likelihood perfectly ignorant of what had happened . They went 
to the library , therefore , and asked their father whether he would 
not wish them to make it known to her . He was writing and ,  
without raising his head , coolly replied :  
 
`` Just as you please . ''  
 
`` May we take my uncle 's letter to read to her ? ''  
 
`` Take whatever you like , and get away . ''  
 
Elizabeth took the letter from his writing-table , and they went 
upstairs together . Mary and Kitty were both with Mrs . Bennet :  
one communication would , therefore , do for all . After a slight 
preparation for good news , the letter was read aloud . Mrs . 
Bennet could hardly contain herself . As soon as Jane had read 
Mr . Gardiner 's hope of Lydia 's being soon married , her joy 
burst forth , and every following sentence added to its 
exuberance . She was now in an irritation as violent from 
delight , as she had ever been fidgety from alarm and vexation . 
To know that her daughter would be married was enough . She 
was disturbed by no fear for her felicity , nor humbled by any 
remembrance of her misconduct . 
 
`` My dear , dear Lydia ! '' she cried . `` This is delightful indeed !  
She will be married ! I shall see her again ! She will be married at 
sixteen ! My good , kind brother ! I knew how it would be . I 
knew he would manage everything ! How I long to see her ! and 
to see dear Wickham too ! But the clothes , the wedding clothes !  
I will write to my sister Gardiner about them directly . Lizzy ,  
my dear , run down to your father , and ask him how much he will 
give her . Stay , stay , I will go myself . Ring the bell , Kitty , for 
Hill . I will put on my things in a moment . My dear , dear Lydia !  
How merry we shall be together when we meet ! ''  
 
Her eldest daughter endeavoured to give some relief to the 
violence of these transports , by leading her thoughts to the 
obligations which Mr . Gardiner 's behaviour laid them all under . 
 
`` For we must attribute this happy conclusion , '' she added , `` in a 
great measure to his kindness . We are persuaded that he has 
pledged himself to assist Mr . Wickham with money . ''  
 
`` Well , '' cried her mother , `` it is all very right ; who should do it 
but her own uncle ? If he had not had a family of his own , I and 
my children must have had all his money , you know ; and it is the 
first time we have ever had anything from him , except a few 
presents . Well ! I am so happy ! In a short time I shall have a 
daughter married . Mrs . Wickham ! How well it sounds ! And 
she was only sixteen last June . My dear Jane , I am in such a 
flutter , that I am sure I ca n't write ; so I will dictate , and you 
write for me . We will settle with your father about the money 
afterwards ; but the things should be ordered immediately . ''  
 
She was then proceeding to all the particulars of calico , muslin ,  
and cambric , and would shortly have dictated some very 
plentiful orders , had not Jane , though with some difficulty ,  
persuaded her to wait till her father was at leisure to be 
consulted . One day 's delay , she observed , would be of small 
importance ; and her mother was too happy to be quite so 
obstinate as usual . Other schemes , too , came into her head . 
 
`` I will go to Meryton , '' said she , `` as soon as I am dressed , and 
tell the good , good news to my sister Philips . And as I come 
back , I can call on Lady Lucas and Mrs . Long . Kitty , run down 
and order the carriage . An airing would do me a great deal of 
good , I am sure . Girls , can I do anything for you in Meryton ?  
Oh ! Here comes Hill ! My dear Hill , have you heard the good 
news ? Miss Lydia is going to be married ; and you shall all have 
a bowl of punch to make merry at her wedding . ''  
 
Mrs . Hill began instantly to express her joy . Elizabeth received 
her congratulations amongst the rest , and then , sick of this folly ,  
took refuge in her own room , that she might think with freedom . 
 
Poor Lydia 's situation must , at best , be bad enough ; but that it 
was no worse , she had need to be thankful . She felt it so ; and 
though , in looking forward , neither rational happiness nor 
worldly prosperity could be justly expected for her sister , in 
looking back to what they had feared , only two hours ago , she 
felt all the advantages of what they had gained . 
 
 
 
Chapter 50 
 
Mr . Bennet had very often wished before this period of his life 
that , instead of spending his whole income , he had laid by an 
annual sum for the better provision of his children , and of his 
wife , if she survived him . He now wished it more than ever . 
Had he done his duty in that respect , Lydia need not have been 
indebted to her uncle for whatever of honour or credit could 
now be purchased for her . The satisfaction of prevailing on one 
of the most worthless young men in Great Britain to be her 
husband might then have rested in its proper place . 
 
He was seriously concerned that a cause of so little advantage to 
anyone should be forwarded at the sole expense of his 
brother-in-law , and he was determined , if possible , to find out 
the extent of his assistance , and to discharge the obligation as 
soon as he could . 
 
When first Mr . Bennet had married , economy was held to be 
perfectly useless , for , of course , they were to have a son . The 
son was to join in cutting off the entail , as soon as he should be 
of age , and the widow and younger children would by that 
means be provided for . Five daughters successively entered the 
world , but yet the son was to come ; and Mrs . Bennet , for many 
years after Lydia 's birth , had been certain that he would . This 
event had at last been despaired of , but it was then too late to be 
saving . Mrs . Bennet had no turn for economy , and her 
husband 's love of independence had alone prevented their 
exceeding their income . 
 
Five thousand pounds was settled by marriage articles on Mrs . 
Bennet and the children . But in what proportions it should be 
divided amongst the latter depended on the will of the parents . 
This was one point , with regard to Lydia , at least , which was 
now to be settled , and Mr . Bennet could have no hesitation in 
acceding to the proposal before him . In terms of grateful 
acknowledgment for the kindness of his brother , though 
expressed most concisely , he then delivered on paper his perfect 
approbation of all that was done , and his willingness to fulfil the 
engagements that had been made for him . He had never before 
supposed that , could Wickham be prevailed on to marry his 
daughter , it would be done with so little inconvenience to 
himself as by the present arrangement . He would scarcely be 
ten pounds a year the loser by the hundred that was to be paid 
them ; for , what with her board and pocket allowance , and the 
continual presents in money which passed to her through her 
mother 's hands , Lydia 's expenses had been very little within 
that sum . 
 
That it would be done with such trifling exertion on his side ,  
too , was another very welcome surprise ; for his wish at present 
was to have as little trouble in the business as possible . When 
the first transports of rage which had produced his activity in 
seeking her were over , he naturally returned to all his former 
indolence . His letter was soon dispatched ; for , though dilatory 
in undertaking business , he was quick in its execution . He 
begged to know further particulars of what he was indebted to 
his brother , but was too angry with Lydia to send any message 
to her . 
 
The good news spread quickly through the house , and with 
proportionate speed through the neighbourhood . It was borne 
in the latter with decent philosophy . To be sure , it would have 
been more for the advantage of conversation had Miss Lydia 
Bennet come upon the town ; or , as the happiest alternative ,  
been secluded from the world , in some distant farmhouse . But 
there was much to be talked of in marrying her ; and the 
good-natured wishes for her well-doing which had proceeded 
before from all the spiteful old ladies in Meryton lost but a little 
of their spirit in this change of circumstances , because with such 
an husband her misery was considered certain . 
 
It was a fortnight since Mrs . Bennet had been downstairs ; but on 
this happy day she again took her seat at the head of her table ,  
and in spirits oppressively high . No sentiment of shame gave a 
damp to her triumph . The marriage of a daughter , which had 
been the first object of her wishes since Jane was sixteen , was 
now on the point of accomplishment , and her thoughts and her 
words ran wholly on those attendants of elegant nuptials , fine 
muslins , new carriages , and servants . She was busily searching 
through the neighbourhood for a proper situation for her 
daughter , and , without knowing of considering what their 
income might be , rejected many as deficient in size and 
importance . 
 
`` Haye Park might do , '' said she , `` if the Gouldings could quit it --  
or the great house at Stoke , if the drawing-room were larger ;  
but Ashworth is too far off ! I could not bear to have her ten 
miles from me ; and as for Pulvis Lodge , the attics are dreadful . ''  
 
Her husband allowed her to talk on without interruption while 
the servants remained . But when they had withdrawn , he said 
to her : `` Mrs . Bennet , before you take any or all of these houses 
for your son and daugher , let us come to a right understanding . 
Into ONE house in this neighbourhood they shall never have 
admittance . I will not encourage the impudence of either , by 
receiving them at Longbourn . ''  
 
A long dispute followed this declaration ; but Mr . Bennet was 
firm . It soon led to another ; and Mrs . Bennet found , with 
amazement and horror , that her husband would not advance a 
guinea to buy clothes for his daughter . He protested that she 
should receive from him no mark of affection whatever on the 
occasion . Mrs . Bennet could hardly comprehend it . That his 
anger could be carried to such a point of inconceivable 
resentment as to refuse his daughter a privilege without which 
her marriage would scarcely seem valid , exceeded all she could 
believe possible . She was more alive to the disgrace which her 
want of new clothes must reflect on her daugher 's nuptials , than 
to any sense of shame at her eloping and living with Wickham a 
fortnight before they took place . 
 
Elizabeth was now most heartily sorry that she had , from the 
distress of the moment , been led to make Mr . Darcy acquainted 
with with their fears for her sister ; for since her marriage would 
so shortly give the proper termination to the elopement , they 
might hope to conceal its unfavourable beginning from all those 
who were not immediately on the spot . 
 
She had no fear of its spreading farther through his means . 
There were few people on whose secrecy she would have more 
confidently depended ; but , at the same time , there was no one 
whose knowledge of a sister 's frailty would have mortified her 
so much -- not , however , from any fear of disadvantage from it 
individually to herself , for , at any rate , there seemed a gulf 
impassable between them . Had Lydia 's marriage been 
concluded on the most honourable terms , it was not to be 
supposed that Mr . Darcy would connect himself with a family 
where , to every other objection , would now be added an 
alliance and relationship of the nearest kind with a man whom 
he so justly scorned . 
 
> From such a connection she could not wonder that he would 
shrink . The wish of procuring her regard , which she had 
assured herself of his feeling in Derbyshire , could not in rational 
expectation survive such a blow as this . She was humbled , she 
was grieved ; she repented , though she hardly knew of what . 
She became jealous of his esteem , when she could no longer 
hope to be benefited by it . She wanted to hear of him , when 
there seemed the least chance of gaining intelligence . She was 
convinced that she could have been happy with him , when it 
was no longer likely they should meet . 
 
What a triumph for him , as she often thought , could he know 
that the proposals which she had proudly spurned only four 
months ago , would now have been most gladly and gratefully 
received ! He was as generous , she doubted not , as the most 
generous of his sex ; but while he was mortal , there must be a 
triumph . 
 
She began now to comprehend that he was exactly the man 
who , in disposition and talents , would most suit her . His 
understanding and temper , though unlike her own , would have 
answered all her wishes . It was an union that must have been to 
the advantage of both : by her ease and liveliness , his mind might 
have been softened , his manners improved ; and from his 
judgement , information , and knowledge of the world , she must 
have received benefit of greater importance . 
 
But no such happy marriage could now teach the admiring 
multitude what connubial felicity really was . An union of a 
different tendency , and precluding the possiblity of the other ,  
was soon to be formed in their family . 
 
How Wickham and Lydia were to be supported in tolerable 
independence , she could not imagine . But how little of 
permanent happiness could belong to a couple who were only 
brought together because their passions were stronger than their 
virtue , she could easily conjecture . 
 
Mr . Gardiner soon wrote again to his brother . To Mr . Bennet's 
acknowledgments he briefly replied , with assurance of his 
eagerness to promote the welfare of any of his family ; and 
concluded with entreaties that the subject might never be 
mentioned to him again . The principal purport of his letter was 
to inform them that Mr . Wickham had resolved on quitting the 
militia . 
 
`` It was greatly my wish that he should do so , '' he added , `` as 
soon as his marriage was fixed on . And I think you will agree 
with me , in considering the removal from that corps as highly 
advisable , both on his account and my niece's . It is Mr . 
Wickham 's intention to go into the regulars ; and among his 
former friends , there are still some who are able and willing to 
assist him in the army . He has the promise of an ensigncy in 
General -- -- 's regiment , now quartered in the North . It is an 
advantage to have it so far from this part of the kingdom . He 
promises fairly ; and I hope among different people , where they 
may each have a character to preserve , they will both be more 
prudent . I have written to Colonel Forster , to inform him of our 
present arrangements , and to request that he will satisfy the 
various creditors of Mr . Wickham in and near Brighton , with 
assurances of speedy payment , for which I have pledged myself . 
And will you give yourself the trouble of carrying similar 
assurances to his creditors in Meryton , of whom I shall subjoin a 
list according to his information ? He has given in all his debts ; I 
hope at least he has not deceived us . Haggerston has our 
directions , and all will be completed in a week . They will then 
join his regiment , unless they are first invited to Longbourn ; and 
I understand from Mrs . Gardiner , that my niece is very desirous 
of seeing you all before she leaves the South . She is well , and 
begs to be dutifully remembered to you and your mother . --  
Yours , etc . ,  
`` E . GARDINER . ''  
 
Mr . Bennet and his daughters saw all the advantages of 
Wickham 's removal from the -- -- shire as clearly as Mr . 
Gardiner could do . But Mrs . Bennet was not so well pleased 
with it . Lydia 's being settled in the North , just when she had 
expected most pleasure and pride in her company , for she had 
by no means given up her plan of their residing in Hertfordshire ,  
was a severe disappointment ; and , besides , it was such a pity 
that Lydia should be taken from a regiment where she was 
acquainted with everybody , and had so many favourites . 
 
`` She is so fond of Mrs . Forster , `` said she , `` it will be quite 
shocking to send her away ! And there are several of the young 
men , too , that she likes very much . The officers may not be so 
pleasant in General -- -- 's regiment . ''  
 
His daughter 's request , for such it might be considered , of being 
admitted into her family again before she set off for the North ,  
received at first an absolute negative . But Jane and Elizabeth ,  
who agreed in wishing , for the sake of their sister 's feelings and 
consequence , that she should be noticed on her marriage by her 
parents , urged him so earnestly yet so rationally and so mildly ,  
to receive her and her husband at Longbourn , as soon as they 
were married , that he was prevailed on to think as they thought ,  
and act as they wished . And their mother had the satisfaction 
of knowing that she would be able to show her married 
daughter in the neighbourhood before she was banished to the 
North . When Mr . Bennet wrote again to his brother , therefore ,  
he sent his permission for them to come ; and it was settled , that 
as soon as the ceremony was over , they should proceed to 
Longbourn . Elizabeth was surprised , however , that Wickham 
should consent to such a scheme , and had she consulted only 
her own inclination , any meeting with him would have been the 
last object of her wishes .