diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/pom.xml b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/pom.xml index f125a2543..24f8ac0ad 100644 --- a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/pom.xml +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/pom.xml @@ -48,11 +48,6 @@ true - - com.paiondata.athena - athena-example-books - - org.springframework.boot spring-boot-starter-test @@ -76,5 +71,35 @@ junit-platform-engine 1.10.2 + + + + org.apache.commons + commons-dbcp2 + + + + org.apache.derby + derby + test + + + org.flywaydb + flyway-core + test + + + + + org.springframework.boot + spring-boot-starter-webflux + 3.2.5 + + + + com.fasterxml.jackson.core + jackson-databind + 2.17.0 + diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/config/MetaConfig.java b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/config/MetaConfig.java index bd1ea61c8..eb4c6b14b 100644 --- a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/config/MetaConfig.java +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/config/MetaConfig.java @@ -1,28 +1,25 @@ /* + * Copyright Paion Data * - * * Copyright Paion Data - * * - * * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); - * * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. - * * You may obtain a copy of the License at - * * - * * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 - * * - * * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software - * * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, - * * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. - * * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and - * * limitations under the License. + * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); + * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. + * You may obtain a copy of the License at * + * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 + * + * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software + * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, + * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. + * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and + * limitations under the License. */ - package com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.config; -import com.paiondata.athena.example.books.application.SQLMutationDataFetcher; -import com.paiondata.athena.example.books.application.SQLQueryDataFetcher; import com.paiondata.athena.metadata.MetaData; import com.paiondata.athena.metastore.MetaStore; import com.paiondata.athena.metastore.graphql.GraphQLMetaStore; +import com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.datafetcher.SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher; +import com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.datafetcher.SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher; import com.paiondata.athena.web.graphql.JacksonParser; import com.paiondata.athena.web.graphql.JsonDocumentParser; @@ -40,18 +37,18 @@ @Configuration public class MetaConfig { - @Value("athena.spring.datasource.username") - private static String USERNAME; - @Value("athena.spring.datasource.password") - private static String PASSWORD; - @Value("athena.spring.datasource.url") - private static String URL; - @Value("athena.spring.datasource.driverclassname") - private static String DRIVER_CLASS_NAME; + @Value("${spring.datasource.username}") + private String USERNAME; + @Value("${spring.datasource.password}") + private String PASSWORD; + @Value("${spring.datasource.url}") + private String URL; + @Value("${spring.datasource.driver-class-name}") + private String DRIVER_CLASS_NAME; @Bean public JsonDocumentParser jsonDocumentParser() { - return new JacksonParser(); + return JacksonParser.getInstance(); } @Bean @@ -64,12 +61,12 @@ public MetaStore graphQLMetaStore( @Bean public DataFetcher queryDataFetcher(@NotNull final DataSource dataSource) { - return new SQLQueryDataFetcher(dataSource); + return new SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher(dataSource); } @Bean public DataFetcher mutationDataFetcher(@NotNull final DataSource dataSource) { - return new SQLMutationDataFetcher(dataSource); + return new SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher(dataSource); } @Bean diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/controller/FileController.java b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/controller/FileController.java index 62e05a3c9..78aec234f 100644 --- a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/controller/FileController.java +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/controller/FileController.java @@ -23,7 +23,6 @@ import org.slf4j.Logger; import org.slf4j.LoggerFactory; import org.springframework.beans.factory.annotation.Autowired; -import org.springframework.beans.factory.annotation.Qualifier; import org.springframework.http.HttpStatus; import org.springframework.http.MediaType; import org.springframework.web.bind.annotation.GetMapping; @@ -48,11 +47,9 @@ public class FileController { @Autowired - @Qualifier("aliOssFileStore") private FileStore fileStore; @Autowired - @Qualifier("graphQLMetaStore") private MetaStore metaStore; private static final String FILE_ID = "fileId"; diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/controller/MetaController.java b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/controller/MetaController.java index 664d0631f..99a649a57 100644 --- a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/controller/MetaController.java +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/controller/MetaController.java @@ -1,21 +1,18 @@ /* + * Copyright Paion Data * - * * Copyright Paion Data - * * - * * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); - * * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. - * * You may obtain a copy of the License at - * * - * * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 - * * - * * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software - * * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, - * * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. - * * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and - * * limitations under the License. + * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); + * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. + * You may obtain a copy of the License at * + * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 + * + * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software + * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, + * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. + * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and + * limitations under the License. */ - package com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.controller; import static com.paiondata.athena.config.ErrorMessageFormat.INVALID_GRAPHQL_REQUEST; @@ -26,7 +23,6 @@ import org.slf4j.Logger; import org.slf4j.LoggerFactory; import org.springframework.beans.factory.annotation.Autowired; -import org.springframework.beans.factory.annotation.Qualifier; import org.springframework.http.MediaType; import org.springframework.web.bind.annotation.GetMapping; import org.springframework.web.bind.annotation.PostMapping; @@ -46,7 +42,6 @@ public class MetaController { private static final Logger LOG = LoggerFactory.getLogger(MetaController.class); @Autowired - @Qualifier("graphQLMetaStore") private MetaStore metaStore; @Autowired diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher.java b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher.java new file mode 100644 index 000000000..c5e93524e --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher.java @@ -0,0 +1,102 @@ +/* + * Copyright Paion Data + * + * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); + * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. + * You may obtain a copy of the License at + * + * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 + * + * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software + * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, + * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. + * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and + * limitations under the License. + */ +package com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.datafetcher; + +import com.paiondata.athena.config.ErrorMessageFormat; +import com.paiondata.athena.config.SystemConfig; +import com.paiondata.athena.config.SystemConfigFactory; +import com.paiondata.athena.metadata.MetaData; + +import org.slf4j.Logger; +import org.slf4j.LoggerFactory; + +import graphql.schema.DataFetcher; +import graphql.schema.DataFetchingEnvironment; +import jakarta.inject.Inject; +import jakarta.validation.constraints.NotNull; + +import java.sql.Connection; +import java.sql.PreparedStatement; +import java.util.AbstractMap; +import java.util.Map; +import java.util.stream.Collectors; +import java.util.stream.Stream; + +import javax.sql.DataSource; + +/** + * {@link SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher} saves file meta data into a SQL data storage via a {@link DataSource}. + */ +public class SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher implements DataFetcher { + + private static final Logger LOG = LoggerFactory.getLogger(SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher.class); + private static final SystemConfig SYSTEM_CONFIG = SystemConfigFactory.getInstance(); + private static final String TABLE_NAME_KEY = "table_name"; + private static final String TABLE_NAME = SYSTEM_CONFIG.getStringProperty( + SYSTEM_CONFIG.getPackageVariableName(TABLE_NAME_KEY) + ).orElseThrow(() -> { + LOG.error(ErrorMessageFormat.CONFIG_NOT_FOUND.logFormat(TABLE_NAME_KEY)); + return new IllegalStateException(ErrorMessageFormat.CONFIG_NOT_FOUND.format()); + }); + + private final DataSource dataSource; + + private static final String FILE_ID = "fileId"; + + private static final String META_DATA_PERSIST_QUERY_TEMPLATE = + "INSERT INTO " + TABLE_NAME + " (file_id, file_name, file_type) VALUES (?, ?, ?)"; + + /** + * Constructor. + * + * @param dataSource a client object against a SQL database to save meta data into + * + * @throws NullPointerException if {@code dataSource} is {@code null} + */ + @Inject + public SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher(final DataSource dataSource) { + this.dataSource = dataSource; + } + + @Override + public MetaData get(final DataFetchingEnvironment dataFetchingEnvironment) throws Exception { + final String fileId = dataFetchingEnvironment.getArgument(FILE_ID); + final String fileName = dataFetchingEnvironment.getArgument(MetaData.FILE_NAME); + final String fileType = dataFetchingEnvironment.getArgument(MetaData.FILE_TYPE); + + try ( + Connection connection = getDataSource().getConnection(); + PreparedStatement statement = connection.prepareStatement(META_DATA_PERSIST_QUERY_TEMPLATE) + ) { + statement.setString(1, fileId); + statement.setString(2, fileName); + statement.setString(3, fileType); + statement.executeUpdate(); + } + + return MetaData.of( + Stream.of( + new AbstractMap.SimpleImmutableEntry<>(MetaData.FILE_NAME, fileName), + new AbstractMap.SimpleImmutableEntry<>(MetaData.FILE_TYPE, fileType) + ).collect(Collectors.toMap(Map.Entry::getKey, Map.Entry::getValue)) + ); + } + + @NotNull + private DataSource getDataSource() { + return dataSource; + } +} diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher.java b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher.java new file mode 100644 index 000000000..7d98e2e09 --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/main/java/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher.java @@ -0,0 +1,119 @@ +/* + * Copyright Paion Data + * + * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); + * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. + * You may obtain a copy of the License at + * + * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 + * + * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software + * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, + * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. + * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and + * limitations under the License. + */ +package com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.datafetcher; + +import static com.paiondata.athena.config.ErrorMessageFormat.META_DATA_NOT_FOUND; + +import com.paiondata.athena.config.ErrorMessageFormat; +import com.paiondata.athena.config.SystemConfig; +import com.paiondata.athena.config.SystemConfigFactory; +import com.paiondata.athena.metadata.MetaData; + +import org.slf4j.Logger; +import org.slf4j.LoggerFactory; + +import graphql.schema.DataFetcher; +import graphql.schema.DataFetchingEnvironment; +import jakarta.inject.Inject; +import jakarta.validation.constraints.NotNull; + +import java.sql.Connection; +import java.sql.PreparedStatement; +import java.sql.ResultSet; +import java.util.AbstractMap; +import java.util.Map; +import java.util.Objects; +import java.util.stream.Collectors; +import java.util.stream.Stream; + +import javax.sql.DataSource; + +/** + * {@link SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher} fetches file meta data from a SQL data storage via a {@link DataSource}. + */ +public class SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher implements DataFetcher { + + private static final Logger LOG = LoggerFactory.getLogger(SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher.class); + private static final SystemConfig SYSTEM_CONFIG = SystemConfigFactory.getInstance(); + private static final String TABLE_NAME_KEY = "table_name"; + private static final String TABLE_NAME = SYSTEM_CONFIG.getStringProperty( + SYSTEM_CONFIG.getPackageVariableName(TABLE_NAME_KEY) + ).orElseThrow(() -> { + LOG.error(ErrorMessageFormat.CONFIG_NOT_FOUND.logFormat(TABLE_NAME_KEY)); + return new IllegalStateException(ErrorMessageFormat.CONFIG_NOT_FOUND.format()); + }); + + private final DataSource dataSource; + + private static final String FILE_ID = "fileId"; + private static final String FILE_NAME_COLUMN = "file_name"; + private static final String FILE_TYPE_COLUMN = "file_type"; + private static final String META_DATA_FETCH_QUERY_TEMPLATE + = "SELECT file_name, file_type FROM " + TABLE_NAME + " WHERE file_id = ?"; + + /** + * Constructor. + * + * @param dataSource a client object against a SQL database to fetch meta data from + * + * @throws NullPointerException if {@code dataSource} is {@code null} + */ + @Inject + public SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher(final @NotNull DataSource dataSource) { + this.dataSource = Objects.requireNonNull(dataSource); + } + + @Override + public MetaData get(final DataFetchingEnvironment dataFetchingEnvironment) throws Exception { + final String fileId = dataFetchingEnvironment.getArgument(FILE_ID); + final ResultSet resultSet; + try ( + Connection connection = getDataSource().getConnection(); + PreparedStatement statement = connection.prepareStatement(META_DATA_FETCH_QUERY_TEMPLATE) + ) { + statement.setString(1, fileId); + resultSet = statement.executeQuery(); + + if (!resultSet.next()) { + resultSet.close(); + LOG.error(META_DATA_NOT_FOUND.logFormat(fileId)); + throw new IllegalStateException(META_DATA_NOT_FOUND.format(fileId)); + } + + final MetaData metaData = MetaData.of( + Stream.of( + new AbstractMap.SimpleImmutableEntry<>( + MetaData.FILE_NAME, + resultSet.getString(FILE_NAME_COLUMN) + ), + new AbstractMap.SimpleImmutableEntry<>( + MetaData.FILE_TYPE, + resultSet.getString(FILE_TYPE_COLUMN) + ) + ).collect(Collectors.toMap(Map.Entry::getKey, Map.Entry::getValue)) + ); + + resultSet.close(); + + return metaData; + } + } + + @NotNull + private DataSource getDataSource() { + return dataSource; + } +} diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/config/MetaConfigSpec.groovy b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/config/MetaConfigSpec.groovy new file mode 100644 index 000000000..4378bcb79 --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/config/MetaConfigSpec.groovy @@ -0,0 +1,51 @@ +/* + * Copyright Paion Data + * + * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); + * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. + * You may obtain a copy of the License at + * + * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 + * + * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software + * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, + * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. + * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and + * limitations under the License. + */ +package com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.config + +import com.paiondata.athena.config.SystemConfig +import com.paiondata.athena.config.SystemConfigFactory + +import org.springframework.boot.autoconfigure.AutoConfigurations +import org.springframework.boot.test.context.runner.ApplicationContextRunner + +import spock.lang.Specification +import spock.lang.Unroll + +class MetaConfigSpec extends Specification{ + + static final String TABLE_NAME_KEY = "table_name" + static final String TABLE_NAME_VALUE = "test_table" + static final SystemConfig SYSTEM_CONFIG = SystemConfigFactory.getInstance() + + def 'Initialize the required beans'() { + given: + SYSTEM_CONFIG.setProperty(SYSTEM_CONFIG.getPackageVariableName(TABLE_NAME_KEY), TABLE_NAME_VALUE) + ApplicationContextRunner contextRunner = new ApplicationContextRunner() + .withConfiguration(AutoConfigurations.of(MetaConfig.class)) + + expect: + contextRunner + .run {context -> { + expectedInitializedBeans.each { it -> context.containsBean(it) } + expectedUninitializedBeans.each { it -> !context.containsBean(it) } + }} + + where: + expectedInitializedBeans | expectedUninitializedBeans + ["graphQLMetaStore", "queryDataFetcher", "mutationDataFetcher", "dataSource"] | [] + } + +} diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/controller/ControllerItTest.groovy b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/controller/ControllerItTest.groovy new file mode 100644 index 000000000..4cc991a1c --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/controller/ControllerItTest.groovy @@ -0,0 +1,72 @@ +/* + * Copyright Paion Data + * + * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); + * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. + * You may obtain a copy of the License at + * + * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 + * + * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software + * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, + * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. + * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and + * limitations under the License. + */ +package com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.controller + +import org.springframework.boot.test.context.SpringBootTest +import org.springframework.boot.test.web.server.LocalServerPort +import org.springframework.core.io.buffer.DataBuffer +import org.springframework.core.io.buffer.DefaultDataBufferFactory +import org.springframework.http.MediaType +import org.springframework.http.client.MultipartBodyBuilder +import org.springframework.test.web.reactive.server.WebTestClient +import org.springframework.web.reactive.function.BodyInserters + +import reactor.core.publisher.Flux +import spock.lang.Shared +import spock.lang.Specification + +@SpringBootTest(webEnvironment = SpringBootTest.WebEnvironment.RANDOM_PORT) +class ControllerItTest extends Specification{ + @Shared + @LocalServerPort + int port + + WebTestClient webTestClient + + def setup() { + webTestClient = WebTestClient.bindToServer() + .baseUrl("http://localhost:" + port) + .build() + } + + def "test upload file"() { + given: + def filePath = 'src/test/resources/pride-and-prejudice-by-jane-austen.txt' + def file = new File(filePath) + def fileContent = file.bytes + + def factory = new DefaultDataBufferFactory() + + Flux dataBufferFlux = Flux.just(factory.wrap(fileContent)); + + // 创建一个MultipartBodyBuilder + MultipartBodyBuilder builder = new MultipartBodyBuilder() + builder.part("file", dataBufferFlux) + .filename("pride-and-prejudice-by-jane-austen.txt") + .contentType(MediaType.TEXT_PLAIN) + + when: + def response = webTestClient.post() + .uri("/file/upload") + .contentType(MediaType.MULTIPART_FORM_DATA) + .body(BodyInserters.fromMultipartData(builder.build())) + .exchange() + + + then: + response.expectStatus().isCreated() + } +} diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/database/DerbyDataSourceProvider.java b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/database/DerbyDataSourceProvider.java new file mode 100644 index 000000000..7cd10d3a7 --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/database/DerbyDataSourceProvider.java @@ -0,0 +1,43 @@ +/* + * Copyright Paion Data + * + * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); + * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. + * You may obtain a copy of the License at + * + * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 + * + * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software + * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, + * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. + * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and + * limitations under the License. + */ + +package com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.database; + +import org.apache.commons.dbcp2.BasicDataSource; +import org.springframework.stereotype.Component; + +import jakarta.inject.Provider; +import jakarta.validation.constraints.NotNull; + +import javax.sql.DataSource; + +@Component +public class DerbyDataSourceProvider implements Provider { + private static final DataSource DATA_SOURCE = initDataSource(); + + @NotNull + private static DataSource initDataSource() { + final BasicDataSource basicDataSource = new BasicDataSource(); + basicDataSource.setDriverClassName("org.apache.derby.jdbc.EmbeddedDriver"); + basicDataSource.setUrl("jdbc:derby:memory:Athena;create=true"); + return basicDataSource; + } + + @Override + public DataSource get() { + return DATA_SOURCE; + } +} diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/database/SQLDBResourceManager.groovy b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/database/SQLDBResourceManager.groovy new file mode 100644 index 000000000..2d1eb1733 --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/database/SQLDBResourceManager.groovy @@ -0,0 +1,60 @@ +/* + * Copyright Paion Data + * + * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); + * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. + * You may obtain a copy of the License at + * + * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 + * + * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software + * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, + * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. + * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and + * limitations under the License. + */ +package com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.database + +import org.flywaydb.core.Flyway + +/** + * A SQL DB resource manager that maintains DB-related configs of integration tests. It also offers capability to load + * testing data into a Derby testing DB. + */ +class SQLDBResourceManager { + + private static final Flyway MIGRATOR = buildMigrator(); + + /** + * Migrates database schema to local testing database. + */ + static void migrateDatabase() { + cleanupDatabase() + MIGRATOR.migrate() + } + + /** + * Removes schema + */ + static void cleanupDatabase() { + MIGRATOR.clean() + } + + + /** + * Instantiate and returns an instance of Flyway migration instance that loads testing data into the local Derby + * + * @return the Flyway migration instance + */ + @SuppressWarnings('GroovyAccessibility') + private static Flyway buildMigrator() { + Flyway flyway = new Flyway() + + flyway.setDataSource(new DerbyDataSourceProvider().get()) + flyway.setValidateOnMigrate(true) + flyway.setBaselineOnMigrate(true) + flyway.setLocations("filesystem:./src/test/resources/db/migration/test_data") + + return flyway + } +} diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLMutationDataFetcherSpec.groovy b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLMutationDataFetcherSpec.groovy new file mode 100644 index 000000000..56c177216 --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLMutationDataFetcherSpec.groovy @@ -0,0 +1,76 @@ +/* + * Copyright Paion Data + * + * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); + * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. + * You may obtain a copy of the License at + * + * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 + * + * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software + * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, + * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. + * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and + * limitations under the License. + */ +package com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.datafetcher + +import com.paiondata.athena.config.SystemConfig +import com.paiondata.athena.config.SystemConfigFactory +import com.paiondata.athena.metadata.MetaData + +import graphql.schema.DataFetchingEnvironment +import spock.lang.Specification +import spock.lang.Subject + +import java.sql.Connection +import java.sql.PreparedStatement + +import javax.sql.DataSource + +class SpringSQLMutationDataFetcherSpec extends Specification { + static final String TABLE_NAME_KEY = "table_name" + static final String TABLE_NAME_VALUE = "test_table" + static final SystemConfig SYSTEM_CONFIG = SystemConfigFactory.getInstance() + + static final String FILE_NAME = "file-test.pdf" + static final String FILE_TYPE = "PDF" + static final String FILE_ID = "ajie2nnl97" + + @Subject + SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher dataFetcher + + DataFetchingEnvironment dataFetchingEnvironment + + @SuppressWarnings('GroovyAccessibility') + def setup() { + SYSTEM_CONFIG.setProperty(SYSTEM_CONFIG.getPackageVariableName(TABLE_NAME_KEY), TABLE_NAME_VALUE) + + dataFetchingEnvironment = Mock(DataFetchingEnvironment) { + getArgument(SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher.FILE_ID) >> FILE_ID + getArgument(MetaData.FILE_NAME) >> FILE_NAME + getArgument(MetaData.FILE_TYPE) >> FILE_TYPE + } + } + + @SuppressWarnings('GroovyAccessibility') + def "Happy path meta data persistence causes DataSource to execute save query"() { + setup: "instruct data source to fake a save setup" + + PreparedStatement preparedStatement = Mock(PreparedStatement) + Connection connection = Mock(Connection) { + prepareStatement(SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher.META_DATA_PERSIST_QUERY_TEMPLATE) >> preparedStatement + } + dataFetcher = new SpringSQLMutationDataFetcher( + Mock(DataSource) { + getConnection() >> connection + } + ) + + when: "meta data is being saved" + dataFetcher.get(dataFetchingEnvironment) + + then: "a SQL save query is sent" + 1 * preparedStatement.executeUpdate() + } +} diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLQueryDataFetcherSpec.groovy b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLQueryDataFetcherSpec.groovy new file mode 100644 index 000000000..7f6f419ea --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/datafetcher/SpringSQLQueryDataFetcherSpec.groovy @@ -0,0 +1,115 @@ +/* + * Copyright Paion Data + * + * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); + * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. + * You may obtain a copy of the License at + * + * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 + * + * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software + * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, + * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. + * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and + * limitations under the License. + */ + +package com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.datafetcher + +import com.paiondata.athena.config.SystemConfig +import com.paiondata.athena.config.SystemConfigFactory +import com.paiondata.athena.metadata.FileType +import com.paiondata.athena.metadata.MetaData + +import graphql.schema.DataFetchingEnvironment +import spock.lang.Specification +import spock.lang.Subject + +import java.sql.Connection +import java.sql.PreparedStatement +import java.sql.ResultSet + +import javax.sql.DataSource + +class SpringSQLQueryDataFetcherSpec extends Specification { + static final String TABLE_NAME_KEY = "table_name" + static final String TABLE_NAME_VALUE = "test_table" + static final SystemConfig SYSTEM_CONFIG = SystemConfigFactory.getInstance() + + static final String FILE_NAME = "file-test.pdf" + static final String FILE_TYPE = "PDF" + static final String UNUSED_FILE_ID = "ajie2nnl97" + + @Subject + SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher dataFetcher + + DataFetchingEnvironment dataFetchingEnvironment + + @SuppressWarnings('GroovyAccessibility') + def setup() { + SYSTEM_CONFIG.setProperty(SYSTEM_CONFIG.getPackageVariableName(TABLE_NAME_KEY), TABLE_NAME_VALUE) + + dataFetchingEnvironment = Mock(DataFetchingEnvironment) { + getArgument(SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher.FILE_ID) >> UNUSED_FILE_ID + } + } + + @SuppressWarnings('GroovyAccessibility') + def "Happy path meta data fetching retrieves data in two-column format from DB"() { + setup: "instruct datasource to return a valid one-row two-column data" + ResultSet resultSet = Mock(ResultSet) { + next() >> true + getString(SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher.FILE_NAME_COLUMN) >> FILE_NAME + getString(SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher.FILE_TYPE_COLUMN) >> FILE_TYPE + } + PreparedStatement preparedStatement = Mock(PreparedStatement) {executeQuery() >> resultSet } + Connection connection = Mock(Connection) { + prepareStatement(SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher.META_DATA_FETCH_QUERY_TEMPLATE) >> preparedStatement + } + dataFetcher = new SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher( + Mock(DataSource) { + getConnection() >> connection + } + ) + + when: "meta data is being fetched from datasource" + MetaData metaData = dataFetcher.get(dataFetchingEnvironment) + + then: "meta data attributes got returned in db column results and are used to construct the metadata object" + metaData.getFileName() == FILE_NAME + metaData.getFileType() == FileType.PDF + + and: "resources have been released after db query" + 1 * resultSet.close() + 1 * connection.close() + 1 * preparedStatement.close() + } + + def "When a file ID is not associated with any metadata, runtime exception is thrown"() { + setup: "instruct datasource to return empty data" + ResultSet resultSet = Mock(ResultSet) { + next() >> false + } + PreparedStatement preparedStatement = Mock(PreparedStatement) {executeQuery() >> resultSet } + Connection connection = Mock(Connection) { + prepareStatement(SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher.META_DATA_FETCH_QUERY_TEMPLATE) >> preparedStatement + } + dataFetcher = new SpringSQLQueryDataFetcher( + Mock(DataSource) { + getConnection() >> connection + } + ) + + when: "meta data is being fetched from datasource" + dataFetcher.get(dataFetchingEnvironment) + + then: "IllegalStateException is thrown with message" + Exception exception = thrown(IllegalStateException) + exception.message == "No meta data found for file ID '${UNUSED_FILE_ID}'" + + and: "resources have been released after db query anyway" + 1 * resultSet.close() + 1 * connection.close() + 1 * preparedStatement.close() + } +} diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/filestore/TestFileStore.java b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/filestore/TestFileStore.java new file mode 100644 index 000000000..9459e543e --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/groovy/com/paiondata/athena/spring/boot/autoconfigure/filestore/TestFileStore.java @@ -0,0 +1,57 @@ +/* + * Copyright Paion Data + * + * Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); + * you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. + * You may obtain a copy of the License at + * + * http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 + * + * Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software + * distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, + * WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. + * See the License for the specific language governing permissions and + * limitations under the License. + */ + +package com.paiondata.athena.spring.boot.autoconfigure.filestore; + +import com.paiondata.athena.file.File; +import com.paiondata.athena.file.identifier.FileIdGenerator; +import com.paiondata.athena.filestore.FileStore; + +import org.springframework.beans.factory.annotation.Autowired; +import org.springframework.stereotype.Component; + +import java.io.InputStream; +import java.util.HashMap; +import java.util.Map; +import java.util.Objects; + +@Component +public class TestFileStore implements FileStore { + + private final Map fileMap = new HashMap<>(); + + @Autowired + private FileIdGenerator fileIdGenerator; + + @Override + public String upload(final File file) { + Objects.requireNonNull(file); + + final String fileId = fileIdGenerator.apply(file); + fileMap.put(fileId, file); + + return fileId; + } + + @Override + public InputStream download(final String fileId) { + Objects.requireNonNull(fileId); + + final File file = (File) fileMap.get(fileId); + + return file.getFileContent(); + } +} diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/resources/application.yml b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/resources/application.yml new file mode 100644 index 000000000..925a2737e --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/resources/application.yml @@ -0,0 +1,8 @@ +spring: + datasource: + root: "root" + password: "root" + url: "jdbc:mysql://db:3306/Athena?autoReconnect=true&useSSL=false" + driver-class-name: "com.mysql.jdbc.Driver" + +athena: diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/resources/db/migration/test_data/test_data.sql b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/resources/db/migration/test_data/test_data.sql new file mode 100644 index 000000000..2ab5ba877 --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/resources/db/migration/test_data/test_data.sql @@ -0,0 +1,27 @@ +-- Copyright Paion Data +-- +-- Licensed under the Apache License, Version 2.0 (the "License"); +-- you may not use this file except in compliance with the License. +-- You may obtain a copy of the License at +-- +-- http://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0 +-- +-- Unless required by applicable law or agreed to in writing, software +-- distributed under the License is distributed on an "AS IS" BASIS, +-- WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF ANY KIND, either express or implied. +-- See the License for the specific language governing permissions and +-- limitations under the License. + +-- Define Schemas +CREATE TABLE TEST_META_DATA ( + id BIGINT NOT NULL generated always as identity ( start with 1, increment by 1 ), + file_id VARCHAR(255) NOT NULL, + file_name VARCHAR(255) NOT NULL, + file_type VARCHAR(8) NOT NULL, + PRIMARY KEY (id) +); + +-- Predefined test data +INSERT INTO BOOK_META_DATA (file_id, file_name, file_type) VALUES ('1', 'test1', 'PDF'); +INSERT INTO BOOK_META_DATA (file_id, file_name, file_type) VALUES ('2', 'test2', 'PDF'); +INSERT INTO BOOK_META_DATA (file_id, file_name, file_type) VALUES ('3', 'test3', 'PDF'); diff --git a/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/resources/pride-and-prejudice-by-jane-austen.txt b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/resources/pride-and-prejudice-by-jane-austen.txt new file mode 100644 index 000000000..c3c09628a --- /dev/null +++ b/athena-spring/athena-spring-boot-autoconfigure/src/test/resources/pride-and-prejudice-by-jane-austen.txt @@ -0,0 +1,14579 @@ +The Project Gutenberg eBook of Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and +most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions +whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms +of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at +www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you +will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before +using this eBook. + +Title: Pride and Prejudice + +Author: Jane Austen + +Release Date: June, 1998 [eBook #1342] +[Most recently updated: August 23, 2021] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +Produced by: Anonymous Volunteers and David Widger + +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PRIDE AND PREJUDICE *** + + + + +THERE IS AN ILLUSTRATED EDITION OF THIS TITLE WHICH MAY VIEWED AT EBOOK +[# 42671 ] + +cover + + + + +Pride and Prejudice + +By Jane Austen + +CONTENTS + + Chapter 1 + + Chapter 2 + + Chapter 3 + + Chapter 4 + + Chapter 5 + + Chapter 6 + + Chapter 7 + + Chapter 8 + + Chapter 9 + + Chapter 10 + + Chapter 11 + + Chapter 12 + + Chapter 13 + + Chapter 14 + + Chapter 15 + + Chapter 16 + + Chapter 17 + + Chapter 18 + + Chapter 19 + + Chapter 20 + + Chapter 21 + + Chapter 22 + + Chapter 23 + + Chapter 24 + + Chapter 25 + + Chapter 26 + + Chapter 27 + + Chapter 28 + + Chapter 29 + + Chapter 30 + + Chapter 31 + + Chapter 32 + + Chapter 33 + + Chapter 34 + + Chapter 35 + + Chapter 36 + + Chapter 37 + + Chapter 38 + + Chapter 39 + + Chapter 40 + + Chapter 41 + + Chapter 42 + + Chapter 43 + + Chapter 44 + + Chapter 45 + + Chapter 46 + + Chapter 47 + + Chapter 48 + + Chapter 49 + + Chapter 50 + + Chapter 51 + + Chapter 52 + + Chapter 53 + + Chapter 54 + + Chapter 55 + + Chapter 56 + + Chapter 57 + + Chapter 58 + + Chapter 59 + + Chapter 60 + + Chapter 61 + + + + +Chapter 1 + + It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in + possession of a good 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 as the rightful property of some one 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 not you 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 might 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 on 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 twenty years at least.” + + “Ah, you do not know what I suffer.” + + “But I hope you will get over it, and live to see many young men + of four thousand a year come into the neighbourhood.” + + “It will be no use to us, if twenty such should come, since you + will not visit them.” + + “Depend upon it, my dear, that when there are twenty, I will + visit them all.” + + 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 has 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. + + “Don’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 cannot 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 nieces 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 cannot 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 very 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 so + 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 cannot 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 + acquaintance 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 ways; 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 had 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 overhear 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 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_; and 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 towards 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 + to be never 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 event of an + evening which had raised such splendid expectations. He had + rather hoped that all his wife’s views on the stranger would be + disappointed; but he soon found that he had a very 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 enquired 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. Oh that he had sprained his + ankle in the first dance!” + + “Oh! my dear,” continued Mrs. Bennet, “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 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 my life.” + + “I would wish not to be hasty in censuring any one; 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 judgment 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 + being agreeable where 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 very anxious for his having an estate of his own; + but though he was now established only 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 of 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 judgment 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 offence. + + The manner in which they spoke of the Meryton assembly was + sufficiently characteristic. Bingley had never met with + pleasanter 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 should not object to know more of. Miss Bennet + was therefore established as a sweet girl, and their brother felt + authorised 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, 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 + cannot be two opinions on that point.’” + + “Upon my word! Well, that was 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 very + angry at being spoke to.” + + “Miss Bingley told me,” said Jane, “that he never speaks much + unless among his intimate acquaintance. 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 and 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 every 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 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 woman 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 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 cannot 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 + in company with him 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 been also 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 had hardly 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 not you 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 a subject which always 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 own 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 societies.” + + “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 pay to any place if I can avoid + it.” + + “You have a house in town, I conclude?” + + Mr. Darcy bowed. + + “I had once some thoughts 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 notion of doing a very + gallant thing, and called out to her, + + “My dear Miss Eliza, why are not you dancing? Mr. Darcy, you must + allow me to present this young lady to you as a very desirable + partner. You cannot 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 cannot 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 + your opinion. I was never more annoyed! The insipidity, and yet + the noise; the nothingness, and yet the self-importance of all + these people! What would I give to hear your strictures on them!” + + “Your 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, and 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 so serious about it, I shall consider the matter as + absolutely settled. You will have a charming mother-in-law, + indeed, and of course she will be always 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. Philips 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. Philips visited them all, and this + opened to his nieces a source 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 _tête-à-tête_ between two women + can never end without a quarrel. Come as soon as you can on the + 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 cannot spare the horses, I am sure. + They are wanted in the farm, Mr. Bennet, are not they?” + + “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 + come 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 home 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, &c.” + + “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 at all 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 and 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 enquiries 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 + beside 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 enquiries + 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 original 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 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 taste, 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 an 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 in + 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 repaired 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 asleep, and when it appeared 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, and making her sister the excuse, + said she would amuse herself 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 soon be increased by seeing her + quite well.” + + Elizabeth thanked him from her heart, and then walked towards a + 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 cannot 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 by 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 any one who cannot 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 cannot 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. + + “Eliza 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 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’s + 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 possible 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 enquiries 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 + judgment 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 + daughters 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 shall receive every possible attention + while she remains with us.” + + Mrs. Bennet was profuse in her acknowledgments. + + “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 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 that 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 necessarily 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 you + 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 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 cannot 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 not it, 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, Mama, 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 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 + eye 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 so easy! He has 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 the + mince-pies. For my part, Mr. Bingley, _I_ always keep servants + that can do their own work; _my_ daughters are brought up + 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,” said Bingley. + + “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 gentleman 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 attentions 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 of his promise; adding, 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 their 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 while + 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 daughters 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 off 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 unison 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 to + 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, cannot 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 much prized 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 on 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 any one 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 believed 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 + the 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 + intention as atoned for by your obstinacy in adhering to it?” + + “Upon my word, I cannot 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, 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 the indulgence of some music. Miss Bingley moved + with 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 a something about her 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 premeditated 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 cure the + younger girls of running after the 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 Philips be + 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 attempt to 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 11 + + 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 enquiry, 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; I 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 others 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 cannot _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 Forster 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 cannot 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 an + 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, 15_th 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 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 + cannot be otherwise than 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 cannot 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 cannot + 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. There 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. Collins’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 up stairs.” + + “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 ornament. 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 little assisted 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 of 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 _tête-à-tête_ 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 enquire, 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 enquire after her. Mr. Darcy + corroborated it with a bow, and 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’s 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 enquiries 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 talker; 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 enquired 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 anyone.” + + “I cannot 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 only 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 enquiry. + + 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 favourite + 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 enquiries as to + his success were 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,” said 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 of her nephew, who chooses that + everyone 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’s 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, of 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 + their 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 behaviour. 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 by 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 those 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 + timed. There was no help for it, however. Mr. Wickham’s happiness + and her own were perforce delayed a little longer, and Mr. + Collins’s proposal accepted with as good a grace as she could. + She was not the better 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 from 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 enquiries + 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 a + 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 one 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 _éclat_ 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 your 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 tolerably + 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 cannot 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 had + undertaken to make enquiries 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 + enquiry 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 this 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 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 cannot be + excused from making as comfortable as possible. And I do not + think it of light importance that he should have attentive and + conciliatory manners towards everybody, especially towards those + to whom he owes his preferment. I cannot 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 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 much as 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 up stairs.” 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 an 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. Jenkinson 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 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 cannot 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 your 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 of 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, 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 behaviour 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 of 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. + + “But, 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 enquiries 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 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 the 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 enquire 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 his companion taken leave, than a glance from + Jane invited her to follow her up stairs. When they had gained + their own room, Jane, taking out the 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 himself 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 am + 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 their 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 was not very consoling to Mrs. Bennet, and therefore, + instead of making any answer, she went on as before. + + “I cannot 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 must 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 + Phillipses, 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 occasions, + 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 Pemberley, and known the late Mr. Darcy by + character perfectly well. Here consequently was an inexhaustible + subject of discourse. In comparing her recollection of Pemberley + 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_ your 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 enquired 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 would 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 + struggles 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 + experienced 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 enquiries, 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—why 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 to-morrow 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 manners 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 enquiries 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 or 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 trees 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 cannot 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 up stairs 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. Jenkinson, 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, he 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. + Mrs. 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 enquired 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 as 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 cannot 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 Miss 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 + meat were too large for her family. + + Elizabeth soon perceived, that though this great lady was not in + the 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 gentlemen 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 enquire 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 enquiries 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_ + cannot have a right to such very strong local attachment. _You_ + cannot 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 country 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 + _tête-à-tête_ 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 on 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 cannot 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 + enquiries 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 an + 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 cannot 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 + cannot 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 not + 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 reach.” 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 enquire + 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 enquiry 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 cannot—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 all 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 enquire,” 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 cannot 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 + me 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, + cannot 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 required 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 manners 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 I 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 chief + object was unquestionably my sister’s fortune, which is thirty + thousand pounds; but I cannot 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 + enquiring. 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 that 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 Mr. 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 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 cannot + 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 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! + + When to these recollections was added the development of + Wickham’s character, it may be easily believed that the happy + spirits which had seldom been depressed before, were now so much + affected as to make it almost impossible for her to appear + tolerably cheerful. + + 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 enquired 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 favour of your company has been much felt, + I assure you. We know how little there is to tempt anyone 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 cannot 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 39 + + 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 up stairs. 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 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! Lord, how ashamed I should be of not being + married before three-and-twenty! My aunt Phillips wants you so to + get husbands, you can’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 cannot 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 enquiring 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 enquired 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 exclaim in 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 everyone’s congratulations, and laughing and + talking with more violence than ever; whilst the luckless Kitty + continued in the parlour repining at her fate in terms as + unreasonable as her accent was peevish. + + “I cannot 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 every 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 of attention, 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 former 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 others of the officers, at Longbourn; and so little + was Elizabeth disposed to part from him in good humour, that on + his making some enquiry 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 minutes 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 + adieus 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 an 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 or 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 found before, that an event to which she + had looked forward 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 with 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, etc. 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 enquiries 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 enquire 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 up + stairs 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 enquiries 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 enquiries as to the time of her having left + Longbourn, and of her stay 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 enquire 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 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 he 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 met, 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 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 cannot be for _me_—it cannot 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 his 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 Dove Dale with great perseverance. + Yet time and her aunt moved slowly—and her patience and her ideas + were nearly worn out before the _tête-à-tête_ 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 it to be 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 an 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 enquiring 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 enquired 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 enquiry; and they soon drew from those enquiries 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 and 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 of 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 enquiries 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 enquiries 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 + enquiry. + + 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, she 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 enquiry + after the health of her family. She answered with equal + indifference and brevity, and the other said no more. + + The next variation which their visit afforded was produced by 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 he 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 known 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 affect 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 + acquaintance.” + + 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 cannot 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 cannot answer + for being coherent. Dearest Lizzy, I hardly know what I would + write, but I have bad news for you, and it cannot 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 enquiry 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 cannot 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 feared 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 cannot 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 + cannot 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 an 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 cannot be delayed; I + have not an instant to lose.” + + “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 cannot 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 cannot be + concealed from anyone. 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 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 cannot 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 now it was all too natural. For such an + attachment as this she might have sufficient charms; 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.” + + “That 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 up stairs and will have great satisfaction + in seeing you all. She does not yet leave her dressing-room. Mary + and Kitty, 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 + as 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 cannot 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 many enquiries, 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 his 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 cannot 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 anyone 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 + cannot 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 enquire 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 + enquiries at Clapham. If he could anyhow discover at what house + the coachman had before set down his fare, he determined to make + enquiries 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 enquire 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 anyone 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 as 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 up stairs 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 entreat 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 cannot 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 cannot 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 + up stairs 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 can’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 or 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 daughter, 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 daughter’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 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 possibility 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 her 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. + + + + +Chapter 51 + + Their sister’s wedding day arrived; and Jane and Elizabeth felt + for her probably more than she felt for herself. The carriage was + sent to meet them at ——, and they were to return in it by + dinner-time. Their arrival was dreaded by the elder Miss Bennets, + and Jane more especially, who gave Lydia the feelings which would + have attended herself, had _she_ been the culprit, and was + wretched in the thought of what her sister must endure. + + They came. The family were assembled in the breakfast room to + receive them. Smiles decked the face of Mrs. Bennet as the + carriage drove up to the door; her husband looked impenetrably + grave; her daughters, alarmed, anxious, uneasy. + + Lydia’s voice was heard in the vestibule; the door was thrown + open, and she ran into the room. Her mother stepped forwards, + embraced her, and welcomed her with rapture; gave her hand, with + an affectionate smile, to Wickham, who followed his lady; and + wished them both joy with an alacrity which shewed no doubt of + their happiness. + + Their reception from Mr. Bennet, to whom they then turned, was + not quite so cordial. His countenance rather gained in austerity; + and he scarcely opened his lips. The easy assurance of the young + couple, indeed, was enough to provoke him. Elizabeth was + disgusted, and even Miss Bennet was shocked. Lydia was Lydia + still; untamed, unabashed, wild, noisy, and fearless. She turned + from sister to sister, demanding their congratulations; and when + at length they all sat down, looked eagerly round the room, took + notice of some little alteration in it, and observed, with a + laugh, that it was a great while since she had been there. + + Wickham was not at all more distressed than herself, but his + manners were always so pleasing, that had his character and his + marriage been exactly what they ought, his smiles and his easy + address, while he claimed their relationship, would have + delighted them all. Elizabeth had not before believed him quite + equal to such assurance; but she sat down, resolving within + herself to draw no limits in future to the impudence of an + impudent man. _She_ blushed, and Jane blushed; but the cheeks of + the two who caused their confusion suffered no variation of + colour. + + There was no want of discourse. The bride and her mother could + neither of them talk fast enough; and Wickham, who happened to + sit near Elizabeth, began enquiring after his acquaintance in + that neighbourhood, with a good humoured ease which she felt very + unable to equal in her replies. They seemed each of them to have + the happiest memories in the world. Nothing of the past was + recollected with pain; and Lydia led voluntarily to subjects + which her sisters would not have alluded to for the world. + + “Only think of its being three months,” she cried, “since I went + away; it seems but a fortnight I declare; and yet there have been + things enough happened in the time. Good gracious! when I went + away, I am sure I had no more idea of being married till I came + back again! though I thought it would be very good fun if I was.” + + Her father lifted up his eyes. Jane was distressed. Elizabeth + looked expressively at Lydia; but she, who never heard nor saw + anything of which she chose to be insensible, gaily continued, + “Oh! mamma, do the people hereabouts know I am married to-day? I + was afraid they might not; and we overtook William Goulding in + his curricle, so I was determined he should know it, and so I let + down the side-glass next to him, and took off my glove, and let + my hand just rest upon the window frame, so that he might see the + ring, and then I bowed and smiled like anything.” + + Elizabeth could bear it no longer. She got up, and ran out of the + room; and returned no more, till she heard them passing through + the hall to the dining parlour. She then joined them soon enough + to see Lydia, with anxious parade, walk up to her mother’s right + hand, and hear her say to her eldest sister, “Ah! Jane, I take + your place now, and you must go lower, because I am a married + woman.” + + It was not to be supposed that time would give Lydia that + embarrassment from which she had been so wholly free at first. + Her ease and good spirits increased. She longed to see Mrs. + Phillips, the Lucases, and all their other neighbours, and to + hear herself called “Mrs. Wickham” by each of them; and in the + mean time, she went after dinner to show her ring, and boast of + being married, to Mrs. Hill and the two housemaids. + + “Well, mamma,” said she, when they were all returned to the + breakfast room, “and what do you think of my husband? Is not he a + charming man? I am sure my sisters must all envy me. I only hope + they may have half my good luck. They must all go to Brighton. + That is the place to get husbands. What a pity it is, mamma, we + did not all go.” + + “Very true; and if I had my will, we should. But my dear Lydia, I + don’t at all like your going such a way off. Must it be so?” + + “Oh, lord! yes;—there is nothing in that. I shall like it of all + things. You and papa, and my sisters, must come down and see us. + We shall be at Newcastle all the winter, and I dare say there + will be some balls, and I will take care to get good partners for + them all.” + + “I should like it beyond anything!” said her mother. + + “And then when you go away, you may leave one or two of my + sisters behind you; and I dare say I shall get husbands for them + before the winter is over.” + + “I thank you for my share of the favour,” said Elizabeth; “but I + do not particularly like your way of getting husbands.” + + Their visitors were not to remain above ten days with them. Mr. + Wickham had received his commission before he left London, and he + was to join his regiment at the end of a fortnight. + + No one but Mrs. Bennet regretted that their stay would be so + short; and she made the most of the time by visiting about with + her daughter, and having very frequent parties at home. These + parties were acceptable to all; to avoid a family circle was even + more desirable to such as did think, than such as did not. + + Wickham’s affection for Lydia was just what Elizabeth had + expected to find it; not equal to Lydia’s for him. She had + scarcely needed her present observation to be satisfied, from the + reason of things, that their elopement had been brought on by the + strength of her love, rather than by his; and she would have + wondered why, without violently caring for her, he chose to elope + with her at all, had she not felt certain that his flight was + rendered necessary by distress of circumstances; and if that were + the case, he was not the young man to resist an opportunity of + having a companion. + + Lydia was exceedingly fond of him. He was her dear Wickham on + every occasion; no one was to be put in competition with him. He + did every thing best in the world; and she was sure he would kill + more birds on the first of September, than any body else in the + country. + + One morning, soon after their arrival, as she was sitting with + her two elder sisters, she said to Elizabeth: + + “Lizzy, I never gave _you_ an account of my wedding, I believe. + You were not by, when I told mamma and the others all about it. + Are not you curious to hear how it was managed?” + + “No really,” replied Elizabeth; “I think there cannot be too + little said on the subject.” + + “La! You are so strange! But I must tell you how it went off. We + were married, you know, at St. Clement’s, because Wickham’s + lodgings were in that parish. And it was settled that we should + all be there by eleven o’clock. My uncle and aunt and I were to + go together; and the others were to meet us at the church. Well, + Monday morning came, and I was in such a fuss! I was so afraid, + you know, that something would happen to put it off, and then I + should have gone quite distracted. And there was my aunt, all the + time I was dressing, preaching and talking away just as if she + was reading a sermon. However, I did not hear above one word in + ten, for I was thinking, you may suppose, of my dear Wickham. I + longed to know whether he would be married in his blue coat.” + + “Well, and so we breakfasted at ten as usual; I thought it would + never be over; for, by the bye, you are to understand, that my + uncle and aunt were horrid unpleasant all the time I was with + them. If you’ll believe me, I did not once put my foot out of + doors, though I was there a fortnight. Not one party, or scheme, + or anything. To be sure London was rather thin, but, however, the + Little Theatre was open. Well, and so just as the carriage came + to the door, my uncle was called away upon business to that + horrid man Mr. Stone. And then, you know, when once they get + together, there is no end of it. Well, I was so frightened I did + not know what to do, for my uncle was to give me away; and if we + were beyond the hour, we could not be married all day. But, + luckily, he came back again in ten minutes’ time, and then we all + set out. However, I recollected afterwards that if he _had_ been + prevented going, the wedding need not be put off, for Mr. Darcy + might have done as well.” + + “Mr. Darcy!” repeated Elizabeth, in utter amazement. + + “Oh, yes!—he was to come there with Wickham, you know. But + gracious me! I quite forgot! I ought not to have said a word + about it. I promised them so faithfully! What will Wickham say? + It was to be such a secret!” + + “If it was to be secret,” said Jane, “say not another word on the + subject. You may depend upon my seeking no further.” + + “Oh! certainly,” said Elizabeth, though burning with curiosity; + “we will ask you no questions.” + + “Thank you,” said Lydia, “for if you did, I should certainly tell + you all, and then Wickham would be angry.” + + On such encouragement to ask, Elizabeth was forced to put it out + of her power, by running away. + + But to live in ignorance on such a point was impossible; or at + least it was impossible not to try for information. Mr. Darcy had + been at her sister’s wedding. It was exactly a scene, and exactly + among people, where he had apparently least to do, and least + temptation to go. Conjectures as to the meaning of it, rapid and + wild, hurried into her brain; but she was satisfied with none. + Those that best pleased her, as placing his conduct in the + noblest light, seemed most improbable. She could not bear such + suspense; and hastily seizing a sheet of paper, wrote a short + letter to her aunt, to request an explanation of what Lydia had + dropt, if it were compatible with the secrecy which had been + intended. + + “You may readily comprehend,” she added, “what my curiosity must + be to know how a person unconnected with any of us, and + (comparatively speaking) a stranger to our family, should have + been amongst you at such a time. Pray write instantly, and let me + understand it—unless it is, for very cogent reasons, to remain in + the secrecy which Lydia seems to think necessary; and then I must + endeavour to be satisfied with ignorance.” + + “Not that I _shall_, though,” she added to herself, as she + finished the letter; “and my dear aunt, if you do not tell me in + an honourable manner, I shall certainly be reduced to tricks and + stratagems to find it out.” + + Jane’s delicate sense of honour would not allow her to speak to + Elizabeth privately of what Lydia had let fall; Elizabeth was + glad of it;—till it appeared whether her enquiries would receive + any satisfaction, she had rather be without a confidante. + + + + +Chapter 52 + + Elizabeth had the satisfaction of receiving an answer to her + letter as soon as she possibly could. She was no sooner in + possession of it than, hurrying into the little copse, where she + was least likely to be interrupted, she sat down on one of the + benches and prepared to be happy; for the length of the letter + convinced her that it did not contain a denial. + + “Gracechurch Street, _Sept_. 6. + + “My dear Niece, + + “I have just received your letter, and shall devote this whole + morning to answering it, as I foresee that a _little_ writing + will not comprise what I have to tell you. I must confess myself + surprised by your application; I did not expect it from _you_. + Don’t think me angry, however, for I only mean to let you know + that I had not imagined such enquiries to be necessary on _your_ + side. If you do not choose to understand me, forgive my + impertinence. Your uncle is as much surprised as I am—and nothing + but the belief of your being a party concerned would have allowed + him to act as he has done. But if you are really innocent and + ignorant, I must be more explicit. + + “On the very day of my coming home from Longbourn, your uncle had + a most unexpected visitor. Mr. Darcy called, and was shut up with + him several hours. It was all over before I arrived; so my + curiosity was not so dreadfully racked as _yours_ seems to have + been. He came to tell Mr. Gardiner that he had found out where + your sister and Mr. Wickham were, and that he had seen and talked + with them both; Wickham repeatedly, Lydia once. From what I can + collect, he left Derbyshire only one day after ourselves, and + came to town with the resolution of hunting for them. The motive + professed was his conviction of its being owing to himself that + Wickham’s worthlessness had not been so well known as to make it + impossible for any young woman of character to love or confide in + him. He generously imputed the whole to his mistaken pride, and + confessed that he had before thought it beneath him to lay his + private actions open to the world. His character was to speak for + itself. He called it, therefore, his duty to step forward, and + endeavour to remedy an evil which had been brought on by himself. + If he _had another_ motive, I am sure it would never disgrace + him. He had been some days in town, before he was able to + discover them; but he had something to direct his search, which + was more than _we_ had; and the consciousness of this was another + reason for his resolving to follow us. + + “There is a lady, it seems, a Mrs. Younge, who was some time ago + governess to Miss Darcy, and was dismissed from her charge on + some cause of disapprobation, though he did not say what. She + then took a large house in Edward-street, and has since + maintained herself by letting lodgings. This Mrs. Younge was, he + knew, intimately acquainted with Wickham; and he went to her for + intelligence of him as soon as he got to town. But it was two or + three days before he could get from her what he wanted. She would + not betray her trust, I suppose, without bribery and corruption, + for she really did know where her friend was to be found. Wickham + indeed had gone to her on their first arrival in London, and had + she been able to receive them into her house, they would have + taken up their abode with her. At length, however, our kind + friend procured the wished-for direction. They were in —— street. + He saw Wickham, and afterwards insisted on seeing Lydia. His + first object with her, he acknowledged, had been to persuade her + to quit her present disgraceful situation, and return to her + friends as soon as they could be prevailed on to receive her, + offering his assistance, as far as it would go. But he found + Lydia absolutely resolved on remaining where she was. She cared + for none of her friends; she wanted no help of his; she would not + hear of leaving Wickham. She was sure they should be married some + time or other, and it did not much signify when. Since such were + her feelings, it only remained, he thought, to secure and + expedite a marriage, which, in his very first conversation with + Wickham, he easily learnt had never been _his_ design. He + confessed himself obliged to leave the regiment, on account of + some debts of honour, which were very pressing; and scrupled not + to lay all the ill-consequences of Lydia’s flight on her own + folly alone. He meant to resign his commission immediately; and + as to his future situation, he could conjecture very little about + it. He must go somewhere, but he did not know where, and he knew + he should have nothing to live on. + + “Mr. Darcy asked him why he had not married your sister at once. + Though Mr. Bennet was not imagined to be very rich, he would have + been able to do something for him, and his situation must have + been benefited by marriage. But he found, in reply to this + question, that Wickham still cherished the hope of more + effectually making his fortune by marriage in some other country. + Under such circumstances, however, he was not likely to be proof + against the temptation of immediate relief. + + “They met several times, for there was much to be discussed. + Wickham of course wanted more than he could get; but at length + was reduced to be reasonable. + + “Everything being settled between _them_, Mr. Darcy’s next step + was to make your uncle acquainted with it, and he first called in + Gracechurch street the evening before I came home. But Mr. + Gardiner could not be seen, and Mr. Darcy found, on further + enquiry, that your father was still with him, but would quit town + the next morning. He did not judge your father to be a person + whom he could so properly consult as your uncle, and therefore + readily postponed seeing him till after the departure of the + former. He did not leave his name, and till the next day it was + only known that a gentleman had called on business. + + “On Saturday he came again. Your father was gone, your uncle at + home, and, as I said before, they had a great deal of talk + together. + + “They met again on Sunday, and then _I_ saw him too. It was not + all settled before Monday: as soon as it was, the express was + sent off to Longbourn. But our visitor was very obstinate. I + fancy, Lizzy, that obstinacy is the real defect of his character, + after all. He has been accused of many faults at different times, + but _this_ is the true one. Nothing was to be done that he did + not do himself; though I am sure (and I do not speak it to be + thanked, therefore say nothing about it), your uncle would most + readily have settled the whole. + + “They battled it together for a long time, which was more than + either the gentleman or lady concerned in it deserved. But at + last your uncle was forced to yield, and instead of being allowed + to be of use to his niece, was forced to put up with only having + the probable credit of it, which went sorely against the grain; + and I really believe your letter this morning gave him great + pleasure, because it required an explanation that would rob him + of his borrowed feathers, and give the praise where it was due. + But, Lizzy, this must go no farther than yourself, or Jane at + most. + + “You know pretty well, I suppose, what has been done for the + young people. His debts are to be paid, amounting, I believe, to + considerably more than a thousand pounds, another thousand in + addition to her own settled upon _her_, and his commission + purchased. The reason why all this was to be done by him alone, + was such as I have given above. It was owing to him, to his + reserve and want of proper consideration, that Wickham’s + character had been so misunderstood, and consequently that he had + been received and noticed as he was. Perhaps there was some truth + in _this_; though I doubt whether _his_ reserve, or _anybody’s_ + reserve, can be answerable for the event. But in spite of all + this fine talking, my dear Lizzy, you may rest perfectly assured + that your uncle would never have yielded, if we had not given him + credit for _another interest_ in the affair. + + “When all this was resolved on, he returned again to his friends, + who were still staying at Pemberley; but it was agreed that he + should be in London once more when the wedding took place, and + all money matters were then to receive the last finish. + + “I believe I have now told you every thing. It is a relation + which you tell me is to give you great surprise; I hope at least + it will not afford you any displeasure. Lydia came to us; and + Wickham had constant admission to the house. _He_ was exactly + what he had been, when I knew him in Hertfordshire; but I would + not tell you how little I was satisfied with _her_ behaviour + while she staid with us, if I had not perceived, by Jane’s letter + last Wednesday, that her conduct on coming home was exactly of a + piece with it, and therefore what I now tell you can give you no + fresh pain. I talked to her repeatedly in the most serious + manner, representing to her all the wickedness of what she had + done, and all the unhappiness she had brought on her family. If + she heard me, it was by good luck, for I am sure she did not + listen. I was sometimes quite provoked, but then I recollected my + dear Elizabeth and Jane, and for their sakes had patience with + her. + + “Mr. Darcy was punctual in his return, and as Lydia informed you, + attended the wedding. He dined with us the next day, and was to + leave town again on Wednesday or Thursday. Will you be very angry + with me, my dear Lizzy, if I take this opportunity of saying + (what I was never bold enough to say before) how much I like him. + His behaviour to us has, in every respect, been as pleasing as + when we were in Derbyshire. His understanding and opinions all + please me; he wants nothing but a little more liveliness, and + _that_, if he marry _prudently_, his wife may teach him. I + thought him very sly;—he hardly ever mentioned your name. But + slyness seems the fashion. + + “Pray forgive me if I have been very presuming, or at least do + not punish me so far as to exclude me from P. I shall never be + quite happy till I have been all round the park. A low phaeton, + with a nice little pair of ponies, would be the very thing. + + “But I must write no more. The children have been wanting me this + half hour. + + “Yours, very sincerely, + “M. GARDINER.” + + The contents of this letter threw Elizabeth into a flutter of + spirits, in which it was difficult to determine whether pleasure + or pain bore the greatest share. The vague and unsettled + suspicions which uncertainty had produced of what Mr. Darcy might + have been doing to forward her sister’s match, which she had + feared to encourage as an exertion of goodness too great to be + probable, and at the same time dreaded to be just, from the pain + of obligation, were proved beyond their greatest extent to be + true! He had followed them purposely to town, he had taken on + himself all the trouble and mortification attendant on such a + research; in which supplication had been necessary to a woman + whom he must abominate and despise, and where he was reduced to + meet, frequently meet, reason with, persuade, and finally bribe, + the man whom he always most wished to avoid, and whose very name + it was punishment to him to pronounce. He had done all this for a + girl whom he could neither regard nor esteem. Her heart did + whisper that he had done it for her. But it was a hope shortly + checked by other considerations, and she soon felt that even her + vanity was insufficient, when required to depend on his affection + for her—for a woman who had already refused him—as able to + overcome a sentiment so natural as abhorrence against + relationship with Wickham. Brother-in-law of Wickham! Every kind + of pride must revolt from the connection. He had, to be sure, + done much. She was ashamed to think how much. But he had given a + reason for his interference, which asked no extraordinary stretch + of belief. It was reasonable that he should feel he had been + wrong; he had liberality, and he had the means of exercising it; + and though she would not place herself as his principal + inducement, she could, perhaps, believe that remaining partiality + for her might assist his endeavours in a cause where her peace of + mind must be materially concerned. It was painful, exceedingly + painful, to know that they were under obligations to a person who + could never receive a return. They owed the restoration of Lydia, + her character, every thing, to him. Oh! how heartily did she + grieve over every ungracious sensation she had ever encouraged, + every saucy speech she had ever directed towards him. For herself + she was humbled; but she was proud of him. Proud that in a cause + of compassion and honour, he had been able to get the better of + himself. She read over her aunt’s commendation of him again and + again. It was hardly enough; but it pleased her. She was even + sensible of some pleasure, though mixed with regret, on finding + how steadfastly both she and her uncle had been persuaded that + affection and confidence subsisted between Mr. Darcy and herself. + + She was roused from her seat, and her reflections, by some one’s + approach; and before she could strike into another path, she was + overtaken by Wickham. + + “I am afraid I interrupt your solitary ramble, my dear sister?” + said he, as he joined her. + + “You certainly do,” she replied with a smile; “but it does not + follow that the interruption must be unwelcome.” + + “I should be sorry indeed, if it were. _We_ were always good + friends; and now we are better.” + + “True. Are the others coming out?” + + “I do not know. Mrs. Bennet and Lydia are going in the carriage + to Meryton. And so, my dear sister, I find, from our uncle and + aunt, that you have actually seen Pemberley.” + + She replied in the affirmative. + + “I almost envy you the pleasure, and yet I believe it would be + too much for me, or else I could take it in my way to Newcastle. + And you saw the old housekeeper, I suppose? Poor Reynolds, she + was always very fond of me. But of course she did not mention my + name to you.” + + “Yes, she did.” + + “And what did she say?” + + “That you were gone into the army, and she was afraid had—not + turned out well. At such a distance as _that_, you know, things + are strangely misrepresented.” + + “Certainly,” he replied, biting his lips. Elizabeth hoped she had + silenced him; but he soon afterwards said: + + “I was surprised to see Darcy in town last month. We passed each + other several times. I wonder what he can be doing there.” + + “Perhaps preparing for his marriage with Miss de Bourgh,” said + Elizabeth. “It must be something particular, to take him there at + this time of year.” + + “Undoubtedly. Did you see him while you were at Lambton? I + thought I understood from the Gardiners that you had.” + + “Yes; he introduced us to his sister.” + + “And do you like her?” + + “Very much.” + + “I have heard, indeed, that she is uncommonly improved within + this year or two. When I last saw her, she was not very + promising. I am very glad you liked her. I hope she will turn out + well.” + + “I dare say she will; she has got over the most trying age.” + + “Did you go by the village of Kympton?” + + “I do not recollect that we did.” + + “I mention it, because it is the living which I ought to have + had. A most delightful place!—Excellent Parsonage House! It would + have suited me in every respect.” + + “How should you have liked making sermons?” + + “Exceedingly well. I should have considered it as part of my + duty, and the exertion would soon have been nothing. One ought + not to repine;—but, to be sure, it would have been such a thing + for me! The quiet, the retirement of such a life would have + answered all my ideas of happiness! But it was not to be. Did you + ever hear Darcy mention the circumstance, when you were in Kent?” + + “I _have_ heard from authority, which I thought _as good_, that + it was left you conditionally only, and at the will of the + present patron.” + + “You have. Yes, there was something in _that_; I told you so from + the first, you may remember.” + + “I _did_ hear, too, that there was a time, when sermon-making was + not so palatable to you as it seems to be at present; that you + actually declared your resolution of never taking orders, and + that the business had been compromised accordingly.” + + “You did! and it was not wholly without foundation. You may + remember what I told you on that point, when first we talked of + it.” + + They were now almost at the door of the house, for she had walked + fast to get rid of him; and unwilling, for her sister’s sake, to + provoke him, she only said in reply, with a good-humoured smile: + + “Come, Mr. Wickham, we are brother and sister, you know. Do not + let us quarrel about the past. In future, I hope we shall be + always of one mind.” + + She held out her hand; he kissed it with affectionate gallantry, + though he hardly knew how to look, and they entered the house. + + + + +Chapter 53 + + Mr. Wickham was so perfectly satisfied with this conversation + that he never again distressed himself, or provoked his dear + sister Elizabeth, by introducing the subject of it; and she was + pleased to find that she had said enough to keep him quiet. + + The day of his and Lydia’s departure soon came, and Mrs. Bennet + was forced to submit to a separation, which, as her husband by no + means entered into her scheme of their all going to Newcastle, + was likely to continue at least a twelvemonth. + + “Oh! my dear Lydia,” she cried, “when shall we meet again?” + + “Oh, lord! I don’t know. Not these two or three years, perhaps.” + + “Write to me very often, my dear.” + + “As often as I can. But you know married women have never much + time for writing. My sisters may write to _me_. They will have + nothing else to do.” + + Mr. Wickham’s adieus were much more affectionate than his wife’s. + He smiled, looked handsome, and said many pretty things. + + “He is as fine a fellow,” said Mr. Bennet, as soon as they were + out of the house, “as ever I saw. He simpers, and smirks, and + makes love to us all. I am prodigiously proud of him. I defy even + Sir William Lucas himself to produce a more valuable son-in-law.” + + The loss of her daughter made Mrs. Bennet very dull for several + days. + + “I often think,” said she, “that there is nothing so bad as + parting with one’s friends. One seems so forlorn without them.” + + “This is the consequence, you see, Madam, of marrying a + daughter,” said Elizabeth. “It must make you better satisfied + that your other four are single.” + + “It is no such thing. Lydia does not leave me because she is + married, but only because her husband’s regiment happens to be so + far off. If that had been nearer, she would not have gone so + soon.” + + But the spiritless condition which this event threw her into was + shortly relieved, and her mind opened again to the agitation of + hope, by an article of news which then began to be in + circulation. The housekeeper at Netherfield had received orders + to prepare for the arrival of her master, who was coming down in + a day or two, to shoot there for several weeks. Mrs. Bennet was + quite in the fidgets. She looked at Jane, and smiled and shook + her head by turns. + + “Well, well, and so Mr. Bingley is coming down, sister,” (for + Mrs. Phillips first brought her the news). “Well, so much the + better. Not that I care about it, though. He is nothing to us, + you know, and I am sure I never want to see him again. But, + however, he is very welcome to come to Netherfield, if he likes + it. And who knows what _may_ happen? But that is nothing to us. + You know, sister, we agreed long ago never to mention a word + about it. And so, is it quite certain he is coming?” + + “You may depend on it,” replied the other, “for Mrs. Nicholls was + in Meryton last night; I saw her passing by, and went out myself + on purpose to know the truth of it; and she told me that it was + certain true. He comes down on Thursday at the latest, very + likely on Wednesday. She was going to the butcher’s, she told me, + on purpose to order in some meat on Wednesday, and she has got + three couple of ducks just fit to be killed.” + + Miss Bennet had not been able to hear of his coming without + changing colour. It was many months since she had mentioned his + name to Elizabeth; but now, as soon as they were alone together, + she said: + + “I saw you look at me to-day, Lizzy, when my aunt told us of the + present report; and I know I appeared distressed. But don’t + imagine it was from any silly cause. I was only confused for the + moment, because I felt that I _should_ be looked at. I do assure + you that the news does not affect me either with pleasure or + pain. I am glad of one thing, that he comes alone; because we + shall see the less of him. Not that I am afraid of _myself_, but + I dread other people’s remarks.” + + Elizabeth did not know what to make of it. Had she not seen him + in Derbyshire, she might have supposed him capable of coming + there with no other view than what was acknowledged; but she + still thought him partial to Jane, and she wavered as to the + greater probability of his coming there _with_ his friend’s + permission, or being bold enough to come without it. + + “Yet it is hard,” she sometimes thought, “that this poor man + cannot come to a house which he has legally hired, without + raising all this speculation! I _will_ leave him to himself.” + + In spite of what her sister declared, and really believed to be + her feelings in the expectation of his arrival, Elizabeth could + easily perceive that her spirits were affected by it. They were + more disturbed, more unequal, than she had often seen them. + + The subject which had been so warmly canvassed between their + parents, about a twelvemonth ago, was now brought forward again. + + “As soon as ever Mr. Bingley comes, my dear,” said Mrs. Bennet, + “you will wait on him of course.” + + “No, no. You forced me into visiting him last year, and promised, + if I went to see him, he should marry one of my daughters. But it + ended in nothing, and I will not be sent on a fool’s errand + again.” + + His wife represented to him how absolutely necessary such an + attention would be from all the neighbouring gentlemen, on his + returning to Netherfield. + + “’Tis an _etiquette_ I despise,” said he. “If he wants our + society, let him seek it. He knows where we live. I will not + spend _my_ hours in running after my neighbours every time they + go away and come back again.” + + “Well, all I know is, that it will be abominably rude if you do + not wait on him. But, however, that shan’t prevent my asking him + to dine here, I am determined. We must have Mrs. Long and the + Gouldings soon. That will make thirteen with ourselves, so there + will be just room at table for him.” + + Consoled by this resolution, she was the better able to bear her + husband’s incivility; though it was very mortifying to know that + her neighbours might all see Mr. Bingley, in consequence of it, + before _they_ did. As the day of his arrival drew near,— + + “I begin to be sorry that he comes at all,” said Jane to her + sister. “It would be nothing; I could see him with perfect + indifference, but I can hardly bear to hear it thus perpetually + talked of. My mother means well; but she does not know, no one + can know, how much I suffer from what she says. Happy shall I be, + when his stay at Netherfield is over!” + + “I wish I could say anything to comfort you,” replied Elizabeth; + “but it is wholly out of my power. You must feel it; and the + usual satisfaction of preaching patience to a sufferer is denied + me, because you have always so much.” + + Mr. Bingley arrived. Mrs. Bennet, through the assistance of + servants, contrived to have the earliest tidings of it, that the + period of anxiety and fretfulness on her side might be as long as + it could. She counted the days that must intervene before their + invitation could be sent; hopeless of seeing him before. But on + the third morning after his arrival in Hertfordshire, she saw + him, from her dressing-room window, enter the paddock and ride + towards the house. + + Her daughters were eagerly called to partake of her joy. Jane + resolutely kept her place at the table; but Elizabeth, to satisfy + her mother, went to the window—she looked,—she saw Mr. Darcy with + him, and sat down again by her sister. + + “There is a gentleman with him, mamma,” said Kitty; “who can it + be?” + + “Some acquaintance or other, my dear, I suppose; I am sure I do + not know.” + + “La!” replied Kitty, “it looks just like that man that used to be + with him before. Mr. what’s-his-name. That tall, proud man.” + + “Good gracious! Mr. Darcy!—and so it does, I vow. Well, any + friend of Mr. Bingley’s will always be welcome here, to be sure; + but else I must say that I hate the very sight of him.” + + Jane looked at Elizabeth with surprise and concern. She knew but + little of their meeting in Derbyshire, and therefore felt for the + awkwardness which must attend her sister, in seeing him almost + for the first time after receiving his explanatory letter. Both + sisters were uncomfortable enough. Each felt for the other, and + of course for themselves; and their mother talked on, of her + dislike of Mr. Darcy, and her resolution to be civil to him only + as Mr. Bingley’s friend, without being heard by either of them. + But Elizabeth had sources of uneasiness which could not be + suspected by Jane, to whom she had never yet had courage to shew + Mrs. Gardiner’s letter, or to relate her own change of sentiment + towards him. To Jane, he could be only a man whose proposals she + had refused, and whose merit she had undervalued; but to her own + more extensive information, he was the person to whom the whole + family were indebted for the first of benefits, and whom she + regarded herself with an interest, if not quite so tender, at + least as reasonable and just as what Jane felt for Bingley. Her + astonishment at his coming—at his coming to Netherfield, to + Longbourn, and voluntarily seeking her again, was almost equal to + what she had known on first witnessing his altered behaviour in + Derbyshire. + + The colour which had been driven from her face, returned for half + a minute with an additional glow, and a smile of delight added + lustre to her eyes, as she thought for that space of time that + his affection and wishes must still be unshaken. But she would + not be secure. + + “Let me first see how he behaves,” said she; “it will then be + early enough for expectation.” + + She sat intently at work, striving to be composed, and without + daring to lift up her eyes, till anxious curiosity carried them + to the face of her sister as the servant was approaching the + door. Jane looked a little paler than usual, but more sedate than + Elizabeth had expected. On the gentlemen’s appearing, her colour + increased; yet she received them with tolerable ease, and with a + propriety of behaviour equally free from any symptom of + resentment or any unnecessary complaisance. + + Elizabeth said as little to either as civility would allow, and + sat down again to her work, with an eagerness which it did not + often command. She had ventured only one glance at Darcy. He + looked serious, as usual; and, she thought, more as he had been + used to look in Hertfordshire, than as she had seen him at + Pemberley. But, perhaps he could not in her mother’s presence be + what he was before her uncle and aunt. It was a painful, but not + an improbable, conjecture. + + Bingley, she had likewise seen for an instant, and in that short + period saw him looking both pleased and embarrassed. He was + received by Mrs. Bennet with a degree of civility which made her + two daughters ashamed, especially when contrasted with the cold + and ceremonious politeness of her curtsey and address to his + friend. + + Elizabeth, particularly, who knew that her mother owed to the + latter the preservation of her favourite daughter from + irremediable infamy, was hurt and distressed to a most painful + degree by a distinction so ill applied. + + Darcy, after enquiring of her how Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner did, a + question which she could not answer without confusion, said + scarcely anything. He was not seated by her; perhaps that was the + reason of his silence; but it had not been so in Derbyshire. + There he had talked to her friends, when he could not to herself. + But now several minutes elapsed without bringing the sound of his + voice; and when occasionally, unable to resist the impulse of + curiosity, she raised her eyes to his face, she as often found + him looking at Jane as at herself, and frequently on no object + but the ground. More thoughtfulness and less anxiety to please, + than when they last met, were plainly expressed. She was + disappointed, and angry with herself for being so. + + “Could I expect it to be otherwise!” said she. “Yet why did he + come?” + + She was in no humour for conversation with anyone but himself; + and to him she had hardly courage to speak. + + She enquired after his sister, but could do no more. + + “It is a long time, Mr. Bingley, since you went away,” said Mrs. + Bennet. + + He readily agreed to it. + + “I began to be afraid you would never come back again. People + _did_ say you meant to quit the place entirely at Michaelmas; + but, however, I hope it is not true. A great many changes have + happened in the neighbourhood, since you went away. Miss Lucas is + married and settled. And one of my own daughters. I suppose you + have heard of it; indeed, you must have seen it in the papers. It + was in The Times and The Courier, I know; though it was not put + in as it ought to be. It was only said, ‘Lately, George Wickham, + Esq. to Miss Lydia Bennet,’ without there being a syllable said + of her father, or the place where she lived, or anything. It was + my brother Gardiner’s drawing up too, and I wonder how he came to + make such an awkward business of it. Did you see it?” + + Bingley replied that he did, and made his congratulations. + Elizabeth dared not lift up her eyes. How Mr. Darcy looked, + therefore, she could not tell. + + “It is a delightful thing, to be sure, to have a daughter well + married,” continued her mother, “but at the same time, Mr. + Bingley, it is very hard to have her taken such a way from me. + They are gone down to Newcastle, a place quite northward, it + seems, and there they are to stay I do not know how long. His + regiment is there; for I suppose you have heard of his leaving + the ——shire, and of his being gone into the regulars. Thank + Heaven! he has _some_ friends, though perhaps not so many as he + deserves.” + + Elizabeth, who knew this to be levelled at Mr. Darcy, was in such + misery of shame, that she could hardly keep her seat. It drew + from her, however, the exertion of speaking, which nothing else + had so effectually done before; and she asked Bingley whether he + meant to make any stay in the country at present. A few weeks, he + believed. + + “When you have killed all your own birds, Mr. Bingley,” said her + mother, “I beg you will come here, and shoot as many as you + please on Mr. Bennet’s manor. I am sure he will be vastly happy + to oblige you, and will save all the best of the covies for you.” + + Elizabeth’s misery increased, at such unnecessary, such officious + attention! Were the same fair prospect to arise at present as had + flattered them a year ago, every thing, she was persuaded, would + be hastening to the same vexatious conclusion. At that instant, + she felt that years of happiness could not make Jane or herself + amends for moments of such painful confusion. + + “The first wish of my heart,” said she to herself, “is never more + to be in company with either of them. Their society can afford no + pleasure that will atone for such wretchedness as this! Let me + never see either one or the other again!” + + Yet the misery, for which years of happiness were to offer no + compensation, received soon afterwards material relief, from + observing how much the beauty of her sister re-kindled the + admiration of her former lover. When first he came in, he had + spoken to her but little; but every five minutes seemed to be + giving her more of his attention. He found her as handsome as she + had been last year; as good natured, and as unaffected, though + not quite so chatty. Jane was anxious that no difference should + be perceived in her at all, and was really persuaded that she + talked as much as ever. But her mind was so busily engaged, that + she did not always know when she was silent. + + When the gentlemen rose to go away, Mrs. Bennet was mindful of + her intended civility, and they were invited and engaged to dine + at Longbourn in a few days time. + + “You are quite a visit in my debt, Mr. Bingley,” she added, “for + when you went to town last winter, you promised to take a family + dinner with us, as soon as you returned. I have not forgot, you + see; and I assure you, I was very much disappointed that you did + not come back and keep your engagement.” + + Bingley looked a little silly at this reflection, and said + something of his concern at having been prevented by business. + They then went away. + + Mrs. Bennet had been strongly inclined to ask them to stay and + dine there that day; but, though she always kept a very good + table, she did not think anything less than two courses could be + good enough for a man on whom she had such anxious designs, or + satisfy the appetite and pride of one who had ten thousand a + year. + + + + +Chapter 54 + + As soon as they were gone, Elizabeth walked out to recover her + spirits; or in other words, to dwell without interruption on + those subjects that must deaden them more. Mr. Darcy’s behaviour + astonished and vexed her. + + “Why, if he came only to be silent, grave, and indifferent,” said + she, “did he come at all?” + + She could settle it in no way that gave her pleasure. + + “He could be still amiable, still pleasing, to my uncle and aunt, + when he was in town; and why not to me? If he fears me, why come + hither? If he no longer cares for me, why silent? Teasing, + teasing, man! I will think no more about him.” + + Her resolution was for a short time involuntarily kept by the + approach of her sister, who joined her with a cheerful look, + which showed her better satisfied with their visitors, than + Elizabeth. + + “Now,” said she, “that this first meeting is over, I feel + perfectly easy. I know my own strength, and I shall never be + embarrassed again by his coming. I am glad he dines here on + Tuesday. It will then be publicly seen that, on both sides, we + meet only as common and indifferent acquaintance.” + + “Yes, very indifferent indeed,” said Elizabeth, laughingly. “Oh, + Jane, take care.” + + “My dear Lizzy, you cannot think me so weak, as to be in danger + now?” + + “I think you are in very great danger of making him as much in + love with you as ever.” + + They did not see the gentlemen again till Tuesday; and Mrs. + Bennet, in the meanwhile, was giving way to all the happy + schemes, which the good humour and common politeness of Bingley, + in half an hour’s visit, had revived. + + On Tuesday there was a large party assembled at Longbourn; and + the two who were most anxiously expected, to the credit of their + punctuality as sportsmen, were in very good time. When they + repaired to the dining-room, Elizabeth eagerly watched to see + whether Bingley would take the place, which, in all their former + parties, had belonged to him, by her sister. Her prudent mother, + occupied by the same ideas, forbore to invite him to sit by + herself. On entering the room, he seemed to hesitate; but Jane + happened to look round, and happened to smile: it was decided. He + placed himself by her. + + Elizabeth, with a triumphant sensation, looked towards his + friend. He bore it with noble indifference, and she would have + imagined that Bingley had received his sanction to be happy, had + she not seen his eyes likewise turned towards Mr. Darcy, with an + expression of half-laughing alarm. + + His behaviour to her sister was such, during dinner time, as + showed an admiration of her, which, though more guarded than + formerly, persuaded Elizabeth, that if left wholly to himself, + Jane’s happiness, and his own, would be speedily secured. Though + she dared not depend upon the consequence, she yet received + pleasure from observing his behaviour. It gave her all the + animation that her spirits could boast; for she was in no + cheerful humour. Mr. Darcy was almost as far from her as the + table could divide them. He was on one side of her mother. She + knew how little such a situation would give pleasure to either, + or make either appear to advantage. She was not near enough to + hear any of their discourse, but she could see how seldom they + spoke to each other, and how formal and cold was their manner + whenever they did. Her mother’s ungraciousness, made the sense of + what they owed him more painful to Elizabeth’s mind; and she + would, at times, have given anything to be privileged to tell him + that his kindness was neither unknown nor unfelt by the whole of + the family. + + She was in hopes that the evening would afford some opportunity + of bringing them together; that the whole of the visit would not + pass away without enabling them to enter into something more of + conversation than the mere ceremonious salutation attending his + entrance. Anxious and uneasy, the period which passed in the + drawing-room, before the gentlemen came, was wearisome and dull + to a degree that almost made her uncivil. She looked forward to + their entrance as the point on which all her chance of pleasure + for the evening must depend. + + “If he does not come to me, _then_,” said she, “I shall give him + up for ever.” + + The gentlemen came; and she thought he looked as if he would have + answered her hopes; but, alas! the ladies had crowded round the + table, where Miss Bennet was making tea, and Elizabeth pouring + out the coffee, in so close a confederacy that there was not a + single vacancy near her which would admit of a chair. And on the + gentlemen’s approaching, one of the girls moved closer to her + than ever, and said, in a whisper: + + “The men shan’t come and part us, I am determined. We want none + of them; do we?” + + Darcy had walked away to another part of the room. She followed + him with her eyes, envied everyone to whom he spoke, had scarcely + patience enough to help anybody to coffee; and then was enraged + against herself for being so silly! + + “A man who has once been refused! How could I ever be foolish + enough to expect a renewal of his love? Is there one among the + sex, who would not protest against such a weakness as a second + proposal to the same woman? There is no indignity so abhorrent to + their feelings!” + + She was a little revived, however, by his bringing back his + coffee cup himself; and she seized the opportunity of saying: + + “Is your sister at Pemberley still?” + + “Yes, she will remain there till Christmas.” + + “And quite alone? Have all her friends left her?” + + “Mrs. Annesley is with her. The others have been gone on to + Scarborough, these three weeks.” + + She could think of nothing more to say; but if he wished to + converse with her, he might have better success. He stood by her, + however, for some minutes, in silence; and, at last, on the young + lady’s whispering to Elizabeth again, he walked away. + + When the tea-things were removed, and the card-tables placed, the + ladies all rose, and Elizabeth was then hoping to be soon joined + by him, when all her views were overthrown by seeing him fall a + victim to her mother’s rapacity for whist players, and in a few + moments after seated with the rest of the party. She now lost + every expectation of pleasure. They were confined for the evening + at different tables, and she had nothing to hope, but that his + eyes were so often turned towards her side of the room, as to + make him play as unsuccessfully as herself. + + Mrs. Bennet had designed to keep the two Netherfield gentlemen to + supper; but their carriage was unluckily ordered before any of + the others, and she had no opportunity of detaining them. + + “Well girls,” said she, as soon as they were left to themselves, + “What say you to the day? I think every thing has passed off + uncommonly well, I assure you. The dinner was as well dressed as + any I ever saw. The venison was roasted to a turn—and everybody + said they never saw so fat a haunch. The soup was fifty times + better than what we had at the Lucases’ last week; and even Mr. + Darcy acknowledged, that the partridges were remarkably well + done; and I suppose he has two or three French cooks at least. + And, my dear Jane, I never saw you look in greater beauty. Mrs. + Long said so too, for I asked her whether you did not. And what + do you think she said besides? ‘Ah! Mrs. Bennet, we shall have + her at Netherfield at last.’ She did indeed. I do think Mrs. Long + is as good a creature as ever lived—and her nieces are very + pretty behaved girls, and not at all handsome: I like them + prodigiously.” + + Mrs. Bennet, in short, was in very great spirits; she had seen + enough of Bingley’s behaviour to Jane, to be convinced that she + would get him at last; and her expectations of advantage to her + family, when in a happy humour, were so far beyond reason, that + she was quite disappointed at not seeing him there again the next + day, to make his proposals. + + “It has been a very agreeable day,” said Miss Bennet to + Elizabeth. “The party seemed so well selected, so suitable one + with the other. I hope we may often meet again.” + + Elizabeth smiled. + + “Lizzy, you must not do so. You must not suspect me. It mortifies + me. I assure you that I have now learnt to enjoy his conversation + as an agreeable and sensible young man, without having a wish + beyond it. I am perfectly satisfied, from what his manners now + are, that he never had any design of engaging my affection. It is + only that he is blessed with greater sweetness of address, and a + stronger desire of generally pleasing, than any other man.” + + “You are very cruel,” said her sister, “you will not let me + smile, and are provoking me to it every moment.” + + “How hard it is in some cases to be believed!” + + “And how impossible in others!” + + “But why should you wish to persuade me that I feel more than I + acknowledge?” + + “That is a question which I hardly know how to answer. We all + love to instruct, though we can teach only what is not worth + knowing. Forgive me; and if you persist in indifference, do not + make _me_ your confidante.” + + + + +Chapter 55 + + A few days after this visit, Mr. Bingley called again, and alone. + His friend had left him that morning for London, but was to + return home in ten days time. He sat with them above an hour, and + was in remarkably good spirits. Mrs. Bennet invited him to dine + with them; but, with many expressions of concern, he confessed + himself engaged elsewhere. + + “Next time you call,” said she, “I hope we shall be more lucky.” + + He should be particularly happy at any time, etc. etc.; and if + she would give him leave, would take an early opportunity of + waiting on them. + + “Can you come to-morrow?” + + Yes, he had no engagement at all for to-morrow; and her + invitation was accepted with alacrity. + + He came, and in such very good time that the ladies were none of + them dressed. In ran Mrs. Bennet to her daughter’s room, in her + dressing gown, and with her hair half finished, crying out: + + “My dear Jane, make haste and hurry down. He is come—Mr. Bingley + is come. He is, indeed. Make haste, make haste. Here, Sarah, come + to Miss Bennet this moment, and help her on with her gown. Never + mind Miss Lizzy’s hair.” + + “We will be down as soon as we can,” said Jane; “but I dare say + Kitty is forwarder than either of us, for she went up stairs half + an hour ago.” + + “Oh! hang Kitty! what has she to do with it? Come be quick, be + quick! Where is your sash, my dear?” + + But when her mother was gone, Jane would not be prevailed on to + go down without one of her sisters. + + The same anxiety to get them by themselves was visible again in + the evening. After tea, Mr. Bennet retired to the library, as was + his custom, and Mary went up stairs to her instrument. Two + obstacles of the five being thus removed, Mrs. Bennet sat looking + and winking at Elizabeth and Catherine for a considerable time, + without making any impression on them. Elizabeth would not + observe her; and when at last Kitty did, she very innocently + said, “What is the matter mamma? What do you keep winking at me + for? What am I to do?” + + “Nothing child, nothing. I did not wink at you.” She then sat + still five minutes longer; but unable to waste such a precious + occasion, she suddenly got up, and saying to Kitty, “Come here, + my love, I want to speak to you,” took her out of the room. Jane + instantly gave a look at Elizabeth which spoke her distress at + such premeditation, and her entreaty that _she_ would not give in + to it. In a few minutes, Mrs. Bennet half-opened the door and + called out: + + “Lizzy, my dear, I want to speak with you.” + + Elizabeth was forced to go. + + “We may as well leave them by themselves you know;” said her + mother, as soon as she was in the hall. “Kitty and I are going up + stairs to sit in my dressing-room.” + + Elizabeth made no attempt to reason with her mother, but remained + quietly in the hall, till she and Kitty were out of sight, then + returned into the drawing-room. + + Mrs. Bennet’s schemes for this day were ineffectual. Bingley was + every thing that was charming, except the professed lover of her + daughter. His ease and cheerfulness rendered him a most agreeable + addition to their evening party; and he bore with the ill-judged + officiousness of the mother, and heard all her silly remarks with + a forbearance and command of countenance particularly grateful to + the daughter. + + He scarcely needed an invitation to stay supper; and before he + went away, an engagement was formed, chiefly through his own and + Mrs. Bennet’s means, for his coming next morning to shoot with + her husband. + + After this day, Jane said no more of her indifference. Not a word + passed between the sisters concerning Bingley; but Elizabeth went + to bed in the happy belief that all must speedily be concluded, + unless Mr. Darcy returned within the stated time. Seriously, + however, she felt tolerably persuaded that all this must have + taken place with that gentleman’s concurrence. + + Bingley was punctual to his appointment; and he and Mr. Bennet + spent the morning together, as had been agreed on. The latter was + much more agreeable than his companion expected. There was + nothing of presumption or folly in Bingley that could provoke his + ridicule, or disgust him into silence; and he was more + communicative, and less eccentric, than the other had ever seen + him. Bingley of course returned with him to dinner; and in the + evening Mrs. Bennet’s invention was again at work to get every + body away from him and her daughter. Elizabeth, who had a letter + to write, went into the breakfast room for that purpose soon + after tea; for as the others were all going to sit down to cards, + she could not be wanted to counteract her mother’s schemes. + + But on returning to the drawing-room, when her letter was + finished, she saw, to her infinite surprise, there was reason to + fear that her mother had been too ingenious for her. On opening + the door, she perceived her sister and Bingley standing together + over the hearth, as if engaged in earnest conversation; and had + this led to no suspicion, the faces of both, as they hastily + turned round and moved away from each other, would have told it + all. _Their_ situation was awkward enough; but _hers_ she thought + was still worse. Not a syllable was uttered by either; and + Elizabeth was on the point of going away again, when Bingley, who + as well as the other had sat down, suddenly rose, and whispering + a few words to her sister, ran out of the room. + + Jane could have no reserves from Elizabeth, where confidence + would give pleasure; and instantly embracing her, acknowledged, + with the liveliest emotion, that she was the happiest creature in + the world. + + “’Tis too much!” she added, “by far too much. I do not deserve + it. Oh! why is not everybody as happy?” + + Elizabeth’s congratulations were given with a sincerity, a + warmth, a delight, which words could but poorly express. Every + sentence of kindness was a fresh source of happiness to Jane. But + she would not allow herself to stay with her sister, or say half + that remained to be said for the present. + + “I must go instantly to my mother;” she cried. “I would not on + any account trifle with her affectionate solicitude; or allow her + to hear it from anyone but myself. He is gone to my father + already. Oh! Lizzy, to know that what I have to relate will give + such pleasure to all my dear family! how shall I bear so much + happiness!” + + She then hastened away to her mother, who had purposely broken up + the card party, and was sitting up stairs with Kitty. + + Elizabeth, who was left by herself, now smiled at the rapidity + and ease with which an affair was finally settled, that had given + them so many previous months of suspense and vexation. + + “And this,” said she, “is the end of all his friend’s anxious + circumspection! of all his sister’s falsehood and contrivance! + the happiest, wisest, most reasonable end!” + + In a few minutes she was joined by Bingley, whose conference with + her father had been short and to the purpose. + + “Where is your sister?” said he hastily, as he opened the door. + + “With my mother up stairs. She will be down in a moment, I dare + say.” + + He then shut the door, and, coming up to her, claimed the good + wishes and affection of a sister. Elizabeth honestly and heartily + expressed her delight in the prospect of their relationship. They + shook hands with great cordiality; and then, till her sister came + down, she had to listen to all he had to say of his own + happiness, and of Jane’s perfections; and in spite of his being a + lover, Elizabeth really believed all his expectations of felicity + to be rationally founded, because they had for basis the + excellent understanding, and super-excellent disposition of Jane, + and a general similarity of feeling and taste between her and + himself. + + It was an evening of no common delight to them all; the + satisfaction of Miss Bennet’s mind gave a glow of such sweet + animation to her face, as made her look handsomer than ever. + Kitty simpered and smiled, and hoped her turn was coming soon. + Mrs. Bennet could not give her consent or speak her approbation + in terms warm enough to satisfy her feelings, though she talked + to Bingley of nothing else for half an hour; and when Mr. Bennet + joined them at supper, his voice and manner plainly showed how + really happy he was. + + Not a word, however, passed his lips in allusion to it, till + their visitor took his leave for the night; but as soon as he was + gone, he turned to his daughter, and said: + + “Jane, I congratulate you. You will be a very happy woman.” + + Jane went to him instantly, kissed him, and thanked him for his + goodness. + + “You are a good girl;” he replied, “and I have great pleasure in + thinking you will be so happily settled. I have not a doubt of + your doing very well together. Your tempers are by no means + unlike. You are each of you so complying, that nothing will ever + be resolved on; so easy, that every servant will cheat you; and + so generous, that you will always exceed your income.” + + “I hope not so. Imprudence or thoughtlessness in money matters + would be unpardonable in _me_.” + + “Exceed their income! My dear Mr. Bennet,” cried his wife, “what + are you talking of? Why, he has four or five thousand a year, and + very likely more.” Then addressing her daughter, “Oh! my dear, + dear Jane, I am so happy! I am sure I shan’t get a wink of sleep + all night. I knew how it would be. I always said it must be so, + at last. I was sure you could not be so beautiful for nothing! I + remember, as soon as ever I saw him, when he first came into + Hertfordshire last year, I thought how likely it was that you + should come together. Oh! he is the handsomest young man that + ever was seen!” + + Wickham, Lydia, were all forgotten. Jane was beyond competition + her favourite child. At that moment, she cared for no other. Her + younger sisters soon began to make interest with her for objects + of happiness which she might in future be able to dispense. + + Mary petitioned for the use of the library at Netherfield; and + Kitty begged very hard for a few balls there every winter. + + Bingley, from this time, was of course a daily visitor at + Longbourn; coming frequently before breakfast, and always + remaining till after supper; unless when some barbarous + neighbour, who could not be enough detested, had given him an + invitation to dinner which he thought himself obliged to accept. + + Elizabeth had now but little time for conversation with her + sister; for while he was present, Jane had no attention to bestow + on anyone else; but she found herself considerably useful to both + of them in those hours of separation that must sometimes occur. + In the absence of Jane, he always attached himself to Elizabeth, + for the pleasure of talking of her; and when Bingley was gone, + Jane constantly sought the same means of relief. + + “He has made me so happy,” said she, one evening, “by telling me + that he was totally ignorant of my being in town last spring! I + had not believed it possible.” + + “I suspected as much,” replied Elizabeth. “But how did he account + for it?” + + “It must have been his sister’s doing. They were certainly no + friends to his acquaintance with me, which I cannot wonder at, + since he might have chosen so much more advantageously in many + respects. But when they see, as I trust they will, that their + brother is happy with me, they will learn to be contented, and we + shall be on good terms again; though we can never be what we once + were to each other.” + + “That is the most unforgiving speech,” said Elizabeth, “that I + ever heard you utter. Good girl! It would vex me, indeed, to see + you again the dupe of Miss Bingley’s pretended regard.” + + “Would you believe it, Lizzy, that when he went to town last + November, he really loved me, and nothing but a persuasion of + _my_ being indifferent would have prevented his coming down + again!” + + “He made a little mistake to be sure; but it is to the credit of + his modesty.” + + This naturally introduced a panegyric from Jane on his + diffidence, and the little value he put on his own good + qualities. Elizabeth was pleased to find that he had not betrayed + the interference of his friend; for, though Jane had the most + generous and forgiving heart in the world, she knew it was a + circumstance which must prejudice her against him. + + “I am certainly the most fortunate creature that ever existed!” + cried Jane. “Oh! Lizzy, why am I thus singled from my family, and + blessed above them all! If I could but see you as happy! If there + were but such another man for you!” + + “If you were to give me forty such men, I never could be so happy + as you. Till I have your disposition, your goodness, I never can + have your happiness. No, no, let me shift for myself; and, + perhaps, if I have very good luck, I may meet with another Mr. + Collins in time.” + + The situation of affairs in the Longbourn family could not be + long a secret. Mrs. Bennet was privileged to whisper it to Mrs. + Phillips, and she ventured, without any permission, to do the + same by all her neighbours in Meryton. + + The Bennets were speedily pronounced to be the luckiest family in + the world, though only a few weeks before, when Lydia had first + run away, they had been generally proved to be marked out for + misfortune. + + + + +Chapter 56 + + One morning, about a week after Bingley’s engagement with Jane + had been formed, as he and the females of the family were sitting + together in the dining-room, their attention was suddenly drawn + to the window, by the sound of a carriage; and they perceived a + chaise and four driving up the lawn. It was too early in the + morning for visitors, and besides, the equipage did not answer to + that of any of their neighbours. The horses were post; and + neither the carriage, nor the livery of the servant who preceded + it, were familiar to them. As it was certain, however, that + somebody was coming, Bingley instantly prevailed on Miss Bennet + to avoid the confinement of such an intrusion, and walk away with + him into the shrubbery. They both set off, and the conjectures of + the remaining three continued, though with little satisfaction, + till the door was thrown open and their visitor entered. It was + Lady Catherine de Bourgh. + + They were of course all intending to be surprised; but their + astonishment was beyond their expectation; and on the part of + Mrs. Bennet and Kitty, though she was perfectly unknown to them, + even inferior to what Elizabeth felt. + + She entered the room with an air more than usually ungracious, + made no other reply to Elizabeth’s salutation than a slight + inclination of the head, and sat down without saying a word. + Elizabeth had mentioned her name to her mother on her ladyship’s + entrance, though no request of introduction had been made. + + Mrs. Bennet, all amazement, though flattered by having a guest of + such high importance, received her with the utmost politeness. + After sitting for a moment in silence, she said very stiffly to + Elizabeth, + + “I hope you are well, Miss Bennet. That lady, I suppose, is your + mother.” + + Elizabeth replied very concisely that she was. + + “And _that_ I suppose is one of your sisters.” + + “Yes, madam,” said Mrs. Bennet, delighted to speak to Lady + Catherine. “She is my youngest girl but one. My youngest of all + is lately married, and my eldest is somewhere about the grounds, + walking with a young man who, I believe, will soon become a part + of the family.” + + “You have a very small park here,” returned Lady Catherine after + a short silence. + + “It is nothing in comparison of Rosings, my lady, I dare say; but + I assure you it is much larger than Sir William Lucas’s.” + + “This must be a most inconvenient sitting room for the evening, + in summer; the windows are full west.” + + Mrs. Bennet assured her that they never sat there after dinner, + and then added: + + “May I take the liberty of asking your ladyship whether you left + Mr. and Mrs. Collins well.” + + “Yes, very well. I saw them the night before last.” + + Elizabeth now expected that she would produce a letter for her + from Charlotte, as it seemed the only probable motive for her + calling. But no letter appeared, and she was completely puzzled. + + Mrs. Bennet, with great civility, begged her ladyship to take + some refreshment; but Lady Catherine very resolutely, and not + very politely, declined eating anything; and then, rising up, + said to Elizabeth, + + “Miss Bennet, there seemed to be a prettyish kind of a little + wilderness on one side of your lawn. I should be glad to take a + turn in it, if you will favour me with your company.” + + “Go, my dear,” cried her mother, “and show her ladyship about the + different walks. I think she will be pleased with the hermitage.” + + Elizabeth obeyed, and running into her own room for her parasol, + attended her noble guest downstairs. As they passed through the + hall, Lady Catherine opened the doors into the dining-parlour and + drawing-room, and pronouncing them, after a short survey, to be + decent looking rooms, walked on. + + Her carriage remained at the door, and Elizabeth saw that her + waiting-woman was in it. They proceeded in silence along the + gravel walk that led to the copse; Elizabeth was determined to + make no effort for conversation with a woman who was now more + than usually insolent and disagreeable. + + “How could I ever think her like her nephew?” said she, as she + looked in her face. + + As soon as they entered the copse, Lady Catherine began in the + following manner:— + + “You can be at no loss, Miss Bennet, to understand the reason of + my journey hither. Your own heart, your own conscience, must tell + you why I come.” + + Elizabeth looked with unaffected astonishment. + + “Indeed, you are mistaken, Madam. I have not been at all able to + account for the honour of seeing you here.” + + “Miss Bennet,” replied her ladyship, in an angry tone, “you ought + to know, that I am not to be trifled with. But however insincere + _you_ may choose to be, you shall not find _me_ so. My character + has ever been celebrated for its sincerity and frankness, and in + a cause of such moment as this, I shall certainly not depart from + it. A report of a most alarming nature reached me two days ago. I + was told that not only your sister was on the point of being most + advantageously married, but that you, that Miss Elizabeth Bennet, + would, in all likelihood, be soon afterwards united to my nephew, + my own nephew, Mr. Darcy. Though I _know_ it must be a scandalous + falsehood, though I would not injure him so much as to suppose + the truth of it possible, I instantly resolved on setting off for + this place, that I might make my sentiments known to you.” + + “If you believed it impossible to be true,” said Elizabeth, + colouring with astonishment and disdain, “I wonder you took the + trouble of coming so far. What could your ladyship propose by + it?” + + “At once to insist upon having such a report universally + contradicted.” + + “Your coming to Longbourn, to see me and my family,” said + Elizabeth coolly, “will be rather a confirmation of it; if, + indeed, such a report is in existence.” + + “If! Do you then pretend to be ignorant of it? Has it not been + industriously circulated by yourselves? Do you not know that such + a report is spread abroad?” + + “I never heard that it was.” + + “And can you likewise declare, that there is no _foundation_ for + it?” + + “I do not pretend to possess equal frankness with your ladyship. + _You_ may ask questions which _I_ shall not choose to answer.” + + “This is not to be borne. Miss Bennet, I insist on being + satisfied. Has he, has my nephew, made you an offer of marriage?” + + “Your ladyship has declared it to be impossible.” + + “It ought to be so; it must be so, while he retains the use of + his reason. But _your_ arts and allurements may, in a moment of + infatuation, have made him forget what he owes to himself and to + all his family. You may have drawn him in.” + + “If I have, I shall be the last person to confess it.” + + “Miss Bennet, do you know who I am? I have not been accustomed to + such language as this. I am almost the nearest relation he has in + the world, and am entitled to know all his dearest concerns.” + + “But you are not entitled to know _mine;_ nor will such behaviour + as this, ever induce me to be explicit.” + + “Let me be rightly understood. This match, to which you have the + presumption to aspire, can never take place. No, never. Mr. Darcy + is engaged to _my daughter_. Now what have you to say?” + + “Only this; that if he is so, you can have no reason to suppose + he will make an offer to me.” + + Lady Catherine hesitated for a moment, and then replied: + + “The engagement between them is of a peculiar kind. From their + infancy, they have been intended for each other. It was the + favourite wish of _his_ mother, as well as of hers. While in + their cradles, we planned the union: and now, at the moment when + the wishes of both sisters would be accomplished in their + marriage, to be prevented by a young woman of inferior birth, of + no importance in the world, and wholly unallied to the family! Do + you pay no regard to the wishes of his friends? To his tacit + engagement with Miss de Bourgh? Are you lost to every feeling of + propriety and delicacy? Have you not heard me say that from his + earliest hours he was destined for his cousin?” + + “Yes, and I had heard it before. But what is that to me? If there + is no other objection to my marrying your nephew, I shall + certainly not be kept from it by knowing that his mother and aunt + wished him to marry Miss de Bourgh. You both did as much as you + could in planning the marriage. Its completion depended on + others. If Mr. Darcy is neither by honour nor inclination + confined to his cousin, why is not he to make another choice? And + if I am that choice, why may not I accept him?” + + “Because honour, decorum, prudence, nay, interest, forbid it. + Yes, Miss Bennet, interest; for do not expect to be noticed by + his family or friends, if you wilfully act against the + inclinations of all. You will be censured, slighted, and + despised, by everyone connected with him. Your alliance will be a + disgrace; your name will never even be mentioned by any of us.” + + “These are heavy misfortunes,” replied Elizabeth. “But the wife + of Mr. Darcy must have such extraordinary sources of happiness + necessarily attached to her situation, that she could, upon the + whole, have no cause to repine.” + + “Obstinate, headstrong girl! I am ashamed of you! Is this your + gratitude for my attentions to you last spring? Is nothing due to + me on that score? Let us sit down. You are to understand, Miss + Bennet, that I came here with the determined resolution of + carrying my purpose; nor will I be dissuaded from it. I have not + been used to submit to any person’s whims. I have not been in the + habit of brooking disappointment.” + + “_That_ will make your ladyship’s situation at present more + pitiable; but it will have no effect on _me_.” + + “I will not be interrupted. Hear me in silence. My daughter and + my nephew are formed for each other. They are descended, on the + maternal side, from the same noble line; and, on the father’s, + from respectable, honourable, and ancient—though + untitled—families. Their fortune on both sides is splendid. They + are destined for each other by the voice of every member of their + respective houses; and what is to divide them? The upstart + pretensions of a young woman without family, connections, or + fortune. Is this to be endured! But it must not, shall not be. If + you were sensible of your own good, you would not wish to quit + the sphere in which you have been brought up.” + + “In marrying your nephew, I should not consider myself as + quitting that sphere. He is a gentleman; I am a gentleman’s + daughter; so far we are equal.” + + “True. You _are_ a gentleman’s daughter. But who was your mother? + Who are your uncles and aunts? Do not imagine me ignorant of + their condition.” + + “Whatever my connections may be,” said Elizabeth, “if your nephew + does not object to them, they can be nothing to _you_.” + + “Tell me once for all, are you engaged to him?” + + Though Elizabeth would not, for the mere purpose of obliging Lady + Catherine, have answered this question, she could not but say, + after a moment’s deliberation: + + “I am not.” + + Lady Catherine seemed pleased. + + “And will you promise me, never to enter into such an + engagement?” + + “I will make no promise of the kind.” + + “Miss Bennet I am shocked and astonished. I expected to find a + more reasonable young woman. But do not deceive yourself into a + belief that I will ever recede. I shall not go away till you have + given me the assurance I require.” + + “And I certainly _never_ shall give it. I am not to be + intimidated into anything so wholly unreasonable. Your ladyship + wants Mr. Darcy to marry your daughter; but would my giving you + the wished-for promise make _their_ marriage at all more + probable? Supposing him to be attached to me, would _my_ refusing + to accept his hand make him wish to bestow it on his cousin? + Allow me to say, Lady Catherine, that the arguments with which + you have supported this extraordinary application have been as + frivolous as the application was ill-judged. You have widely + mistaken my character, if you think I can be worked on by such + persuasions as these. How far your nephew might approve of your + interference in _his_ affairs, I cannot tell; but you have + certainly no right to concern yourself in mine. I must beg, + therefore, to be importuned no farther on the subject.” + + “Not so hasty, if you please. I have by no means done. To all the + objections I have already urged, I have still another to add. I + am no stranger to the particulars of your youngest sister’s + infamous elopement. I know it all; that the young man’s marrying + her was a patched-up business, at the expence of your father and + uncles. And is _such_ a girl to be my nephew’s sister? Is _her_ + husband, who is the son of his late father’s steward, to be his + brother? Heaven and earth!—of what are you thinking? Are the + shades of Pemberley to be thus polluted?” + + “You can _now_ have nothing further to say,” she resentfully + answered. “You have insulted me in every possible method. I must + beg to return to the house.” + + And she rose as she spoke. Lady Catherine rose also, and they + turned back. Her ladyship was highly incensed. + + “You have no regard, then, for the honour and credit of my + nephew! Unfeeling, selfish girl! Do you not consider that a + connection with you must disgrace him in the eyes of everybody?” + + “Lady Catherine, I have nothing further to say. You know my + sentiments.” + + “You are then resolved to have him?” + + “I have said no such thing. I am only resolved to act in that + manner, which will, in my own opinion, constitute my happiness, + without reference to _you_, or to any person so wholly + unconnected with me.” + + “It is well. You refuse, then, to oblige me. You refuse to obey + the claims of duty, honour, and gratitude. You are determined to + ruin him in the opinion of all his friends, and make him the + contempt of the world.” + + “Neither duty, nor honour, nor gratitude,” replied Elizabeth, + “have any possible claim on me, in the present instance. No + principle of either would be violated by my marriage with Mr. + Darcy. And with regard to the resentment of his family, or the + indignation of the world, if the former _were_ excited by his + marrying me, it would not give me one moment’s concern—and the + world in general would have too much sense to join in the scorn.” + + “And this is your real opinion! This is your final resolve! Very + well. I shall now know how to act. Do not imagine, Miss Bennet, + that your ambition will ever be gratified. I came to try you. I + hoped to find you reasonable; but, depend upon it, I will carry + my point.” + + In this manner Lady Catherine talked on, till they were at the + door of the carriage, when, turning hastily round, she added, “I + take no leave of you, Miss Bennet. I send no compliments to your + mother. You deserve no such attention. I am most seriously + displeased.” + + Elizabeth made no answer; and without attempting to persuade her + ladyship to return into the house, walked quietly into it + herself. She heard the carriage drive away as she proceeded up + stairs. Her mother impatiently met her at the door of the + dressing-room, to ask why Lady Catherine would not come in again + and rest herself. + + “She did not choose it,” said her daughter, “she would go.” + + “She is a very fine-looking woman! and her calling here was + prodigiously civil! for she only came, I suppose, to tell us the + Collinses were well. She is on her road somewhere, I dare say, + and so, passing through Meryton, thought she might as well call + on you. I suppose she had nothing particular to say to you, + Lizzy?” + + Elizabeth was forced to give into a little falsehood here; for to + acknowledge the substance of their conversation was impossible. + + + + +Chapter 57 + + The discomposure of spirits which this extraordinary visit threw + Elizabeth into, could not be easily overcome; nor could she, for + many hours, learn to think of it less than incessantly. Lady + Catherine, it appeared, had actually taken the trouble of this + journey from Rosings, for the sole purpose of breaking off her + supposed engagement with Mr. Darcy. It was a rational scheme, to + be sure! but from what the report of their engagement could + originate, Elizabeth was at a loss to imagine; till she + recollected that _his_ being the intimate friend of Bingley, and + _her_ being the sister of Jane, was enough, at a time when the + expectation of one wedding made everybody eager for another, to + supply the idea. She had not herself forgotten to feel that the + marriage of her sister must bring them more frequently together. + And her neighbours at Lucas Lodge, therefore (for through their + communication with the Collinses, the report, she concluded, had + reached Lady Catherine), had only set _that_ down as almost + certain and immediate, which _she_ had looked forward to as + possible at some future time. + + In revolving Lady Catherine’s expressions, however, she could not + help feeling some uneasiness as to the possible consequence of + her persisting in this interference. From what she had said of + her resolution to prevent their marriage, it occurred to + Elizabeth that she must meditate an application to her nephew; + and how he might take a similar representation of the evils + attached to a connection with her, she dared not pronounce. She + knew not the exact degree of his affection for his aunt, or his + dependence on her judgment, but it was natural to suppose that he + thought much higher of her ladyship than _she_ could do; and it + was certain that, in enumerating the miseries of a marriage with + _one_, whose immediate connections were so unequal to his own, + his aunt would address him on his weakest side. With his notions + of dignity, he would probably feel that the arguments, which to + Elizabeth had appeared weak and ridiculous, contained much good + sense and solid reasoning. + + If he had been wavering before as to what he should do, which had + often seemed likely, the advice and entreaty of so near a + relation might settle every doubt, and determine him at once to + be as happy as dignity unblemished could make him. In that case + he would return no more. Lady Catherine might see him in her way + through town; and his engagement to Bingley of coming again to + Netherfield must give way. + + “If, therefore, an excuse for not keeping his promise should come + to his friend within a few days,” she added, “I shall know how to + understand it. I shall then give over every expectation, every + wish of his constancy. If he is satisfied with only regretting + me, when he might have obtained my affections and hand, I shall + soon cease to regret him at all.” + + The surprise of the rest of the family, on hearing who their + visitor had been, was very great; but they obligingly satisfied + it, with the same kind of supposition which had appeased Mrs. + Bennet’s curiosity; and Elizabeth was spared from much teasing on + the subject. + + The next morning, as she was going downstairs, she was met by her + father, who came out of his library with a letter in his hand. + + “Lizzy,” said he, “I was going to look for you; come into my + room.” + + She followed him thither; and her curiosity to know what he had + to tell her was heightened by the supposition of its being in + some manner connected with the letter he held. It suddenly struck + her that it might be from Lady Catherine; and she anticipated + with dismay all the consequent explanations. + + She followed her father to the fire place, and they both sat + down. He then said, + + “I have received a letter this morning that has astonished me + exceedingly. As it principally concerns yourself, you ought to + know its contents. I did not know before, that I had _two_ + daughters on the brink of matrimony. Let me congratulate you on a + very important conquest.” + + The colour now rushed into Elizabeth’s cheeks in the + instantaneous conviction of its being a letter from the nephew, + instead of the aunt; and she was undetermined whether most to be + pleased that he explained himself at all, or offended that his + letter was not rather addressed to herself; when her father + continued: + + “You look conscious. Young ladies have great penetration in such + matters as these; but I think I may defy even _your_ sagacity, to + discover the name of your admirer. This letter is from Mr. + Collins.” + + “From Mr. Collins! and what can _he_ have to say?” + + “Something very much to the purpose of course. He begins with + congratulations on the approaching nuptials of my eldest + daughter, of which, it seems, he has been told by some of the + good-natured, gossiping Lucases. I shall not sport with your + impatience, by reading what he says on that point. What relates + to yourself, is as follows: ‘Having thus offered you the sincere + congratulations of Mrs. Collins and myself on this happy event, + let me now add a short hint on the subject of another; of which + we have been advertised by the same authority. Your daughter + Elizabeth, it is presumed, will not long bear the name of Bennet, + after her elder sister has resigned it, and the chosen partner of + her fate may be reasonably looked up to as one of the most + illustrious personages in this land.’ + + “Can you possibly guess, Lizzy, who is meant by this? ‘This young + gentleman is blessed, in a peculiar way, with every thing the + heart of mortal can most desire,—splendid property, noble + kindred, and extensive patronage. Yet in spite of all these + temptations, let me warn my cousin Elizabeth, and yourself, of + what evils you may incur by a precipitate closure with this + gentleman’s proposals, which, of course, you will be inclined to + take immediate advantage of.’ + + “Have you any idea, Lizzy, who this gentleman is? But now it + comes out: + + “‘My motive for cautioning you is as follows. We have reason to + imagine that his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, does not look on + the match with a friendly eye.’ + + “_Mr. Darcy_, you see, is the man! Now, Lizzy, I think I _have_ + surprised you. Could he, or the Lucases, have pitched on any man + within the circle of our acquaintance, whose name would have + given the lie more effectually to what they related? Mr. Darcy, + who never looks at any woman but to see a blemish, and who + probably never looked at _you_ in his life! It is admirable!” + + Elizabeth tried to join in her father’s pleasantry, but could + only force one most reluctant smile. Never had his wit been + directed in a manner so little agreeable to her. + + “Are you not diverted?” + + “Oh! yes. Pray read on.” + + “‘After mentioning the likelihood of this marriage to her + ladyship last night, she immediately, with her usual + condescension, expressed what she felt on the occasion; when it + became apparent, that on the score of some family objections on + the part of my cousin, she would never give her consent to what + she termed so disgraceful a match. I thought it my duty to give + the speediest intelligence of this to my cousin, that she and her + noble admirer may be aware of what they are about, and not run + hastily into a marriage which has not been properly sanctioned.’ + Mr. Collins moreover adds, ‘I am truly rejoiced that my cousin + Lydia’s sad business has been so well hushed up, and am only + concerned that their living together before the marriage took + place should be so generally known. I must not, however, neglect + the duties of my station, or refrain from declaring my amazement + at hearing that you received the young couple into your house as + soon as they were married. It was an encouragement of vice; and + had I been the rector of Longbourn, I should very strenuously + have opposed it. You ought certainly to forgive them, as a + Christian, but never to admit them in your sight, or allow their + names to be mentioned in your hearing.’ _That_ is his notion of + Christian forgiveness! The rest of his letter is only about his + dear Charlotte’s situation, and his expectation of a young + olive-branch. But, Lizzy, you look as if you did not enjoy it. + You are not going to be _missish_, I hope, and pretend to be + affronted at an idle report. For what do we live, but to make + sport for our neighbours, and laugh at them in our turn?” + + “Oh!” cried Elizabeth, “I am excessively diverted. But it is so + strange!” + + “Yes—_that_ is what makes it amusing. Had they fixed on any other + man it would have been nothing; but _his_ perfect indifference, + and _your_ pointed dislike, make it so delightfully absurd! Much + as I abominate writing, I would not give up Mr. Collins’s + correspondence for any consideration. Nay, when I read a letter + of his, I cannot help giving him the preference even over + Wickham, much as I value the impudence and hypocrisy of my + son-in-law. And pray, Lizzy, what said Lady Catherine about this + report? Did she call to refuse her consent?” + + To this question his daughter replied only with a laugh; and as + it had been asked without the least suspicion, she was not + distressed by his repeating it. Elizabeth had never been more at + a loss to make her feelings appear what they were not. It was + necessary to laugh, when she would rather have cried. Her father + had most cruelly mortified her, by what he said of Mr. Darcy’s + indifference, and she could do nothing but wonder at such a want + of penetration, or fear that perhaps, instead of his seeing too + _little_, she might have fancied too _much_. + + + + +Chapter 58 + + Instead of receiving any such letter of excuse from his friend, + as Elizabeth half expected Mr. Bingley to do, he was able to + bring Darcy with him to Longbourn before many days had passed + after Lady Catherine’s visit. The gentlemen arrived early; and, + before Mrs. Bennet had time to tell him of their having seen his + aunt, of which her daughter sat in momentary dread, Bingley, who + wanted to be alone with Jane, proposed their all walking out. It + was agreed to. Mrs. Bennet was not in the habit of walking; Mary + could never spare time; but the remaining five set off together. + Bingley and Jane, however, soon allowed the others to outstrip + them. They lagged behind, while Elizabeth, Kitty, and Darcy were + to entertain each other. Very little was said by either; Kitty + was too much afraid of him to talk; Elizabeth was secretly + forming a desperate resolution; and perhaps he might be doing the + same. + + They walked towards the Lucases, because Kitty wished to call + upon Maria; and as Elizabeth saw no occasion for making it a + general concern, when Kitty left them she went boldly on with him + alone. Now was the moment for her resolution to be executed, and, + while her courage was high, she immediately said: + + “Mr. Darcy, I am a very selfish creature; and, for the sake of + giving relief to my own feelings, care not how much I may be + wounding yours. I can no longer help thanking you for your + unexampled kindness to my poor sister. Ever since I have known + it, I have been most anxious to acknowledge to you how gratefully + I feel it. Were it known to the rest of my family, I should not + have merely my own gratitude to express.” + + “I am sorry, exceedingly sorry,” replied Darcy, in a tone of + surprise and emotion, “that you have ever been informed of what + may, in a mistaken light, have given you uneasiness. I did not + think Mrs. Gardiner was so little to be trusted.” + + “You must not blame my aunt. Lydia’s thoughtlessness first + betrayed to me that you had been concerned in the matter; and, of + course, I could not rest till I knew the particulars. Let me + thank you again and again, in the name of all my family, for that + generous compassion which induced you to take so much trouble, + and bear so many mortifications, for the sake of discovering + them.” + + “If you _will_ thank me,” he replied, “let it be for yourself + alone. That the wish of giving happiness to you might add force + to the other inducements which led me on, I shall not attempt to + deny. But your _family_ owe me nothing. Much as I respect them, I + believe I thought only of _you_.” + + Elizabeth was too much embarrassed to say a word. After a short + pause, her companion added, “You are too generous to trifle with + me. If your feelings are still what they were last April, tell me + so at once. _My_ affections and wishes are unchanged, but one + word from you will silence me on this subject for ever.” + + Elizabeth, feeling all the more than common awkwardness and + anxiety of his situation, now forced herself to speak; and + immediately, though not very fluently, gave him to understand + that her sentiments had undergone so material a change, since the + period to which he alluded, as to make her receive with gratitude + and pleasure his present assurances. The happiness which this + reply produced, was such as he had probably never felt before; + and he expressed himself on the occasion as sensibly and as + warmly as a man violently in love can be supposed to do. Had + Elizabeth been able to encounter his eye, she might have seen how + well the expression of heartfelt delight, diffused over his face, + became him; but, though she could not look, she could listen, and + he told her of feelings, which, in proving of what importance she + was to him, made his affection every moment more valuable. + + They walked on, without knowing in what direction. There was too + much to be thought, and felt, and said, for attention to any + other objects. She soon learnt that they were indebted for their + present good understanding to the efforts of his aunt, who _did_ + call on him in her return through London, and there relate her + journey to Longbourn, its motive, and the substance of her + conversation with Elizabeth; dwelling emphatically on every + expression of the latter which, in her ladyship’s apprehension, + peculiarly denoted her perverseness and assurance; in the belief + that such a relation must assist her endeavours to obtain that + promise from her nephew which _she_ had refused to give. But, + unluckily for her ladyship, its effect had been exactly + contrariwise. + + “It taught me to hope,” said he, “as I had scarcely ever allowed + myself to hope before. I knew enough of your disposition to be + certain that, had you been absolutely, irrevocably decided + against me, you would have acknowledged it to Lady Catherine, + frankly and openly.” + + Elizabeth coloured and laughed as she replied, “Yes, you know + enough of my _frankness_ to believe me capable of _that_. After + abusing you so abominably to your face, I could have no scruple + in abusing you to all your relations.” + + “What did you say of me, that I did not deserve? For, though your + accusations were ill-founded, formed on mistaken premises, my + behaviour to you at the time had merited the severest reproof. It + was unpardonable. I cannot think of it without abhorrence.” + + “We will not quarrel for the greater share of blame annexed to + that evening,” said Elizabeth. “The conduct of neither, if + strictly examined, will be irreproachable; but since then, we + have both, I hope, improved in civility.” + + “I cannot be so easily reconciled to myself. The recollection of + what I then said, of my conduct, my manners, my expressions + during the whole of it, is now, and has been many months, + inexpressibly painful to me. Your reproof, so well applied, I + shall never forget: ‘had you behaved in a more gentlemanlike + manner.’ Those were your words. You know not, you can scarcely + conceive, how they have tortured me;—though it was some time, I + confess, before I was reasonable enough to allow their justice.” + + “I was certainly very far from expecting them to make so strong + an impression. I had not the smallest idea of their being ever + felt in such a way.” + + “I can easily believe it. You thought me then devoid of every + proper feeling, I am sure you did. The turn of your countenance I + shall never forget, as you said that I could not have addressed + you in any possible way that would induce you to accept me.” + + “Oh! do not repeat what I then said. These recollections will not + do at all. I assure you that I have long been most heartily + ashamed of it.” + + Darcy mentioned his letter. “Did it,” said he, “did it soon make + you think better of me? Did you, on reading it, give any credit + to its contents?” + + She explained what its effect on her had been, and how gradually + all her former prejudices had been removed. + + “I knew,” said he, “that what I wrote must give you pain, but it + was necessary. I hope you have destroyed the letter. There was + one part especially, the opening of it, which I should dread your + having the power of reading again. I can remember some + expressions which might justly make you hate me.” + + “The letter shall certainly be burnt, if you believe it essential + to the preservation of my regard; but, though we have both reason + to think my opinions not entirely unalterable, they are not, I + hope, quite so easily changed as that implies.” + + “When I wrote that letter,” replied Darcy, “I believed myself + perfectly calm and cool, but I am since convinced that it was + written in a dreadful bitterness of spirit.” + + “The letter, perhaps, began in bitterness, but it did not end so. + The adieu is charity itself. But think no more of the letter. The + feelings of the person who wrote, and the person who received it, + are now so widely different from what they were then, that every + unpleasant circumstance attending it ought to be forgotten. You + must learn some of my philosophy. Think only of the past as its + remembrance gives you pleasure.” + + “I cannot give you credit for any philosophy of the kind. _Your_ + retrospections must be so totally void of reproach, that the + contentment arising from them is not of philosophy, but, what is + much better, of innocence. But with _me_, it is not so. Painful + recollections will intrude which cannot, which ought not, to be + repelled. I have been a selfish being all my life, in practice, + though not in principle. As a child I was taught what was + _right_, but I was not taught to correct my temper. I was given + good principles, but left to follow them in pride and conceit. + Unfortunately an only son (for many years an only _child_), I was + spoilt by my parents, who, though good themselves (my father, + particularly, all that was benevolent and amiable), allowed, + encouraged, almost taught me to be selfish and overbearing; to + care for none beyond my own family circle; to think meanly of all + the rest of the world; to _wish_ at least to think meanly of + their sense and worth compared with my own. Such I was, from + eight to eight and twenty; and such I might still have been but + for you, dearest, loveliest Elizabeth! What do I not owe you! You + taught me a lesson, hard indeed at first, but most advantageous. + By you, I was properly humbled. I came to you without a doubt of + my reception. You showed me how insufficient were all my + pretensions to please a woman worthy of being pleased.” + + “Had you then persuaded yourself that I should?” + + “Indeed I had. What will you think of my vanity? I believed you + to be wishing, expecting my addresses.” + + “My manners must have been in fault, but not intentionally, I + assure you. I never meant to deceive you, but my spirits might + often lead me wrong. How you must have hated me after _that_ + evening?” + + “Hate you! I was angry perhaps at first, but my anger soon began + to take a proper direction.” + + “I am almost afraid of asking what you thought of me, when we met + at Pemberley. You blamed me for coming?” + + “No indeed; I felt nothing but surprise.” + + “Your surprise could not be greater than _mine_ in being noticed + by you. My conscience told me that I deserved no extraordinary + politeness, and I confess that I did not expect to receive _more_ + than my due.” + + “My object _then_,” replied Darcy, “was to show you, by every + civility in my power, that I was not so mean as to resent the + past; and I hoped to obtain your forgiveness, to lessen your ill + opinion, by letting you see that your reproofs had been attended + to. How soon any other wishes introduced themselves I can hardly + tell, but I believe in about half an hour after I had seen you.” + + He then told her of Georgiana’s delight in her acquaintance, and + of her disappointment at its sudden interruption; which naturally + leading to the cause of that interruption, she soon learnt that + his resolution of following her from Derbyshire in quest of her + sister had been formed before he quitted the inn, and that his + gravity and thoughtfulness there had arisen from no other + struggles than what such a purpose must comprehend. + + She expressed her gratitude again, but it was too painful a + subject to each, to be dwelt on farther. + + After walking several miles in a leisurely manner, and too busy + to know anything about it, they found at last, on examining their + watches, that it was time to be at home. + + “What could become of Mr. Bingley and Jane!” was a wonder which + introduced the discussion of _their_ affairs. Darcy was delighted + with their engagement; his friend had given him the earliest + information of it. + + “I must ask whether you were surprised?” said Elizabeth. + + “Not at all. When I went away, I felt that it would soon happen.” + + “That is to say, you had given your permission. I guessed as + much.” And though he exclaimed at the term, she found that it had + been pretty much the case. + + “On the evening before my going to London,” said he, “I made a + confession to him, which I believe I ought to have made long ago. + I told him of all that had occurred to make my former + interference in his affairs absurd and impertinent. His surprise + was great. He had never had the slightest suspicion. I told him, + moreover, that I believed myself mistaken in supposing, as I had + done, that your sister was indifferent to him; and as I could + easily perceive that his attachment to her was unabated, I felt + no doubt of their happiness together.” + + Elizabeth could not help smiling at his easy manner of directing + his friend. + + “Did you speak from your own observation,” said she, “when you + told him that my sister loved him, or merely from my information + last spring?” + + “From the former. I had narrowly observed her during the two + visits which I had lately made here; and I was convinced of her + affection.” + + “And your assurance of it, I suppose, carried immediate + conviction to him.” + + “It did. Bingley is most unaffectedly modest. His diffidence had + prevented his depending on his own judgment in so anxious a case, + but his reliance on mine made every thing easy. I was obliged to + confess one thing, which for a time, and not unjustly, offended + him. I could not allow myself to conceal that your sister had + been in town three months last winter, that I had known it, and + purposely kept it from him. He was angry. But his anger, I am + persuaded, lasted no longer than he remained in any doubt of your + sister’s sentiments. He has heartily forgiven me now.” + + Elizabeth longed to observe that Mr. Bingley had been a most + delightful friend; so easily guided that his worth was + invaluable; but she checked herself. She remembered that he had + yet to learn to be laughed at, and it was rather too early to + begin. In anticipating the happiness of Bingley, which of course + was to be inferior only to his own, he continued the conversation + till they reached the house. In the hall they parted. + + + + +Chapter 59 + + “My dear Lizzy, where can you have been walking to?” was a + question which Elizabeth received from Jane as soon as she + entered their room, and from all the others when they sat down to + table. She had only to say in reply, that they had wandered + about, till she was beyond her own knowledge. She coloured as she + spoke; but neither that, nor anything else, awakened a suspicion + of the truth. + + The evening passed quietly, unmarked by anything extraordinary. + The acknowledged lovers talked and laughed, the unacknowledged + were silent. Darcy was not of a disposition in which happiness + overflows in mirth; and Elizabeth, agitated and confused, rather + _knew_ that she was happy than _felt_ herself to be so; for, + besides the immediate embarrassment, there were other evils + before her. She anticipated what would be felt in the family when + her situation became known; she was aware that no one liked him + but Jane; and even feared that with the others it was a _dislike_ + which not all his fortune and consequence might do away. + + At night she opened her heart to Jane. Though suspicion was very + far from Miss Bennet’s general habits, she was absolutely + incredulous here. + + “You are joking, Lizzy. This cannot be!—engaged to Mr. Darcy! No, + no, you shall not deceive me. I know it to be impossible.” + + “This is a wretched beginning indeed! My sole dependence was on + you; and I am sure nobody else will believe me, if you do not. + Yet, indeed, I am in earnest. I speak nothing but the truth. He + still loves me, and we are engaged.” + + Jane looked at her doubtingly. “Oh, Lizzy! it cannot be. I know + how much you dislike him.” + + “You know nothing of the matter. _That_ is all to be forgot. + Perhaps I did not always love him so well as I do now. But in + such cases as these, a good memory is unpardonable. This is the + last time I shall ever remember it myself.” + + Miss Bennet still looked all amazement. Elizabeth again, and more + seriously assured her of its truth. + + “Good Heaven! can it be really so! Yet now I must believe you,” + cried Jane. “My dear, dear Lizzy, I would—I do congratulate + you—but are you certain? forgive the question—are you quite + certain that you can be happy with him?” + + “There can be no doubt of that. It is settled between us already, + that we are to be the happiest couple in the world. But are you + pleased, Jane? Shall you like to have such a brother?” + + “Very, very much. Nothing could give either Bingley or myself + more delight. But we considered it, we talked of it as + impossible. And do you really love him quite well enough? Oh, + Lizzy! do anything rather than marry without affection. Are you + quite sure that you feel what you ought to do?” + + “Oh, yes! You will only think I feel _more_ than I ought to do, + when I tell you all.” + + “What do you mean?” + + “Why, I must confess that I love him better than I do Bingley. I + am afraid you will be angry.” + + “My dearest sister, now _be_ serious. I want to talk very + seriously. Let me know every thing that I am to know, without + delay. Will you tell me how long you have loved him?” + + “It has been coming on so gradually, that I hardly know when it + began. But I believe I must date it from my first seeing his + beautiful grounds at Pemberley.” + + Another entreaty that she would be serious, however, produced the + desired effect; and she soon satisfied Jane by her solemn + assurances of attachment. When convinced on that article, Miss + Bennet had nothing further to wish. + + “Now I am quite happy,” said she, “for you will be as happy as + myself. I always had a value for him. Were it for nothing but his + love of you, I must always have esteemed him; but now, as + Bingley’s friend and your husband, there can be only Bingley and + yourself more dear to me. But Lizzy, you have been very sly, very + reserved with me. How little did you tell me of what passed at + Pemberley and Lambton! I owe all that I know of it to another, + not to you.” + + Elizabeth told her the motives of her secrecy. She had been + unwilling to mention Bingley; and the unsettled state of her own + feelings had made her equally avoid the name of his friend. But + now she would no longer conceal from her his share in Lydia’s + marriage. All was acknowledged, and half the night spent in + conversation. + + “Good gracious!” cried Mrs. Bennet, as she stood at a window the + next morning, “if that disagreeable Mr. Darcy is not coming here + again with our dear Bingley! What can he mean by being so + tiresome as to be always coming here? I had no notion but he + would go a-shooting, or something or other, and not disturb us + with his company. What shall we do with him? Lizzy, you must walk + out with him again, that he may not be in Bingley’s way.” + + Elizabeth could hardly help laughing at so convenient a proposal; + yet was really vexed that her mother should be always giving him + such an epithet. + + As soon as they entered, Bingley looked at her so expressively, + and shook hands with such warmth, as left no doubt of his good + information; and he soon afterwards said aloud, “Mrs. Bennet, + have you no more lanes hereabouts in which Lizzy may lose her way + again to-day?” + + “I advise Mr. Darcy, and Lizzy, and Kitty,” said Mrs. Bennet, “to + walk to Oakham Mount this morning. It is a nice long walk, and + Mr. Darcy has never seen the view.” + + “It may do very well for the others,” replied Mr. Bingley; “but I + am sure it will be too much for Kitty. Won’t it, Kitty?” Kitty + owned that she had rather stay at home. Darcy professed a great + curiosity to see the view from the Mount, and Elizabeth silently + consented. As she went up stairs to get ready, Mrs. Bennet + followed her, saying: + + “I am quite sorry, Lizzy, that you should be forced to have that + disagreeable man all to yourself. But I hope you will not mind + it: it is all for Jane’s sake, you know; and there is no occasion + for talking to him, except just now and then. So, do not put + yourself to inconvenience.” + + During their walk, it was resolved that Mr. Bennet’s consent + should be asked in the course of the evening. Elizabeth reserved + to herself the application for her mother’s. She could not + determine how her mother would take it; sometimes doubting + whether all his wealth and grandeur would be enough to overcome + her abhorrence of the man. But whether she were violently set + against the match, or violently delighted with it, it was certain + that her manner would be equally ill adapted to do credit to her + sense; and she could no more bear that Mr. Darcy should hear the + first raptures of her joy, than the first vehemence of her + disapprobation. + + In the evening, soon after Mr. Bennet withdrew to the library, + she saw Mr. Darcy rise also and follow him, and her agitation on + seeing it was extreme. She did not fear her father’s opposition, + but he was going to be made unhappy; and that it should be + through her means—that _she_, his favourite child, should be + distressing him by her choice, should be filling him with fears + and regrets in disposing of her—was a wretched reflection, and + she sat in misery till Mr. Darcy appeared again, when, looking at + him, she was a little relieved by his smile. In a few minutes he + approached the table where she was sitting with Kitty; and, while + pretending to admire her work said in a whisper, “Go to your + father, he wants you in the library.” She was gone directly. + + Her father was walking about the room, looking grave and anxious. + “Lizzy,” said he, “what are you doing? Are you out of your + senses, to be accepting this man? Have not you always hated him?” + + How earnestly did she then wish that her former opinions had been + more reasonable, her expressions more moderate! It would have + spared her from explanations and professions which it was + exceedingly awkward to give; but they were now necessary, and she + assured him, with some confusion, of her attachment to Mr. Darcy. + + “Or, in other words, you are determined to have him. He is rich, + to be sure, and you may have more fine clothes and fine carriages + than Jane. But will they make you happy?” + + “Have you any other objection,” said Elizabeth, “than your belief + of my indifference?” + + “None at all. We all know him to be a proud, unpleasant sort of + man; but this would be nothing if you really liked him.” + + “I do, I do like him,” she replied, with tears in her eyes, “I + love him. Indeed he has no improper pride. He is perfectly + amiable. You do not know what he really is; then pray do not pain + me by speaking of him in such terms.” + + “Lizzy,” said her father, “I have given him my consent. He is the + kind of man, indeed, to whom I should never dare refuse anything, + which he condescended to ask. I now give it to _you_, if you are + resolved on having him. But let me advise you to think better of + it. I know your disposition, Lizzy. I know that you could be + neither happy nor respectable, unless you truly esteemed your + husband; unless you looked up to him as a superior. Your lively + talents would place you in the greatest danger in an unequal + marriage. You could scarcely escape discredit and misery. My + child, let me not have the grief of seeing _you_ unable to + respect your partner in life. You know not what you are about.” + + Elizabeth, still more affected, was earnest and solemn in her + reply; and at length, by repeated assurances that Mr. Darcy was + really the object of her choice, by explaining the gradual change + which her estimation of him had undergone, relating her absolute + certainty that his affection was not the work of a day, but had + stood the test of many months’ suspense, and enumerating with + energy all his good qualities, she did conquer her father’s + incredulity, and reconcile him to the match. + + “Well, my dear,” said he, when she ceased speaking, “I have no + more to say. If this be the case, he deserves you. I could not + have parted with you, my Lizzy, to anyone less worthy.” + + To complete the favourable impression, she then told him what Mr. + Darcy had voluntarily done for Lydia. He heard her with + astonishment. + + “This is an evening of wonders, indeed! And so, Darcy did every + thing; made up the match, gave the money, paid the fellow’s + debts, and got him his commission! So much the better. It will + save me a world of trouble and economy. Had it been your uncle’s + doing, I must and _would_ have paid him; but these violent young + lovers carry every thing their own way. I shall offer to pay him + to-morrow; he will rant and storm about his love for you, and + there will be an end of the matter.” + + He then recollected her embarrassment a few days before, on his + reading Mr. Collins’s letter; and after laughing at her some + time, allowed her at last to go—saying, as she quitted the room, + “If any young men come for Mary or Kitty, send them in, for I am + quite at leisure.” + + Elizabeth’s mind was now relieved from a very heavy weight; and, + after half an hour’s quiet reflection in her own room, she was + able to join the others with tolerable composure. Every thing was + too recent for gaiety, but the evening passed tranquilly away; + there was no longer anything material to be dreaded, and the + comfort of ease and familiarity would come in time. + + When her mother went up to her dressing-room at night, she + followed her, and made the important communication. Its effect + was most extraordinary; for on first hearing it, Mrs. Bennet sat + quite still, and unable to utter a syllable. Nor was it under + many, many minutes that she could comprehend what she heard; + though not in general backward to credit what was for the + advantage of her family, or that came in the shape of a lover to + any of them. She began at length to recover, to fidget about in + her chair, get up, sit down again, wonder, and bless herself. + + “Good gracious! Lord bless me! only think! dear me! Mr. Darcy! + Who would have thought it! And is it really true? Oh! my sweetest + Lizzy! how rich and how great you will be! What pin-money, what + jewels, what carriages you will have! Jane’s is nothing to + it—nothing at all. I am so pleased—so happy. Such a charming + man!—so handsome! so tall!—Oh, my dear Lizzy! pray apologise for + my having disliked him so much before. I hope he will overlook + it. Dear, dear Lizzy. A house in town! Every thing that is + charming! Three daughters married! Ten thousand a year! Oh, Lord! + What will become of me. I shall go distracted.” + + This was enough to prove that her approbation need not be + doubted: and Elizabeth, rejoicing that such an effusion was heard + only by herself, soon went away. But before she had been three + minutes in her own room, her mother followed her. + + “My dearest child,” she cried, “I can think of nothing else! Ten + thousand a year, and very likely more! ’Tis as good as a Lord! + And a special licence. You must and shall be married by a special + licence. But my dearest love, tell me what dish Mr. Darcy is + particularly fond of, that I may have it to-morrow.” + + This was a sad omen of what her mother’s behaviour to the + gentleman himself might be; and Elizabeth found that, though in + the certain possession of his warmest affection, and secure of + her relations’ consent, there was still something to be wished + for. But the morrow passed off much better than she expected; for + Mrs. Bennet luckily stood in such awe of her intended son-in-law + that she ventured not to speak to him, unless it was in her power + to offer him any attention, or mark her deference for his + opinion. + + Elizabeth had the satisfaction of seeing her father taking pains + to get acquainted with him; and Mr. Bennet soon assured her that + he was rising every hour in his esteem. + + “I admire all my three sons-in-law highly,” said he. “Wickham, + perhaps, is my favourite; but I think I shall like _your_ husband + quite as well as Jane’s.” + + + + +Chapter 60 + + Elizabeth’s spirits soon rising to playfulness again, she wanted + Mr. Darcy to account for his having ever fallen in love with her. + “How could you begin?” said she. “I can comprehend your going on + charmingly, when you had once made a beginning; but what could + set you off in the first place?” + + “I cannot fix on the hour, or the spot, or the look, or the + words, which laid the foundation. It is too long ago. I was in + the middle before I knew that I _had_ begun.” + + “My beauty you had early withstood, and as for my manners—my + behaviour to _you_ was at least always bordering on the uncivil, + and I never spoke to you without rather wishing to give you pain + than not. Now be sincere; did you admire me for my impertinence?” + + “For the liveliness of your mind, I did.” + + “You may as well call it impertinence at once. It was very little + less. The fact is, that you were sick of civility, of deference, + of officious attention. You were disgusted with the women who + were always speaking, and looking, and thinking for _your_ + approbation alone. I roused, and interested you, because I was so + unlike _them_. Had you not been really amiable, you would have + hated me for it; but in spite of the pains you took to disguise + yourself, your feelings were always noble and just; and in your + heart, you thoroughly despised the persons who so assiduously + courted you. There—I have saved you the trouble of accounting for + it; and really, all things considered, I begin to think it + perfectly reasonable. To be sure, you knew no actual good of + me—but nobody thinks of _that_ when they fall in love.” + + “Was there no good in your affectionate behaviour to Jane while + she was ill at Netherfield?” + + “Dearest Jane! who could have done less for her? But make a + virtue of it by all means. My good qualities are under your + protection, and you are to exaggerate them as much as possible; + and, in return, it belongs to me to find occasions for teasing + and quarrelling with you as often as may be; and I shall begin + directly by asking you what made you so unwilling to come to the + point at last. What made you so shy of me, when you first called, + and afterwards dined here? Why, especially, when you called, did + you look as if you did not care about me?” + + “Because you were grave and silent, and gave me no + encouragement.” + + “But I was embarrassed.” + + “And so was I.” + + “You might have talked to me more when you came to dinner.” + + “A man who had felt less, might.” + + “How unlucky that you should have a reasonable answer to give, + and that I should be so reasonable as to admit it! But I wonder + how long you _would_ have gone on, if you had been left to + yourself. I wonder when you _would_ have spoken, if I had not + asked you! My resolution of thanking you for your kindness to + Lydia had certainly great effect. _Too much_, I am afraid; for + what becomes of the moral, if our comfort springs from a breach + of promise? for I ought not to have mentioned the subject. This + will never do.” + + “You need not distress yourself. The moral will be perfectly + fair. Lady Catherine’s unjustifiable endeavours to separate us + were the means of removing all my doubts. I am not indebted for + my present happiness to your eager desire of expressing your + gratitude. I was not in a humour to wait for any opening of + yours. My aunt’s intelligence had given me hope, and I was + determined at once to know every thing.” + + “Lady Catherine has been of infinite use, which ought to make her + happy, for she loves to be of use. But tell me, what did you come + down to Netherfield for? Was it merely to ride to Longbourn and + be embarrassed? or had you intended any more serious + consequence?” + + “My real purpose was to see _you_, and to judge, if I could, + whether I might ever hope to make you love me. My avowed one, or + what I avowed to myself, was to see whether your sister were + still partial to Bingley, and if she were, to make the confession + to him which I have since made.” + + “Shall you ever have courage to announce to Lady Catherine what + is to befall her?” + + “I am more likely to want time than courage, Elizabeth. But it + ought to be done, and if you will give me a sheet of paper, it + shall be done directly.” + + “And if I had not a letter to write myself, I might sit by you + and admire the evenness of your writing, as another young lady + once did. But I have an aunt, too, who must not be longer + neglected.” + + From an unwillingness to confess how much her intimacy with Mr. + Darcy had been over-rated, Elizabeth had never yet answered Mrs. + Gardiner’s long letter; but now, having _that_ to communicate + which she knew would be most welcome, she was almost ashamed to + find that her uncle and aunt had already lost three days of + happiness, and immediately wrote as follows: + + “I would have thanked you before, my dear aunt, as I ought to + have done, for your long, kind, satisfactory, detail of + particulars; but to say the truth, I was too cross to write. You + supposed more than really existed. But _now_ suppose as much as + you choose; give a loose rein to your fancy, indulge your + imagination in every possible flight which the subject will + afford, and unless you believe me actually married, you cannot + greatly err. You must write again very soon, and praise him a + great deal more than you did in your last. I thank you, again and + again, for not going to the Lakes. How could I be so silly as to + wish it! Your idea of the ponies is delightful. We will go round + the Park every day. I am the happiest creature in the world. + Perhaps other people have said so before, but not one with such + justice. I am happier even than Jane; she only smiles, I laugh. + Mr. Darcy sends you all the love in the world that he can spare + from me. You are all to come to Pemberley at Christmas. Yours, + etc.” + + Mr. Darcy’s letter to Lady Catherine was in a different style; + and still different from either was what Mr. Bennet sent to Mr. + Collins, in reply to his last. + + “Dear Sir, + “I must trouble you once more for congratulations. Elizabeth will + soon be the wife of Mr. Darcy. Console Lady Catherine as well as + you can. But, if I were you, I would stand by the nephew. He has + more to give. + + “Yours sincerely, etc.” + + Miss Bingley’s congratulations to her brother, on his approaching + marriage, were all that was affectionate and insincere. She wrote + even to Jane on the occasion, to express her delight, and repeat + all her former professions of regard. Jane was not deceived, but + she was affected; and though feeling no reliance on her, could + not help writing her a much kinder answer than she knew was + deserved. + + The joy which Miss Darcy expressed on receiving similar + information, was as sincere as her brother’s in sending it. Four + sides of paper were insufficient to contain all her delight, and + all her earnest desire of being loved by her sister. + + Before any answer could arrive from Mr. Collins, or any + congratulations to Elizabeth from his wife, the Longbourn family + heard that the Collinses were come themselves to Lucas Lodge. The + reason of this sudden removal was soon evident. Lady Catherine + had been rendered so exceedingly angry by the contents of her + nephew’s letter, that Charlotte, really rejoicing in the match, + was anxious to get away till the storm was blown over. At such a + moment, the arrival of her friend was a sincere pleasure to + Elizabeth, though in the course of their meetings she must + sometimes think the pleasure dearly bought, when she saw Mr. + Darcy exposed to all the parading and obsequious civility of her + husband. He bore it, however, with admirable calmness. He could + even listen to Sir William Lucas, when he complimented him on + carrying away the brightest jewel of the country, and expressed + his hopes of their all meeting frequently at St. James’s, with + very decent composure. If he did shrug his shoulders, it was not + till Sir William was out of sight. + + Mrs. Phillips’s vulgarity was another, and perhaps a greater, tax + on his forbearance; and though Mrs. Phillips, as well as her + sister, stood in too much awe of him to speak with the + familiarity which Bingley’s good humour encouraged, yet, whenever + she _did_ speak, she must be vulgar. Nor was her respect for him, + though it made her more quiet, at all likely to make her more + elegant. Elizabeth did all she could to shield him from the + frequent notice of either, and was ever anxious to keep him to + herself, and to those of her family with whom he might converse + without mortification; and though the uncomfortable feelings + arising from all this took from the season of courtship much of + its pleasure, it added to the hope of the future; and she looked + forward with delight to the time when they should be removed from + society so little pleasing to either, to all the comfort and + elegance of their family party at Pemberley. + + + + +Chapter 61 + + Happy for all her maternal feelings was the day on which Mrs. + Bennet got rid of her two most deserving daughters. With what + delighted pride she afterwards visited Mrs. Bingley, and talked + of Mrs. Darcy, may be guessed. I wish I could say, for the sake + of her family, that the accomplishment of her earnest desire in + the establishment of so many of her children produced so happy an + effect as to make her a sensible, amiable, well-informed woman + for the rest of her life; though perhaps it was lucky for her + husband, who might not have relished domestic felicity in so + unusual a form, that she still was occasionally nervous and + invariably silly. + + Mr. Bennet missed his second daughter exceedingly; his affection + for her drew him oftener from home than anything else could do. + He delighted in going to Pemberley, especially when he was least + expected. + + Mr. Bingley and Jane remained at Netherfield only a twelvemonth. + So near a vicinity to her mother and Meryton relations was not + desirable even to _his_ easy temper, or _her_ affectionate heart. + The darling wish of his sisters was then gratified; he bought an + estate in a neighbouring county to Derbyshire, and Jane and + Elizabeth, in addition to every other source of happiness, were + within thirty miles of each other. + + Kitty, to her very material advantage, spent the chief of her + time with her two elder sisters. In society so superior to what + she had generally known, her improvement was great. She was not + of so ungovernable a temper as Lydia; and, removed from the + influence of Lydia’s example, she became, by proper attention and + management, less irritable, less ignorant, and less insipid. From + the further disadvantage of Lydia’s society she was of course + carefully kept, and though Mrs. Wickham frequently invited her to + come and stay with her, with the promise of balls and young men, + her father would never consent to her going. + + Mary was the only daughter who remained at home; and she was + necessarily drawn from the pursuit of accomplishments by Mrs. + Bennet’s being quite unable to sit alone. Mary was obliged to mix + more with the world, but she could still moralize over every + morning visit; and as she was no longer mortified by comparisons + between her sisters’ beauty and her own, it was suspected by her + father that she submitted to the change without much reluctance. + + As for Wickham and Lydia, their characters suffered no revolution + from the marriage of her sisters. He bore with philosophy the + conviction that Elizabeth must now become acquainted with + whatever of his ingratitude and falsehood had before been unknown + to her; and in spite of every thing, was not wholly without hope + that Darcy might yet be prevailed on to make his fortune. The + congratulatory letter which Elizabeth received from Lydia on her + marriage, explained to her that, by his wife at least, if not by + himself, such a hope was cherished. The letter was to this + effect: + + “My dear Lizzy, + “I wish you joy. If you love Mr. Darcy half as well as I do my + dear Wickham, you must be very happy. It is a great comfort to + have you so rich, and when you have nothing else to do, I hope + you will think of us. I am sure Wickham would like a place at + court very much, and I do not think we shall have quite money + enough to live upon without some help. Any place would do, of + about three or four hundred a year; but however, do not speak to + Mr. Darcy about it, if you had rather not. + + “Yours, etc.” + + As it happened that Elizabeth had much rather not, she + endeavoured in her answer to put an end to every entreaty and + expectation of the kind. Such relief, however, as it was in her + power to afford, by the practice of what might be called economy + in her own private expences, she frequently sent them. It had + always been evident to her that such an income as theirs, under + the direction of two persons so extravagant in their wants, and + heedless of the future, must be very insufficient to their + support; and whenever they changed their quarters, either Jane or + herself were sure of being applied to for some little assistance + towards discharging their bills. Their manner of living, even + when the restoration of peace dismissed them to a home, was + unsettled in the extreme. They were always moving from place to + place in quest of a cheap situation, and always spending more + than they ought. His affection for her soon sunk into + indifference; hers lasted a little longer; and in spite of her + youth and her manners, she retained all the claims to reputation + which her marriage had given her. + + Though Darcy could never receive _him_ at Pemberley, yet, for + Elizabeth’s sake, he assisted him further in his profession. + Lydia was occasionally a visitor there, when her husband was gone + to enjoy himself in London or Bath; and with the Bingleys they + both of them frequently staid so long, that even Bingley’s good + humour was overcome, and he proceeded so far as to _talk_ of + giving them a hint to be gone. + + Miss Bingley was very deeply mortified by Darcy’s marriage; but + as she thought it advisable to retain the right of visiting at + Pemberley, she dropt all her resentment; was fonder than ever of + Georgiana, almost as attentive to Darcy as heretofore, and paid + off every arrear of civility to Elizabeth. + + Pemberley was now Georgiana’s home; and the attachment of the + sisters was exactly what Darcy had hoped to see. They were able + to love each other even as well as they intended. Georgiana had + the highest opinion in the world of Elizabeth; though at first + she often listened with an astonishment bordering on alarm at her + lively, sportive, manner of talking to her brother. He, who had + always inspired in herself a respect which almost overcame her + affection, she now saw the object of open pleasantry. Her mind + received knowledge which had never before fallen in her way. By + Elizabeth’s instructions, she began to comprehend that a woman + may take liberties with her husband which a brother will not + always allow in a sister more than ten years younger than + himself. + + Lady Catherine was extremely indignant on the marriage of her + nephew; and as she gave way to all the genuine frankness of her + character in her reply to the letter which announced its + arrangement, she sent him language so very abusive, especially of + Elizabeth, that for some time all intercourse was at an end. But + at length, by Elizabeth’s persuasion, he was prevailed on to + overlook the offence, and seek a reconciliation; and, after a + little further resistance on the part of his aunt, her resentment + gave way, either to her affection for him, or her curiosity to + see how his wife conducted herself; and she condescended to wait + on them at Pemberley, in spite of that pollution which its woods + had received, not merely from the presence of such a mistress, + but the visits of her uncle and aunt from the city. + + With the Gardiners, they were always on the most intimate terms. + Darcy, as well as Elizabeth, really loved them; and they were + both ever sensible of the warmest gratitude towards the persons + who, by bringing her into Derbyshire, had been the means of + uniting them. + + + + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PRIDE AND PREJUDICE *** + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will +be renamed. + +Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright +law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, +so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the +United States without permission and without paying copyright +royalties. 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