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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Pride and Prejudice, a play, by 
+Mary Keith Medbery Mackaye
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere 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
+
+
+Title: Pride and Prejudice, a play
+
+Author: Mary Keith Medbery Mackaye
+
+Release Date: September 15, 2011 [EBook #37431]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, A PLAY ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This book was
+produced from scanned images of public domain material
+from the Internet Archive.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+_PRIDE AND PREJUDICE_
+
+_A PLAY_
+
+[Illustration: "_Mr. Darcy, I have never desired your good opinion, and
+you have certainly bestowed it most unwillingly._"]
+
+
+
+
+_PRIDE AND PREJUDICE_
+
+_A PLAY_
+
+_FOUNDED ON JANE AUSTEN'S
+NOVEL_
+
+_BY_
+
+_MRS. STEELE MACKAYE_
+
+[Illustration: colophon]
+
+_NEW YORK_
+_DUFFIELD AND COMPANY_
+_1906_
+
+
+                 COPYRIGHT, 1906, BY DUFFIELD & COMPANY.
+
+                        Published September, 1906.
+
+                                  ------
+
+                         SPECIAL COPYRIGHT NOTICE.
+
+     This play is fully protected by copyright, all requirements of the
+     law having been complied with. Performances may be given only with
+     the written permission of Duffield & Company, agents for Mrs.
+     Steele Mackaye, owner of the acting rights.
+
+     Extract from the law relating to copyright:
+
+     "SEC. 4996. Any person publicly performing or representing any
+     dramatic or musical composition for which a copyright has been
+     obtained, without the consent of the proprietor of said dramatic or
+     musical composition or his heirs or assigns, shall be liable for
+     damages therefor, such damages in all cases to be assessed at such
+     sum not less than one hundred dollars for the first and fifty
+     dollars for every subsequent performance as to the Court shall
+     appear just. If the unlawful performance and representation be
+     wilful and not for profit, such person or persons shall be guilty
+     of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction be imprisoned for a period
+     not exceeding one year."
+
+
+
+
+PERSONS OF THE PLAY
+
+
+     MR. DARCY--(OF PEMBERLEY, DERBYSHIRE). "_Possessed of a fine tall
+     person, handsome features, noble mien, and ... ten thousand a year
+     ... clever ... haughty, reserved and fastidious; his manners,
+     though well-bred, were not inviting. 'Some people call him proud,'
+     said Mrs. Reynolds, the housekeeper at Pemberley, 'but I am sure I
+     never saw anything of it.... He is the best landlord and the best
+     master that ever lived.'_"
+
+     MR. BINGLEY--(OF NETHERFIELD, HERTFORDSHIRE, DARCY'S FRIEND).
+     "_Just what a young man ought to be; sensible and good-humoured,
+     lively ... such happy manners! So much ease, with such perfect good
+     breeding.... Also handsome, which a young man ought likewise to be
+     if he possibly can._"
+
+     COLONEL FITZWILLIAM--(COUSIN TO DARCY). "_About thirty, not
+     handsome, but in person and address most truly the gentleman._"
+
+     MR. BENNET--(OF LONGBOURN). "_An odd mixture of quick parts,
+     sarcastic humour, reserve and caprice. He was fond of the country
+     and of books, and from these tastes had arisen his principal
+     enjoyments._"
+
+     MR. COLLINS--(A COUSIN OF MR. BENNET, AND NEXT IN THE ENTAIL OF
+     LONGBOURN ESTATE.) "_A tall, heavy-looking young man of
+     five-and-twenty. His air was grave and stately, and his manners
+     very formal. His veneration for his patroness, Lady Catherine de
+     Bourg, mingling with a very good opinion of himself and of his
+     authority as a clergyman ... made him altogether a mixture of pride
+     and obsequiousness, self-importance and humility._"
+
+     SIR WILLIAM LUCAS--(AN INTIMATE FRIEND AND NEIGHBOUR OF THE
+     BENNETS). "_Formerly in trade in Meryton ... he had risen to the
+     honour of knighthood by an address to the King during his
+     mayoralty. The distinction had ... given him a disgust to his
+     business, and, ... quitting it, he had removed ... to Lucas Lodge,
+     where he could think with pleasure of his own importance, and ...
+     occupy himself solely in being civil to all the world._"
+
+     COLONEL FORSTER--(THE COLONEL OF THE REGIMENT STATIONED AT
+     MERYTON).
+
+     MR. WICKHAM--(AN OFFICER IN THE REGIMENT). "_Endowed with all the
+     best parts of beauty--a fine countenance, a good figure, and a very
+     pleasing address. As false and deceitful as he is insinuating._"
+
+     MR. DENNY--(ANOTHER OFFICER IN THE REGIMENT).
+
+     HARRIS--(THE BUTLER AT LONGBOURN).
+
+     MRS. BENNET--(THE WIFE OF MR. BENNET). "_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._"
+
+     JANE--(ELDEST DAUGHTER OF MR. AND MRS. BENNET). "_She united with
+     great strength of feeling a composure of temper and a uniform
+     cheerfulness of manner. Her mild and steady candour always pleaded
+     allowances, and urged the possibility of mistakes._"
+
+     ELIZABETH--(THEIR SECOND DAUGHTER). "_Although not so handsome as
+     Jane, her face was rendered uncommonly intelligent by the beautiful
+     expression of her dark eyes. She had a lively, playful disposition,
+     which delighted in anything ridiculous, with more quickness of
+     observation and less pliancy of temper than her sister. There was a
+     mixture of sweetness and archness in her manner which made it
+     difficult for her to affront anybody._"
+
+     LYDIA--(THEIR YOUNGEST DAUGHTER). "_A stout, well-grown girl of
+     fifteen, with a fine complexion and a good-humoured countenance--a
+     favourite with her mother, whose affection had brought her into
+     public at an early age._"
+
+     LADY LUCAS--(THE WIFE OF SIR WILLIAM). "_Not too clever to be a
+     valuable neighbour to Mrs. Bennet._"
+
+     CHARLOTTE LUCAS--(DAUGHTER OF SIR WILLIAM AND LADY LUCAS). "_A
+     sensible, intelligent young woman, about twenty-seven, ...
+     Elizabeth's intimate friend._"
+
+     MISS BINGLEY--(SISTER OF MR. BINGLEY). "_A very fine lady ... but
+     proud and conceited._"
+
+     LADY CATHERINE DE BOURG--(AUNT OF DARCY AND PATRONESS OF MR.
+     COLLINS). "_A tall, large woman, with strongly marked features,
+     which might once have been handsome. Her air was not
+     conciliating.... Whatever she said, was spoken in so authoritative
+     a tone as marked her self-importance._"
+
+     HILL--(THE HOUSEKEEPER AT LONGBOURN).
+
+     MARTHA--(THE MAID AT MR. COLLINS'S PARSONAGE).
+
+
+
+
+ACT I
+
+THE DRAWING-ROOM AT LONGBOURN
+
+ACT II
+
+THE ORANGERY AT NETHERFIELD
+
+ONE MONTH LATER
+
+ACT III
+
+MR. COLLINS'S PARSONAGE AT HUNSFORD
+
+THREE MONTHS LATER
+
+ACT IV
+
+THE SHRUBBERY AT LONGBOURN
+
+ONE WEEK LATER
+
+PLACE: ENGLAND TIME: 1796
+
+     "In the novels of the last hundred years there are vast numbers of
+     young ladies with whom it might be a pleasure to fall in love,--but
+     to live with and to marry, I do not know that any of them can come
+     into competition with _Elizabeth Bennet_."--GEORGE SAINTSBURY.
+     Preface to the Peacock Edition of "Pride and Prejudice."
+
+
+
+
+ACT I
+
+
+
+
+PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
+
+A PLAY
+
+
+
+
+ACT I
+
+
+_The drawing-room at Longbourn. At the back, wide glass doors open upon
+a terrace which overlooks an English landscape. It is winter, and coals
+are burning in the fireplace. On each side of the glass doors are
+rounded recesses with windows. On one side of the room a door opens into
+the library. On the other side is a door to the hall--the chief entrance
+of the house. The room is handsomely furnished in eighteenth century
+style._ MR. _and_ MRS. BENNET _are discovered sitting on either side of
+the table._ MRS. BENNET _is knitting--_MR. BENNET _reading._
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_After a slight pause and laying down her knitting._]
+
+My dear Mr. Bennet, did not you hear me? Did you know that Netherfield
+Park is let at last?
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+[_Continues reading and does not answer._]
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Impatiently._] Do not you want to know who has taken it?
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+[_Ceases reading and looks up at her with an amused smile._] You want to
+tell me, and I have no objection to hearing it.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_With animation._] Why, my dear, you must know Lady Lucas says that
+Netherfield is taken by a young man of large fortune from the North of
+England. His name is Bingley, and he is _single_, my dear. Think of
+that, Mr. Bennet! A single man of large fortune; four or five thousand
+pounds a year. What a fine thing for our girls!
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+How so? How can it affect them?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+My dear Mr. Bennet, how can you be so tiresome! You must know that I am
+thinking of his marrying one of them.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Is that his design in settling here?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Design!--Nonsense! How can you talk so? But it is very likely that he
+will fall in love with one of them, and therefore you must visit him as
+soon as you can. Consider your daughters, Mr. Bennet! 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. Indeed you must go, for it
+will be impossible for us to visit him if _you_ do not.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+[_Who has risen during this last speech and now stands with his back to
+the fire, facing_ MRS. BENNET.] You are overscrupulous, surely. I dare
+say Mr. Bingley will be very glad to see you, and I will send a few
+lines 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.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Sharply._] I desire you will do no such thing! Lizzy is not a bit
+better than the others. She is not half as handsome as Jane, nor as
+good-humoured as Lydia. But you are always giving her the preference.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Not unless she deserves it, my dear. But in this particular instance my
+poor little Lizzy is the only one who is unprovided for. Lydia and the
+others belong in the schoolroom, and you tell me that Mr. Collins has
+already spoken for Jane.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Oh, that odious Mr. Collins! I wish he had never come here. I wish I
+might never hear his name again!
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Mr. Collins odious! You surprise me! I thought that he had won your full
+approval.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Fretfully._] Oh, well, since he had to be your cousin, and since you
+_will_ not do anything about the entail, I suppose it will be a mercy if
+he does marry Jane. [_Half crying._] But I do think, Mr. Bennet, it is
+the hardest thing in the world that we have no son of our own, so that
+your property has to be entailed away from your own wife and children,
+so if you should die, we may all be turned out of the house whenever
+this Mr. Collins pleases. [_In bewailing tone._] He certainly does seem
+to have all the luck in the world. Here he has just got this good living
+from that grand Lady Catherine de Bourg.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+But, my dear, that will soon be _your_ luck, as well. You forget that
+your daughter is to profit by it.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Well, perhaps. I don't know about _that_, but, [_With renewed
+excitement._] I _do_ know that it is too monstrous that after you are
+gone I shall be forced to make way for this man and live to see him
+master in this house!
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+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.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_This is not very consoling to_ MRS. BENNET; _and therefore, instead of
+making answer, she goes on as before._] If it was not for the entail I
+should not mind it.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+What should not you mind?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+I should not mind anything at all.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Let us be thankful that you are preserved from a state of such
+insensibility. But it certainly is a most iniquitous affair, and nothing
+can clear Mr. Collins from the guilt of inheriting Longbourn. However,
+you know he is doing his best to mend matters. He has not only
+handsomely apologised for his fault, but he has now assured us of his
+readiness to make every possible amends by marrying one of the girls.
+Surely, my dear, you must acknowledge that this plan is excessively
+generous on his part.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Dolefully._] Well, I suppose it might be worse.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+[_Cheerfully._] Decidedly worse. With Jane so well settled, and a single
+man like Mr. Bingley in prospect, I think you should be quite cheerful.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Excited once more._] Mr. Bingley! We shall never know Mr. Bingley. Oh,
+Mr. Bennet, you take delight in vexing me. You have no compassion on my
+poor nerves.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+You mistake, 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.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Ah! You do not know what I suffer.
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+[_Bursting into the room, followed by_ JANE.] Oh, that horrid practice!
+[_Looking back at_ JANE.] Jane does so keep me at it. [_Throwing herself
+into a chair._] La, I'm tired to death.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Who sees that her mother is half crying, goes and stands behind her
+chair, puts her hand affectionately on her shoulder, and bends over
+her._] Does your head ache, mamma?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Of course my head aches. Your father is so teasing. I cannot persuade
+him to call on Mr. Bingley at Netherfield, so I suppose we shall never
+know him.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Smiling._] But you forget, mamma, that we shall meet him at the
+assemblies, and Lady Lucas has promised to introduce him.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+I do not believe Lady Lucas will do any such thing. She has daughters of
+her own. She is a selfish, hypocritical woman, and I have no opinion of
+her.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+No more have I, and I am glad to find that you do not depend on her
+serving you.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+I may have to depend on her after all, Mr. Bennet, since you will do
+nothing to help me. [_Fretfully to_ LYDIA, _who has been yawning and
+coughing._] Don't keep coughing, Lydia, for Heaven's sake! Have a little
+compassion on my nerves.
+
+[LYDIA _pouts and looks unutterable things._]
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Lydia has no discretion in her coughs. She times them ill.
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+I do not cough for my own amusement, papa. Jane, when is your next ball?
+
+
+JANE.
+
+To-morrow fortnight.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Starting excitedly._] Ay, so it is--and Lady Lucas does not come back
+till the day before. So you see it will be impossible for her to
+introduce Mr. Bingley, for she will not know him herself.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Then, my dear, you may have the advantage of your friend, and _you_ can
+introduce Mr. Bingley to _her_.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Impossible, Mr. Bennet, when I am not acquainted with him myself. How
+can you be so teasing?
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+I honour your circumspection. A fortnight's acquaintance is certainly
+very little. But if _we_ do not venture, somebody else will, and if
+_you_ decline the office _I_ will take it upon myself.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_As the two girls stare at their father._] Oh, nonsense--nonsense! I am
+sick of Mr. Bingley!
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+I am sorry to hear that; but why did not you tell me so before? If I had
+known as much a week ago, I certainly should not have called upon him.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Springing from her chair and throwing her arms about_ MR. BENNET'S
+_neck._] What! You have really called upon him? Oh, how good in you, my
+dear Mr. Bennet!
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+It is very unlucky; but as I have actually paid the visit--and as he
+will very likely return it at any time, and bring his friend, Mr. Darcy,
+with him--we cannot now avoid the acquaintance of Mr. Bingley and his
+party.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Oh, my dear Mr. Bennet, I was sure you loved your girls too well to
+neglect such an acquaintance. [MR. BENNET _deftly takes her hands from
+his shoulders. She stands looking fondly at him._] Well, how pleased I
+am! And it was such a good joke that you should have already paid Mr.
+Bingley a visit and never said a word about it.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Yes. Yes. Well, I must go to the library. [_He goes to the door, but
+stops for a moment._] Now, Lydia, you can cough as much as you choose.
+[_He goes out._]
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Looking after_ MR. BENNET.] What an excellent father you have, girls!
+[_Turns to the girls._] 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 to be making new acquaintances every day. But for
+your sakes we would do anything. [_Looking about her._] Where is Lizzy?
+Lydia, my love, where is your sister?
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+Oh, she is out walking with Charlotte Lucas and that dismal Mr. Collins.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Lizzy--out walking with Mr. Collins? Why didn't _you_ go, Jane?
+
+
+JANE.
+
+I had to practise with Lydia.
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+I'm sure I would have excused you. But what is Mr. Collins here for,
+mamma? I am sure I caught Mr. Wickham and Colonel Forster laughing at
+him the day we went to Meryton. Why does papa have a cousin like that?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+He really cannot help it. It is the entail, my love--[_Mysteriously._]
+But I hope that all you girls will be very civil to him, Jane
+especially.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+I--mamma?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Embarrassed._] Yes--my love.--You see----
+
+[_She is interrupted by the sound of laughter outside, and_ ELIZABETH'S
+_voice._]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Very well, Mr. Collins.
+
+[MRS. BENNET _makes a sudden awed gesture of silence to the girls, who
+fail to understand._ ELIZABETH _enters by the glass doors. She is
+dressed in winter walking costume: a large hat,--fur-trimmed pelerine,
+and a large muff. She stops in the doorway and looks at_ MRS. BENNET,
+_half puzzled and smiling._]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Well, what is it, mamma? What is the matter?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Nothing. Hush! What have you done with Mr. Collins?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Laughing._] Oh, Mr. Collins is safe! He has gone round to the
+library.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_With a sigh of relief._] How providential!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Looking back._] But I have brought someone else with me.
+
+[MR. WICKHAM _and_ CHARLOTTE LUCAS _come in gaily._]
+
+
+ALL.
+
+[_Exclaiming._] Oh, Mr. Wickham!
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+[_To_ MRS. BENNET.] How do you do, Mrs. Bennet? This is indeed a
+pleasure. [_Going over to_ JANE.] Miss Bennet, I am _so_ glad to see
+you. [_Reproachfully._] You were not with our party! [_To_ LYDIA.] Why
+do you never come to Meryton, Miss Lydia? Mr. Denny is quite downcast.
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+[_Pouting._] La, Mr. Denny!
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+And many others beside him, Miss Lydia.
+
+[LYDIA _giggles._ WICKHAM _returns to_ MRS. BENNET.]
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Well, 'tis an age since we saw you, Mr. Wickham. What _have_ you been
+doing?
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+Colonel Forster keeps me so busy that I have no time for enjoyment.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, Mr. Wickham bears all the marks of an harassed and overworked man.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+[_Bowing to_ ELIZABETH.] Thank you, Miss Elizabeth. You have given me
+the very terms I needed. [_To_ MRS. BENNET.] You see before you, Mrs.
+Bennet, an harassed and overworked man. Miss Elizabeth will bear witness
+that I was on my way to a business appointment when I yielded to
+temptation and went off for a walk with her and Miss Lucas and their
+irreproachable escort.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+And Miss Elizabeth will also testify that you yielded with the celerity
+and ease of long practice.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+[_Laughing; to_ ELIZABETH.] But in this case who was the tempter?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, I will admit that Mr. Collins was partially responsible.
+
+[_All laugh._]
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Come, Lizzy, you have been talking to Mr. Wickham all the morning. Now,
+let some of the rest of us have a chance. [_Turning to_ WICKHAM.] You
+must stay to dinner, Mr. Wickham.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+I wish I might. That is indeed a temptation. But you know Miss Elizabeth
+has just reminded me of my duty.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Oh, nobody ever minds Lizzy!
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+Truly, I cannot to-day, Mrs. Bennet. It is too bad, but I am to meet
+Colonel Forster [_Smiling at_ ELIZABETH] on important _business_ at the
+Drake Farm.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Well, I am very sorry.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+[_Hesitatingly._] I might perhaps bring Colonel Forster in for a few
+moments on the way back--that is, if we return this way.
+
+
+ALL.
+
+Oh, yes, do.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Yes, indeed. Tell Colonel Forster we should be delighted to see him.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+Thank you, I will. But now I really must be gone. [_Bowing brightly to_
+JANE _and_ LYDIA.] Good morning.
+
+[_To_ CHARLOTTE LUCAS.] Good morning, Miss Lucas. You must let me hear
+more about those clever plans of yours. I am vastly interested in them.
+[_To_ ELIZABETH.] Good morning, Miss Elizabeth. [_Laughing._] You must
+try to temper your justice with mercy the next time I join you in a
+walk. [_Pausing, he looks at_ MRS. BENNET, _who is standing between her
+daughters._] Do you know, Mrs. Bennet, that you always remind me of one
+of my old schoolboy phrases. _Filię pulchrę!--Mater pulchrior!_
+Good-bye.
+
+[_He runs off laughing. He has only gone a few steps when_ LYDIA, _who
+has been standing close to the door, runs out and calls to him._]
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+Oh, Mr. Wickham!
+
+[WICKHAM _turns and_ LYDIA _runs up to him and whispers something in his
+ear._ WICKHAM _laughs, then shakes his finger at her, still laughing,
+and goes off._ LYDIA _stops outside and watches him._]
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Really, mamma, I think you should speak to Lydia. She is too forward.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Nonsense! You are jealous.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Jealous! Of Lydia?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Well, she is no more forward than any of you. All you girls are crazy
+about Mr. Wickham. [_Indulgently._] But I can't wonder at it. He
+certainly is a most engaging young man. What were those French words he
+said to me as he went out, Lizzy?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+They were Latin, dear. He paid a very charming compliment to our pretty
+mamma. He said--The daughters are lovely, but the mother is lovelier.
+You know papa always says that you are handsomer than any of us.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+My dear Lizzy, I certainly have had my share of beauty, but I don't
+pretend to be anything extraordinary now. [MR. COLLINS _enters._] Oh,
+Mr. Collins, there you are.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Bowing profoundly._] I do not find Mr. Bennet in the library, Madam.
+Do you know where he is?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Why, really, Mr. Collins, I can't imagine. Did you enjoy your walk?
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+Most assuredly, Madam. The beauties of nature, not only in the
+landscape, but also [_Bowing to_ ELIZABETH _and_ CHARLOTTE LUCAS.] in
+the blooming countenances of my fair companions, made our expedition a
+peculiarly enjoyable one.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Well, I am very glad of it, I am sure. [_To_ JANE _and_ LYDIA.] Girls,
+we haven't told Lizzy and Charlotte the news.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+What news, mamma?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Looking at_ CHARLOTTE _with an ill-concealed triumph_.] Oh, nothing of
+consequence, Lizzy, only your father has just told us that we may expect
+a visit at any time from our new neighbour, Mr. Bingley, and that friend
+of his who is stopping with him.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, Mr. Bingley! That will be entertaining. [_Suddenly with mischief she
+turns to_ MR. COLLINS, _who all through this latter conversation has
+been staring at_ JANE _with solemn persistence_.] Do not you think so,
+Mr. Collins?
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Starting from his absorption._] Eh? What? [_Pompously again._] Excuse
+me, Miss Elizabeth, on what subject did you ask my opinion?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I asked you if you didn't think it was a very pleasant thing to meet new
+neighbours.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+Most assuredly, Miss Elizabeth, if those neighbours are possessed of
+those qualifications which redound to their own credit, and to the
+edification of their friends. Otherwise, as a clergyman, I must hesitate
+in my approval. [_To_ MRS. BENNET.] You realise, I am sure, Madam, the
+caution which should ever be exercised where my amiable young cousins
+are concerned.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, mamma, you really should be cautious.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Nonsense! Why, my dear Mr. Collins, we have found out all about them.
+Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy are connected with some of the most
+respectable families in England.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_In amazement._] Mr. Darcy? Mr. Fitzgerald Darcy! My dear Madam, can it
+be possible that you are to be honoured by a visit from him? Respectable
+indeed! Why, he is the nephew of my noble patroness, Lady Catherine de
+Bourg. It is true that I have never yet had the honour of meeting
+him--but he frequently visits his aunt, and she has promised to bring
+him on some occasion to inspect my humble abode. I am surprised,
+indeed, by this civility on his part. [_Anxiously._] I only fear there
+may be some mistake, for Mr. Darcy has the reputation of possessing a
+very natural pride of birth; but if your information is indeed to be
+relied upon, I think Lady Catherine would consent to my approval of this
+visit, provided my fair cousins will keep in mind the proper attitude of
+respectful humility which should be assumed toward a person of his
+superior station.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+We will promise you, Mr. Collins, never for one instant to forget either
+Mr. Darcy's exalted position or our own insignificance.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Looking at her with admiration._] With that assurance, Miss Elizabeth,
+I think even Lady Catherine would be satisfied. So I need no longer
+withhold my sanction.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Curtsying._] We thank you, sir.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+This is the very attitude of mind I could desire. [_To_ MRS. BENNET.] I
+think, with your permission, I will now retire again to the library.
+[_Going over smilingly to_ JANE.] There was a volume of Fordyce's
+sermons that you may remember I was reading to you in this room
+yesterday. I do not find it in the library. Do you know where it is?
+[_Looking about him._]
+
+
+JANE.
+
+I haven't seen it, Mr. Collins. I will try to find it for you. [_She
+starts as if to go out of the room._]
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Wishing to leave them together._] No--no, Lydia will find it. Lydia,
+my love, go see if you can find the sermons for Mr. Collins.
+
+[LYDIA, _with a grimace, rises slowly from her chair_.]
+
+
+CHARLOTTE LUCAS.
+
+Oh, Mrs. Bennet, I am quite sure that I saw the book in the hall. I will
+go fetch it.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Sharply._] On no account, Charlotte. Lydia will find the book. Lizzy,
+go and get the mud off your shoes.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+Oh, I will not trouble any of you ladies.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+It is no trouble, Mr. Collins. Charlotte, if you will come with me, I
+have a parcel I should like to send your mother.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+But I assure you, Madam----
+
+     [_As they go out_, MRS. BENNET--_looking daggers at_
+     CHARLOTTE--_tries to keep_ MR. COLLINS _with_ JANE.]
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Lydia will find your book, Mr. Collins.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+On no account, Madam----
+
+     [_With awkward gallantry_ MR. COLLINS _ushers out the
+     ladies_--LYDIA _rebellious_, CHARLOTTE _somewhat offended_.]
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_With an amused smile, having watched the party vanish, turns to_ JANE
+_and speaks to her in mock-heroic fashion_.] Miss Bennet! Do you realise
+the honour which is so soon to fall upon our humble home, and our
+gratefully humble selves?
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Smiling._] Oh, Lizzy!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Do you really grasp in its full significance the fact that we may soon
+be honoured by a visit from Mr. Bingley of Netherfield and Mr.
+Fitzgerald Darcy, nephew of the Lady Catherine de Bourg?
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Oh, Lizzy, Mr. Collins is a little pompous, but he seems a very
+well-meaning young man--indeed, sometimes quite agreeable.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Looking quizzically, but affectionately, at her sister._] No one can
+be anything but agreeable in the mind of our dear Jane. This time,
+however, I quite agree with you, I am as delighted as papa with Mr.
+Collins. I can see that his mixture of servility and importance promises
+well.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+And I think Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy promise well. If the half of what
+our neighbours say is true, Mr. Bingley will give us all sorts of
+gaieties. [_Slyly._] Who knows? We may find him as entertaining as Mr.
+Wickham.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+As Mr. Wickham? Then, dear Jane, we shall be rich indeed. [_Counting on
+her fingers._] For hospitality--Mr. Bingley; for conversation--Mr.
+Wickham; for grandeur--Mr. Darcy, and the agreeable Mr. Collins!
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Oh, Lizzy! Can not you let the poor man alone?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+With all my heart. I will gladly let him alone. You shall have him all
+to yourself. [_Mischievously._] If only Mr. Collins knew your good
+opinion of him! But he is too modest to find it out for himself.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Playfully pulling_ ELIZABETH'S _ear_.] You are a tease!
+
+
+HARRIS.
+
+[_Entering._] The two gentlemen from Netherfield have just brought their
+horses into the paddock, Madam.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Show them in, Harris, and speak to Mrs. Bennet at once.
+
+[HARRIS _bows and goes out_.]
+
+
+JANE.
+
+They have come soon, Lizzy. Really this is very civil in them.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Uncommonly civil. Come with me, Jane. I must make myself tidy. Mud and
+dirty petticoats for Mr. Darcy!--Oh, that would never do.
+
+     [_They run off, laughing. There is a short pause. Then_ MR. BINGLEY
+     _and_ MR. DARCY _enter. The latter is very quiet, with an air of
+     scornful hauteur_. BINGLEY, _on the contrary, has a gracious and
+     animated manner_. HARRIS _ushers them in, much impressed_.]
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_To_ HARRIS.] You will announce us to Mr. Bennet and the ladies.
+
+[HARRIS _goes out_.]
+
+Do you know, Darcy, I believe that was George Wickham we saw just now,
+going toward the Drake Farm.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Quietly._] I think there is no doubt of it.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+But what is he doing here?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_With assumed indifference._] Probably it is his regiment which is
+stationed at Meryton.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Excitedly._] No, Darcy! You don't mean it! Why, confound it, if I had
+had any notion of that--I ... I....
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Contemptuously._] I don't think we need mind Wickham.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+But I do mind! To think that I should bring you into the neighbourhood
+of that rascal----
+
+DARCY.
+
+He must live somewhere, I suppose.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Yes, unfortunately. But, Darcy, you are a puzzle to me.--You are,
+indeed! How can you speak with any charity of a man who for years abused
+the patience and generous kindness of your father, and who so lately has
+attempted against your family the most dastardly action that----
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Interrupting him with hauteur._] We have already said too much of
+George Wickham. I prefer not to discuss him further.
+
+     [BINGLEY _turns away hurt and embarrassed_. DARCY _seeing the
+     effect of his words and manner, goes to him kindly, and speaks to
+     him in a changed voice_.]
+
+Bingley, I entirely understand your indignation. Indeed, I share it so
+fully that I dare not trust myself to think of the man's villainy. It is
+better that I say nothing of him, even to you.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Moved._] I am sure, I beg your pardon, Darcy.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+It is rather for me to ask yours.
+
+     [_There follows an awkward pause, which BINGLEY at length breaks by
+     speaking in a tone of forced gaiety_.]
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Pretty place, this.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_With a shrug._] Very small.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+What has the size to do with it? I think we are in luck to have such
+charming neighbours. You know we saw two of the young ladies going
+through the lane the other day. Why, Darcy, one of them is the most
+beautiful creature I ever beheld--and the other--the one with the dark
+eyes--she is uncommonly pretty. Don't you think so?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+She is tolerable, but fine eyes cannot change family connections.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Quickly._] What do you mean?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+I think I have heard you say that their uncle is an attorney in
+Meryton.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Shortly._] Yes.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+And that they have another in London who lives somewhere near Cheapside.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_With irritation._] If they had uncles enough to fill all Cheapside, it
+wouldn't make them one jot less handsome.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+But it must materially lessen their chances of marrying men of any
+consideration in the world.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Of marrying? You go fast, Darcy.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Perhaps. But I am in no humour to give consequence to young ladies. I am
+here to please you, Bingley--and--[_He smiles meaningly._] knowing your
+disposition, I think it is just as well that I came.
+
+     [BINGLEY _is about to reply when the door opens and_ MRS. BENNET
+     _enters, followed by_ JANE _and_ ELIZABETH. _The two young men
+     make ceremonious bows._ MRS. BENNET _curtsies and then advances
+     with delighted fussiness_.]
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Good morning, gentlemen. I am so sorry that Mr. Bennet has gone for his
+walk.
+
+     [_As she looks a little puzzled from one to the other_, BINGLEY
+     _advances_.]
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Good morning, Mrs. Bennet. I am Mr. Bingley, your new neighbour at
+Netherfield. This is my friend, Mr. Darcy, of Pendleton, Derbyshire.
+[_All bow and curtsy._] Mr. Bennet has been so kind as to call upon us,
+and we are most happy to have the honour of waiting upon the ladies of
+his family.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+We are delighted to see you, I am sure! Mr. Bingley--Mr.
+Darcy--[_Indicating_ JANE]--my eldest daughter, Miss Bennet.
+[_Indicating_ ELIZABETH]--Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
+
+[_The girls make low curtsies--the gentlemen bow._]
+
+Will not you be seated, gentlemen? [_The guests and ladies seat
+themselves._] I am sure you must like Netherfield, Mr. Bingley. 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.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Whatever I do is done in a hurry, Mrs. Bennet, and therefore if I should
+resolve to quit Netherfield I should probably be off in five minutes. At
+present, however, [_looking intently at_ JANE] I consider myself as
+quite fixed here.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+It is very pleasant to have Netherfield open once more, although you
+must both miss London. There is so much gaiety in London.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Yes, in a country neighbourhood you move in a confined and unvarying
+society.
+
+[MRS. BENNET _looks vexed at this speech_.]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+But people themselves alter so much that there is something new to be
+observed in them forever.
+
+[DARCY _turns and looks at_ ELIZABETH _with surprise and interest_.]
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Then you are a student of character, Miss Elizabeth. It must be an
+amusing study.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Yes, Lizzy always likes to watch people. [_Looking at_ DARCY.] And there
+are plenty of people about, even if you do live in the country. The
+country is a vast deal pleasanter than London, is not it, Mr. Bingley?
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+When I am in the country 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 am
+equally happy in either.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Ay--that is because _you_ have the right disposition. [_Looking at_
+DARCY.] But that gentleman seemed to think the country was nothing at
+all.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Quickly._] Indeed, mamma, you are mistaken. You quite mistook Mr.
+Darcy. He only meant that there is not such a variety of people to be
+met with in the country as in town, which you must acknowledge to be
+true.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Certainly, my dear, nobody said there was--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.
+
+     [_As all become embarrassed at this speech_, BINGLEY _comes to the
+     rescue_.]
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Yes, there are many fine estates hereabout. Can you see Sir William
+Lucas' place from the garden? I am not quite sure I have placed it.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Oh, yes, there is a fine view of the chimneys from the terrace. Sir
+William is our nearest neighbour. Such an agreeable man--so genteel, and
+so easy---- [_Rising, she goes toward the glass doors._] Come, Jane, we
+must show Mr. Bingley Sir William's chimneys.
+
+     [MRS. BENNET, BINGLEY, _and_ JANE _go out upon the terrace_.]
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Smiling mischievously._] Would not you also like to see the chimneys,
+Mr. Darcy?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Thank you. Like yourself, I prefer people to places.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Did I say that?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Not precisely. But I have drawn that conclusion.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Gathering her sewing materials, begins to embroider._] Well, I can
+laugh at people better than places, and I dearly love a laugh.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Isn't that rather a dangerous trait, Miss Bennet? The wisest and the
+best of men may be rendered ridiculous by a person whose first object in
+life is a joke.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Certainly. But I hope I never ridicule what is wise or good. Whims and
+inconsistencies do divert me, I own, and I laugh at them whenever I can.
+[_Mischievously._] But these, I suppose, are precisely what you are
+without.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+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.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+And in your list of weaknesses do you include such faults as vanity and
+pride, for instance?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Yes, vanity is a weakness, indeed, but _pride_, where there is a real
+superiority of mind--pride will be always under good regulation.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I am perfectly convinced, Mr. Darcy, that you have no defect.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+I have made no such pretension, Miss Bennet. I have faults enough. My
+temper I dare not vouch for. I cannot forget the follies and vices of
+others against myself. My good opinion once lost is lost forever.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+That is a failing, indeed. 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.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+There is, I believe, in every disposition a tendency to some particular
+evil--a natural defect which not even the best education can overcome.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+And your defect is a propensity to hate everybody.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Smiling._] And yours to wilfully misunderstand them.
+
+     [_Voices are heard outside._ ELIZABETH _applies herself to her
+     embroidery_. BINGLEY, JANE, _and_ MRS. BENNET _return from the
+     terrace_.]
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+The surrounding country is really charming, Mrs. Bennet.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+_We_ think so. But you must give us a ball at Netherfield, Mr. Bingley,
+and then you will see that some of the people who live here are worth
+knowing.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Distressed._] Oh, mamma!
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Mamma!
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Certainly, Mrs. Bennet. I had already decided upon it. I told Mr. Darcy
+only yesterday that as soon as my sister, Miss Bingley, arrived, and
+Nicholas could make white soup enough, I should send out my cards. Did
+not I, Darcy?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Very stiffly._] I believe you did.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Well, that is vastly good in you, Mr. Bingley; and then, perhaps, your
+friend may change his mind about the country. [_To_ DARCY.] You didn't
+come to admire Sir William's chimneys, Mr. Darcy.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+I was admiring your daughter's work, Madam.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Oh, you should see Jane's work. Lizzy is all for books, like her father.
+She is a great reader and has no pleasure in anything else. Jane, show
+your embroidered parrot to Mr. Bingley.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+I do not think Mr. Bingley would be interested, ma'am.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Eagerly._] Oh, indeed, I should, Miss Bennet; I am very much
+interested in parrots.--Pray show it to me.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Yes, and the new hand-screen. I will find it for you.
+
+     [_All three withdraw, leaving_ ELIZABETH _and_ DARCY _together_.]
+
+DARCY.
+
+And so you are a great reader and take no pleasure in anything else?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Mamma does not understand. I deserve neither such praise nor such
+censure. I am _not_ a great reader, and I have pleasure in many things.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+So I should have thought.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Looking at the screen which he holds in his hand._]
+
+It is amazing to me how young ladies can have patience to be so very
+accomplished as they are; to think how you all paint tables and cover
+screens and net purses. It is quite wonderful.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Do you agree with your friend, Mr. Darcy?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+His list of the common extent of accomplishments has too much truth. But
+I cannot boast of knowing more than half a dozen young ladies in the
+whole range of my acquaintance that are really accomplished.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Then you must comprehend a great deal in your idea of an accomplished
+woman.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Perhaps. To deserve the word, a woman must have a thorough knowledge of
+music, singing, drawing, dancing, and the modern languages. She must
+also possess a certain something in her air and manner of walking--the
+tone of her voice--her address and expression, and to all this she must
+yet add something more substantial--[_With a little bow to_ ELIZABETH.]
+in the improvement of her mind by extensive reading.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Laughing._] I am no longer surprised at your knowing only six
+accomplished women! I rather wonder at your knowing any.
+
+
+HARRIS.
+
+[_Enters and announces._] Colonel Forster and Mr. Wickham.
+
+[_The gentlemen enter, smiling._]
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+Here I am again, Mrs. Bennet. I found that Colonel Forster had a message
+for the young ladies.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+I am delighted to see you. You are just in time to meet our new
+neighbours. [_Introducing the gentlemen._] Colonel Forster, Mr.
+Wickham--Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy.
+
+     [_As the gentlemen enter_, MR. DARCY _has his back turned to them
+     in conversation with_ ELIZABETH. _At the sound of_ WICKHAM'S _voice
+     he starts and turns so that he faces the latter just in time for
+     the introduction. At sight of_ DARCY, WICKHAM _starts and is
+     greatly confused_. DARCY _stiffens and scarcely nods when_ WICKHAM
+     _is introduced. The whole situation is so marked that everyone
+     looks on with an astonishment to which_ MRS. BENNET _gives audible
+     expression_.]
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Well, well! If ever there was a proud, stiff man----
+
+JANE.
+
+[_In a dismayed whisper._] Mamma!
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Looking distressed, speaks hurriedly._] Oh, Mrs. Bennet, I'm sorry
+that we cannot wait for Mr. Bennet. We--we--were on the way to meet my
+steward--and we are already late for the appointment.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Effusively._] I am very sorry you must go, Mr. Bingley. But I hope you
+will come again. We must engage you soon for dinner.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_In an absent and worried way._] It will be a pleasure.
+
+[_Then with bows, the party moves toward the door._]
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Bustling._] Your best way to the paddock is by the terrace.
+
+     [_The gentlemen have almost reached the glass doors when_ MR.
+     COLLINS _comes in excitedly, putting himself directly in the way
+     of_ BINGLEY _and_ DARCY.]
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+My dear Miss Elizabeth, I have this moment found out by a singular
+accident that there is now in this room a near relation of my patroness
+Lady Catherine de Bourg. Will you present me?
+
+     [_He looks enquiringly from one to the other of the young men._]
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Mr. Bingley, allow me to present my cousin, Mr. Collins--Mr. Darcy--Mr.
+Collins.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Taking almost no notice of_ MR. BINGLEY, _he greets_ MR. DARCY _with
+servile effusion_.] My dear sir--I trust you will pardon me for not
+having paid my respects before. My total ignorance of your presence here
+must plead my apology. [_Looking severely about him at the ladies._] I
+was not informed of it. Is there any message, sir, which I could take
+from you to my honoured patroness--your aunt, or to your fair
+cousin--Miss de Bourg?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Stiffly._] Thank you, I will not trouble you so far.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+It would be no trouble--but an honour and a privilege.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Disgusted, turns from him to_ BINGLEY.] We are already very late,
+Bingley.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Yes,--we have no time to lose.
+
+     [DARCY _and_ BINGLEY _give passing bows and go out by the glass
+     doors_. MR. COLLINS _keeps by_ DARCY'S _side and, as they pass out
+     of sight, is seen still talking to him, to his evident annoyance.
+     All the time that the party is bidding good-bye to_ BINGLEY _and_
+     DARCY, WICKHAM _has been moodily standing by the fireplace_.
+     ELIZABETH _has evidently been concerned about him, for throughout
+     the foregoing interview with_ MR. COLLINS, _she has looked at_
+     WICKHAM _from time to time_.]
+
+HILL.
+
+[_Enters at the door leading to the hall._] May I speak to you, Madam?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Yes, Hill, yes. [_To the gentlemen._] Excuse me for a moment. I will
+return directly. [MRS. BENNET _and_ HILL _go out_.]
+
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+Oh, Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth! Your aunt, Mrs. Phillips, has sent word
+by me that her card-party is to be on Wednesday. She hopes you will
+surely be there.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_In a pre-occupied way, looking towards_ WICKHAM.] Oh, yes, we shall
+go.
+
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+[_As he passes the piano, and looking at some music which is on the
+rack._] Ah! Here is the song you have promised to sing to me. Pray sing
+it now, Miss Elizabeth.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Really, Colonel Forster, you must excuse me for to-day. Jane will play
+for you, instead.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Indeed, I cannot, Lizzy.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Looking meaningly at her._] _Please_, Jane.
+
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+Oh, do, I beg--Miss Bennet.
+
+     [_All through the following interview between_ ELIZABETH _and_
+     WICKHAM, _the tinkle of the instrument is heard. During their
+     conversation_ JANE'S _back is_ _turned--also_ COLONEL FORSTER'S _as
+     he looks over her music--so that_ ELIZABETH _and_ WICKHAM _are
+     practically alone_. ELIZABETH _returns to her embroidery. There is
+     an awkward pause for a moment._ WICKHAM _finally breaks it_.]
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+How long has Mr. Darcy been in Hertfordshire, Miss Elizabeth?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Only for a very short time, I believe. He comes from Derbyshire, I
+understand, and has a very large property there.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+Yes, his estate is a noble one. A clear ten thousand per annum. I am
+well informed on this head---- [_Hesitates._] I have been connected with
+Mr. Darcy's family in a particular manner since my infancy.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Surprised._] Indeed?
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+You may well be surprised, Miss Elizabeth, at this assertion after
+seeing the very cold manner of our meeting just now. [_After a pause._]
+Are you much acquainted with Mr. Darcy?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+No. Though I have heard of him, I met him for the first time to-day, but
+even on this short acquaintance I should take him to be an ill-tempered
+man.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+[_As if he had come to a sudden decision._] Miss Elizabeth, you have
+been a witness of Mr. Darcy's treatment of me to-day, and therefore I
+feel that I must, for my own justification, acquaint you with the facts
+of my past connection with him.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I shall respect your confidence, Mr. Wickham.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+I am sure of it. [_After a short pause._] Mr. Darcy and I were born in
+the same parish. My own father, who, to be frank, was steward of the
+Darcy estates, gave up everything to serve the interests of the Darcy
+family. Mr. Darcy's father was excessively attached to me:--indeed, I
+was his godson. He meant to provide for me amply, and thought he had
+done so. I was destined for the church and Mr. Darcy's father left to me
+a most valuable living. But the present Mr. Darcy chose to ignore his
+father's will and gave the living to another man. This closed for me the
+career for which I was most fitted and left me with almost no means of
+support.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Good heavens! But how could that be? Why did not you seek legal redress?
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+There was an informality in the terms of the will which gave me no hope
+from the law. Mr. Darcy's father had relied implicitly upon the honour
+of his son.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+But--this is quite shocking. Mr. Darcy deserves to be publicly
+disgraced!
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+Sometime or other he will be, but not by me. Till I can forget his
+father, I can never defy or expose him.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+This feeling does you honour. But what can have induced Mr. Darcy to
+behave so cruelly?
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+I must attribute it in some measure to his jealousy. His father's
+uncommon attachment to me irritated him, but the fact is, Miss
+Elizabeth, as you can see, we are very different men, and he hates me.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+His disposition must be dreadful.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+I will not trust myself on that subject.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+To treat in such a manner the godson--the friend--the favourite of his
+father! How abominable!
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+And yet, Miss Elizabeth, we must try to be just to him. Mr. Darcy has
+many good qualities. He can be both liberal and generous. He has also a
+brother's affection and pride which makes him a careful guardian of his
+sister.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, he has a sister?
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+Yes. You will hear him cried up as the most attentive and best of
+brothers. Oh, Mr. Darcy can please when he chooses. Among those who are
+his equals he is a very different man from what he is to the less
+prosperous.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Contemptible!
+
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+[_Interrupting._] Wickham!
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+[_Starting._] Yes, Colonel Forster.
+
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+I fear we must be going.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+[_Hurriedly to Elizabeth._] Thank you for listening to me. It is hard to
+be misjudged.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Thank you for your confidence. It is well to know the truth.
+
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+Well, Miss Elizabeth, I hope we shall see you all at your aunt's on
+Wednesday. Good morning. [_To_ JANE.] Good morning, Miss Bennet. Thank
+you for the music. Please present my respects to Mrs. Bennet. I am sorry
+that we cannot wait longer.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+[_Effusively._] Yes, Miss Bennet, be sure to give your mother my best
+regards. Good morning--[_All bow and curtsy. As he is leaving he speaks
+aside._] Oh, Miss Elizabeth, may I entreat----
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+You may depend upon my sympathy.
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+[_Looking at her with an understanding smile._] I am most grateful.
+
+     [_The gentlemen go out of the door._ JANE _and_ ELIZABETH _go into
+     the recess and look from the window. There is a short pause._]
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Enters, flurried, and looks about her._] Well, have they gone?
+
+     [MR. COLLINS _enters through the glass doors at the center. He
+     sees_ MRS. BENNET.]
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+Oh, Madam, I am just returned from attending on Mr. Darcy. Such a
+privilege! He was most condescending. I was able to tell him that Lady
+Catherine was very well on Saturday sennight. He is very like Lady
+Catherine. I am sure you must have been impressed by his distinguished
+manners.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Well, really, Mr. Collins!
+
+     [_A titter is heard from the recess where the girls are seated, and
+     then_ JANE'S _voice_.]
+
+JANE.
+
+Oh, Lizzy, hush!
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Hearing this, turns and discovers the two girls. Then he speaks to_
+MRS. BENNET _with lowered voice, as if an idea had just come to him_.]
+This meeting is most opportune. Will you kindly step this way for a
+moment? [_He draws_ MRS. BENNET _aside_.] May I hope, Madam, for your
+interest with your fair daughter Jane, in the matter on which we were
+speaking yesterday? I would solicit the honour of a private audience
+with her this morning.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Certainly, Mr. Collins. [_Hesitating._] But there have been some changes
+since then. Some things have happened--I think it is right you should
+know, that--that Jane is very likely to be soon engaged.
+[_Encouragingly._] But there is Elizabeth. I cannot take it upon myself
+to say--I cannot possibly answer--but I do not know of any prepossession
+in her case, and I am sure she can have no objection to listen to you.
+
+[MRS. BENNET _goes to the fire and stirs it_.]
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_As soon as she has finished._] Then Miss Elizabeth let it be, Madam. I
+was struck by her attitude of respectful awe when I mentioned the Lady
+Catherine de Bourg. Such modesty and humility of mind cannot but
+recommend her to my patroness.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Looking rather astonished at this last speech, but recovering
+herself._] Yes, my daughter Elizabeth knows what is proper. She will be
+very happy to listen to you. Shall I call her now?
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+I think, Madam, there should be no further loss of time, as my leave of
+absence extends only to the coming Saturday.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Very well--[_She goes to the recess where the two girls are talking
+together._] Jane, I want you upstairs. Lizzy, Mr. Collins has something
+he wishes to say to you.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Suspicious and dismayed._] Dear ma'am, Mr. Collins must excuse me. I
+was just going away myself.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Now, no nonsense, Lizzy! I desire you will stay. Mr. Collins has
+something _very_ particular to say to you. [_As_ ELIZABETH _tries to
+escape_.] Lizzy, I insist upon your staying and hearing Mr. Collins.
+Come, Jane--[MRS. BENNET _and_ JANE _go out_.]
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Approaching_ ELIZABETH, _who does not move from the place where her
+mother left her_.] Believe me, my dear Miss Elizabeth, your modesty so
+far from doing you any disservice rather adds to your other perfections.
+But allow me to assure you that I have your respected mother's
+permission for this address. [_He escorts_ ELIZABETH _with clumsy
+gallantry to the sofa, then brings a chair and seats himself opposite to
+her_. ELIZABETH _has recovered herself sufficiently to begin to enjoy
+the humour of the situation_.] My fair cousin, you must have at least
+surmised that I am about to ask you to become the companion of my life.
+And perhaps I had better begin by stating my reasons for this decision
+before I am run away with by my feelings on this subject. [ELIZABETH _is
+so overcome with laughter at this idea that she can hardly speak, or
+keep a decent countenance_.]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, I beg, Mr. Collins----
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+One moment. My reasons for marrying are, first,--that I think it a right
+thing for every clergyman to set the example of matrimony to his parish;
+second, I am convinced it will add very greatly to my happiness; third,
+it is the particular advice of that very noble lady whom I have the
+honour of calling patroness.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_With more command of her voice._] Believe me, Mr. Collins----
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+Excuse me--one moment. It remains only to be told why my views were
+directed to Longbourn instead of to my own neighbourhood. The fact is
+that, being as I am to inherit this estate after the death of your
+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 took place. This has been my motive, my fair cousin, and I flatter
+myself it will not sink me in your esteem.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Mr. Collins,--I----
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Rising and approaching nearer to_ ELIZABETH.] Still one moment more!
+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 you may assure yourself that no ungenerous reproach on
+that score shall ever pass my lips when we are married.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Rising in her turn._] You are too hasty, sir! You forget that I have
+made no answer. 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 decline them.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_With another formal wave of the hand._] I am not unmindful of the fact
+that sometimes a young lady's refusal is repeated a second or even a
+third time. I am, therefore, by no means discouraged by what you have
+just said, and I shall hope to lead you to the altar ere long.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Upon my word, sir, your hope is rather an extraordinary one after my
+declaration! You must 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. This matter may be
+considered, therefore, as definitely settled.
+
+     [_She is about to leave the room when_ MR. COLLINS _detains her_.]
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+One moment. When I do myself the honour of speaking to you next on this
+subject, I shall hope to receive a more favourable answer.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Becoming angry._] Really, Mr. Collins, you puzzle me exceedingly. I
+know not how to express my refusal in such a way as may convince you of
+its being one.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+You must give me leave to flatter myself, my dear cousin, that your
+refusals of my address are merely words, of course. I shall choose to
+attribute them to your wish of increasing my love by suspense, according
+to the usual practice of elegant females.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Very decidedly._] Please do not consider me now as an 'elegant
+female'; I would rather be paid the compliment of being believed
+sincere. To accept your proposal is absolutely impossible. Can I speak
+plainer?
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_With awkward gallantry._] You are uniformly charming; but I am
+persuaded that when my proposals are sanctioned by both your parents
+they will not fail of being acceptable. Meanwhile I may perhaps best
+serve my cause by leaving you to consider the matter by yourself for a
+while.
+
+     [_He bows and withdraws to the door._ ELIZABETH _with a gesture as
+     if she gave the whole matter up in despair, and yet half amused,
+     goes to the fireplace. Just as_ MR. COLLINS _reaches the door_ MRS.
+     BENNET _opens it_.]
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Well, Mr. Collins, are we to congratulate each other? [_Looking
+doubtfully at_ ELIZABETH.] Has all gone as you could wish?
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+I have every reason to be satisfied, Madam. My cousin has indeed
+steadily refused this, my first offer, and with considerable warmth, but
+this refusal would naturally flow from her bashful modesty. With your
+influence behind me, I have no doubt of my ultimate success.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Yes, you may depend upon me, Mr. Collins. I will speak to Lizzy myself
+directly. She is a very headstrong, foolish girl and does not know her
+own interest. But I will make her know it.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Alarmed._] Pardon me, Madam, 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. If, therefore, Miss Elizabeth persists in
+rejecting my suit, perhaps it were better not to force her into
+accepting me.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Alarmed in her turn._] Sir, you quite misunderstand me. Lizzy is only
+headstrong in such matters as these. In everything else she is as
+good-natured a girl as ever lived. Let me see her alone for a moment.
+That will be the best.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+But Madam--I----
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Almost forcing_ MR. COLLINS _out of the room_.] Oh, I shall very soon
+settle it with her, I am sure. [MR. COLLINS _goes out_. MRS. BENNET
+_goes quickly to_ ELIZABETH.] Lizzy, what is the meaning of all this?
+Have you refused Mr. Collins?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, mamma, but please listen----
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Angrily._] No, I will not listen. I tell you what, 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. I am going at once to the
+library and speak to your father. You will listen _to him_ perhaps.
+
+     [MRS. BENNET _starts to go when she sees_ MR. BENNET _outside
+     passing the glass doors. He is just returning from his walk and
+     carries a book under his arm_.]
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Oh, there he is now! [_She runs to the door, and opens it._] Oh, Mr.
+Bennet--Mr. Bennet! [MR. BENNET _turns_. MRS. BENNET _runs out, takes
+him by the arm, and tries to pull him into the room by main force_. MR.
+BENNET, _puzzled, submits_.]
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_While she draws_ MR. BENNET _into the room_.] 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, Mr. Collins will change his mind and not have _her_.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+I have not the pleasure of understanding you. Of what are you talking?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Of Mr. Collins and Lizzy! Lizzy declares she will not have Mr. Collins,
+and Mr. Collins begins to say he will not have Lizzy.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Lizzy? I thought it was Jane.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+No--no--It's Lizzy now!
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Ah! And what am I to do on the occasion? It seems a hopeless business.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Speak to Lizzy. There she is. [_Pointing to_ ELIZABETH _at the
+fireplace_.] Tell her that you insist upon her marrying him.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+[_Turning to_ ELIZABETH.] Come here, child. [ELIZABETH _goes to her
+father_.] This is an affair of importance. I understand that Mr. Collins
+has made you an offer of marriage. Is this true?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes--papa--it--is.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Very well--and this offer of marriage you have refused.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I have, sir.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+We now come to the point. Your mother insists upon your accepting him.
+Is it not so, Mrs. Bennet?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Yes, or I will never see her again!
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+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_.
+
+
+
+
+ACT II
+
+
+     _The Conservatory or Orangery at Netherfield. On one side, an
+     archway, approached by two or three steps and hung with curtains,
+     separates the Orangery from the ball-room. On the opposite side is
+     a smaller archway with curtains, which are looped back, giving a
+     glimpse of the drawing-room beyond. There is another door on the
+     right._ BINGLEY _is discovered directing two_ FOOTMEN, _who are
+     putting a bench in place_. DARCY _stands watching him_.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+A little more to the right, Martin. That will do. Push those lights
+farther back--behind the trees. Yes, that is better. [_Looking about
+him._] I think that is all. You may go. [_The men leave the room._]
+Well, Darcy, do you approve of the arrangements? Have you anything to
+suggest? Any criticisms?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+I have no criticisms for the arrangements.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Laughing._] But you have for the _ball_. Yes, I know--still I was
+really obliged to keep my promise.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+I am glad to find that a promise is with you an obligation.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Oh, come, Darcy! I understand. Set your mind at rest. I am going to
+London with you, although I must say I do not see the necessity for it.
+I think you are exaggerating the effect of any small attentions of mine
+toward Miss Bennet. However, we will cling together, and fly a common
+danger.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Coldly._] Common danger?
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Smiling._] Yes, common danger! I, too, have eyes. Where will you match
+the wit and vivacity of Miss Elizabeth Bennet?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Quietly._] She is indeed charming, and I admit that were it not for
+the inferiority of her connections, I might be in some danger. [_Very
+coolly and confidently._] But they form, for me, an insurmountable
+barrier against any possible peril.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Love laughs at bars, Darcy! [DARCY _looks annoyed_.] No,--I won't! It
+really is not fair, since it is my fault. You would never have been put
+to this test if you hadn't been so good as to stay on here with me after
+that----
+
+[_Stopping suddenly, and with an entire change from his former bantering
+tone, he says in a hesitating manner._] Darcy, do you really think you
+should be silent about Wickham?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Haughtily._] Decidedly! I do not choose to lay my private affairs
+before the world.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+But the fellow is sailing under false colours. You do not know what the
+result may be. I really must speak of this again, Darcy, even at the
+risk of offending you. [DARCY _makes an impatient gesture_.] I am truly
+concerned at the foothold this rascal has already gained in the Bennet
+family. What he has failed to accomplish once he may succeed in again.
+These young ladies have no brother to defend them.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Neither have they the wealth to excite Wickham's cupidity. At any rate I
+do not wish to be the one to enlighten the neighbourhood. Besides, I
+understand that he has left Meryton.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Even so--I---- [_He is interrupted by_ MISS BINGLEY, _who enters gaily
+from the drawing-room_.]
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+Ah! Here you are! [_To_ DARCY.] Will you be so kind? [_She holds out
+her arm for him to clasp her bracelet._] Your sister Georgiana should be
+here, Mr. Darcy. [_To her brother._] Charles, you should have insisted
+on her coming.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+I am not in the habit of insisting with Darcy.
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+[_Laughingly._] Very true. [_To_ DARCY, _who has at length succeeded in
+fastening the bracelet_.] Thank you. [_Looking about her._] It is vastly
+pretty, Charles, but I am much mistaken if there are not some among us
+to whom a ball will be rather a punishment than a pleasure.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Laughing._] If you mean Darcy, he may go to bed, if he pleases, before
+it begins.
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+But, Charles, it would certainly be more rational if conversation
+instead of dancing were made the order of the day.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+Much more rational, my dear Caroline, but it would not be near so much
+like a ball.
+
+
+MARTIN, THE FOOTMAN.
+
+[_Entering, to_ BINGLEY.] Several of the carriages have arrived, sir,
+and the guests will soon be entering the ball-room.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_To the_ FOOTMAN.] Very well. [_To_ MISS BINGLEY.] Come Caroline, we
+must be at our post. We will leave Darcy to make up his mind whether he
+will join us later.
+
+     [BINGLEY _and his sister disappear through the archway leading to
+     the ball-room_. DARCY _does not follow them, but walks thoughtfully
+     up and down the room. The sound of a voice is heard announcing_.]
+
+THE VOICE.
+
+Mrs. Long--the Miss Longs. [_A pause._] Colonel Forster and Mr. Denny.
+[_A pause._] Mr. and Mrs. Goulding. [_A pause._] Mrs. Bennet--the Miss
+Bennets. [DARCY _stops in his walk and goes toward the ball-room
+archway--then he walks once more up and down_.] Mrs. King--Miss King.
+[DARCY _again moves toward the ball-room; he lifts the curtain,
+hesitates--looks in--then disappears_.] Sir William and Lady Lucas--Miss
+Lucas--Mr. Robinson.
+
+     [_The music now begins, the stage is left empty. After a short
+     pause_, ELIZABETH _and_ CHARLOTTE _appear between the curtains of
+     the ball-room archway_.]
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Peeps in--then enters._] Isn't this pretty! Come in here for a moment,
+Eliza. I want to tell you something.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Following her._] Why _did_ I promise to dance with Mr. Darcy just now!
+Why did not I have more presence of mind!
+
+     [_They sit on the bench together while they talk; the guests, at
+     the back, pass to and from the drawing-room and ball-room, and the
+     sound of music is heard faintly._]
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+I dare say you will find him very agreeable.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+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.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+I wouldn't be a simpleton, Eliza. You are angry because Wickham is not
+here, but I wouldn't allow my fancy for him to make me unpleasant in the
+eyes of a man of ten times his consequence.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+My _fancy_ for Wickham, as you choose to call it, is simply my sympathy
+for a most ill-used man: also the relief of meeting with good manners
+and a good understanding after the insufferable pride of Mr. Darcy, and
+the stupid pomposity of that _dreadful_ Mr. Collins! [CHARLOTTE
+_starts_.] Oh, my dear Charlotte, I have never thanked you half enough
+for helping us to endure that man. It was so good-natured in you to
+sacrifice yourself by listening to those interminable speeches of
+his.--I am more obliged to you than I can express. But oh, what a relief
+it is to know that he is really gone!
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Who has listened to all this tirade in increasing embarrassment._] Oh,
+don't! Don't, Eliza! You are making it so terribly hard for me.
+But,--but I must tell you.--I am engaged to Mr. Collins!
+
+     [ELIZABETH _is stupefied with surprise and looks at_ CHARLOTTE _for
+     a moment in silent and incredulous amazement. Then with difficulty
+     she speaks._]
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Engaged! Engaged to--to Mr. Collins! Oh, my dear
+Charlotte--_impossible_! [_Hopefully._] You are joking!
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_With spirit._] No, indeed, Eliza, I am in most serious earnest. Why
+should you be so surprised? 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?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Confused._] Oh, no--no--of course not. And,--and you must forgive all
+I have just said. I couldn't possibly have imagined----
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_More sweetly._] No, Eliza, indeed you could not. [_She puts her hand
+on_ ELIZABETH'S _shoulder_.] And we shall be friends still?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Why, of course, of course, dear Charlotte. It was only the--the
+surprise. You know how fond I am of you. You know I wish you all
+imaginable happiness.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Yes, I am sure of it. You must be surprised--very much surprised, so
+lately as Mr. Collins was wishing to marry you. But, dear Eliza, when
+you have had time to think it all over, I hope you will be satisfied
+with what I have done. I am not romantic. I ask only a comfortable home,
+and, considering Mr. Collins' 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.
+
+[_In an absent manner._] Undoubtedly.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Looking at Elizabeth affectionately and wistfully._] And you will come
+to visit me sometimes? I could not bear to lose you, Eliza!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Looking up, and patting_ CHARLOTTE'S _hand_.] Surely, Charlotte!
+[_Smiling._] We are to be cousins, you know.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Cheerfully._] Why, so we are!
+
+[COLONEL FORSTER _comes from the ball-room_. LYDIA _and_ DENNY _enter
+from the drawing-room_.]
+
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+[_Hurriedly going to_ CHARLOTTE.] I am to have the honour of this reel,
+I believe, Miss Lucas.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Oh yes, Colonel Forster.
+
+     [_She goes out with_ FORSTER, _leaving_ ELIZABETH _alone, still
+     seated_. LYDIA _and_ DENNY _approach_ ELIZABETH.]
+
+LYDIA.
+
+I think we are being treated abominably ill, Lizzy! It seems that Mr.
+Wickham has gone off on business somewhere, so he will not be here at
+all. [LYDIA _looks off toward the ball-room_.]
+
+
+DENNY.
+
+[_Aside to_ ELIZABETH _significantly_.] I do not imagine his business
+would have called him away just now if he had not wished to avoid a
+certain gentleman.
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+[_Suddenly._] Why, Mr. Denny--I do believe the reel is half over--I
+dearly love a reel! We shall miss it, altogether. Come! [_She drags_
+DENNY _off_.]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Alone._] Well! Well! The world is surely upside down. Charlotte
+and--Collins! _What_ a match!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Approaching from the ball-room._] Do not you feel a great inclination,
+Miss Bennet, to seize such an opportunity of dancing a reel?
+
+[ELIZABETH _makes no answer_.]
+
+Do not you enjoy the reel, Miss Bennet?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Looking up._] Oh, 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 that kind of scheme. 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!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Smiling._] I do not dare.
+
+     [MISS BINGLEY _enters from the ball-room with an officer. They talk
+     together._]
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+[_Entering from the ball-room, and looking about him, sees_ ELIZABETH
+_and comes to her_.] May I have the honour, Miss Bennet?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I do not dance the reel, Colonel Forster.
+
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+Oh, the reel is over. This is our dance.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh!
+
+     [_She goes off with_ COLONEL FORSTER. DARCY _remains where_
+     ELIZABETH _leaves him and watches her till she disappears into the
+     ball-room. The officer bows and leaves_ MISS BINGLEY.]
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+[_Approaching_ DARCY.] I can guess the subject of your reverie.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+I should imagine not.
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+You are considering how insufferable it would be to pass many evenings
+in such society. 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!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Your conjecture is totally wrong. I assure you, my mind was more
+agreeably engaged. I was meditating on the very great pleasure which a
+pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty woman can bestow.
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+[_Looking at him very meaningly and sweetly, speaks with coquetry._]
+Indeed! And will not you tell me what lady has the credit of inspiring
+such reflections?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_With great intrepidity._] Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+[_Taken aback._] Miss Elizabeth Bennet! I am all astonishment! How long
+has she been such a favourite? Pray when am I to wish you joy?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+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.
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+Nay, if you are so serious about it I shall consider the matter as
+absolutely settled. You will have a charming mother-in-law! Of course
+she will always be at Pemberley with you. Perhaps you might give her a
+few hints as to the advantage of holding her tongue.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Thank you. Have you anything else to propose for my domestic felicity?
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+Oh, yes! Let the portrait of your uncle, the attorney, be placed 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!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+It would not be easy, indeed, to catch their expression; but their
+colour and shape, and the eyelashes, so remarkably fine, might be
+copied.
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+[_Sarcastically._] Oh, I fear not--[ELIZABETH _and_ COLONEL FORSTER,
+_with others, enter from the ball-room_--MRS. BENNET _with_ LADY LUCAS
+_from the drawing-room_.] Here comes the fair one--[_Seeing_ MRS.
+BENNET.]--and mamma-in-law as well. I will not intrude on the family
+party.
+
+     [_She goes off laughing and mingles with the guests._ COLONEL
+     FORSTER _bows and leaves_ ELIZABETH _with her mother_. BINGLEY
+     _enters with_ JANE _from the drawing-room_. _He sees_ DARCY, _who
+     is standing where_ MISS BINGLEY _left him, and comes to him_.
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+I thought this next dance was the one you liked so much, Darcy. Let me
+find you a partner.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Starting, as if from a reverie._.] So it is. Thank you--I have a
+partner.
+
+     [_He goes to_ ELIZABETH, _bows, and they go into the ball-room
+     together_. MRS. BENNET _and_ MRS. LONG _follow them_.]
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Looking after_ DARCY _with a smile, turns to_ JANE.] You must be
+tired, Miss Bennet. I propose that we sit quietly through this dance. Do
+you agree?
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Yes, indeed. [_She sits on the bench._] It will be very pleasant.
+[_Looking about her._] How very prettily you have arranged all the
+rooms, Mr. Bingley.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+I am so glad you think so. I feared they were rather inconvenient for so
+large a party.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Oh, I find them delightful!
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+You are always charitable, Miss Bennet. It seems to me you always manage
+to see the best side of everything. I never knew you to say an ill word
+about a person or a place.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Smiling._] Oh, I fear that is not quite exact. I only try to see
+things in their best light, perhaps.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+That is just it. The rest of us rarely try to see things in that way. So
+you see I have proved my case. You are too amiable.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Not for to-night, Mr. Bingley. Everybody is of one mind to-night. There
+is but one point of view--you are giving nothing but pleasure.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Soberly._] I wish it were so--but---- [_With impulsive earnestness._]
+Dear Miss Bennet, I wish to tell you--I must tell you----
+
+     [_He is interrupted by the people coming in again from the dance._
+     DARCY _and_ ELIZABETH _enter with_ SIR WILLIAM LUCAS _and others_.
+     BINGLEY _and_ JANE _rise from their seats and walk slowly toward
+     the back of the room_. DARCY _escorts_ ELIZABETH _to a seat and
+     stands by her. They are both silent for a moment._]
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+It is your turn to say something now, Mr. Darcy. I talked about the
+dance, and you ought to make some kind of remark on the size of the
+rooms, or the number of couples.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Smiling._] I assure you I will say whatever you wish.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+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.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Do you talk by rule then?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Sometimes. One must speak a little, you know,--and yet for the advantage
+of some, conversation ought to be so arranged that they may have the
+trouble of saying as little as possible.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Are you consulting your own feelings in the present case, or do you
+imagine that you are gratifying mine?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Archly._] Both, 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.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+This is no very striking resemblance of your own character, I am sure.
+How near it may be to mine, I cannot pretend to say. You think it a
+faithful portrait, undoubtedly.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I shall not decide on my own performance. [_There is a short silence;
+then, as if with an effort_, ELIZABETH _speaks_.] I am surprised not to
+see Mr. Wickham here to-night. I find that he is a great favourite with
+the officers. He has made many friends among them.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_With great hauteur._] Mr. Wickham is blessed with such happy manners
+as may insure his _making_ friends; whether he may be equally capable of
+_retaining_ them is less certain.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Excitedly._] He has been so unlucky as to lose your friendship, and in
+a manner which he is likely to suffer from all his life.
+
+[_They are both silent._]
+
+
+SIR WILLIAM LUCAS.
+
+[_Coming up to them all urbanity and smiles._] What a charming amusement
+for young people this dancing is, Mr. Darcy! I consider it as one of the
+first refinements of polished societies.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+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.
+
+[_Smiling._] Do you often dance at St. James?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Never, sir.
+
+
+SIR WILLIAM.
+
+You have a house in town, I conclude.
+
+[MR. DARCY _bows, but does not speak_.]
+
+
+SIR WILLIAM.
+
+I had once some thoughts of fixing in town myself: but I did not feel
+quite certain that the air of London would agree with Lady Lucas.
+
+     [MR. DARCY _bows in silence again_--ELIZABETH _is amused_.]
+
+SIR WILLIAM.
+
+But I must not further interrupt you, sir! I only wish to tell you once
+more how highly gratified I have been by your superior dancing; allow me
+also to say that your fair partner does not disgrace you. It is a great
+pleasure to see you together. I must hope to--to have this pleasure
+often repeated, especially when a certain desirable event, my dear Miss
+Eliza, [_Glancing at_ BINGLEY _and_ JANE, _who are talking earnestly
+together at the back of the scene_.] shall take place. What
+congratulations will then flow in: but let me not interrupt you--you
+will not thank me, Mr. Darcy, for detaining you from the bewitching
+converse of that young lady, whose bright eyes are also upbraiding me!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Murmurs to himself._] So! [_Looking earnestly at_ BINGLEY _and_ JANE,
+_he seems much impressed by what_ SIR WILLIAM _has said_. ELIZABETH
+_notices this. Recovering himself_, DARCY _turns to her again_.] Sir
+William's interruption has made me forget what we were talking of.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I do not think we were speaking at all. Sir William could not have
+interrupted any two people 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.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Smiling._] What think you of books?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Books? Oh no: I am sure we never read the same, or not with the same
+feelings.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+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 of them.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+No, I cannot talk of books at a ball--my head is always full of
+something else.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+The present always occupies you in such scenes, does it?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_In an absent manner._] Yes, always. [_Suddenly._] 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?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Firmly._] I am.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+And never allow yourself to be blinded by prejudice?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+I hope not.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+It is particularly incumbent on those who never change their opinion, to
+be secure of judging properly at first.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+May I ask to what these questions lead?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Merely to the illustration of your character. I am trying to make it
+out.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+And what is your success?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Shaking her head._] I do not get on at all. I hear such different
+accounts of you as puzzle me exceedingly.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Gravely._] I can readily believe 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.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+But if I do not take your likeness now I may never have another
+opportunity.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Very stiffly._] I would by no means suspend any pleasure of yours.
+
+[MISS BINGLEY _enters from the ball-room. She comes directly to_ DARCY
+_and_ ELIZABETH.]
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+Oh, Mr. Darcy--would you be so good as to go to Charles? He wishes very
+much to consult with you about some of the table arrangements. You will
+find him in the dining-parlour. [_With exaggerated politeness to_
+ELIZABETH.] That is, if Miss Bennet will permit you.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Carelessly._] Oh, certainly.
+
+[DARCY _bows and goes out_.]
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+[_To_ ELIZABETH, _after a moment's silence_.] So, Miss Bennet, I hear
+that you are quite delighted with George Wickham. He must have told you
+all a pretty tale. As to Mr. Darcy's using him ill, it is perfectly
+false. I do not know the particulars, but I do know that George Wickham
+has treated Mr. Darcy in a most infamous manner. His coming into the
+county at all is a most insolent thing. I feel very strongly on this
+point, Miss Bennet, as Mr. Darcy's interests are so intimately
+associated with our own. [_She watches_ ELIZABETH.] We hope Miss
+Georgiana Darcy may some day be my sister. My brother admires her
+greatly.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_With indifference._] Ah!
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+Yes, and therefore we resent these falsehoods and this presumption on
+the part of George Wickham. But, really, considering his descent, we
+could not expect much better. He has evidently forgotten to tell you
+that he is the son of old Wickham, steward to the late Mr. Darcy.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Angrily._] His guilt and his descent appear by your account to be the
+same. 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.
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+[_With a sneer._] Oh! I beg your pardon. Excuse my interference; it was
+kindly meant.
+
+[_She goes out._]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Insolent girl! You are much mistaken if you expect to influence me by
+such a paltry attack at this. I see nothing in it but your own wilful
+ignorance and the malice of Mr. Darcy.
+
+     [FOOTMEN _now come in with small tables, which they place about the
+     stage_. BINGLEY _comes in and directs them_. DARCY _follows him_.]
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[To ELIZABETH, JANE, _his sister, and others who have entered_.] I
+thought it would be pleasant to have some of the tables here. [_To_
+JANE.] We must have places together.
+
+     [_With some bustle, all seat themselves. At the table on one side
+     are seated_ DARCY, ELIZABETH, BINGLEY _and_ JANE: _A little behind
+     them are_ MISS BINGLEY _with_ COLONEL FORSTER, CHARLOTTE LUCAS
+     _with an officer. At the table on the opposite side is_ MRS. BENNET
+     _with_ SIR WILLIAM _and_ LADY LUCAS. _Behind them are more tables
+     at which other guests are seated._]
+
+LYDIA.
+
+[_Entering with_ DENNY, _much excited, goes to_ MRS. BENNET.] Mamma,
+have you heard the news? Mr. Denny has just told me that the regiment is
+to leave Meryton, and go to Brighton! Good heavens! What is to become of
+us, mamma?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Sympathetically._] Are they really going? Well, my love, it _is_ too
+bad! I know how you feel. I am sure I cried for two days together when
+Colonel Millar's regiment went away, five-and-twenty years ago. I
+thought I should have broken my heart.
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+I am sure I shall break mine. [_Coaxingly._] Mamma, might we not _all_
+go to Brighton?
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Oh, if we only could! But I fear your father will not hear of it.
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+Oh, papa is so disagreeable! I am sure a little sea-bathing would set me
+up forever! Wouldn't it, Mr. Denny?
+
+
+DENNY.
+
+Surely, Miss Lydia. Oh, you must manage it in some way.
+
+     [_They move off and take their places at one of the tables._]
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Looking after them._] Well, Lady Lucas, it is hard for a lively young
+girl like my Lydia to be cooped up in a place where there is so little
+going on. However, [_Looking at_ BINGLEY _and_ JANE.] we are not likely
+to have it so very dull in the future. [_In a loud whisper to_ LADY
+LUCAS.] You know what I mean--[_Nudging her and laughing._] Jane and
+Bingley!
+
+
+LADY LUCAS.
+
+Ah! Indeed!
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_With importance and in a still louder tone._] Oh, yes! It's quite
+settled. Such a charming young man--and Netherfield only three miles
+from Longbourn! And Jane's marrying will be a fine thing for my other
+girls. They will be sure to meet other rich men who will fall in love
+with them.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Who has heard the beginning of this conversation, makes a pretext to
+go to arrange her mother's scarf and says in low tones._] Oh, mamma! Be
+careful, I beg. Mr. Darcy can hear you!
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+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!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_In distress._] For heaven's sake, Madam, speak lower! What advantage
+can it be to you to offend Mr. Darcy? You will never recommend yourself
+to his friend by so doing.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+That is enough, Lizzy! I think I can take care of myself. I never knew
+before that it was a crime to speak to one's friends about what
+everybody can see plainly enough, who has eyes in his head. [_Turning
+to_ SIR WILLIAM.] Did _you_, Sir William?
+
+
+SIR WILLIAM.
+
+[_Smiling._] Our friends usually have very sharp eyes for what is going
+on, Mrs. Bennet! [_Significantly._] I have, indeed, sometimes expected
+that _you_ would observe what has been going on in our own household of
+late.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Sharply._] Going on? What _has_ been going on, Sir William?
+
+
+SIR WILLIAM.
+
+[_With an important air._] It is only this, Mrs. Bennet, that Lady Lucas
+and myself have to ask your congratulations on our very great
+satisfaction in the recent engagement of our daughter, Charlotte.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Charlotte! Engaged! Why, who in the world is going to marry _her_?
+
+     [SIR WILLIAM _draws himself up with offended dignity_; LADY LUCAS
+     _bridles_.]
+
+SIR WILLIAM.
+
+The gentleman whom my daughter has honoured with her hand is your
+husband's cousin--Mr. Collins!
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Rising in rage and amazement._] Mr. Collins! Marry your Charlotte?
+Good Lord, Sir William, how can you tell such a story! Do not you know
+that Mr. Collins is going to marry my Lizzy--or--or one of my other
+girls!
+
+
+LADY LUCAS.
+
+Well, really, Mrs. Bennet!
+
+
+SIR WILLIAM.
+
+[_Offended._] What I have told you is quite true, nevertheless, Mrs.
+Bennet. The whole matter was settled before Mr. Collins returned to
+Hunsford. I am sorry we are not to receive your good wishes.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Hastily._] Oh, but you _are_, Sir William! Charlotte has already told
+me all about her engagement, and we shall be most happy to welcome her
+as a cousin.
+
+
+SIR WILLIAM.
+
+[_Mollified and with gallantry._] Thank you, Miss Elizabeth! I am sure
+other congratulations will shortly be in order.
+
+     [_He glances significantly at_ DARCY; ELIZABETH _draws herself up_.
+     SIR WILLIAM, _smiling, makes a little bow and then turns to the
+     table, where he and_ LADY LUCAS _busy themselves with their
+     supper_.]
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_To_ ELIZABETH.] So Charlotte has told you, has she? I don't believe a
+word of it!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, mamma!
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+I am sure Mr. Collins has been taken in. Well, I trust they will never
+be happy together, and I hope the match will be broken off.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Imploringly._] Mamma!
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Turning on_ ELIZABETH _in a rage_.] And _you_ are the cause of the
+whole mischief, Lizzy! I think I have been barbarously used by you all!
+
+     [_While this conversation has been going on, the other guests have
+     been taking their supper._ COLONEL FORSTER _now rises with a glass
+     of wine in his hand_.]
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+Ladies and gentlemen---- [_The buzz of conversation ceases._] Ladies and
+gentlemen, I should like to propose the health of Mr. Bingley.
+
+
+ALL.
+
+Mr. Bingley!
+
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+[_Raising his glass._] To Mr. Bingley--may the pleasure which he has
+given us all to-night be but a foretaste of the future happiness which
+he will both _receive_ and _give_ in this community.
+
+
+ALL.
+
+Mr. Bingley--Colonel Forster!--Mr. Bingley!
+
+[_All drink as_ BINGLEY _bows_.]
+
+
+SIR WILLIAM.
+
+[_Rising._] And may _I_ be allowed to still farther express the
+sentiments of this community, by proposing another toast in which I am
+sure you will all join me with enthusiasm? [_Raising his glass._] To the
+Master of Netherfield! May he retain that title from his present
+fortunate youth, to his future green and honoured old age!
+
+
+ALL.
+
+[_Drinking._] Mr. Bingley! Sir William! Mr. Bingley!
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Rising._] Ladies and gentlemen! Friends!
+
+
+ALL.
+
+Hear! Hear!
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+I--I really cannot tell you how much I am touched by the very kind
+words of Colonel Forster and Sir William! And--and I only wish that I
+deserved them.
+
+
+ALL.
+
+Indeed, you do!
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Embarrassed and looking toward_ DARCY, _who with folded arms, is
+staring at the ceiling_.] No, I do not. I--I did not like to speak of
+such a painful thing on an occasion like this, and so I have told no one
+of the fact that I am about to--to leave Netherfield.
+
+
+ALL.
+
+Leave Netherfield! Oh! Oh!
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Still more ill at ease._] Yes.--It is a very sudden decision, but--but
+important interests have made it necessary for me to--[_Lamely._] to
+leave Netherfield.
+
+
+SIR WILLIAM.
+
+But only for a time, Mr. Bingley! Let us hope it will only be a--a
+_temporary_ separation.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Why, surely, Mr. Bingley, you will be back again very soon.
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_In a dogged manner._] No--no. I am afraid my returning at all is
+extremely uncertain. In fact, I--I expect to leave Netherfield
+_permanently_.
+
+     [_Great consternation._ JANE _looks down_. ELIZABETH _looks at_
+     DARCY. MISS BINGLEY _has a triumphant smile_.]
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+[_Incredulously._] Oh, my dear Mr. Bingley!
+
+
+SIR WILLIAM.
+
+[_Solemnly._] This is, indeed, a calamity.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_To_ ELIZABETH.] Good Lord, Lizzy, poor Jane! What----
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, hush, mamma!
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Looks again at_ DARCY, _who remains perfectly calm through all this
+commotion. This time the sight of him seems to make_ BINGLEY _somewhat
+angry, and he pulls himself together and speaks in a firmer tone and in
+a more cheerful manner_.] But, my friends, nobody knows what may happen.
+We shall undoubtedly all meet again sometime, and meanwhile, you must
+not let what I have said spoil your pleasure. [_The music is now heard
+again in the ball-room._] There is the music. We must have another dance
+together.
+
+     [_There is a general movement among the guests. Those at the back
+     of the room begin to go into the ball-room._]
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_To_ JANE, COLONEL FORSTER, _and others near him_.] Let us make up a
+set here; I think there will be room.
+
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+Capital idea!
+
+[_The_ FOOTMEN _remove the tables_.]
+
+
+MISS BINGLEY.
+
+Oh, yes, capital! [_With meaning, to_ DARCY.] Do not you think so, Mr.
+Darcy?
+
+[DARCY _bows stiffly, without speaking_.]
+
+
+COLONEL FORSTER.
+
+Miss Bingley, may I have the pleasure?
+
+     [_She bows, looks daggers at_ DARCY, _and takes her place in the
+     dance_.]
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_To_ JANE.] Miss Bennet, will you grant me the happiness? [DARCY _gives
+him a look which_ ELIZABETH _sees_.] The--the _final_ happiness of my
+stay at Netherfield.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Curtsies, a tremor in her voice._] Thank you.
+
+     [_They begin to form a set with_ MISS BINGLEY _and_ COLONEL
+     FORSTER, LYDIA _and_ DENNY.]
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Crossing to_ ELIZABETH.] May I have the honour, Miss Elizabeth?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Looking at him with frank hauteur._] Thank you, Mr. Darcy, I am
+indisposed.
+
+     [DARCY _bows, reddens, and crosses to the other side of the room.
+     The music begins. Amid embarrassed astonishment_, SIR WILLIAM _and_
+     CHARLOTTE LUCAS _fill the quadrille set. As the dance commences_,
+     ELIZABETH _and_ DARCY, _standing at either side of the dancers,
+     exchange a glance of the keenest pride and prejudice_.]
+
+
+
+
+ACT III
+
+
+     _The parlour of_ MR. COLLINS'S _parsonage at Hunsford. At the back
+     of the room is an open door. This door leads directly into the
+     garden, beyond which is seen, through an opening in the trees of
+     the park opposite, "the prospect of Rosings"--the residence of_
+     LADY CATHERINE DE BOURG--"_a handsome, modern building on rising
+     ground." A wide cottage window, also at the back of the room, gives
+     a plain view of the passers-by. On either side of the parlour is a
+     door, leading to other parts of the house._ ELIZABETH _is
+     discovered standing at the open door and looking up at some one
+     outside who is evidently climbing the trellis_.
+
+A VOICE (_outside._)
+
+Is this the cluster you wish, Miss Bennet?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Mischievously._] No, Colonel Fitzwilliam. Those are buds; the ones
+higher still. There--by the eaves.
+
+     [ELIZABETH _laughingly watches_ COLONEL FITZWILLIAM _until he
+     appears with a cluster of half opened roses, which he presents to
+     her with a gallant air_.]
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Taking the roses and putting them in her girdle._]
+
+Thank you.
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+May not I have _one_, as my reward, Miss Bennet?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Is not accomplishment its own reward?
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+And is not the power to be generous the highest reward that can be given
+to any accomplishment?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, surely! And so _you_ would have to be generous and get me some more
+roses: then we should each of us have to invent new speeches, and so we
+should never be done till we were ready to print a phrase book. However,
+you have certainly won your rose. [_She gives it to him._]
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+Thank you! That phrase-book is a capital idea, Miss Bennet. Nothing
+could please me better than just such an occupation. It would really be
+a charity, for Darcy is such a dull fellow these days that I really
+don't know what to do with myself.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+But we should hardly have the time for such a project. You say that you
+and Mr. Darcy are to leave Lady Catherine on Saturday.
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+Yes, if Darcy doesn't put it off again. He has already paid our aunt a
+much longer visit than ever before. I am at his disposal, you know. He
+arranges the business just as he pleases.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I do not know anybody who seems more to enjoy the power of doing what he
+pleases than Mr. Darcy.
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+He likes to have his own way very well, but so do we all. It is only
+that he has better means of having it than many others. [_Looking at his
+watch._] I suppose I ought to go and look for him now. I expected to
+find him here, [_With a meaning smile._] as not unfrequently happens.
+But since he is not, he probably expects me to meet him at the
+Crossroads.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I imagine your cousin brought you down with him chiefly for the sake of
+having somebody 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.
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+No--that is an advantage which he must share with me. I am joined with
+him in the guardianship of Miss Darcy.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Are you, indeed? And pray what sort of a guardian 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.
+
+     [COLONEL FITZWILLIAM _looks at_ ELIZABETH _very suspiciously as she
+     makes this last remark_.]
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+Why--what?--Why do you suppose Miss Darcy is likely to give us any
+uneasiness, Miss Bennet?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Carelessly._] Oh, nothing at all! You need not be frightened! I never
+heard any harm of her; she is a great favourite with a lady of my
+acquaintance--Miss Bingley. I think I have heard you say that you knew
+Miss Bingley.
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+I know her a little. Her brother is a pleasant, gentlemanlike man. He is
+a great friend of Darcy's.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, yes. Mr. Darcy is uncommonly kind to Mr. Bingley and takes a
+prodigious deal of care of him.
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+Care of him? Yes, I really believe Darcy does take care of him. From
+something he has told me, I have reason to think Bingley very much
+indebted to him. [_Stopping._] But I ought to beg his pardon, for I have
+no right to suppose that Bingley was the person meant.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Curiously, and with ill-concealed anxiety._] What is it you mean?
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+It is a circumstance which, of course, 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.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+You may depend upon my not mentioning it.
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+And, remember, that I haven't 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 names or any other particulars, and I
+only suspected it to be Bingley from believing him to be the kind of
+young man to get into a scrape of that sort.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Trying to suppress her feeling._] Did Mr. Darcy give you his reasons
+for this interference?
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+I understood that there were some very strong objections against the
+lady.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Indeed! [_Trying to speak calmly._] And what arts did he use to separate
+them?
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+[_Smiling._] He did not talk to me of his own arts. He only told _me_,
+what I have now told _you_.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Why was your cousin to be the judge?
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+You are rather disposed to call his interference officious?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Growing excited._] I do not see what right Mr. Darcy had to decide on
+the propriety of his friend's inclination; why, upon his _own_ judgment
+alone, Mr. Darcy was to determine in what manner his friend was to be
+happy. [_Recovering herself._] But 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.
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+That is not an unnatural surmise, and I believe Darcy told me that he
+did not think that the lady, at least, was very deeply concerned in the
+matter. However, to lessen the affection on either side is to lessen the
+honour of my cousin's triumph very sadly.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Your cousin's triumph----
+
+[_Greatly excited, she is about to continue, when_ CHARLOTTE'S _voice is
+heard outside_.]
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Yes, Mr. Darcy, I think I saw Colonel Fitzwilliam go up the garden path
+a few moments ago. [_Protesting._] Oh, no, Mr. Darcy, you are too kind!
+Really----
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Outside._] Pray, allow me.
+
+     [CHARLOTTE _enters, accompanied by_ DARCY, _who is carrying a
+     basket of eggs. She wears a garden hat and gloves._]
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Ah, here he is. Good morning, Colonel Fitzwilliam. [_To_ DARCY.] Pray
+let me have the basket now, Mr. Darcy. [DARCY _gives_ CHARLOTTE _the
+basket, and then turns to_ ELIZABETH.]
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Good morning, Miss Bennet. [ELIZABETH _returns_ DARCY'S _greeting with a
+self-consciousness which does not escape his notice, but the motive of
+which he mistakes_. DARCY _gives a quick glance from_ ELIZABETH _to_
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM, _as he turns to speak to the latter_.] Ah,
+Fitzwilliam, I thought I might find you here.
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+[_Lightly._] Yes, I have been so fortunate as to secure some of Mrs.
+Collins's early roses for Miss Bennet.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_In surprise._] Really! Have they already opened?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Who has by this time recovered her self-possession._] A very few of
+them. But Colonel Fitzwilliam was obliged to climb very near to the sun
+to get me these. [_She looks admiringly upon the flowers as she
+speaks._]
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+[_Showing the rose which_ ELIZABETH _has given him_.]
+
+And you see I have my reward.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Smiling faintly._] Colonel Fitzwilliam might not have won his prize so
+easily, Miss Bennet, had there been others in the field.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Ah, no, Mr. Darcy, I cannot lessen Colonel Fitzwilliam's achievement by
+admitting any such possibility.
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+[_Gallantly._] Thank you, Miss Bennet!
+
+     [DARCY _turns away with an unconscious look of chagrin_.]
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Well, surely, my roses will have to bloom their prettiest this season in
+return for all the attention they have received. [_To the young men._]
+Will not you be seated, gentlemen?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Tartly._] Thanks, no, Mrs. Collins; I merely stopped for Colonel
+Fitzwilliam; but perhaps his rose-gathering has caused him to abandon
+our project of taking a walk together this morning.
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+By no means, Darcy, that pleasure has only been deferred.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Very good then. We will go at once, if Mrs. Collins and Miss Bennet will
+pardon me this hasty call.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Certainly, Mr. Darcy! [ELIZABETH _also, absent-mindedly, murmurs her
+assent, for which_ DARCY _lingers with vague uneasiness before departing
+with_ FITZWILLIAM. CHARLOTTE _looks at_ ELIZABETH _curiously, then calls
+to the little maid, who enters_.]
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Martha--take these eggs to the pantry. Do not disturb them.
+
+
+MARTHA.
+
+Very well, ma'am.
+
+[_She curtsies and goes out._]
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Taking off her hat and gloves._] Now, Eliza, we must get to our work
+and have a comfortable chat. You have been here nearly two weeks and we
+really haven't had a good talk yet.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Getting out her embroidery._] Yes, you promised me a quiet visit,
+Charlotte. But I find you are more lively here than we are at Longbourn.
+
+[_The two ladies sit at the table with their embroidery._]
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+But how could I have anticipated the arrival here of two very attentive
+young gentlemen? [_Smiling at_ ELIZABETH.] It is really quite a
+surprising coincidence, or else Mr. Darcy has timed his visit to his
+aunt very cleverly. As to these daily visits to the parsonage--you may
+be sure I do not take to myself the credit of them. Neither of these
+young gentlemen would ever come so often to see me. I have to thank you,
+Eliza, for this civility.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_With a little temper._] You may thank a lack of occupation on their
+part. You know very well my opinion of Mr. Darcy!
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Yes. You have often expressed it. I wish I were as well informed of Mr.
+Darcy's opinion of Eliza.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+When you know the one, you know the other. They are identical.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Well, perhaps under the circumstances, that is the most satisfactory
+condition of things. And do we hold the same opinion of Colonel
+Fitzwilliam?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Tossing her head._] Oh, Colonel Fitzwilliam!
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Looking at_ ELIZABETH _sharply, and after a short silence_.] And so
+Jane is once more at home after her visit in London, and Lydia has gone
+to Brighton after all. How did she ever manage to persuade your father?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, Lydia was so determined upon it that she and mamma gave my father no
+peace till they had teased him to consent. But I am very sorry. Lydia is
+too foolish, too ignorant and wilful to be trusted away from home. I
+only hope that no harm will come of it.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+And is Mr. Wickham still with the regiment?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, he went with it to Brighton.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+I hear that he is thinking of marrying Miss King, since she has just
+received a legacy of ten thousand pounds. I should be sorry to think
+that our friend was mercenary.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+A man in distressed circumstances has not time for all those elegant
+decorums which other people may observe. If Miss King does not object to
+it, why should we?
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+_Her_ not objecting does not justify--him.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Emphatically._] Well, have it as you choose. _He_ shall be mercenary,
+and _she_ shall be foolish! Mr. Wickham's worst fault, after all, is his
+power of being agreeable. Thank heaven, we both of us know some men who
+haven't one agreeable quality. Stupid men are the only ones worth
+knowing!
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Smiling._] Well, well, Eliza! That speech savours a little
+of--disappointment.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, yes--anything you please!
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Changing the subject._] And you say that Jane is not in her usual
+spirits?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Shortly._] Yes.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+And she is looking poorly?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Still more shortly._] Yes--very!
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Did she see much of the Bingleys in London?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Bursting out hotly._] She saw nothing of them. Oh, Charlotte, I have
+just had all my suspicions verified.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Your suspicions?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, there has been an arrangement in all this. Mr. Bingley has been
+kept away from Jane by---- [_Stops suddenly._]
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Looks up curiously, then speaks quickly._] Don't imagine any such
+nonsense, Eliza. A young man like 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 this sort of inconstancy is very frequent.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+We do not suffer from accident, Charlotte. A young man of independent
+fortune does not suddenly decide of his own free will to think no more
+of a girl with whom he was violently in love.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+But were they so violently in love?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes--I never saw a more promising inclination. Why, Mr. Bingley would
+talk to no one else--would look at no one else. Is not general
+incivility the very essence of love?
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Smiling._] It is usually a good test. But if Jane did not return his
+affection---- It really did not seem to me that there was anything
+_violent_ in Jane's attitude. I could never see that she showed any
+extreme affection for Bingley.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Hotly._] Well, I know that Jane was very much in love with him, and
+that she showed her affection as much as her nature would allow. If
+Bingley didn't see it he must have been a simpleton. No--the real
+trouble was that Jane didn't see him often enough, perhaps, to make her
+understand his character.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Oh, if Jane were married to Bingley to-morrow, I should think she had as
+good a chance of happiness as if she were studying him for a
+twelve-month. It is far better to know as little as possible of the
+person with whom you are to pass your life.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Demurely._] In some cases that is undoubtedly true.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Appears at the garden door. He wears a wide-brimmed hat and carries a
+hoe--also a large basket. He looks in._] Ah! A very charming domestic
+picture! [_Taking a bunch of radishes from the basket, he speaks to_
+CHARLOTTE.] My dear, I have found some fine early radishes. I thought it
+would be a graceful attention on your part to send some of these to Miss
+de Bourg. [_He sits upon the chair near the doorway._]
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+I fear the apothecary might object.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+True--they might not be suitable, but [_Looking at them proudly._] they
+are very fine radishes. [_To_ ELIZABETH.] Miss Elizabeth, I am very
+successful in my gardening. I consider the work I do in my garden to be
+one of my most respectable pleasures. Lady Catherine is always ready to
+encourage me in it, and my dear Charlotte is ever willing that I should
+leave her side for the sake of this healthful exercise. [_Looking at the
+radishes again._] It is, indeed, a pity that Miss de Bourg is not well
+enough to enjoy them. My dear Charlotte has doubtless told you, Miss
+Elizabeth, of the alliance which is in prospect between Miss de Bourg
+and Mr. Darcy. This extreme delicacy of constitution would seem to be
+the only bar to their happiness.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, Charlotte has told me that Miss de Bourg is sickly. She will make
+Mr. Darcy a very proper wife.
+
+     [CHARLOTTE _looks anxiously at_ MR. COLLINS _as_ ELIZABETH _says
+     this, but he is gazing out of the door and does not seem to notice
+     the remark_.]
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+I hope you are pleased with Kent, Miss Elizabeth.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Very much, Mr. Collins.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+I do not think the kingdom can boast a grander scene than the one now
+spread before our eyes: [_Pointing._] This garden--that park with
+Rosings in the distance. Do not you think my dear Charlotte is most
+fortunately placed, Miss Elizabeth?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Most fortunately, Mr. Collins.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+And when you have seen Lady Catherine, you will be more deeply
+impressed, I am sure. We can hardly expect her to call upon you. This
+illness of Miss de Bourg would prevent it, and in any case it would be
+an act of extreme condescension on her part; but I am quite confident
+that you will receive an invitation to drink tea of a Sunday evening
+with her, after Mr. Darcy and his cousin are gone, of course. And--we
+may later have an invitation to dinner--although I would not for the
+world arouse in you false hopes which may be shattered.
+
+
+MARTHA.
+
+[_Enters in great excitement._] Oh, Mrs. Collins! Lady Catherine's
+carriage is turning into the lane and _she_ is in it!
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Rising in great excitement_.] Lady Catherine--at this hour! What
+amazing condescension! [_He turns in a helpless manner to_ CHARLOTTE.]
+But, my dear, I am quite unprepared. My habiliments--I would not be
+wanting in respect.--What shall I do?
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Hurriedly putting up her work and giving her hat and gloves to the
+maid._] Go make yourself ready, Mr. Collins. We will do the same.
+[CHARLOTTE _pushes_ MR. COLLINS _gently toward the door_.]
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Protesting._] Yes--yes! But this implement----
+
+[_He holds out the hoe._]
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Give it to Martha!
+
+     [MR. COLLINS _hastily gives the hoe to the maid and then goes out.
+     He instantly returns, however, and again appeals in distressed
+     tones to his wife_.]
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Holding out the basket._] And these radishes, my dear?
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Martha, take the radishes from Mr. Collins.
+
+
+MARTHA.
+
+Yes, ma'am.
+
+     [_The maid tries to hold at once--basket, hoe, hat, and gloves, as
+     she stands in a corner, open-mouthed._]
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Again emerging from the door._] Do not make yourself uneasy about your
+own apparel, Miss Elizabeth; Lady Catherine is far from requiring that
+elegance in us which becomes herself and daughter--I----
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Impatiently._] Oh, do go, Mr. Collins! Lady Catherine will be here in
+an instant!
+
+[_She shuts the door on_ MR. COLLINS.]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Greatly amused at all this excitement._] Are you going to make any
+change in your dress, Charlotte? Do you wish me to do so?
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Well, Eliza, if you wouldn't mind, I should like you to put on your
+sprigged muslin. In spite of what Mr. Collins says, I know it would
+please him. I have no time to change. Is my cap straight? Oh, here she
+is. [_To the maid, who stands staring, with her arms full._] Why,
+Martha! Are you still there? Go! Go! [_She bustles the maid out of one
+door, then runs to the other, calling her husband._] Mr. Collins! Mr.
+Collins!
+
+     [_She then rushes into the garden, followed immediately by_ MR.
+     COLLINS _in the same state of excitement_. ELIZABETH, _as she looks
+     after them, is convulsed with laughter_.]
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+So, at last--her high and only mightiness! No tremors, Elizabeth! Now is
+the time for all your courage. [_She runs laughing out of the room._]
+
+     [_Sounds of voices are heard, and_ LADY CATHERINE _appears escorted
+     up the path by_ CHARLOTTE _and_ COLLINS.]
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_As she reaches the door._] You keep too many hens, Mrs. Collins. There
+is just a certain number which are profitable--beyond that there is
+waste. [LADY CATHERINE _sits on the sofa_.] A clergyman's wife should
+set an example of thrift. You should have asked my advice.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+Mrs. Collins will in the future regulate her poultry-yard according to
+your directions, Lady Catherine, if you will be so condescending as to
+give them.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Yes, thank you, Lady Catherine.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+Will your Ladyship not take some refreshment?
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Oh, yes--let me fetch you a cup of tea?
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+No, no--I wish nothing. [_To_ MR. COLLINS.] But you may go, Mr. Collins,
+and see if Jones is walking the horses up and down. I do not trust
+Jones.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+With great pleasure, your Ladyship. [MR. COLLINS _goes out_.]
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_To_ CHARLOTTE.] I thought you had a visitor, Mrs. Collins.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Yes, your Ladyship--I have. It is my friend, Miss Elizabeth Bennet. She
+is a cousin of Mr. Collins and a neighbour of ours in Hertfordshire.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+I have heard about her. Fitzwilliam says she is a very genteel, pretty
+kind of girl.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Pleased._] Indeed she is, Lady Catherine.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Well, where is she?
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+She has gone to make a little change in her dress, before presenting
+herself to your Ladyship.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Oh! very proper--very proper!
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+I am delighted to hear that Miss de Bourg is better, Lady Catherine.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Yes, thank you. She is very greatly improved. [_After a slight pause,
+with impatience_.] Well, Miss Bennet takes her time!
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_Anxiously._] I am sure she will be here in a moment. [ELIZABETH
+_enters_.] Oh, here she is. [_Presenting_ ELIZABETH.] Lady Catherine,
+Miss Elizabeth Bennet. [ELIZABETH _curtsies_.]
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_Without leaving her seat, looks_ ELIZABETH _over from head to foot_.]
+Oh, how do you do, Miss Bennet. You are younger than I thought!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Smiling._] Indeed?
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+You know my nephew, Mr. Darcy?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, I met him in Hertfordshire.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Humph! And you know Colonel Fitzwilliam?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I have only met Colonel Fitzwilliam since coming here.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Humph! Has your governess left you?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Half laughs._] My sisters and I have never had a governess, Madam.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+No governess! I never heard of such a thing! Your mother must have been
+quite a slave to your education.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Smiling._] I assure you she was not, Lady Catherine.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Then who taught you? Without a governess you must have been neglected.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Such of us as wished to learn, never wanted the means, Madam.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Well, if I had known your mother, I should have advised her most
+strenuously to engage a governess. I should have seen to it myself.
+[_To_ CHARLOTTE.] Go on with your work, Mrs. Collins. A clergyman's wife
+should set an example of industry. [_Looking at_ CHARLOTTE'S _embroidery
+with disapproval_.] I will send you some more of the parish petticoats
+to hem, Mrs. Collins. [_To_ ELIZABETH.] Go on with your work, Miss
+Bennet. Young ladies should never be idle. [_Both_ ELIZABETH _and_
+CHARLOTTE _go on with their embroidery. Looking hard at_ ELIZABETH.]
+Pray what is your age, Miss Bennet?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I am not one and twenty.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+You have sisters, have not you?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, Madam.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Are any of them out?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+All, Madam.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+What! All out at once? Very odd! Out before the oldest is married!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Really, Madam, I think it would be very hard on the younger sisters not
+to have their share of society because the eldest one does not happen to
+be married. That would hardly be likely to promote sisterly affection,
+or delicacy of mind.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Upon my word, you give your opinion very decidedly for so young a
+person! Your sisters may be married before you. You must not be too
+ambitious. A good many young girls have lost their chances through being
+too ambitious. [_Looking at a large picture on the wall and then
+pointing to it._] Mrs. Collins, I suppose you have shown Miss Bennet
+this print of Pemberley--Mr. Darcy's place?
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Yes, Lady Catherine.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_Complacently._] Pemberley is one of the finest places in England. My
+daughter Anne is very fond of it, which is fortunate, since she will
+probably spend the most of her life there.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+Most fortunate, your Ladyship.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_To_ ELIZABETH.] You see my nephews here often, Miss Bennet?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Mischievously._] Yes, _very_ often, Lady Catherine.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Humph! Well, idle young gentlemen often make very foolish use of their
+time. My daughter, Miss de Bourg, is unfortunately not able to accompany
+Mr. Darcy in his walks as often as both of them could desire.
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+[_Entering._] I think your Ladyship's mind may be quite at rest about
+the horses. Jones seems to have them well in hand.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Oh, I am glad you have come back, Mr. Collins. I am going to ask you and
+Mrs. Collins to go and see the new cottages with me. I shall take you in
+the carriage. [_To_ CHARLOTTE.] You had better put on a plain bonnet,
+Mrs. Collins.
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+By all means, your Ladyship. [_She goes out._]
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Are you quite ready to go, Mr. Collins?
+
+
+MR. COLLINS.
+
+Oh--assuredly, your Ladyship--quite!
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_To_ ELIZABETH.] Miss Bennet, I should advise you to write to your
+family while we are gone. [CHARLOTTE _returns in her bonnet and mantle_.
+LADY CATHERINE _looks her over_.] Yes, that will do very well!
+
+
+CHARLOTTE.
+
+[_To_ ELIZABETH.] We shall not be gone very long, Eliza.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+I am not sure of that, Mrs. Collins, but I have provided an occupation
+for Miss Bennet during our absence. Good morning, Miss Bennet. I may ask
+you later for dinner.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Curtsying._] Good morning, Madam. [_All go out_, MR. COLLINS _showing
+servile attentions to_ LADY CATHERINE. ELIZABETH _watches them from the
+door_.] Really! I might have spared myself some of the mortifications I
+have felt for the shortcomings of my own family. The contrast is not
+such a violent one after all. [_Looking at the writing desk._] However,
+Lady Catherine can give good advice. I really ought to write to my poor,
+dear Jane.
+
+     [_She seats herself at the writing table--gets out her paper, etc.
+     and begins her letter when the door-bell sounds._ ELIZABETH _starts
+     and is putting away the writing materials, when the maid ushers in_
+     MR. DARCY, _who seems much excited_.]
+
+DARCY.
+
+I am here again, Miss Bennet. I saw Mr. and Mrs. Collins drive away
+with my aunt. I have something which I _must_ say to you. [_He walks
+excitedly up and down for a moment, while_ ELIZABETH _watches him in
+amazed silence. Then he suddenly goes up to her and begins to speak in
+an agitated manner._] Miss Bennet--in vain have I 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.
+
+[_Is perfectly astounded. She stares, colours, doubts, and is silent._]
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Taking her silence for encouragement._] Miss Bennet, I can well
+understand your own astonishment at this declaration, for I am amazed at
+myself! My feeling for you has taken possession of me against my will,
+my reason, and almost against my character!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Starting in indignation._] Sir!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Oh, understand me, I beg of you! For yourself alone my admiration is
+only too natural. I share it with everyone who has the happiness of
+knowing you. But--pardon me--for it pains me to offend you--the defects
+of your nearest relations, the total lack of propriety so frequently
+betrayed by your family, has so opposed my judgment to my inclination,
+that it has required the utmost force of passion on my part to put them
+aside. But, my dear Miss Bennet, your triumph is complete. Your own
+loveliness stands out the fairer in its contrast to your surroundings,
+and I now hope that the strength of my love may have its reward in your
+acceptance of my hand.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Who has gone through all sorts of emotions during this speech, speaks,
+in a constrained manner as if trying to control herself._] Mr. Darcy--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. 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.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Leaning against the mantel-piece, hears her words with no less
+resentment than surprise. After a little he speaks in a voice of forced
+calmness._] And that 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.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I might as well inquire why, with so evident a design of insulting me,
+you chose to tell me that you liked me against your will, your reason,
+and even against your character! Was not this some excuse for
+incivility, if I was uncivil?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+I very clearly explained that the objections which appealed to my reason
+applied entirely to your _family_, and in no respect to yourself.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I am a part of my family, Mr. Darcy; and allow me to say that, since I
+have had the opportunity of comparing my relations with your own, the
+contrast is not so marked as I had been led to suppose. [DARCY
+_starts_.] But--aside from all questions of either feeling or family--do
+you think any consideration would tempt me to accept the man who has
+been the means of ruining, perhaps forever, the happiness of a most
+beloved sister, and involving her in misery of the acutest kind? [DARCY
+_looks at her with a smile of incredulity._.] Can you deny that you have
+done this?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+I have no wish of denying that I did everything in my power to separate
+my friend from your sister. I did not, indeed, anticipate that I should
+involve either of them in "misery" of any kind. On your sister's side,
+at least, I was never able to discover any symptoms of peculiar regard
+for Mr. Bingley. While, for every reason, I must rejoice in my success
+with my friend; toward him I have been kinder than toward myself.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_With disdain._] Your arrogance in calmly deciding the extent of other
+people's sentiments does not surprise me. It is of a piece with your
+whole nature! But your interference in my sister's concerns is not all.
+Long before it had taken place, my opinion of you was decided. Your
+character was unfolded in the recital which I received months ago from
+Mr. Wickham. [DARCY _starts excitedly_.] What can you have to say on
+this subject? In what imaginary act of friendship can you here defend
+yourself?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_In a tone of suppressed excitement, in marked contrast to his previous
+self-assured manner._] You take an eager interest in that gentleman.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Who that knows what his misfortunes have been can help feeling an
+interest in him?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Contemptuously._] His misfortunes! Yes, his misfortunes have been
+great indeed!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_With energy._] And of your infliction! 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
+done all this, and yet you can treat the mention of his misfortunes
+with contempt and ridicule!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Walking up and down the room with quick steps._] And this is your
+opinion of me? This is the estimation in which you hold me! I thank you
+for explaining it so fully. [_Stopping and looking at her._] Perhaps if
+I were to divulge the truth regarding Mr. Wickham, I might give _you_ as
+great a surprise as you have given _me_. [_After a slight pause._] I do
+not care to go into particulars, but in justice to myself, I must tell
+you that the man whom you consider a martyr is a profligate with the
+most vicious propensities. A man who should never have entered your
+home, for his presence there is a constant source of danger.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_In indignation._] Mr. Darcy!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_With dignity._] I am ready to give you the full proofs of all I have
+said, Miss Bennet, whenever you may so desire, although I would gladly
+forget all the miserable circumstances myself, and no obligation less
+than the present should induce me to unfold them to any human being.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Coldly._] Your judgment in the matter of my sister's happiness has
+given me a gauge by which I can measure your fairness to a man who has
+been so unfortunate as to offend you. My faith in Mr. Wickham is
+unshaken.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Looking at_ ELIZABETH _in indignation and by a great effort governing
+himself_.] I shall take what you have said, Miss Bennet, as a reflection
+on my _judgment_ alone; otherwise, my veracity would be at stake, and
+this, I am sure, you did not intend. Indeed I understand your whole
+position perfectly. I have erred in the manner of my declaration. Your
+bitter accusations might have been suppressed, had I concealed my
+struggles. It is my own fault. I have wounded your pride. I should have
+flattered you into the belief that I was impelled by inclination, by
+reason, by reflection, by everything! But disguise of every sort is my
+abhorrence. Could you expect me to rejoice in the inferiority of your
+connections?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Angrily._] And do you expect _me_ to rejoice in your proposal that I
+ally myself to the conceit and impertinence of _yours_? No, Mr. Darcy!
+The manner of your declaration has affected me only in one way:--it has
+spared me the concern which I might otherwise have felt in refusing you,
+had you behaved in a more _gentlemanlike_ way. [DARCY _starts_.] You
+could not, however, have made me the offer of your hand in any possible
+way that would have tempted me to accept it. [DARCY _looks at her with
+an expression of mortified amazement_.] 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 upon to marry.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+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. [DARCY _hastily leaves the room_.]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Sinking into a chair, then getting up and walking excitedly about the
+room._] To insult my family! To think I was ready to fall on my knees,
+in gratitude for his condescension! To calmly dispose of Jane's
+happiness! [_Stopping in her walk and with a half-amused smile._] And
+yet really to be in love with me in spite of every obstacle. [_Throwing
+herself again into the chair, half laughing, half crying._] Oh, Jane,
+Jane! I wish you were here!
+
+
+MARTHA.
+
+[_Enters with a letter._] Here is a letter, Miss. The express has just
+brought it.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+A letter? For me?
+
+
+MAID.
+
+Yes, Miss--[_She gives_ ELIZABETH _the letter; curtsies and goes out_.]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Looking at the letter._] Why, it is from Jane! What can be the matter?
+[_She opens the letter hurriedly and reads._] "Dearest Lizzy--I have bad
+news for you, and it cannot be delayed. An express came to us last night
+from Colonel Forster. He told us that Lydia had run away from Brighton
+with one of his officers:--to own the truth--with Wickham!"
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh! Wickham! [_Going on with the letter._] "He first thought they had
+gone to Scotland, but, oh, Lizzy, it is far worse than that! We now know
+that Wickham never intended to go there, or to marry Lydia at all!"
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh! [_Reading again._] "Colonel Forster has been here to-day. He says
+Wickham is not a man to be trusted! He has left Brighton terribly in
+debt, and his record is bad in every way. Oh, Lizzy, our distress is
+very great! My father is going to London with Colonel Forster instantly
+to try to discover the fugitives. It is hard to ask you to shorten your
+visit, but we are in such distress that----" [_Darting from her seat._]
+Oh where--where is the express? I must write. No--I must go. Oh, Lydia
+and Wickham! I must go at once! I must send someone for a carriage.
+[_She rushes to the garden door calling._] Martha, Martha! The express!
+[_Suddenly she calls again._] Oh, Colonel Fitzwilliam, is that you?
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+[_Appearing in the garden._] What is the matter, Miss Bennet?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Wildly._] Oh, Colonel Fitzwilliam--the express--or can you get me a
+carriage? I have bad news from home. I must return at once and Mr.
+Collins is away. Will you be so kind? [_She falls, half-fainting, upon a
+chair near the door._]
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+[_With concern._] Certainly, my dear Miss Bennet--of course--but----
+[_Calling off._] Darcy, don't wait for me. I can't join you now. Miss
+Bennet is in distress.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Entering._] Miss Bennet? Good God! What is the matter?
+
+
+COLONEL FITZWILLIAM.
+
+Miss Bennet has just had bad news from home. She wishes to return, and
+desires a carriage.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_In a decided tone._] Do you go for the carriage, Fitzwilliam. Get one
+from the stables. [FITZWILLIAM _hesitates_.]
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Go. I will remain with Miss Bennet.
+
+[FITZWILLIAM _goes out_.]
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_To_ ELIZABETH _very gently_.] Shall I call the maid, Miss Bennet? A
+glass of wine? Shall I get it for you? You are very ill.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Hardly able to speak._] No, I thank you: 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 bursts into tears._]
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Helplessly._] I am sorry, very indeed!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_After a short silence._] I have just had a letter from Jane with such
+_dreadful_ news! It cannot be concealed from anyone.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+I am grieved, Miss Bennet. Grieved indeed!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, Mr. Darcy, you were right. If I had only believed you! You, and
+others! But I could not believe it. [_She sobs._]
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Greatly moved._] What is it, my dear Miss Bennet? What has happened?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Wildly._] Oh, I cannot tell it, and yet everyone must know! My sister
+Lydia--has--has eloped--has thrown herself into the power of--of _Mr.
+Wickham_! She has no money, nothing that can tempt him to--she is lost
+forever! [_She sobs again._]
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Good God, Miss Bennet! Your sister and Wickham! Oh, this is _my_ fault.
+I should have realised this danger--I should have spoken. My own
+wretched experience with this man should have been told.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Wonderingly._] Your experience!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Yes--I--you remember. I hinted it to you--to-day. But I should long ago
+have spoken boldly.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+What do you mean?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Mr. Wickham attempted this same plan with my own sister--two years ago.
+She was an ignorant, innocent, trusting girl of fifteen. Happily, his
+villainy was discovered and prevented. But oh, I should have told you!
+Had his character been known, this could not have happened.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+You tried to tell me, Mr. Darcy. Everybody has tried to warn me. But I
+could not believe it, and now--it is too late, too late!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Let us hope not. Is what you have told me certain--absolutely certain?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, yes. They left Brighton together on Sunday night. They are certainly
+not gone to Scotland.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+And what has been done, or attempted, to recover your sister?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+My father has gone to London. He will beg my uncle Gardiner's
+assistance. 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 ever to be
+discovered? I have not the smallest hope. It is all horrible!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Miss Bennet, I have made a wretched mistake in all this. Would to Heaven
+that anything could be said or done on my part that might make you
+reparation, or offer consolation to such distress!
+
+     [ELIZABETH _sinks sobbing into a chair while_ DARCY _walks up and
+     down in deep thought. In a moment a carriage is heard outside--then
+     voices._]
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Looking out._] Mr. and Mrs. Collins are returning. What would you wish
+me to do?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, I do not know! I do not know!
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Returning to_ ELIZABETH, _speaks quickly and in deep concern_.] You
+really wish to return home at once?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Rising from her chair._] Oh, yes, yes--at once. [_Reaching her hand to
+him appealingly._] Take me home, Mr. Darcy! Take me home!
+
+     [_At this instant_ MR. AND MRS. COLLINS _appear at the garden door,
+     and, transfixed with astonishment, stand gazing at_ DARCY _and_
+     ELIZABETH.]
+
+
+
+
+ACT IV
+
+
+     _The Lawn and Shrubbery at Longbourn._ MRS. BENNET _is seated in a
+     garden chair with pillows at her back. She has an umbrella over her
+     head. Near her stands a table on which are bottles, dishes, etc.
+     She wears a big cap, and is gowned in a widely-flowing, flowered
+     chamber-robe, over which is fastened a shawl; across her knees is a
+     lap-robe. Her entire get-up is grotesque and laughable. About her
+     hover the housekeeper_, HILL _and_ JANE.
+
+JANE.
+
+Dear mamma, do try and take some of this nice gruel. You will be ill if
+you do not eat something.
+
+
+HILL.
+
+Yes, do, I beg of you, Madam. Now that you are once more in the air, if
+you will only take some food you will feel much better.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Fretfully._] How can I feel better? I must be ill. It is all very well
+for the rest of you, now that this disgrace has been brought upon
+me--but if I had been able to carry my point--if I could have gone to
+Brighton with all my family, this would never have happened. But poor
+dear Lydia had nobody to take care of her. Oh, that villainous Wickham!
+I am sure there was some great neglect or other somewhere, for Lydia is
+not the kind of girl to run away with a man. But no one would listen to
+me. I was overruled, as I always am. Poor Lydia! Poor dear child!
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Soothingly._] Oh, mamma, try to be calm.
+
+
+HILL.
+
+Yes, Madam, this excitement is so bad for you.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+How can I help being excited? You have no feelings. Here is Mr. Bennet
+gone away, and I know he will fight that abominable Wickham and be
+killed. And then what is to become of us all? The Collinses will turn us
+out before Mr. Bennet is cold in his grave.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Oh, mamma, do not have such terrific ideas.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Weeping._] If my brother Gardiner is not kind to me, I do not know
+what we shall do.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Yes, yes. My Uncle Gardiner is very kind. He is doing everything in his
+power for us. He is helping my father now in London, you know. I hope
+he will find Lydia, and perhaps he may be able to arrange a marriage
+after all. You must not give up so, dear mamma.
+
+
+HILL.
+
+No indeed, Madam. You must not indeed.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Brightening._] Yes, Jane, that is true. My brother may be able to see
+that they are married. Write to him at once, Jane. Tell him to find them
+out wherever they may be, and if they are not married already, make them
+marry. Oh, I do think that Wickham is the wickedest young man in the
+world to so deceive my poor innocent Lydia. But, Jane, go and write my
+brother and tell him that Lydia need not wait for wedding clothes--don't
+let her even give directions till she has seen me, for she doesn't know
+which are the best warehouses. And oh, Jane, tell my brother to keep
+your father from fighting that hateful Wickham. Tell him what a dreadful
+state I am in.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Yes, mamma. [_She is about to go._]
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Where are you going?
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Why, to write the letter, mamma.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Fretfully._] Oh, not just this minute. Don't leave me alone. Where is
+Lizzy?
+
+
+JANE.
+
+She has gone down the road to meet the post. She hopes to bring you good
+news.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Lamenting._] She had better stay here and be of some help. She has
+only just got home and now she leaves me. But nobody thinks of me.
+Nobody knows what I suffer. I am frightened out of my wits. I have such
+tremblings and flutterings all over me--such spasms in my side--and
+pains in my head, and such beatings at my heart. Oh, I can get no rest
+by night or by day! [_To_ HILL.] You might try and do something, Hill.
+Where is my soothing draught?
+
+
+HILL.
+
+[_Looking._] Here, Madam. No, I must have left it in your room. I will
+run fetch it. [_She goes out quickly._]
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Who has been looking off toward the driveway during part of this
+tirade._] Oh, mamma--mamma! Lizzy's running up the drive. She is
+smiling! She has some good news, I am sure.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Take care, Jane. You are exciting me. Oh, my poor nerves.
+
+     [ELIZABETH _enters, breathless. She has a letter in her hand._]
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, good news--good news, Jane!--mamma! They are married!
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Oh, Lizzy--Lizzy!
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+You are sure, Lizzy? Don't excite me. You are sure?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Half laughing and half crying._] Oh, yes, 'tis certain. My dear Aunt
+Gardiner has written me all about it. They are really married! Oh, how
+good my uncle is! [_She kisses the letter._]
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Oh, Jane--Oh, Lizzy! My dear, dear Lydia! She is really married! I shall
+see her again! Oh, my good, kind brother! But how did it happen, Lizzy?
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Yes, tell us all about it. Let me read it. [_She reaches for the
+letter._]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Keeping the letter._] No, I will tell you. Well, my father and my
+uncle succeeded in finding Lydia. My aunt does not tell me just how it
+was done.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Triumphantly._] And your father found that they were married after
+all. I told him----
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+No, mamma. They were not married, and they had no idea of being--but my
+father and uncle insisted upon it. They took Lydia away at once to my
+aunt's house and from there, they were married only yesterday at St.
+Clement's Church.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+St. Clement's--fine!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+My dear good uncle has arranged to have all Mr. Wickham's debts paid and
+my father is to settle an allowance on Lydia.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+But where are they? What are they going to do?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+My father is coming home at once. He may be here at any moment. At first
+he would not consent to let Lydia and Wickham come to us, but my aunt
+and uncle urged it--and my father knew how anxious mamma would be--and
+so _they_ are coming here too.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+At once?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, directly, to-day.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Oh, my dear Lydia! How I long to see her, and to see my dear Wickham
+too. But the clothes, the wedding clothes! I must write to my Sister
+Gardiner about them directly.
+
+[_She tries to get out of the chair._]
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Oh, mamma, there is plenty of time for that.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Well, perhaps so. My dear, dear Lydia! How merry we shall all be
+together! I am so happy! Lydia married. She is Mrs. Wickham. How well it
+sounds. My dear Jane, I must see about the clothes. We will settle with
+your father about the money later. Oh, I am in such a flutter! Here
+comes Hill. [HILL _enters with the bottle_.] My dear Hill, have you
+heard the news? Miss Lydia is married and is coming home directly.
+
+
+HILL.
+
+Indeed!
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Yes, you shall all have a bowl of punch, to make merry for her wedding,
+and I am going into the house to write about the clothes. [_To_ JANE,
+_who is going with her_.] No, Jane, you stay where you are. I know what
+I am about. Come, Hill. Think of it--Mrs. Wickham!
+
+     [_She goes out leaning on_ HILL'S _arm, leaving_ JANE and ELIZABETH
+     together.]
+
+JANE.
+
+Oh, Lizzy, how relieved and happy we should be. Is not it wonderful?
+[_Anxiously._] Are you sure it is true? Have you told us all?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, Jane, it is true. They are really married. And for this we are to
+be thankful. In spite of Lydia's folly and Wickham's wretched character,
+we are to rejoice. How strange it is! Heigh-ho!
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Putting out her hand for the letter which_ ELIZABETH _still carries_.]
+May not I read the letter, Lizzy?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+No, not now, dear. My aunt has some queer notions in her head. Later
+perhaps. [_After a pause._] I am very sorry now that in my agitation I
+told Mr. Darcy about this wretched affair. Now that it has come out so
+well, he need never have known anything about it, and it would have
+saved me a great deal of mortification.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+But how would you ever have explained things to Charlotte and Mr.
+Collins without his help? Mr. Darcy made everything so smooth and
+plausible for your sudden departure.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, that is true.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Really, Lizzy, I think I shall have to take up the cudgels in Mr.
+Darcy's defence. His kindness to you has quite won my heart, and his
+amazing proposal was certainly a most flattering compliment. Why can you
+see no good in Mr. Darcy, Lizzy? You were always so full of excuses for
+Wickham, though it is true his open and delightful manners deceived us
+all.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, there certainly was some great mismanagement in the education of
+those two young men. One has all the goodness and the other all the
+appearance of it.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+I never thought Mr. Darcy so deficient in the appearance of it as you
+did, and he certainly could hardly have had the friends he has if he did
+not possess some good qualities. [_Shyly._] Lizzy, have you heard that
+Mr. Bingley is back in Netherfield?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Astonished._] Oh, Jane, no. When did he come? Have you seen him?
+
+
+JANE.
+
+No; I hardly expect to see him.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Brightly._] Yes, you will, if he has returned. [_Suddenly clapping her
+hands._] Oh, I understand. [_Kissing her._] My darling Jane, you are
+going to be very happy!
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Lizzy dear--don't, don't. That is all over now, and besides I don't want
+to be happy unless you can be, too.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, forty Mr. Bingleys wouldn't make me happy. Till I have your
+disposition, I never can have happiness. No, no, let me shift for
+myself. Perhaps if I have very good luck I may meet with another Mr.
+Collins in time.
+
+
+HARRIS.
+
+[_Entering._] Mr. Bennet has returned, Madam, and is looking for you.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Papa returned!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Where is he, Harris? [_Looking off._] There he comes! Papa!
+
+     [_They run to meet_ MR. BENNET, _and, bringing him in, seat him in
+     a garden chair, one on either side of him_.]
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Papa, tell us all about it quickly--quickly.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Are they really married, papa?
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Yes, that misfortune is well settled on them. They are married fast
+enough.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+And where are they? When will they be here?
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+I should say they would be here directly. I didn't care to travel with
+them, but they are not far behind--only just far enough to keep out of
+the dust of my post chaise.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Dear papa--how you must have suffered!
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Say nothing of that--who should suffer but myself? It has been my own
+doing, and I ought to feel it.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+You must not be too severe upon yourself.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+You may well warn me against such an evil. No, Lizzy, let me once in my
+life feel how much I have been to blame. The impression will pass away
+soon enough.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+But, papa, how did you persuade them to marry?
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+I didn't persuade them; I haven't the means. It is all your uncle's
+doing. He has managed to buy Wickham for us.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+Oh, dear good uncle!
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+[_Looks at_ JANE _quizzically_.] 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 I am ever to pay him.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+But my uncle did not do it all?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+No, papa. My Aunt Gardiner has written me that you are to give Lydia an
+allowance.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Yes, one hundred a year. Do you think that any man in his proper senses
+would marry Lydia on so slight a temptation as one hundred a year?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+That is very true, though it had not occurred to me before. Oh, it must
+be my uncle's doings. Generous man! I am afraid he has distressed
+himself. A small sum could not do all this.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+No, Wickham's a fool if he takes Lydia 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.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Ten thousand pounds! Heaven forbid! How is one-half such a sum to be
+repaid?
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+That is what I should like to know.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Well, my uncle's kindness can never be requited. If such goodness as his
+does not make Lydia miserable, then she will never deserve to be happy.
+
+[_Laughter and voices are heard outside._]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Surely I hear voices. [_Looking off._] Why, they have come. See
+papa--Jane--there are Lydia and Wickham.
+
+
+MR. BENNET.
+
+Yes, here they are. I will go to the library. I can receive their
+congratulations later. You know I am prodigiously fond of Wickham,
+Lizzy. I defy even Sir William Lucas himself to produce a more valuable
+son-in-law.
+
+[_He goes out._]
+
+
+JANE.
+
+I must run and tell mamma.
+
+     [_She is just starting when_ WICKHAM _and_ LYDIA _enter. They are
+     in travelling dress and are followed by servants bringing all sorts
+     of bandboxes, wraps and parcels. They come in with the utmost
+     unconcern and no shadow of shame._]
+
+LYDIA.
+
+Well, Jane, well, Lizzy, here we are!
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+[_Smiling and unabashed._] My sister, Jane--My sister Elizabeth.
+
+     [_He kisses their hands._ JANE _and_ ELIZABETH _are confused and
+     blushing. Neither_ WICKHAM _nor_ LYDIA _is in the least
+     discomposed_.]
+
+LYDIA.
+
+[_Looking about._] Good gracious! Here I am again! I am sure I had no
+idea of being married when I went away, though I thought it would be
+very good fun if I was. Why don't you take the boxes in, Harris?
+Wickham, have you seen my pink-flowered bandbox? [_Looking over the
+parcels._] No, it isn't here. Oh, my dear Wickham, do go fetch it--you
+know 'tis the box with the white satin hat you bought me. I wouldn't
+lose it for the world. Go, go!
+
+
+WICKHAM.
+
+Certainly, my dear. [_To the girls._] You see how eagerly I embrace my
+new opportunities!
+
+[_He runs out, laughing._]
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+[_To_ ELIZABETH _and_ JANE.] Oh, girls, I am dying to give you an
+account of my wedding.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I think there cannot be too little said on that subject.
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+La, you are so strange. But Jane wants to hear, I know. Anyway, I want
+to tell you. Well, there was such a fuss! My aunt was preaching and
+talking away to me all the time I was dressing, just as if she was
+reading a sermon. I didn't hear one word in ten of it all. I was
+thinking of my dear Wickham. I longed to know whether he would be
+married in his blue coat. Well, we got to church, and then my uncle gave
+me a fright after we got there, because he was so late, and he was going
+to give me away, you know. But then, if he hadn't come, Mr. Darcy might
+have done as well.
+
+
+JANE AND ELIZABETH.
+
+Mr. Darcy!
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+Oh, yes, Darcy was there. He came along with Wickham. [_Suddenly
+stopping._] But gracious me! I quite forgot. I ought not to have said a
+word about it. I promised them as faithfully--what will Wickham say? It
+was to be such a secret.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+If it was to be a secret, Lydia, say not another word on the subject. We
+shall ask you no questions.
+
+[ELIZABETH _looks most anxious, but says nothing_.]
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+Thank you--for if you did, I should certainly tell you all, and then
+Wickham would be angry. [_She sees_ MRS. BENNET, _who enters in great
+excitement from the house_.] Oh, there is mamma.
+
+     [_They rush into each other's arms._ WICKHAM _returns at about the
+     same time_.]
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+Oh, my dear, dear Lydia! [_To_ WICKHAM _with affectionate warmth_.] My
+dear Wickham!
+
+[_They also embrace._]
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+Oh, mamma! Aren't you glad to see us? [WICKHAM _turns and talks to_ JANE
+_and_ ELIZABETH.] Do all the people hereabouts know that I am married? I
+was afraid they might not, and so I let my hand just rest on the
+window-frame outside the carriage, so that everybody could see my
+wedding ring; and then I bowed and smiled like everything.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+You may be sure, my dear, that everybody will rejoice with us in our
+good luck. [_Sighing._] Your marriage is a great compensation to me
+after all my disappointment about Jane and Lizzy. I do not blame Jane,
+for she would have got Mr. Bingley if she could. But Lizzy! Oh, Lydia,
+it is very hard to think she might now have been Mrs. Collins! But how
+about your clothes?
+
+
+LYDIA.
+
+Oh, I have a lot already. You may be sure I would not forget _them_.
+
+
+MRS. BENNET.
+
+[_Alarmed._] But you didn't know the best warehouses! Well, never mind,
+we will see to that later. Now you must all come in and have dinner.
+You must be famished. Come, girls. Come, my dear Wickham.
+
+     [_They all go toward the house. At the door_ LYDIA _pushes_ JANE
+     _back_.]
+
+LYDIA.
+
+Ah, Jane, I take your place now. I go first because I am a married
+woman.
+
+     [_They all go into the house. After a pause_, HARRIS'S _voice is
+     heard outside_.]
+
+HARRIS.
+
+Will not you come into the house, Madam?
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_Entering, followed by_ HARRIS.] No, I prefer to remain here. Tell Miss
+Elizabeth Bennet that a lady wishes to see her at once. Remember, I
+cannot be kept waiting.
+
+
+HARRIS.
+
+Yes, Madam. [_He bows and goes out._]
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_Looks about her with a sniff, then deliberately seats herself in the
+big garden chair with the umbrella over it. She mutters to herself from
+time to time and taps her foot impatiently._] Insufferable impudence!
+Conceited little minx! She shall have a piece of my mind.
+
+[ELIZABETH _comes to her from the house_.]
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_Without moving._] Miss Bennet, you can be at no loss to understand the
+reason of my journey hither. Your own heart--your own conscience must
+tell you why I come.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_In unaffected astonishment._] Indeed, you are mistaken, Madam. I am
+not at all able to account for the honour of seeing you here.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Miss Bennet, you ought to know that I am not to be trifled with. I have
+just been told that you--that Miss Elizabeth Bennet would in all
+likelihood be soon married to my nephew, Mr. Darcy. Though I know it to
+be a scandalous falsehood, I instantly resolved on setting off for this
+place that I might make my sentiments known to you.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_With astonishment and disdain._] If you believed it impossible to be
+true, I wonder you took the trouble of coming so far. What could your
+Ladyship propose by it?
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+At once to insist upon having such a report universally contradicted.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Coolly._] Your coming to Longbourn to see me and my family, will be
+rather a confirmation of it, if indeed such a report is in existence.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+If! Do you then pretend to be ignorant of it? Do you not know that such
+a report is spread about?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I never heard that it was.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+And can you likewise declare that there is no foundation for it?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Your Ladyship may ask questions which I shall not choose to answer.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+This is not to be borne. Miss Bennet, I insist upon being satisfied. Has
+he--has my nephew made you an offer of marriage?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Your Ladyship has declared it to be impossible.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+It ought to be so. But your arts and allurements may have made him
+forget what he owes to himself and to all his family. You may have drawn
+him in.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+If I have, I shall be the last person to confess it.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Miss Bennet, do you know who I am? I have not been accustomed to such
+language as this. I am Mr. Darcy's own aunt, and am entitled to know all
+his dearest concerns.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+But you are not entitled to know _mine_.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Let me be rightly understood. This match can never take place. No,
+never. Mr. Darcy is engaged to my daughter. Now what have you got to
+say?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Only this--that if it is so, you can have no reason to suppose Mr. Darcy
+will make an offer to me.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_Hesitating._] The engagement between them is of a peculiar kind. While
+in their cradles, my sister and I planned their union. Do you pay no
+regard to the wishes of his friends? Do not you see that honour,
+decorum--nay, interest, forbid you marrying my nephew? Yes _interest_,
+Miss Bennet. For you will be slighted and despised by everyone connected
+with him!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+These are heavy misfortunes. But the wife of Mr. Darcy must have such
+extraordinary sources of happiness that she could have no cause to
+repine.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_In a rage._] Obstinate, headstrong girl! Tell me once for all--are you
+engaged to my nephew?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Hesitates, then firmly._] I am not.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_Relieved._] And will you promise me never to enter into such an
+engagement?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+I will make no promise of the kind.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Miss Bennet, I am shocked and astonished. I shall not go away until you
+have given me the assurance I require.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+And I certainly never shall give it. I must beg, therefore, to be
+importuned no further on the subject.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_In a fury, but trying to speak calmly._] Not so hasty, if you please.
+I had hoped to spare you this last humiliation--but your insolence
+forbids it. I am no stranger to the particulars of your sister's
+infamous elopement. I know all! The young man's marrying her was a
+patched-up business at the expense of _my nephew_. [ELIZABETH _starts
+violently_.] Oh, you needn't start, Miss! Nobody knows about the whole
+affair better than you. But I don't wonder you blush to find yourself
+discovered. You used your arts well. My nephew must have spent full five
+or six thousand pounds to save your family from disgrace. I should think
+that such generosity might appeal a little to your gratitude and your
+sense of decency.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Amazed._] Oh, Madam,--I----
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+It is quite useless to protest. I have my facts from the best authority.
+Heaven knows Darcy has reason enough to keep away from Wickham's
+flirtations and entanglements, but [_stopping herself._] that is a
+family affair. However, _you_ have managed to get him mixed up in them
+again to the extent of five thousand pounds. But that is not
+enough,--you want to make this shameless girl my nephew's _sister_, and
+the son of his father's steward his brother. Heaven and Earth! Are the
+shades of Pemberley to be thus polluted?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Speaking with great effort._] Madam, you have insulted me in every
+possible manner. I must beg to return to the house. This is beyond
+endurance.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+Selfish girl! You are then resolved to have him?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Lady Catherine, I have nothing further to say.
+
+
+LADY CATHERINE.
+
+[_Rising from her chair._] Very well. I shall now know how to act. Do
+not imagine your ambition will be gratified. Depend upon it, I shall
+carry my point. [_Going._] I take no leave of you, Miss Bennet. You
+deserve no such attention. You will see what it is to rouse my
+displeasure.
+
+[LADY CATHERINE _goes out_.]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Sinking upon the garden seat, overwhelmed._] Can it be possible? Do we
+owe all this to Darcy? Oh, it is intolerable! [_She puts her hands over
+her face in an abandonment of grief._]
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Is heard outside calling._] Lizzy! Lizzy! [_She enters, and on seeing
+her sister rushes to her._] Lizzy dear! What is it? Is there any new
+trouble?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Throwing her arms about her sister._] Oh, Jane, Jane! Yes, there is
+no end of trouble. Lady Catherine has been here.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Astounded._] Lady Catherine!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, yes, and--she says--that--oh, Jane----
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Distressed._] _Tell_ me, Lizzy!
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+She says it was Darcy who paid all the money to Wickham--it was Darcy
+saved us--and--and she says I persuaded him. _I_ ensnared him, and--and
+she has insulted me.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+My dear, dear Lizzy. There _must_ be some mistake. It was my good uncle
+who----
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_A little calmer._] No--no, Jane, it must be true. I can put things
+together now. My aunt's hints in the letter--you know I did not want to
+show it you. Then what Lydia let fall, and her fear of Wickham's anger.
+
+
+JANE.
+
+[_Soothingly._] Well, dear, even so, Mr. Darcy's _motive_ is clear
+enough--and that should give you no pain.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+You are mistaken. I know his motive. He feels that he is responsible
+because he was silent about Wickham's true character. He told me that
+all this would never have happened, had he done his duty. And now, he
+will despise us. He will never wish to see us again as long as he lives!
+
+[_She walks up and down in great excitement._]
+
+
+HARRIS.
+
+[_Entering; to_ JANE.] The young gentlemen from Netherfield, Madam. I
+told them they would find you here.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Oh, Jane, I _cannot_ see them.
+
+     [_She tries to run away, but before she can escape_ BINGLEY
+     _enters, all smiles, followed by_ DARCY, _who looks very much
+     troubled and excited. They are both in riding dress_; DARCY
+     _carries a whip_.]
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Shaking hands._] Miss Bennet, I am so happy to see you again. Miss
+Elizabeth, it is good indeed to be back once more at Longbourn.
+
+[_He takes_ JANE _to a garden seat_.]
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Embarrassed._] Miss Bennet, believe me, I should not have followed my
+friend. I only expected to ride with him to the Lodge, but--but I met
+my aunt coming away from here, and from something she said, I feared,--I
+imagined she might have offended--distressed you.
+
+[ELIZABETH _does not reply_.]
+
+
+BINGLEY.
+
+[_Gaily._] Miss Bennet is going to show me the Hermitage. We shall be
+back directly.
+
+[JANE _and_ BINGLEY _go out_.]
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Looking anxiously at_ ELIZABETH, _who remains silent_.] Forgive my
+intrusion. I will go.
+
+[_He starts to go away._]
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Recovering herself._] No--stay, Mr. Darcy. Excuse my own incivility.
+Your aunt's visit has excited me. I shall be myself in a moment. [DARCY
+_stands by, miserable. At length she speaks in a calmer tone._] Mr.
+Darcy, your aunt has told me of our overwhelming obligation to you. You
+must let me thank you for your unexampled kindness to my poor sister.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Exploding and banging his whip against his knees._]
+
+Damn!--Oh, I beg your pardon, Miss Bennet. I _beg_ your pardon. What
+right has my aunt to meddle in my affairs? How _dare_ she give you such
+distress?
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+It is far better that we know the truth, Mr. Darcy. For my part, I can
+never express to you our obligation.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Oh, Miss Bennet--I beg of you! The obligation was entirely my own. I
+only did what was my decent, plain duty. [_Faltering._] You remember--I
+told you--if I had spoken, this would never have happened.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Yes, I remember. But you exaggerated your responsibility. I--we--of
+course my father will see you about your loan to us. I would not have
+Lady Catherine think----
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Furious again._] Oh, I will settle matters with Lady Catherine! Have
+no fears on that score, Miss Bennet. _She_ shall be set right, I assure
+you.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+Thank you. And for all your trouble--your kindness--my family can never
+repay you.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Your family owes me nothing. If I had any thought beyond my duty, it was
+a thought of--you. [ELIZABETH _turns away_.] Oh, pardon me. Perhaps, I
+ought not to say all this--but I owe you a great deal, Miss
+Bennet--more than you can know; and I want you to understand me better.
+I really am not the pretentious prig I must have seemed to you. I wish
+you could forgive my abominable pride.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Looking at him with a half smile._] I will, on one condition.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Name it.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+That you forget my unwarrantable prejudice.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+Oh, Miss Bennet! [_He goes impetuously forward--then restraining
+himself, smiles and looks down at her._] I really think, after all, I
+shall have to be grateful to my aunt. She has done us an enormous
+service.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Smiling still more._] Well, Lady Catherine loves to be useful!
+
+     [_At the back of the scene_ BINGLEY _and_ JANE, _absorbed in each
+     other, pass by, hand in hand_. ELIZABETH _looks at them, then turns
+     to_ DARCY.]
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Archly._] Is _that_ by your permission?
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Ruefully._] Yes, I told you I had been kinder to my friend than to
+myself.
+
+     [ELIZABETH, _silent, still looks after_ BINGLEY _and_ JANE.]
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Continues in a discouraged tone._] Well, I deserve it. It is my own
+fault. My selfish conceit has wounded you past help. Every sentiment of
+your nature has felt it--seen it.
+
+
+ELIZABETH.
+
+[_Demurely._] But _one_ sentiment they say is _blind_.
+
+
+DARCY.
+
+[_Stunned._] Miss Bennet! [ELIZABETH _looks up at him. He rushes toward
+her._] Dearest, loveliest Elizabeth!
+
+[_He holds her in his arms._]
+
+
+CURTAIN.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Pride and Prejudice, a play, by 
+Mary Keith Medbery Mackaye
+
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