Nodiver d.o.o. · Pride & Prejudice · page 117 of 640

Pride & Prejudice – page 117

Chapter 14

During dinner, Mr. Bennet scarcely spoke at all; but

when the servants were withdrawn, he thought it

time to have some conversation with his guest, and

therefore started a subject in which he expected him to

shine, by observing that he seemed very fortunate in

his patroness. Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s attention to

his wishes, and consideration for his comfort, appeared

very remarkable. Mr. Bennet could not have chosen

better. Mr. Collins was eloquent in her praise. The

subject elevated him to more than usual solemnity of

manner, and with a most important aspect he protested

that “he had never in his life witnessed such behaviour

in a person of ranksuch affability and condescension,

as he had himself experienced from Lady Catherine.

She had been graciously pleased to approve of both of

the discourses which he had already had the honour of

preaching before her. She had also asked him twice to

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