Nodiver d.o.o. · Pride & Prejudice · page 164 of 640

Pride & Prejudice – page 164

JANE AUSTEN

“I hope not.”

“It is particularly incumbent on those who never

change their opinion, to be secure of judging properly

at first.”

“May I ask to what these questions tend?”

“Merely to the illustration of your character,” said

she, endeavouring to shake off her gravity. “I am trying

to make it out.”

“And what is your success?”

She shook her head. “I do not get on at all. I hear such

different accounts of you as puzzle me exceedingly.”

“I can readily believe,” answered he gravely, “that

reports may vary greatly with respect to me; and I

could wish, Miss Bennet, that you were not to sketch

my character at the present moment, as there is reason

to fear that the performance would reflect no credit on

either.”

“But if I do not take your likeness now, I may never

have another opportunity.”

“I would by no means suspend any pleasure of

yours,” he coldly replied. She said no more, and they

went down the other dance and parted in silence; and

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