Nodiver d.o.o. · Pride & Prejudice · page 236 of 640

Pride & Prejudice – page 236

JANE AUSTEN

was admitted at the time, she had the same story to

repeat every day. Mrs. Bennet’s best comfort was that

Mr. Bingley must be down again in the summer.

Mr. Bennet treated the matter differently. “So, Lizzy,”

said he one day, “your sister is crossed in love, I find. I

congratulate her. Next to being married, a girl likes to

be crossed a little in love now and then. It is something

to think of, and it gives her a sort of distinction among

her companions. When is your turn to come? You will

hardly bear to be long outdone by Jane. Now is your

time. Here are officers enough in Meryton to disappoint

all the young ladies in the country. Let Wickham be

your man. He is a pleasant fellow, and would jilt you

creditably.”

“Thank you, sir, but a less agreeable man would

satisfy me. We must not all expect Jane’s good fortune.”

“True,” said Mr. Bennet, “but it is a comfort to think

that whatever of that kind may befall you, you have an

affectionate mother who will make the most of it.”

Mr. Wickham’s society was of material service

in dispelling the gloom which the late perverse occur-

rences had thrown on many of the Longbourn family.

They saw him often, and to his other recommendations

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