Nodiver d.o.o. · Pride & Prejudice · page 506 of 640

Pride & Prejudice – page 506

JANE AUSTEN

would be done with so little inconvenience to himself

as by the present arrangement. He would scarcely be

ten pounds a year the loser by the hundred that was

to be paid them; for, what with her board and pocket

allowance, and the continual presents in money which

passed to her through her mother’s hands, Lydia’s

expenses had been very little within that sum.

That it would be done with such trifling exertion on

his side, too, was another very welcome surprise; for

his wish at present was to have as little trouble in the

business as possible. When the first transports of rage

which had produced his activity in seeking her were

over, he naturally returned to all his former indolence.

His letter was soon dispatched; for, though dilatory in

undertaking business, he was quick in its execution.

He begged to know further particulars of what he was

indebted to his brother, but was too angry with Lydia

to send any message to her.

The good news spread quickly through the house,

and with proportionate speed through the neighbour-

hood. It was borne in the latter with decent philosophy.

To be sure, it would have been more for the advantage

of conversation had Miss Lydia Bennet come upon the

town; or, as the happiest alternative, been secluded

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