Nodiver d.o.o. · Pride & Prejudice · page 532 of 640

Pride & Prejudice – page 532

JANE AUSTEN

how little I was satisfied with her behaviour while she

staid with us, if I had not perceived, by Jane’s letter

last Wednesday, that her conduct on coming home was

exactly of a piece with it, and therefore what I now

tell you can give you no fresh pain. I talked to her

repeatedly in the most serious manner, representing to

her all the wickedness of what she had done, and all

the unhappiness she had brought on her family. If she

heard me, it was by good luck, for I am sure she did

not listen. I was sometimes quite provoked, but then I

recollected my dear Elizabeth and Jane, and for their

sakes had patience with her.

“Mr. Darcy was punctual in his return, and as Lydia

informed you, attended the wedding. He dined with

us the next day, and was to leave town again on

Wednesday or Thursday. Will you be very angry with

me, my dear Lizzy, if I take this opportunity of saying

(what I was never bold enough to say before) how much

I like him. His behaviour to us has, in every respect,

been as pleasing as when we were in Derbyshire. His

understanding and opinions all please me; he wants

nothing but a little more liveliness, and that, if he marry

prudently, his wife may teach him. I thought him very

sly;he hardly ever mentioned your name. But slyness

seems the fashion.

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