Nodiver d.o.o. · Pride & Prejudice · page 581 of 640

Pride & Prejudice – page 581

Pride and Prejudice

to suppose the truth of it possible, I instantly resolved

on setting off for this place, that I might make my

sentiments known to you.”

“If you believed it impossible to be true,” said

Elizabeth, colouring with astonishment and disdain, “I

wonder you took the trouble of coming so far. What

could your ladyship propose by it?”

“At once to insist upon having such a report

universally contradicted.”

“Your coming to Longbourn, to see me and my

family,” said Elizabeth coolly, “will be rather a confir-

mation of it; if, indeed, such a report is in existence.”

“If! Do you then pretend to be ignorant of it? Has

it not been industriously circulated by yourselves? Do

you not know that such a report is spread abroad?”

“I never heard that it was.”

“And can you likewise declare, that there is no

foundation for it?”

“I do not pretend to possess equal frankness with

your ladyship. You may ask questions which I shall not

choose to answer.”

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