Nodiver d.o.o. · Pride & Prejudice · page 88 of 640

Pride & Prejudice – page 88

JANE AUSTEN

“I am exceedingly gratified,” said Bingley, “by your

converting what my friend says into a compliment on

the sweetness of my temper. But I am afraid you are

giving it a turn which that gentleman did by no means

intend; for he would certainly think better of me, if

under such a circumstance I were to give a flat denial,

and ride off as fast as I could.”

“Would Mr. Darcy then consider the rashness of

your original intentions as atoned for by your obstinacy

in adhering to it?”

“Upon my word, I cannot exactly explain the matter;

Darcy must speak for himself.”

“You expect me to account for opinions which

you choose to call mine, but which I have never

acknowledged. Allowing the case, however, to stand

according to your representation, you must remember,

Miss Bennet, that the friend who is supposed to desire

his return to the house, and the delay of his plan,

has merely desired it, asked it without offering one

argument in favour of its propriety.”

“To yield readilyeasil yto the persuasion of a

friend is no merit with you.”

80