صفحة 177 من 817

The idea soon reached to conviction, as she observed his

increasing civilities towards herself, and heard his frequent

attempt at a compliment on her wit and vivacity; and though more

astonished than gratified herself by this effect of her charms,

it was not long before her mother gave her to understand that the

probability of their marriage was exceedingly agreeable to her.

Elizabeth, however, did not choose to take the hint, being well

aware that a serious dispute must be the consequence of any

reply. Mr. Collins might never make the offer, and, till he did,

it was useless to quarrel about him.