Page 473 of 817

The tumult of Elizabeth's mind was allayed by this conversation.

She had got rid of two of the secrets which had weighed on her

for a fortnight, and was certain of a willing listener in Jane,

whenever she might wish to talk again of either. But there was

still something lurking behind, of which prudence forbade the

disclosure. She dared not relate the other half of Mr. Darcy's

letter, nor explain to her sister how sincerely she had been

valued by his friend. Here was knowledge in which no one could

partake; and she was sensible that nothing less than a perfect

understanding between the parties could justify her in throwing

off this last encumbrance of mystery. "And then," said she, "if

that very improbable event should ever take place, I shall merely

be able to tell what Bingley may tell in a much more agreeable

manner himself. The liberty of communication cannot be mine till

it has lost all its value!"