817ページ中204ページ

She concluded with many good wishes that Lady Lucas might soon be

equally fortunate, though evidently and triumphantly believing

there was no chance of it.

In vain did Elizabeth endeavour to check the rapidity of her

mother's words, or persuade her to describe her felicity in a

less audible whisper; for to her inexpressible vexation she could

perceive that the chief of it was overheard by Mr. Darcy, who sat

opposite to them. Her mother only scolded her for being

nonsensical.

"What is Mr. Darcy to me, pray, that I should be afraid of him? I

am sure we owe him no such particular civility as to be obliged

to say nothing he may not like to hear."

"For heaven's sake, madam, speak lower. What advantage can it be

to you to offend Mr. Darcy? You will never recommend yourself to

his friend by so doing."