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Mr. Wickham did not play at whist, and with ready delight was he

received at the other table between Elizabeth and Lydia. At first

there seemed danger of Lydia's engrossing him entirely, for she

was a most determined talker; but being likewise extremely fond

of lottery tickets, she soon grew too much interested in the

game, too eager in making bets and exclaiming after prizes, to

have attention for anyone in particular. Allowing for the common

demands of the game, Mr. Wickham was therefore at leisure to talk

to Elizabeth, and she was very willing to hear him, though what

she chiefly wished to hear she could not hope to be told, the

history of his acquaintance with Mr. Darcy. She dared not even

mention that gentleman. Her curiosity, however, was unexpectedly

relieved. Mr. Wickham began the subject himself. He inquired how

far Netherfield was from Meryton; and, after receiving her

answer, asked in a hesitating manner how long Mr. Darcy had been

staying there.