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Elizabeth disdained the appearance of noticing this civil

reflection, but its meaning did not escape, nor was it likely to

conciliate her.

"But it is not merely this affair," she continued, "on which my

dislike is founded. Long before it had taken place, my opinion of

you was decided. Your character was unfolded in the recital which

I received many months ago from Mr. Wickham. On this subject,

what can you have to say? In what imaginary act of friendship can

you here defend yourself? or under what misrepresentation can you

here impose upon others?"

"You take an eager interest in that gentleman's concerns," said

Darcy, in a less tranquil tone, and with a heightened colour.

"Who that knows what his misfortunes have been can help feeling

an interest in him?"

"His misfortunes!" repeated Darcy, contemptuously,--"yes, his

misfortunes have been great indeed."