第284页 / 共817页

"I am far from attributing any part of Mr. Bingley's conduct to

design," said Elizabeth; "but, without scheming to do wrong, or

to make others unhappy, there may be error and there may be

misery. Thoughtlessness, want of attention to other people's

feelings, and want of resolution, will do the business."

"And do you impute it to either of those?"

"Yes; to the last. But if I go on I shall displease you by saying

what I think of persons you esteem. Stop me, whilst you can."

"You persist, then, in supposing his sisters influence him?"

"Yes, in conjunction with his friend."

"I cannot believe it. Why should they try to influence him? They

can only wish his happiness; and if he is attached to me no other

woman can secure it."

"Your first position is false. They may wish many things besides

his happiness: they may wish his increase of wealth and

consequence; they may wish him to marry a girl who has all the

importance of money, great connections, and pride."