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"Since writing the above, dearest Lizzy, something has occurred

of a most unexpected and serious nature; but I am afraid of

alarming you--be assured that we are all well. What I have to say

relates to poor Lydia. An express came at twelve last night, just

as we were all gone to bed, from Colonel Forster, to inform us

that she was gone off to Scotland with one of his officers; to

own the truth, with Wickham! Imagine our surprise. To Kitty,

however, it does not seem so wholly unexpected. I am very, very

sorry. So imprudent a match on both sides! But I am willing to

hope the best, and that his character has been misunderstood.

Thoughtless and indiscreet I can easily believe him, but this

step (and let us rejoice over it) marks nothing bad at heart. His

choice is disinterested at least, for he must know my father can

give her nothing. Our poor mother is sadly grieved. My father

bears it better.