صفحة 9 من 817

"I am sorry to hear that; but why did you not tell me so before?

If I had known as much this morning, I certainly would not have

called on him. It is very unlucky; but as I have actually paid

the visit, we cannot escape the acquaintance now."

The astonishment of the ladies was just what he wished--that of

Mrs. Bennet perhaps surpassing the rest; though when the first

tumult of joy was over, she began to declare that it was what she

had expected all the while.

"How good it was in you, my dear Mr. Bennet! But I knew I should

persuade you at last. I was sure you loved your girls too well to

neglect such an acquaintance. Well, how pleased I am! And it is

such a good joke, too, that you should have gone this morning,

and never said a word about it till now."

"Now, Kitty, you may cough as much as you choose," said Mr.

Bennet; and, as he spoke, he left the room, fatigued with the

raptures of his wife.