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CHAPTER XXII.

The Bennets were engaged to dine with the Lucases; and again,

during the chief of the day, was Miss Lucas so kind as to listen

to Mr. Collins. Elizabeth took an opportunity of thanking her.

"It keeps him in good humour," said she, "and I am more obliged

to you than I can express."

Charlotte assured her friend of her satisfaction in being useful,

and that it amply repaid her for the little sacrifice of her

time. This was very amiable; but Charlotte's kindness extended

farther than Elizabeth had any conception of:--its object was

nothing less than to secure her from any return of Mr. Collins's

addresses, by engaging them towards herself. Such was Miss

Lucas's scheme; and appearances were so favourable, that when

they parted at night, she would have felt almost sure of success

if he had not been to leave Hertfordshire so very soon. But here

she did injustice to the fire and independence of his character;

for it led him to escape out of Longbourn House the next morning

with admirable slyness, and hasten to Lucas Lodge to throw

himself at her feet.