Page 571 of 817

How thankful am I, that we never let them know what has been said

against him; we must forget it ourselves. They were off Saturday

night about twelve, as is conjectured, but were not missed till

yesterday morning at eight. The express was sent off directly. My

dear Lizzy, they must have passed within ten miles of us. Colonel

Forster gives us reason to expect him here soon. Lydia left a few

lines for his wife, informing her of their intention. I must

conclude, for I cannot be long from my poor mother. I am afraid

you will not be able to make it out, but I hardly know what I

have written."

Without allowing herself time for consideration, and scarcely

knowing what she felt, Elizabeth, on finishing this letter,

instantly seized the other, and opening it with the utmost

impatience, read as follows: it had been written a day later than

the conclusion of the first.