Page 189 of 817

"Yes, always," she replied, without knowing what she said; for

her thoughts had wandered far from the subject, as soon

afterwards appeared by her suddenly exclaiming, "I remember

hearing you once say, Mr. Darcy, that you hardly ever

forgave;--that your resentment, once created, was unappeasable.

You are very cautious, I suppose, as to its _being created_?"

"I am," said he, with a firm voice.

"And never allow yourself to be blinded by prejudice?"

"I hope not."

"It is particularly incumbent on those who never change their

opinion, to be secure of judging properly at first."

"May I ask to what these questions tend?"

"Merely to the illustration of your character," said she,

endeavouring to shake off her gravity. "I am trying to make it

out."

"And what is your success?"

She shook her head. "I do not get on at all. I hear such

different accounts of you as puzzle me exceedingly."