Pagina 231 de 817

"Of Mr. Collins and Lizzy. Lizzy declares she will not have Mr.

Collins, and Mr. Collins begins to say that he will not have

Lizzy."

"And what am I to do on the occasion? It seems a hopeless

business."

"Speak to Lizzy about it yourself. Tell her that you insist upon

her marrying him."

"Let her be called down. She shall hear my opinion."

Mrs. Bennet rang the bell, and Miss Elizabeth was summoned to the

library.

"Come here, child," cried her father as she appeared. "I have

sent for you on an affair of importance. I understand that Mr.

Collins has made you an offer of marriage. Is it true?"

Elizabeth replied that it was.

"Very well--and this offer of marriage you have refused?"

"I have, sir."

"Very well. We now come to the point. Your mother insists upon

your accepting it. Is it not so, Mrs. Bennet?"

"Yes, or I will never see her again."