Page 190 sur 817

"I can readily believe," answered he, gravely, "that reports may

vary greatly with respect to me; and I could wish, Miss Bennet,

that you were not to sketch my character at the present moment,

as there is reason to fear that the performance would reflect no

credit on either."

"But if I do not take your likeness now, I may never have another

opportunity."

"I would by no means suspend any pleasure of yours," he coldly

replied. She said no more, and they went down the other dance and

parted in silence; on each side dissatisfied, though not to an

equal degree; for in Darcy's breast there was a tolerably

powerful feeling towards her, which soon procured her pardon, and

directed all his anger against another.

They had not long separated when Miss Bingley came towards her,

and, with an expression of civil disdain, thus accosted her,--