पृष्ठ 17 / 817

"You are dancing with the only handsome girl in the room," said

Mr. Darcy, looking at the eldest Miss Bennet.

"Oh, she is the most beautiful creature I ever beheld! But there

is one of her sisters sitting down just behind you, who is very

pretty, and I dare say very agreeable. Do let me ask my partner

to introduce you."

]

"Which do you mean?" and turning round, he looked for a moment at

Elizabeth, till, catching her eye, he withdrew his own, and

coldly said, "She is tolerable: but not handsome enough to tempt

me; and I am in no humour at present to give consequence to young

ladies who are slighted by other men. You had better return to

your partner and enjoy her smiles, for you are wasting your time

with me."

Mr. Bingley followed his advice. Mr. Darcy walked off; and

Elizabeth remained with no very cordial feelings towards him. She

told the story, however, with great spirit among her friends; for

she had a lively, playful disposition, which delighted in

anything ridiculous.