Pagina 232 di 817

"An unhappy alternative is before you, Elizabeth. From this day

you must be a stranger to one of your parents. Your mother will

never see you again if you do not marry Mr. Collins, and I will

never see you again if you do."

Elizabeth could not but smile at such a conclusion of such a

beginning; but Mrs. Bennet, who had persuaded herself that her

husband regarded the affair as she wished, was excessively

disappointed.

"What do you mean, Mr. Bennet, by talking in this way? You

promised me to insist upon her marrying him."

"My dear," replied her husband, "I have two small favours to

request. First, that you will allow me the free use of my

understanding on the present occasion; and, secondly, of my room.

I shall be glad to have the library to myself as soon as may be."