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"I have often observed how little young ladies are interested by

books of a serious stamp, though written solely for their

benefit. It amazes me, I confess; for certainly there can be

nothing so advantageous to them as instruction. But I will no

longer importune my young cousin."

Then, turning to Mr. Bennet, he offered himself as his antagonist

at backgammon. Mr. Bennet accepted the challenge, observing that

he acted very wisely in leaving the girls to their own trifling

amusements. Mrs. Bennet and her daughters apologized most civilly

for Lydia's interruption, and promised that it should not occur

again, if he would resume his book; but Mr. Collins, after

assuring them that he bore his young cousin no ill-will, and

should never resent her behaviour as any affront, seated himself

at another table with Mr. Bennet, and prepared for backgammon.

CHAPTER XV.