Pagina 223 van 817

"Indeed, Mr. Collins, all praise of me will be unnecessary. You

must give me leave to judge for myself, and pay me the compliment

of believing what I say. I wish you very happy and very rich, and

by refusing your hand, do all in my power to prevent your being

otherwise. In making me the offer, you must have satisfied the

delicacy of your feelings with regard to my family, and may take

possession of Longbourn estate whenever it falls, without any

self-reproach. This matter may be considered, therefore, as

finally settled." And rising as she thus spoke, she would have

quitted the room, had not Mr. Collins thus addressed her,--