Pagina 294 van 817

"But that expression of 'violently in love' is so hackneyed, so

doubtful, so indefinite, that it gives me very little idea. It is

as often applied to feelings which arise only from a half hour's

acquaintance, as to a real, strong attachment. Pray, how violent

was Mr. Bingley's love?"

"I never saw a more promising inclination; he was growing quite

inattentive to other people, and wholly engrossed by her. Every

time they met, it was more decided and remarkable. At his own

ball he offended two or three young ladies by not asking them to

dance; and I spoke to him twice myself without receiving an

answer. Could there be finer symptoms? Is not general incivility

the very essence of love?"