Pagina 380 van 817

"In my opinion, the younger son of an earl can know very little

of either. Now, seriously, what have you ever known of

self-denial and dependence? When have you been prevented by want

of money from going wherever you chose or procuring anything you

had a fancy for?"

"These are home questions--and perhaps I cannot say that I have

experienced many hardships of that nature. But in matters of

greater weight, I may suffer from the want of money. Younger sons

cannot marry where they like."

"Unless where they like women of fortune, which I think they very

often do."

"Our habits of expense make us too dependent, and there are not

many in my rank of life who can afford to marry without some

attention to money."

"Is this," thought Elizabeth, "meant for me?" and she coloured at

the idea; but, recovering herself, said in a lively tone, "And

pray, what is the usual price of an earl's younger son? Unless

the elder brother is very sickly, I suppose you would not ask

above fifty thousand pounds."