Pagina 457 van 817

"They are going to be encamped near Brighton; and I do so want

papa to take us all there for the summer! It would be such a

delicious scheme, and I dare say would hardly cost anything at

all. Mamma would like to go, too, of all things! Only think what

a miserable summer else we shall have!"

"Yes," thought Elizabeth; "that would be a delightful scheme,

indeed, and completely do for us at once. Good Heaven! Brighton

and a whole campful of soldiers, to us, who have been overset

already by one poor regiment of militia, and the monthly balls of

Meryton!"

"Now I have got some news for you," said Lydia, as they sat down

to table. "What do you think? It is excellent news, capital news,

and about a certain person that we all like."

Jane and Elizabeth looked at each other, and the waiter was told

that he need not stay. Lydia laughed, and said,--