Pagina 713 van 817

"Why, if he came only to be silent, grave, and indifferent," said

she, "did he come at all?"

She could settle it in no way that gave her pleasure.

"He could be still amiable, still pleasing to my uncle and aunt,

when he was in town; and why not to me? If he fears me, why come

hither? If he no longer cares for me, why silent? Teasing,

teasing man! I will think no more about him."

Her resolution was for a short time involuntarily kept by the

approach of her sister, who joined her with a cheerful look which

showed her better satisfied with their visitors than Elizabeth.

"Now," said she, "that this first meeting is over, I feel

perfectly easy. I know my own strength, and I shall never be

embarrassed again by his coming. I am glad he dines here on

Tuesday. It will then be publicly seen, that on both sides we

meet only as common and indifferent acquaintance."

"Yes, very indifferent, indeed," said Elizabeth, laughingly. "Oh,

Jane! take care."