Pagina 786 van 817

Another entreaty that she would be serious, however, produced the

desired effect; and she soon satisfied Jane by her solemn

assurances of attachment. When convinced on that article, Miss

Bennet had nothing further to wish.

"Now I am quite happy," said she, "for you will be as happy as

myself. I always had a value for him. Were it for nothing but his

love of you, I must always have esteemed him; but now, as

Bingley's friend and your husband, there can be only Bingley and

yourself more dear to me. But, Lizzy, you have been very sly,

very reserved with me. How little did you tell me of what passed

at Pemberley and Lambton! I owe all that I know of it to another,

not to you."