Pagina 141 de 817

Darcy corroborated it with a bow, and was beginning to determine

not to fix his eyes on Elizabeth, when they were suddenly

arrested by the sight of the stranger; and Elizabeth happening to

see the countenance of both as they looked at each other, was all

astonishment at the effect of the meeting. Both changed colour,

one looked white, the other red. Mr. Wickham, after a few

moments, touched his hat--a salutation which Mr. Darcy just

deigned to return. What could be the meaning of it? It was

impossible to imagine; it was impossible not to long to know.

In another minute Mr. Bingley, but without seeming to have

noticed what passed, took leave and rode on with his friend.

Mr. Denny and Mr. Wickham walked with the young ladies to the

door of Mr. Philips's house, and then made their bows, in spite

of Miss Lydia's pressing entreaties that they would come in, and

even in spite of Mrs. Philips's throwing up the parlour window,

and loudly seconding the invitation.