Pagina 481 de 817

"Lydia will never be easy till she has exposed herself in some

public place or other, and we can never expect her to do it with

so little expense or inconvenience to her family as under the

present circumstances."

"If you were aware," said Elizabeth, "of the very great

disadvantage to us all, which must arise from the public notice

of Lydia's unguarded and imprudent manner, nay, which has already

arisen from it, I am sure you would judge differently in the

affair."

"Already arisen!" repeated Mr. Bennet. "What! has she frightened

away some of your lovers? Poor little Lizzy! But do not be cast

down. Such squeamish youths as cannot bear to be connected with a

little absurdity are not worth a regret. Come, let me see the

list of the pitiful fellows who have been kept aloof by Lydia's

folly."