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Lydia's voice was heard in the vestibule; the door was thrown

open, and she ran into the room. Her mother stepped forwards,

embraced her, and welcomed her with rapture; gave her hand with

an affectionate smile to Wickham, who followed his lady; and

wished them both joy, with an alacrity which showed no doubt of

their happiness.

Their reception from Mr. Bennet, to whom they then turned, was

not quite so cordial. His countenance rather gained in austerity;

and he scarcely opened his lips. The easy assurance of the young

couple, indeed, was enough to provoke him.

Elizabeth was disgusted, and even Miss Bennet was shocked. Lydia

was Lydia still; untamed, unabashed, wild, noisy, and fearless.

She turned from sister to sister, demanding their

congratulations; and when at length they all sat down, looked

eagerly round the room, took notice of some little alteration in

it, and observed, with a laugh, that it was a great while since

she had been there.