Pagina 526 de 817

Elizabeth, however astonished, was at least more prepared for an

interview than before, and resolved to appear and to speak with

calmness, if he really intended to meet them. For a few moments,

indeed, she felt that he would probably strike into some other

path. The idea lasted while a turning in the walk concealed him

from their view; the turning past, he was immediately before

them. With a glance she saw that he had lost none of his recent

civility; and, to imitate his politeness, she began as they met

to admire the beauty of the place; but she had not got beyond the

words "delightful," and "charming," when some unlucky

recollections obtruded, and she fancied that praise of Pemberley

from her might be mischievously construed. Her colour changed,

and she said no more.