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"I saw you look at me to-day, Lizzy, when my aunt told us of the

present report; and I know I appeared distressed; but don't

imagine it was from any silly cause. I was only confused for the

moment, because I felt that I should be looked at. I do assure

you that the news does not affect me either with pleasure or

pain. I am glad of one thing, that he comes alone; because we

shall see the less of him. Not that I am afraid of myself, but I

dread other people's remarks."

Elizabeth did not know what to make of it. Had she not seen him

in Derbyshire, she might have supposed him capable of coming

there with no other view than what was acknowledged; but she

still thought him partial to Jane, and she wavered as to the

greater probability of his coming there with his friend's

permission, or being bold enough to come without it.