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"My dearest child," she cried, "I can think of nothing else. Ten

thousand a year, and very likely more! 'Tis as good as a lord!

And a special licence--you must and shall be married by a special

licence. But, my dearest love, tell me what dish Mr. Darcy is

particularly fond of, that I may have it to-morrow."

This was a sad omen of what her mother's behaviour to the

gentleman himself might be; and Elizabeth found that, though in

the certain possession of his warmest affection, and secure of

her relations' consent, there was still something to be wished

for. But the morrow passed off much better than she expected; for

Mrs. Bennet luckily stood in such awe of her intended son-in-law,

that she ventured not to speak to him, unless it was in her power

to offer him any attention, or mark her deference for his

opinion.

Elizabeth had the satisfaction of seeing her father taking pains

to get acquainted with him; and Mr. Bennet soon assured her that

he was rising every hour in his esteem.