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"Certainly," he replied, biting his lips. Elizabeth hoped she had

silenced him; but he soon afterwards said,--

"I was surprised to see Darcy in town last month. We passed each

other several times. I wonder what he can be doing there."

"Perhaps preparing for his marriage with Miss de Bourgh," said

Elizabeth. "It must be something particular to take him there at

this time of year."

"Undoubtedly. Did you see him while you were at Lambton? I

thought I understood from the Gardiners that you had."

"Yes; he introduced us to his sister."

"And do you like her?"

"Very much."

"I have heard, indeed, that she is uncommonly improved within

this year or two. When I last saw her, she was not very

promising. I am very glad you liked her. I hope she will turn out

well."

"I dare say she will; she has got over the most trying age."

"Did you go by the village of Kympton?"

"I do not recollect that we did."