第301页 / 共817页

"You are too sensible a girl, Lizzy, to fall in love merely

because you are warned against it; and, therefore, I am not

afraid of speaking openly. Seriously, I would have you be on your

guard. Do not involve yourself, or endeavour to involve him, in

an affection which the want of fortune would make so very

imprudent. I have nothing to say against him: he is a most

interesting young man; and if he had the fortune he ought to

have, I should think you could not do better. But as it is--you

must not let your fancy run away with you. You have sense, and we

all expect you to use it. Your father would depend on your

resolution and good conduct, I am sure. You must not disappoint

your father."

"My dear aunt, this is being serious indeed."

"Yes, and I hope to engage you to be serious likewise."

"Well, then, you need not be under any alarm. I will take care of

myself, and of Mr. Wickham too. He shall not be in love with me,

if I can prevent it."

"Elizabeth, you are not serious now."