{{prhprp351.jpg}}

to a change so sudden and so important, fatigue, and a

recollection of her long absence, made her at length return

home; and she entered the house with the wish of appearing

cheerful as usual, and the resolution of repressing such re-

flections as must make her unfit for conversation.

She was immediately told that the two gentlemen from

Rosings had each called during her absence; Mr. Darcy,

only for a few minutes, to take leave, but that Colonel Fitz-

william had been sitting with them at least an hour, hoping

for her return, and almost resolving to walk after her till she

could be found. Elizabeth could but just _affect_ concern in

missing him; she really rejoiced at it. Colonel Fitzwilliam

was no longer an object. She could think only of her letter.

 [351]