{{prxprp099.jpg}} || PRIDE AND PREJUDICE 99 ||

'Yes, or I will never see her again.'

'An unhappy alternative is before you, Elizabeth. From this

day you must be a stranger to one of your parents. Your mother

will never see you again if you do not marry Mr. Collins, and I will

never see you again if you do.'

Elizabeth could not but smile at such a conclusion of such a

beginning; but Mrs. Bennet, who had persuaded herself that her

husband regarded the affair as she wished, was excessively

disappointed.

'What do you mean, Mr. Bennet, by talking in this way;

You promised me to insist upon her marrying him.'

'My dear,' replied her husband, 'I have two small favours to

request. First, that you will allow me the free use of my under'

standing on the present occasion; and secondly, of my room.

I shall be glad to have the library to myself as soon as

may be.'

Not yet, however, in spite of her disappointment in her husband,

did Mrs. Bennet give up the point. She talked to Elizabeth

again and again; coaxed and threatened her by turns. She

endeavoured to secure Jane in her interest; but Jane, with all

possible mildness, declined interfering; -- and Elizabeth, sometimes

with real earnestness and sometimes with playful gaiety replied

to her attacks. Though her manner varied, however, her

determination never did.

Mr. Collins, meanwhile, was meditating in solitude on what

had passed. He thought too well of himself to comprehend on

what motive his cousin could refuse him; and though his pride

was hurt, he suffered in no other way. His regard for her was

quite imaginary; and the possibility of her deserving her mother's

reproach prevented his feeling any regret.

While the family were in this confusion, Charlotte Lucas

came to spend the day with them. She was met in the vestibule

by Lydia, who, flying to her, cried in a half'whisper, 'I am glad

you are come, for there is such fun here! -- What do you think

has happened this morning? -- Mr. Collins has made an offer to

Lizzy, and she will not have him.'

Charlotte had hardly time to answer, before they were joined

 [[099]]