{{prxprp229.jpg}} || PRIDE AND PREJUDICE 229 ||

It had been settled in the evening, between the aunt and niece,

that such a striking civility as Miss Darcy's, in coming to them on

the very day of her arrival at Pemberley, for she had reached it

only to a late breakfast, ought to be imitated, though it could not

be equalled, by some exertion of politeness on their side; and,

consequently, that it would be highly expedient to wait on her

at Pemberley the following morning. They were, therefore, to

go. -- Elizabeth was pleased; though, when she asked herself the

reason, she had very little to say in reply.

Mr. Gardiner left them soon after breakfast. The fishing scheme

had been renewed the day before, and a positive engagement

made of his meeting some of the gentlemen at Pemberley by

noon.

Chapter XLV

Convinced as Elizabeth now was that Miss Bingley 's dislike of

her had originated in jealousy, she could not help feeling how very

unwelcome her appearance at Pemberley must be to her, and was

curious to know with how much civility on that lady's side, the

acquaintance would now be renewed.

On reaching the house, they were shewn through the hall into

the saloon, whose northern aspect rendered it delightful for summer.

Its windows opening to the ground, admitted a most refreshing

view of the high woody hills behind the house, and of the beautiful

oaks and Spanish chestnuts which were scattered over the

intermediate lawn.

In this room they were received by Miss Darcy, who was sitting

there with Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley, and the lady with whom

she lived in London. Georgiana's reception of them was very

civil; but attended with all that embarrassment which, though

proceeding from shyness and the fear of doing wrong, would

easily give to those who felt themselves inferior, the belief of her

being proud and reserved. Mrs. Gardiner and her niece, however,

did her justice, and pitied her.

By Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley, they were noticed only by a

 [[229]]