Pride and Prejudice (Readable Classics)

8/9/2019 Pride and Prejudice (Readable Classics)

1/31

1

PrideandPrejudice

Jane Austenand

Wayne Josephson

Readable Classics


2/31

2

PrideandPrejudice

Jane Austen

and

Wayne Josephson

Readable ClassicsCharlottesville VA 22901


3/31

3

Readable ClassicsReadable Classics gently edits great works of literature, retaining the originalauthors' voices, and making them less frustrating for students and moreenjoyable for modern readers.

Pride and Prejudice Jane Austens 1813 masterpiece traces the intricacies ofRegency Englandmating rituals, as Mrs. Bennet hopes to find rich husbands for her five pennilessdaughters. Mr. Bingley, a man of good fortune, is easily charmed by Jane, butMr. Darcys excessive pride offends Elizabeth. The delightful romp is full ofromantic misunderstandings, rejected proposals, disastrous elopements, andhappy endings.

Copyright 2010 byReadable ClassicsAll rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproducedin any form without written permission from the publisher.ISBN: 978-0-615-32444-9Library ofCongress Control Number: 2009937410Readable ClassicsCharlottesville, VA 22901

www.ReadableClassics.com


4/31

4

Chapter 1

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of agood fortune, must be in want of a wife.

Regardless of his intentions upon moving into a neighbourhood, this truthis so well fixed in the minds of the surrounding families, that such a gentleman

is considered the rightful property of at least one of their daughters.My dear Mr. Bennet, said Mrs. Bennet to her husband one day, have youheard that Netherfield Park has been rented at last?

Mr. Bennet replied that he had not.But it is, returned she. Mrs. Long has just visited me and she told me all

about it.Mr. Bennet made no answer.Do you not want to know who has rented it? cried his wife impatiently.You want to tell me, and I have no objection to hearing it.This was invitation enough.My dear, Netherfield has been taken by a young man of large fortune from

northern England. He came down on Monday and was so delighted with it thathe immediately made an agreement with the landlord, Mr. Morris. He is to takepossession before the end of September, and some of his servants are to be inthe house by the end of next week.

What is his name?Bingley--Mr. Charles Bingley.

Is he married or single?Oh, single, my dear, to be sure! A single man of large fortune. What a fine

thing for our girls!How so? How can it affect them?My dear Mr. Bennet, replied his wife, how tiresome you can be! You

must know that I am thinking of his marrying one of them.Is that his intention in settling here?Intention! Nonsense, how can you talk so! But it is very likely that he may

fall in love with one of our daughters, and therefore you must visit him as soonas he arrives.


5/31

5

I see no occasion for that, he replied. You and the girls may go and,since you are as handsome as any of our daughters, Mr. Bingley might like youthe best of the party.

My dear, you flatter me. I certainly have had my share of beauty, but I donot pretend to be anything extraordinary now. When a woman has five grown-

up daughters, she ought to give up thinking of her own beauty.Often, in such cases, a woman has not much beauty to think of.But, my dear, you must indeed go and see Mr. Bingley when he comes into

the neighbourhood and properly introduce yourself, so that we may then visithim.

After all, the Bennets, who lived on a large estate named Longbourn, werethe most respectable family in the village.

She added, Consider your daughters, Mr. Bennet. Think what stability it

would be for one of them. Sir William and Lady Lucas are going to visit Mr.Bingley on behalf of their daughter Charlotte. Indeed you must go, for it will beimpossible for us to visit him unless you visit first.

You are overly attentive to manners, said he. I dare say Mr. Bingley willbe very glad to see you, and I will send along a short letter to assure him of myhearty consent to his marrying whichever of the girls he chooses--though Imust throw in a good word for my Lizzy.

You will do no such thing. Elizabeth is not a bit better than the others, andI am sure she is not half as handsome as Jane, nor half as good-humoured as

Lydia. But you are always giving Elizabeth the preference.None of them have much to recommend them, replied he. They are all

silly and ignorant like other girls; but Lizzy has something more of quicknessthan her sisters.

Mr. Bennet, how can you abuse your own children in such way? You takedelight in vexing me. You have no compassion on my poor nerves.

You mistake me, my dear. I have a high respect for your nerves. They aremy old friends. I have heard you mention them with concern these past twenty

years.Ah! You do not know what I suffer.But I hope you will get over it, and live to see many wealthy young men

come into the neighbourhood.It will be no use to us if twenty should come, since you will not visit

them.Depend upon it, my dear. When there are twenty, I will visit them all.Mr. Bennet was such an odd mixture of sarcastic humour, reserve, and

unpredictability, that after twenty-three years of marriage, his wife could still notunderstand his personality.


6/31

6

Her mind, however, was less difficult to understand. She was a woman ofsmall intelligence, little information, and uncertain mood. When she wasunhappy, she imagined herself nervous. The business of her life was to get herdaughters married; her source of comfort was visiting and news.


7/31

7

Chapter 2

Mr. Bennet was among the first who visited Mr. Bingley. He had alwaysintended to, though always assuring his wife that he would not go. And till theevening after the visit was paid, Mrs. Bennet had no knowledge of it.

It was then disclosed in the following manner: Observing his second

daughter Elizabeth trying on a hat, he suddenly addressed her with, I hope Mr.Bingley will like it, Lizzy.We cannot know what Mr. Bingley likes, said her mother resentfully,

since we are not able to visit.But you forget, Mama, said Elizabeth, that we shall meet him at the ball,

and that Mrs. Long has promised to introduce him.I do not believe Mrs. Long will do any such thing. She has two nieces of

her own. She is a selfish, hypocritical woman, and I have no good opinion ofher.

Nor have I, said Mr. Bennet, and I am glad to find that you do notdepend on her helping you.

Mrs. Bennet did not demean herself by replying. But unable to containherself, she began scolding one of her daughters:

Dont keep coughing so, Kitty, for heavens sake! Have a little compassionon my nerves. You tear them to pieces.

Kitty has no discretion in her coughs, said her father.I do not cough for my own amusement, replied Kitty fretfully.

When is your next ball to be, Lizzy?A fortnight after tomorrow.

So it is, cried her mother, and Mrs. Long does not return till the daybefore. So it will be impossible for her to introduce Mr. Bingley to us, for shedoes not yet know him herself.

Then, my dear, said her husband, you may have the advantage over Mrs.Long, and introduce Mr. Bingley to her.

Impossible, impossible, when I am not acquainted with him myself. How

can you be so teasing?True, said Mr. Bennet, a fortnights acquaintance is certainly very little.


8/31

8

One cannot know what a man is really like in two weeks. But if we do notintroduce Mrs. Long to Mr. Bingley, somebody else will. After all, Mrs. Longand her nieces must get their chance, and therefore, as an act of kindness, I willmake the introduction myself.

The girls stared at their father.

Mrs. Bennet said only, Nonsense, nonsense!Do you consider proper introductions as nonsense? cried he. I cannot

quite agree with you there. What say you, Mary? For you are a young lady ofdeep reflection, and read great books.

Mary wished to say something very sensible, but knew not how.While Mary is forming her ideas, he continued, let us return to Mr.

Bingley.I am sick of Mr. Bingley! cried his wife.

I am sorry to hear that--but why did you not tell me so before? If I hadknown as much this morning, I certainly would not have called upon him. It is very unlucky. But as I have actually paid the visit, we cannot escape theacquaintance now.

The astonishment of the ladies was just what he wished--Mrs. Bennetssurpassing the rest--though after the uproar of joy was over, she declared thatshe had expected it all the while.

How good of you, my dear Mr. Bennet! But I knew I would persuade youat last. I was sure you loved our girls too well to neglect such an acquaintance.

Well, how pleased I am! And it is such a good joke, too, that you should havegone this morning and never said a word about it till now.

Now, Kitty, you may cough as much as you choose, said Mr. Bennet. Ashe spoke, he left the room, fatigued with the raptures of his wife.

What an excellent father you have, girls, said their mother, when the doorwas shut. I do not know how you will ever repay his kindness--or me either,for that matter. At our age, I can tell you it is not so pleasant to make newacquaintances every day; but for your sakes, we would do anything. Lydia, my

love, though you are the youngest, I dare say Mr. Bingley will dance with you atthe next ball.

Oh! said Lydia stoutly. I am not afraid, for though I am the youngest,Im the tallest.

The rest of the evening was spent guessing how soon Mr. Bingley wouldreturn their fathers visit, and determining when they should ask Mr. Bingley todinner.


9/31

9

Chapter 3

Despite all the questions that Mrs. Bennet and her five daughters askedabout Mr. Bingley, they could not gather from Mr. Bennet any satisfactorydescription of their new neighbour. They had to settle for second-handintelligence from their neighbour Lady Lucas. Her report was highly favourable.

Mr. Bingley was quite young, wonderfully handsome, extremely agreeableand, to crown the whole, he planned to attend the next ball with a large party.Nothing could be more delightful! To be fond of dancing was a certain steptowards falling in love, and Mrs. Bennet entertained very lively hopes for Mr.Bingleys heart.

If I can see but one of my daughters happily settled at Netherfield, saidMrs. Bennet to her husband, and all the others equally well-married, I shallhave nothing to wish for.

* * *

A few days later, Mr. Bingley politely returned Mr. Bennets visit, and satabout ten minutes with him in the library. Mr. Bingley had hoped to catch aglimpse of the young ladies, of whose beauty he had heard much, but he sawonly the father.

The ladies were somewhat more fortunate, for they had the advantage, froman upper window, of seeing that he wore a blue coat and rode a black horse.

The Bennets soon afterward sent Mr. Bingley an invitation to dinner, andalready Mrs. Bennet had planned the courses that would impress him, when ananswer arrived. Regrettably, Mr. Bingley had to be in London the following day,and consequently was unable to accept the honour of their invitation.

Mrs. Bennet was quite disconcerted. She could not imagine what businessMr. Bingley could have in London so soon after his arrival, and she began tofear that he might always fly about from one place to another, and never settleat Netherfield.

Lady Lucas quieted her fears a little by suggesting that he had gone toLondon only to get a large party together for the ball--and a report soon


10/31

10

followed that, indeed, Mr. Bingley was to bring twelve ladies and sevengentlemen with him to the assembly.

The Bennet girls grieved over such a large number of ladies, but werecomforted the day before the ball by hearing that, instead of twelve ladies, hehad brought only six with him from London--his five sisters and a cousin.

* * *

The evening of the ball came and, when Mr. Bingley entered the assemblyroom, his party consisted of only four besides himself--two of his sisters, hisbrother-in-law, and another young man named Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy.

Mr. Bingley was good-looking and gentlemanlike, and he had a pleasant faceand easy, unaffected manners. His brother-in-law, Mr. Hurst, merely looked like

any other gentleman.But his friend Mr. Darcy soon drew the attention of the entire room by hisfine, tall person, handsome features, noble bearing, and the report--which was ingeneral circulation within five minutes after his entrance--of his having a largefortune.

The gentlemen at the ball pronounced Mr. Darcy to be a fine figure of aman, and the ladies declared he was much handsomer than Mr. Bingley.

Mr. Darcy was looked upon with great admiration for about half theevening, till his manners turned the tide of his popularity--for he was discovered

to be proud, to hold himself above everyone else, and above being pleased inany way. Not even his large estate in Derbyshire could save him from hisdisagreeable personality, and being unworthy to be compared with his friend Mr.Bingley.

Mr. Bingley soon acquainted himself with all the principal people in theroom. He was lively and unreserved, danced every dance, was angry that the ballclosed so early, and talked of giving one himself at Netherfield.

Such amiable qualities he had, and what a contrast between him and his

friend! Mr. Darcy danced only once with Mr. Bingleys two sisters, Mrs. Hurstand Miss Caroline Bingley; he declined being introduced to any other lady; andhe spent the rest of the evening walking about the room, speaking occasionallyto one of his own party of three.

His character was decided. He was the proudest, most disagreeable man inthe world, and everybody hoped that he would never come there again.Amongst the most violent people against him was Mrs. Bennet, whose dislikeof him was sharpened into particular resentment after he slighted her daughter

Elizabeth.It happened that Elizabeth Bennet had been obliged to sit down for two


11/31

11

dances, due to the scarcity of gentlemen. During part of that time, sheoverheard a conversation between Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley, both of whomhad been standing nearby.

Come, Darcy, said Mr. Bingley, you must dance. I hate to see youstanding about by yourself in this stupid manner.

I certainly shall not. You know how I detest dancing, unless I amparticularly acquainted with my partner. Your sisters are presently engaged, andthere is not another woman in the room whom it would not be a punishment todance with.

Upon my honour, cried Bingley, I never met so many pleasant girls in mylife as I have this evening--and several of them are uncommonly pretty.

You are dancing with the only beautiful girl in the room, said Mr. Darcy,looking at the eldest Bennet daughter, Jane.

Oh, yes! She is the most beautiful creature I ever beheld! But her sister,Elizabeth, who is sitting down just behind you, is very pretty, and I dare say veryagreeable. Do let me have Jane introduce you to her.

Which do you mean? he asked, and turning round, he looked for amoment at Elizabeth, caught her eye, then withdrew and coldly said, She istolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me--and I am in no humour topay attention to young ladies who are ignored by other men. You had betterreturn to your partner and enjoy her smiles, for you are wasting your time withme.

Mr. Bingley followed his advice, and Mr. Darcy walked off. Elizabethremained with no cordial feelings towards him. She told the story with greatenergy, however, to her friends, for she had a lively, playful disposition whichdelighted in anything ridiculous.

The evening altogether passed pleasantly for the Bennets. Mrs. Bennet hadseen her eldest daughter Jane much admired by the Netherfield party--Mr.Bingley had danced twice with her, and she had been admired by his sisters. Janewas as much gratified by this as her mother could be, though in a quieter way.

Elizabeth felt Janes pleasure.Mary had heard herself mentioned to Miss Caroline Bingley as the most

accomplished girl in the neighbourhood; and Catherine and Lydia had beenfortunate enough to never be without dancing partners, which was all that theycared about at a ball.

* * *

The Bennets returned to Longbourn, therefore, in good spirits. They foundMr. Bennet still up, with a book, in spite of the late hour.


12/31

12

He had a good deal of curiosity about an evening which had raised suchsplendid expectations. He had rather hoped that his wife would be disappointedin her opinion of Mr. Bingley, but he soon found that he had a very differentstory to hear.

Oh! My dear Mr. Bennet, as she entered the room, we have had a most

delightful evening, a most excellent ball. I wish you had been there. Jane was soadmired, nothing could compare. Everybody said how well she looked, and Mr.Bingley thought her quite beautiful, and danced with her twice. Think of that,my dear! He actually danced with her twice, and she was the only creature in theroom that he asked a second time.

First he asked Charlotte Lucas. I was so vexed to see him dance with her,but he did not admire her at all--indeed, nobody can, you know. And he seemedquite struck with Jane as she was dancing, so he inquired who she was, and got

introduced, and asked her for the next two. Then the next two he danced withMiss King, and the next two with Maria Lucas, and the next two with Jane again,and the next two with Lizzy, and the Boulanger--

If Mr. Bingley had had any compassion for me, cried her husbandimpatiently, he would not have danced half so much! For Gods sake, say nomore of his partners. Oh! That he had sprained his ankle in the first dance!

Oh! My dear, continued Mrs. Bennet, I am quite delighted with Mr.Bingley. He is so excessively handsome! And his sisters are charming women. Inever in my life saw anything more elegant than their dresses. I dare say the lace

upon Mrs. Hursts gown--Here she was interrupted again. Mr. Bennet protested against any

description of finery. She was therefore obliged to change the subject, andrelated with much bitterness and some exaggeration the shocking rudeness ofMr. Darcy.

But I can assure you, she added, that Elizabeth does not lose much bynot suiting his fancy, for he is a most disagreeable, horrid man, not at all worthpleasing, so conceited that there was no enduring him! He walked here, and he

walked there, fancying himself so very great! Lizzy not beautiful enough todance with, indeed! I wish you had been there, my dear, to have given him oneof your put downs. I quite detest the man!


13/31

13

Chapter 4

When Jane and Elizabeth were alone, Jane, who had been cautious in herpraise of Mr. Bingley before, expressed to her sister how very much sheadmired him.

He is just what a young man ought to be, said Jane. Sensible, good-

humoured, and lively, and I never saw such happy manners! So much ease, withsuch perfect breeding!He is also handsome, replied Elizabeth, which a young man ought to be

if he possibly can. His character is thereby complete.I was very flattered by his asking me to dance a second time. I did not

expect such a compliment.I did. But that is one great difference between us, dear Jane. Compliments

always take you by surprise, and me never. What could be more natural than hisasking you again? He could not help seeing that you were about five times aspretty as every other woman in the room. Well, he certainly is very agreeable,and I give you permission to like him. You have liked many a stupider person.

Dear Lizzy!Oh! You are too quick to like people in general. You never see a fault in

anybody. I never heard you speak ill of a human being in my life.I wish to not be quick in criticizing anyone, said Jane, but I always say

what I think.I know you do, said Elizabeth, and that is what I cannot understand

about you. With your good sense, to be honestly blind to the follies andnonsense of others! To take the good of everybodys character and make it stillbetter, and say nothing of the bad, belongs to you alone.

Elizabeth paused a moment, then added, And so, you like Mr. Bingleyssisters, too, do you? Their manners are not equal to his.

Certainly not, at first. But Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst are very pleasing women when you converse with them. Caroline Bingley plans to live atNetherfield with her brother and take care of his house; and I think we shall

find a very charming neighbour in her.Elizabeth listened in silence, but was not convinced. Their behaviour at the


14/31

14

assembly had not been pleasing, and she was not inclined to approve of them.They were, in fact, very fine ladies, and quite agreeable when they chose to be.But they were proud and conceited.

They were rather handsome, had been educated in one of the finest privateschools, had a quite a large fortune, were in the habit of spending more than

they ought, and of associating with people of high social rank--and thereforefelt entitled to think well of themselves and little of others.

The Bingley sisters came from a perfectly respectable family in northernEngland, but preferred to forget that their fathers fortune had been earned, notinherited. Their father, with his new wealth, had intended to purchase an estate,but did not live long enough to do it.

Their brother Mr. Bingley, who had inherited nearly one hundred thousandpounds, had also intended to purchase an estate. But now, with his easiness of

manner, he found it comfortable merely renting at Netherfield, and mighttherefore leave it to the next generation to purchase an estate.His sisters, however, were very anxious for their brother to have an estate of

his own. And though Mr. Bingley was just a tenant, his sister Caroline was morethan willing to preside at his table. And Mrs. Hurst, who had married a man ofmore fashion than fortune, was equally disposed to consider her brothers houseas her home when it suited her.

Regarding Mr. Darcy, there was a very steady friendship between him andMr. Bingley, in spite of a great difference in character. Darcy liked Bingley for

the ease and openness of his personality, which was so great a contrast to hisown. In return, Bingley had the highest opinion of Darcys judgment,knowledge, and cleverness.

But Darcy was haughty, reserved, and fussy; and his manners, though wellbred, were not inviting. In that respect, Bingley had greatly the advantage.Bingley was sure of being liked wherever he appeared; Darcy was continuallygiving offence.

The manner in which the two gentlemen spoke about the recent ball

showed their characters. Bingley had never met with pleasanter people orprettier girls in his life; everybody had been most kind and attentive to him, andthere had been no stiffness; he had soon felt comfortable with everyone; and asto Jane Bennet, he could not imagine an angel more beautiful.

Darcy, on the contrary, saw a collection of people with little beauty and nofashion, no one in whom he had the smallest interest, nor from whom he hadreceived either attention or pleasure. He acknowledged Jane to be pretty, but shesmiled too much.

Mr. Bingleys sisters agreed that Jane smiled too much, but said they admiredand liked her, and thought her to be a sweet girl, and one whom they should not


15/31

15

object to know better. Jane Bennet, therefore, received the commendation ofBingleys sisters, giving Mr. Bingley the approval to admire Jane as much as hechose.


16/31

16

Chapter 5

Within a short walk of Longbourn lived a family with whom the Bennetswere particularly intimate. Sir William Lucas had formerly been in business inMeryton, where he had made a respectable fortune and risen to the honour ofknighthood. The distinction of becoming Sir William had perhaps too strong an

effect on him--he became disgusted with his business and with living in a smalltown.Quitting them both, he had moved his family to a large house about a mile

from Meryton, which he named Lucas Lodge, where he could think about hisown importance with pleasure, and occupy himself solely with being polite toall the world.

For though elated by his new rank, it did not make him haughty. On thecontrary, since he was by nature friendly and agreeable, his presentation at theCourt of St. James had made him courteous.

Lady Lucas was a very good woman, not too clever, and a valuableneighbour to Mrs. Bennet. They had several children, the eldest of whom wasCharlotte--a sensible, intelligent young woman of twenty-seven, and Elizabethsclosest friend.

It was absolutely necessary for the Miss Lucases and the Miss Bennets tomeet and talk over the ball, and so the morning after the assembly, the Lucasescame to Longbourn.

You began the evening well, Charlotte, said Mrs. Bennet politely. You

were Mr. Bingleys first choice.Yes, she replied, but he seemed to like his second choice better.Oh! You mean Jane, I suppose, because he danced with her twice. To be

sure, it did seem as if he admired her--I rather believe he did--I heard somethingabout it--but I hardly know what--something about Mr. Robinson.

Perhaps you refer to what I overheard between Mr. Bingley and Mr.Robinson. Mr. Robinson asked him how he liked our Meryton balls, andwhether he did not think there were a great many pretty women in the room,

and which he thought the prettiest, and he answered immediately, Oh! Theeldest Miss Bennet beyond a doubt, there cannot be two opinions on that


17/31

17

point.Upon my word! replied Mrs. Bennet. Well, that was very decided indeed-

-it does seem as if--but, however, it may all come to nothing, you know.Charlotte turned to Elizabeth. My overhearings were more favourable than

yours. Mr. Darcy is not so well worth listening to as Mr. Bingley, is he? Poor

Eliza! To be regarded by Mr. Darcy as only tolerable.Mrs. Bennet then spoke. I beg you not to put it into Lizzys head to be

vexed by his ill-treatment, for Darcy is such a disagreeable man that it would bequite a misfortune to be liked by him. Mrs. Long told me last night that he satclose to her for half an hour without once opening his lips.

Are you quite sure, Maam? said Jane. Is there not a little mistake? Icertainly saw Mr. Darcy speaking to her.

Aye, because she asked him how he liked Netherfield, and he could not

help answering her. But she said Darcy seemed very angry at being spoken to.Mr. Bingleys sister told me, said Jane, that Darcy never speaks muchexcept with his intimate acquaintances. With them, he is remarkably agreeable.

I do not believe a word of it, my dear. If he had been so very agreeable, hewould have talked to Mrs. Long. But I can guess how it was--everybody says thathe is full of pride, and I dare say he had heard somehow that Mrs. Long doesnot own a carriage and came to the ball in a taxi.

I do not mind Darcy not talking to Mrs. Long, said Charlotte, but I wishhe had danced with Eliza.

Next time, Lizzy, said Mrs. Bennet, I would not dance with him, if Iwere you.

I believe, Mother, I may safely promise you that I will never dance withhim.

His pride, said Charlotte, does not offend me so much as pride oftendoes, because there is an excuse for it. It is no wonder that so very fine a youngman--with family, fortune, everything in his favour--should think highly ofhimself. If I may say so, he has a right to be proud.

That is very true, replied Elizabeth, and I could easily forgive his pride,if he had not mortified mine.

Pride, observed Mary, is a very common failing, I believe. By all that Ihave ever read, I am convinced that it is very common indeed, and humannature is particularly prone to it. Vanity and pride are different things, though. Aperson may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion ofourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us.

If I were as rich as Mr. Darcy, cried a young Lucas boy who came with his

sisters, I should not care how proud I was. I would keep a pack of foxhounds,and drink a bottle of wine every day.


18/31

18

Then you would drink a great deal more than you ought, said Mrs.Bennet, and if I were to see you going at it, I should take away your bottledirectly.

The boy protested that she should not; she continued to declare that shewould; and the argument ended only when the visit did.


19/31

19

Chapter 6

The Bennet ladies of Longbourn soon visited the Bingley sisters ofNetherfield. Jane Bennets manners were pleasing to Miss Caroline Bingley andMrs. Hurst, and although Mrs. Bennet was found to be intolerable and theyounger sisters not worth speaking to, the Bingley sisters expressed a wish of

being better acquainted with the two eldest, Jane and Elizabeth. Jane received this attention with the greatest pleasure--but Elizabeth stillsaw arrogance in their treatment of everybody, and could not like them. Theirkindness to Jane, such as it was, did have a value, probably arising from theinfluence of Mr. Bingleys admiration--it was generally evident, whenever theymet, that he did admire Jane.

To Elizabeth, it was equally evident that Jane was beginning to be very muchin love; but Elizabeth was pleased that Jane was composed around Bingley anddid not reveal her feelings.

Elizabeth mentioned this to her friend Charlotte Lucas.It may be pleasant to keep the world in the dark, replied Charlotte, but

sometimes that is a disadvantage. If a woman conceals her affection too much,she may lose the gentlemans affection, and it will then be poor consolation. It isnot safe to leave love to itself. There are very few of us who can be really inlove without some encouragement. In nine cases out of ten, a woman hadbetter show more affection than she feels. Bingley undoubtedly likes your sister,but he may never do more than like her if she does not help him along.

But Jane does help him along--as much as her nature will allow. If I cansense her affection for Mr. Bingley, hemust be a simpleton not to realise it, too.

Remember, Eliza, that he does not know Janes nature as you do.But if a woman has affection for a man and does not conceal it, then he

must find out.Perhaps--if he sees enough of her. But though Bingley and Jane meet

reasonably often, it is never for many hours together. And since they always seeeach other in large, mixed parties, it is impossible that every moment should be

employed in conversation. Jane should therefore make the most of every halfhour in which she can command his full attention. When she is secure in his


20/31

20

affection, there will plenty of leisure time for falling in love as much as shechooses.

Your plan is a good one, replied Elizabeth, where ones only desire isgetting married; and if I were determined to get a rich husband, or anyhusband, I dare say I should adopt it. But these are not Janes feelings or

intentions.As yet, however, Jane cannot even be certain of the degree of her own

affection for Mr. Bingley. She has known him only a fortnight. She danced fourdances with him at Meryton, saw him one morning at his own house, and hassince dined in company with him four times. This is not quite enough to makeher understand his character.

Not the way you present it, said Charlotte. Had Jane merely dined withMr. Bingley, she might only have discovered whether he had a good appetite;

but you must remember that four evenings have been also spent together--andfour evenings may do a great deal.Yes, replied Elizabeth, those four evenings have enabled them to

ascertain that they both like card games better than business; but with respect toany other leading characteristic, I do not imagine that much has beendiscovered.

Well, said Charlotte, I wish Jane success with all my heart; and if she were married to him tomorrow, I should think she has as good a chance ofhappiness as if she had studied his character for a year. Happiness in marriage is

entirely a matter of chance. Whether the personalities of the couple are well-known or similar to each other beforehand, it does not enhance their happinessin the least. They will always grow sufficiently apart afterwards to have theirshare of problems; and it is always better to know as little as possible about thedefects of the person with whom you are to spend your life.

You make me laugh, Charlotte, but your logic is not sound. You know it isnot sound, and you would never act this way yourself.

Elizabeth was so occupied in observing Mr. Bingleys attentions to Jane that

she was far from suspecting that she was becoming an object of some interestin the eyes of Mr. Darcy. He had, at first, scarcely allowed her to be pretty. Hehad looked at her without admiration at the ball, and when they next met, helooked at her only to criticize.

But no sooner had Darcy made it clear to himself and his friends thatElizabeth had hardly any good features in her face, than he began to regard howthe beautiful expression of her dark eyes made her face appear uncommonlyintelligent.

Darcy made other equally mortifying discoveries as well. Though he hadcriticized Elizabeths figure as lacking perfect symmetry, he was forced to


21/31

21

acknowledge that it was light and pleasing; and though he asserted that hermanners were not upper class, he was caught by their easy playfulness.

Elizabeth was perfectly unaware of all this. To her, Darcy was only the manwho made himself nowhere agreeable, and who had not thought her beautifulenough to dance with.

* * *

Darcy found himself wishing to know more about Elizabeth and, as a steptowards conversing with her, began to eavesdrop on her conversations withothers. His doing so caught her attention. It happened at a large party at SirWilliam Lucass house.

What does Mr. Darcy mean, Elizabeth said to Charlotte, by listening to

my conversation withC

olonel Forster?That is a question which only Mr. Darcy can answer.If he does it any more, I shall certainly let him know that I see what he is

doing. He has a very satirical eye, and if I do not begin being rude to him, Ishall soon grow afraid of him.

When Darcy approached them soon afterwards, Elizabeth had no intentionof mentioning it. But when Charlotte dared her to, Elizabeth was immediatelyprovoked, and she turned to Darcy and said:

Did you not think, Mr. Darcy, that I expressed myself uncommonly well

just now, when I was teasingColonel Forster to give us a ball at Meryton?With great energy, he replied. But it is a subject which always makes a

lady energetic.How critical you are of us, said Elizabeth.Charlotte then said to Mr. Darcy, It will soon be Elizas turn to be teased. I

am going to open the piano, and you know what follows--she will play and singfor us.

Charlotte, said Elizabeth, you are a very strange creature of a friend!

Always wanting me to play and sing for anybody and everybody! If my vanity were my music, you would be a valuable friend--but I would really rather notplay for those who are in the habit of hearing the very best performers.

Charlotte persevered, however, and finally Elizabeth said, Very well, if itmust be so, it must.

Then, glancing gravely at Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth added, There is a fine oldsaying which everybody here is familiar with: Keep your breath to cool yourporridge. I shall keep mine to sing my song.

Her performance was pleasing, though by no means capital. After a song ortwo, and before she could be persuaded to sing again, she was eagerly followed


22/31

22

at the piano by her younger sister. Since Mary was the only plain one in thefamily, she had worked hard for knowledge and accomplishments, and wasalways impatient to display them.

Mary had neither genius nor taste, but she had become conceited. Elizabeth, who was easy and unaffected, had been listened to with much more pleasure,

though not playing half so well.At the end of a long concerto, Mary was glad to receive praise by playing

Scotch and Irish dances, at the request of her younger sisters. They, along withsome of the Lucases and two or three officers, joined eagerly in dancing at oneend of the room.

Mr. Darcy stood near them, silently indignant that the evening would bepassed by dancing to the exclusion of all conversation. He was too engrossed inhis own thoughts to realise that Sir William Lucas was standing beside him, till

Sir William thus began:What a charming amusement this is for young people, Mr. Darcy! There isnothing like dancing, after all. I consider it as one of the first refinements ofpolished societies.

Certainly, Sir, and it has the advantage of also being in vogue amongst theless polished societies of the world--every savage can dance.

Sir William only smiled. After a pause he continued, Your friend Bingleydances delightfully, and I have no doubt that you are an accomplished danceryourself, Mr. Darcy.

You saw me dance at Meryton, I believe, Sir.Yes, indeed, and received considerable pleasure from the sight. He

paused, then added, You have a house in London, I conclude?Mr. Darcy bowed.I once had some thoughts of living in town myself, for I am fond of

superior society; but I did not feel quite certain that the air of London wouldagree with Lady Lucas.

Sir William paused in hopes of an answer, but Darcy was not disposed to

make any. At that instant, Elizabeth moved towards them, and Sir William wasstruck with the idea of doing a very gallant thing, and called out to her:

My dear Miss Eliza, why are not you dancing? Mr. Darcy, you must allowme to present this young lady to you as a very desirable partner. You cannotrefuse to dance, I am sure, when so much beauty is before you.

Sir William took Elizabeths hand and he would have given it to Mr. Darcywho, though extremely surprised, was willing to receive it, when she instantlydrew back, and said with some annoyance to Sir William:

Indeed, Sir, I have not the least intention of dancing. I beg you not toassume that I walked this way in order to beg for a partner.


23/31

23

Mr. Darcy, with utmost propriety, requested to be allowed the honour ofher hand, but in vain. Elizabeth was determined. Nor did Sir William at allchange her mind by his attempt at persuasion:

You excel so much in the dance, Miss Eliza, that it is cruel to deny me thehappiness of seeing you; and though this gentleman dislikes dancing in general,

he can have no objection, I am sure, to oblige us for one half-hour.Mr. Darcy is all politeness, said Elizabeth, smiling.He is indeed, said Sir William, but my dear Miss Eliza, we cannot wonder

at his desire to please--for who would object to such a partner as you?Elizabeth looked at Darcy playfully, and then turned away. Her resistance

had not diminished Darcys admiration of her, and he was thinking of her withsatisfaction, when Miss Caroline Bingley approached him.

I can guess the subject of your dreaming, she said.

I should imagine not.You are considering, said Miss Bingley, how unpleasant it would be tospend many evenings with these people, and indeed I am quite of your opinion.I was never more annoyed! The dullness and the noise, the nothingness and yetthe self-importance of all these people! What I would give to hear yourcriticisms of them!

Your assumption is totally wrong, I assure you, said Darcy. I have beenmeditating on the very great pleasure which the face of a pretty woman canbestow.

Miss Bingley immediately fixed her eyes on his face, and desired him to tellher what lady had inspired such reflections.

Mr. Darcy replied with great boldness, Miss Elizabeth Bennet.Miss Elizabeth Bennet! repeated Miss Bingley. I am all astonishment!

How long has she been such a favourite? And pray when am I to wish you joyon your engagement?

That is exactly the question which I expected you to ask. A ladysimagination is very rapid--it jumps from admiration to love, from love to

matrimony, in a moment. I knew you would be wishing me joy.Nay, if you are so serious about it, I shall consider the matter as absolutely

settled. You will have a charming mother-in-law indeed, in Mrs. Bennet, and ofcourse she will always be at Pemberley with you.

Darcy listened to her with perfect indifference while she chose to entertainherself in this manner and, as his calmness convinced her that she was right, herwit flowed long.


24/31

24

Chapter 7

Mrs. Bennet was particularly anxious to have her daughters well-married, orelse they would all have no place to live upon the decease of Mr. Bennet. Thefamily home, Longbourn, would unfortunately be inherited not by Mr. Bennetsdaughters, but by a distant male relative, since women were not permitted to

own property.Mrs. Bennets sister was married to a Mr. Philips, who lived in Meryton, onlyone mile from Longbourn. The youngest Bennet daughters, Lydia andCatherine, visited their aunt three or four times a week.

Their minds were more vacant than their older sisters and, when nothingbetter offered, a walk to Meryton amused their morning hours. Any news fromtheir aunt would furnish conversation for the evening.

This day, the girls learned of the recent arrival of a regiment of soldiers,headquartered at Meryton for the winter. The girls visits to Mrs. Philips nowproduced daily news about the officers names and backgrounds.

Mr. Philips regularly visited the officers, and soon the girls began to knowthem as well. Lydia and Catherine could talk of nothing but officers--and Mr.Bingleys large fortune was worthless in their eyes, compared to the uniform ofan officer.

One morning Mr. Bennet, after listening to his daughters outbursts aboutthe officers, coolly observed, By your manner of talking, my dears, you mustbe two of the silliest girls in the country. I have suspected it for some time, but I

am now convinced.Catherine was flustered and made no answer; but Lydia continued to

express her admiration of Captain Carter, and her hope of seeing him that day,as he was going to London the next morning.

I am astonished, my dear, said Mrs. Bennet to her husband, that youshould be so ready to think your own children silly. You must not expect younggirls to have the sense of their father and mother. When they get to our age, Idare say they will not think about officers any more than we do.

I remember the time when I liked a redcoat myself--I still do in my heart--and if a smart young colonel with a large fortune should want one of my girls, I


25/31

25

shall not prevent it. I thought Colonel Forster looked very becoming the othernight at Sir Williams in his uniform.

At that moment, a servant from Netherfield entered with a note for Jane; hewaited for an answer. Mrs. Bennets eyes sparkled with pleasure and, while herdaughter read the note, she called out:

Well, Jane, who is it from? What is it about? What does he say? Make hasteand tell us--make haste, my love.

It is from Miss Caroline Bingley, said Jane, and then she read it aloud:My dear Friend, if you are not so kind as to dine with me and my sister

Louisa Hurst today, we shall be in danger of hating each other for the rest ofour lives--for a whole days conversation between two women can never endwithout a quarrel. Come as soon as you can on the receipt of this. My brotherCharles and Mr. Darcy are dining out tonight with the officers. Yours ever,C

aroline Bingley.With the officers! cried Lydia. I wonder why our aunt did not tell usabout that.

Mr. Bingley dining out, said Mrs. Bennet. That is very unlucky.Can I have the carriage? asked Jane.No, my dear, said her mother, you had better go on horseback, because

it seems likely to rain, and then you would have to stay the night. The more timespent at Netherfield, the better your chances for an attachment to Mr. Bingley.

That is indeed a good scheme, said Elizabeth.

Jane was therefore obliged to go on horseback, and her mother saw her tothe door with many cheerful predictions of bad weather. Her hopes wereanswered; Jane had not been gone long before it rained hard. Her sisters wereuneasy for her, but her mother was delighted. The rain continued the wholeevening without intermission; Jane certainly could not come back that night.

This was a lucky idea of mine, indeed! said Mrs. Bennet more than once,as if the credit for making it rain were all her own.

The next morning, Mrs. Bennets happiness was extended when a servant

from Netherfield brought the following note for Elizabeth:My dearest Lizzy, I find myself very unwell this morning which, I suppose,

is attributed to my getting wet yesterday. My kind friends, Caroline and Louisa, will not hear of my returning home till I am better. They also insist on myseeing the doctor, Mr. Jones. Therefore do not be alarmed if you should hear ofhis having been to see me and, excepting a sore throat and headache, there isnot much the matter with me. Yours, Jane.

Well, my dear, said Mr. Bennet, if Jane should have a dangerous fit of

illness and should die, it would be a comfort to know that it was all in pursuit ofMr. Bingley, and under your orders.


26/31

26

Oh! I am not afraid of her dying. People do not die of little trifling colds.She will be taken good care of. As long as she stays there, it is all very well.

Elizabeth, feeling really anxious, was determined to walk to Netherfield tovisit Jane. She announced her decision.

How can you be so silly, cried her mother, as to think of such a thing, in

all this mud! You will not be fit to be seen when you get there.The distance is nothing, said Elizabeth, when one has a motive--only

three miles. I shall be back by dinner.I admire the extent of your kindness, observed Mary, but every impulse

should be guided by reason; and, in my opinion, every effort should be inproportion to what is required.

We will go with you as far as Meryton, said Catherine.If we make haste, said Lydia, perhaps we may see something ofCaptain

C

arter before he leaves.Elizabeth accepted their company, and the three young ladies set offtogether. In Meryton they parted--the two youngest repaired to the lodgings ofone of the officers wives, and Elizabeth continued her walk alone.

Elizabeth crossed field after field at a quick pace, jumping over fences andspringing over puddles with impatient activity, and finding herself at last withinview of Netherfield, with weary ankles, dirty stockings, and a face glowing withthe warmth of exercise.

Elizabeth was shown into the breakfast parlour, where everyone was

assembled but Jane, and her appearance created a great deal of surprise.It was almost incredible to Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst that Elizabeth

should have walked three miles so early in the day, in such dirty weather, and byherself; and Elizabeth was convinced that they were disgusted by her.

She was received very politely by them, however, and Mr. Bingleys mannershowed more than politeness--there was good humour and kindness. Mr. Darcysaid very little, and Mr. Hurst said nothing at all.

Mr. Darcy was divided between admiring how the long walk had made

Elizabeths complexion glow, and doubt about the logic of her coming so faralone. Mr. Hurst was thinking only of his breakfast.

Elizabeth inquired after her sister and was told that Jane had slept poorly,and was very feverish and not well enough to leave her room. Elizabeth wasglad to be taken to her immediately, and Jane was delighted at her entrance.

When breakfast was over, Elizabeth and Jane joined the rest of the group,and Elizabeth began to like the Bingley sisters when she saw how muchaffection and care they showed for Jane.

The doctor came and, having examined his patient, said that Jane hadcaught a violent cold and advised her to return to bed. The advice was followed


27/31

27

readily, for the feverish symptoms had increased, and her head ached acutely.Elizabeth and the Bingley sisters remained with Jane in her room--thegentlemen being out, the ladies had in fact nothing else to do.

When the clock struck three, Elizabeth felt that she must go, and veryunwillingly said so. Jane was so upset at parting with her sister that Miss Bingley

invited Elizabeth to remain at Netherfield for the present. Elizabeth mostthankfully consented, and a servant was dispatched to Longbourn to inform theBennets of her stay, and to bring back a supply of clothes.


28/31

28

Chapter 8

At dinner, the Bingley sisters politely inquired of Elizabeth about Janescondition, and then they went on about how grieved they were, how shocking itwas to have a bad cold, and how excessively they disliked being ill themselves--then forgot about Jane altogether. Their indifference restored to Elizabeth all

her original dislike of the sisters.Mr. Bingley was the only one whose anxiety for Jane was evident. Hisattentions, which were most pleasing to Elizabeth, prevented her from feelinglike an intruder. She had very little notice from anyone but him.

Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst were attentive only to Mr. Darcy. And Mr.Hurst, who sat next to Elizabeth, was a lazy man who lived only to eat, drink,and play cards. When he found out that Elizabeth preferred a plain dish to arich stew, he had nothing more to say to her.

When dinner was over, Elizabeth returned directly to Janes room. As soonas she was out of the dining parlour, Miss Bingley began insulting her. Shepronounced Elizabeths manners to be very bad indeed--a mixture of pride andrudeness, no conversation, no style, no taste, and no beauty. Mrs. Hurst thoughtthe same, and added:

She has nothing, in short, to recommend her, but being an excellent walker. I shall never forget her appearance this morning when she arrived--looking almost wild.

She did indeed, Louisa. I could hardly keep my composure. Very foolish of

her to come at all! Why must she be scampering about the country, just becauseher sister had a cold? Her hair so untidy, so blowsy!

Yes, and her petticoat. I hope you saw her petticoat--six inches deep inmud, I am absolutely certain.

Mr. Bingley spoke. Your picture may be very exact, Louisa, but this was alllost upon me. I thought Miss Elizabeth Bennet looked remarkably well whenshe came into the room this morning. Her dirty petticoat quite escaped mynotice.

You observed it, Mr. Darcy, I am sure, said Miss Bingley, and I wouldimagine you would not wish to seeyoursister make such an exhibition.


29/31

29

Certainly not.To walk three miles, above her ankles in dirt, and alone, quite alone! It

seems to me that she showed a horrid sort of pride. Country people carenothing about dignity and good taste.

On the contrary, said Bingley. It shows an affection for her sister Jane

that is very pleasing.I am afraid, Mr. Darcy, observed Miss Bingley in a half-whisper, that this

escapade has rather changed your admiration of Elizabeths fine eyes.Not at all, he replied. Her eyes were brightened by the exercise.A short pause followed this remark, and Mrs. Hurst began again. I have a

great regard for Jane Bennet; she is really a very sweet girl, and I wish with allmy heart she is well-married. But with such a father and mother, and such lowconnections, I am afraid there is no chance of it.

I think I have heard, said Miss Bingley, that they have an uncle who livesin Cheapside.That is capital! added her sister, and they both laughed heartily.If they had enough uncles to fill all ofCheapside, cried Bingley, it would

not make them one bit less agreeable.Darcy replied, But it must significantly lessen their chances of marrying

men of any substance.To this, Bingley made no answer; but his sisters gave it their hearty approval,

and enjoyed themselves for some time discussing their dear friends vulgar

relations. With renewed tenderness, however, the Bingley sisters then visited Janes

room and sat with her till coffee was served. Jane was still very ill, and Elizabeth would not leave her till late in the

evening, till Jane fell asleep. Elizabeth then felt it would be polite, rather thanpleasant, to go downstairs.

Upon entering the drawing-room, she found the whole party playing cards. They invited her to join them, but she declined and said she would amuse

herself with a book.Do you prefer reading to cards? asked Mr. Hurst. That is rather odd.Miss Eliza Bennet, said Miss Bingley, despises cards. She is a great reader

and has no pleasure in anything else.I am not a great reader, cried Elizabeth, and I have pleasure in many

things.I am sure you have pleasure in nursing your sister, said Bingley, and I

hope your pleasure will soon be increased by seeing her quite well.

Elizabeth thanked him from her heart, and then walked towards a tablewhere a few books were lying.


30/31

30

Bingley immediately offered to fetch her some other books. I wish mylibrary were larger, for your benefit and my own credit. Elizabeth assured himthat she could suit herself perfectly with those in the room.

I am astonished, said Miss Bingley, as she laid a card on the table, thatmy father should have left so small a collection of books. Then she added,

What a delightful library you have at Pemberley, Mr. Darcy!It ought to be good, he replied. It has been the work of many

generations.And you have added so much to it yourself--you are always buying books.I cannot imagine neglecting a family library, said Darcy.Neglect! I am sure you neglect nothing that can add to the beauty of that

noble estate. To her brother, she said, Charles, when you build your house, Iwish it may be half as delightful as Pemberley.

I wish it may, he said.I would really advise you to purchase a house in the neighbourhood nearPemberley--an estate similar to Mr. Darcys.

With all my heart, said Bingley, I would buy Pemberley itself if Darcywould sell it.

Elizabeth, caught up in the conversation, had very little attention for herbook; and soon, laying it aside, she drew near the card table and stood betweenMr. Bingley and his eldest sister to observe the game.

Mr. Darcy, has your sister grown much since the spring? asked Miss

Bingley. Will she be as tall as I am?I think she will, replied Darcy. She is now about Miss Elizabeth Bennets

height, or rather taller.How I long to see her again! I never met anybody who delighted me so

much. Such a face, such manners, and so extremely accomplished for her age!Her performance on the piano is exquisite.

It is amazing to me, said Bingley, how young ladies can have the patienceto be so very accomplished as they all are.

All young ladies accomplished? said Miss Bingley. My dear Charles, whatdo you mean?

Yes, they all paint tables, cover screens, and net purses. I scarcely knowanyone who cannot do all this.

I am very far from agreeing with you, said Darcy. I cannot boast ofknowing more than half a dozen women that are really accomplished.

Nor I, said Miss Bingley.Then, observed Elizabeth, your idea of what defines an accomplished

woman must be a long list.Certainly, cried Darcy. A woman must have a thorough knowledge of


31/31

music, singing, drawing, dancing, and the modern languages, and must possess acertain something in her air, and manner of walking, the tone of her voice, andher speech and expressions. She must possess all this, and she must improve hermind by extensive reading.

Then I am no longer surprised, said Elizabeth, at your knowing only six

accomplished women. I rather wonder at your knowing any.Are you so severe upon your own sex as to doubt the possibility of all

this? said Darcy.I never saw such a woman with all these qualities united, replied

Elizabeth.Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley both protested that they knew many women

who answered this description. But then, when Mr. Hurst complained bitterlyabout their inattention to the card game, all conversation ended and Elizabeth

soon left the room to tend to Jane.Eliza Bennet, said Miss Bingley, when the door was closed, is one ofthose young ladies who seeks to impress men by undervaluing other women--and I dare say it succeeds with many men. But, in my opinion, it is a very cruelart.

Undoubtedly, replied Darcy, to whom this remark was addressed, there iscruelness in all the arts which ladies sometimes employ for captivating men.

Miss Bingley was not satisfied with this reply and did not continue thesubject.

Elizabeth joined them again only to say that Jane was worse, and that shecould not leave her. Bingley urged that Mr. Jones be sent for immediately. Hissisters, however, were convinced that no country doctor could be of any serviceand recommended summoning one of the most eminent physicians fromLondon.Elizabeth would not hear of this, and it was settled that Mr. Jones should besent for early in the morning if Jane were not decidedly better. Bingley was quiteanxious and instructed his housekeeper to pay every possible attention to the

sick lady and her sister.

Pride and Prejudice (Readable Classics)

Documents

Transcript of Pride and Prejudice (Readable Classics)