第84章[第1頁/共4頁]

“I never thought Mr.Darcy so deficient in the appearance of it as you used to do.”

“Certainly.But the misfortune of speaking with bitterness is a most natural consequence of the prejudices I had been encouraging. There is one point on which I want your advice.I want to be told whether I ought, or ought not, to make our acquaintances in general understand Wickham's character.”

It was some time, however, before a smile could be extorted from Jane.

“Lizzy,when you first read that letter,I am sure you could not treat the matter as you do now.”

Elizabeth's impatience to acquaint Jane with what had happened could no longer be overcome;and at length,resolving to suppress every particular in which her sister was concerned,and preparing her to be surprised,she related to her the next morning the chief of the scene between Mr.Darcy and herself.

“Poor Wickham!there is such an expression of goodness in his countenance!such an openness and gentleness in his manner!”

“I do not know when I have been more shocked,”said she.“Wickham so very bad! It is almost past belief.And poor Mr. Darcy!Dear Lizzy,only consider what he must have suffered.Such a disappointment! and with the knowledge of your ill opinion, too!and having to relate such a thing of his sister!It is really too distressing.I am sure you must feel it so.”