degradation, of the family obstacles which judgment had always opposed

to inclination, were dwelt on with a warmth which seemed due to the

consequence he was wounding, but was very unlikely to recommend his

suit.
In spite of her deeply-rooted dislike, she could not be insensible to

the compliment of such a man’s affection, and though her intentions did

not vary for an instant, she was at first sorry for the pain he was to

receive; till roused to resentment by his subsequent language, she lost

all compassion in anger. She tried, however, to compose herself to

answer him with patience, when he should have done. He concluded with

representing to her the strength of that attachment which in spite of

all his endeavours he had found impossible to conquer; and with

expressing his hope that it would now be rewarded by her acceptance of

his hand. As he said this she could easily see that he had no doubt of a

favourable answer. He spoke of apprehension and anxiety, but his

countenance expressed real security. Such a circumstance{238} could only

exasperate farther; and when he ceased the colour rose into her cheeks

and she said,—
“In such cases as this, it is, I believe, the established mode to

express a sense of obligation for the sentiments avowed, however

unequally they may be returned. It is natural that obligation should be

felt, and if I could feel gratitude, I would now thank you. But I

cannot—I have never desired your good opinion, and you have certainly

bestowed it most unwillingly. I am sorry to have occasioned pain to

anyone. It has been most unconsciously done, however, and I hope will be

of short duration. The feelings which you tell me have long prevented

the acknowledgment of your regard can have little difficulty in

overcoming it after this explanation.”
Mr. Darcy, who was leaning against the mantel-piece with his eyes fixed

on her face, seemed to catch her words with no less resentment than