for it. She was received, however, very politely by them; and in their

brother’s manners there was something better than politeness—there was

good-humour and kindness. Mr. Darcy said very little, and Mr. Hurst

nothing at all. The former was divided between admiration of the

brilliancy which exercise had given to her complexion and doubt as to

the occasion’s justifying her coming so far alone. The latter was

thinking only of his breakfast.
Her inquiries after her sister were not very favourably answered. Miss

Bennet had slept ill, and though up, was very feverish, and not well

enough to leave her room. Elizabeth was glad to be taken to her

immediately; and Jane, who had only been withheld by the fear of giving

alarm or inconvenience, from expressing in her note how much she longed

for such a visit, was delighted at her entrance. She was not equal,

however, to much conversation; and when Miss Bingley left them together,

could attempt little beside expressions of gratitude for the

extraordinary kindness she was treated with. Elizabeth silently attended

her.

[Image unavailable.]


“The Apothecary came”


When breakfast was over, they were joined by the sisters; and Elizabeth

began to like them herself, when she saw how much affection and

solicitude they showed for Jane. The apothecary came; and having

examined his patient, said, as might be supposed, that she had caught a

violent cold, and that they must endeavour to{44} get the better of it;

advised her to return to bed, and promised her some draughts. The advice

was followed readily, for the feverish symptoms increased, and her head

ached acutely. Elizabeth did not quit her room for a moment, nor were

the other ladies often absent; the gentlemen being out, they had in fact

nothing to do elsewhere.
When the clock struck three, Elizabeth felt that she must go, and very

unwillingly said so. Miss Bingley offered her the carriage, and she only