one into it. I am not particularly speaking of such a case as you have

supposed about Mr. Bingley. We may as well wait, perhaps, till the

circumstance occurs, before we discuss the discretion of his behaviour

thereupon. But in general and ordinary cases, between friend and friend,

where one of them is desired by the other to change a resolution of no

very great moment, should you think ill of that person for complying

with the desire, without waiting to be argued into it?”
“Will it not be advisable, before we proceed on this subject, to arrange

with rather more precision the degree of importance which is to

appertain to this request, as well as the degree of intimacy subsisting

between the parties?”
“By all means,” cried Bingley; “let us hear all the particulars, not

forgetting their comparative height and size, for that will have more

weight in the argument, Miss Bennet, than you may be aware of. I assure

you that if Darcy were not such a great tall fellow, in comparison with

myself, I should not pay him half so much deference. I declare I do not

know a more awful object than Darcy on particular occasions, and in{65}

particular places; at his own house especially, and of a Sunday evening,

when he has nothing to do.”
Mr. Darcy smiled; but Elizabeth thought she could perceive that he was

rather offended, and therefore checked her laugh. Miss Bingley warmly

resented the indignity he had received, in an expostulation with her

brother for talking such nonsense.
“I see your design, Bingley,” said his friend. “You dislike an argument,

and want to silence this.”
“Perhaps I do. Arguments are too much like disputes. If you and Miss

Bennet will defer yours till I am out of the room, I shall be very

thankful; and then you may say whatever you like of me.”
“What you ask,” said Elizabeth, “is no sacrifice on my side; and Mr.

Darcy had much better finish his letter.”
Mr. Darcy took her advice, and did finish his letter.