interfering; and Elizabeth, sometimes with real earnestness, and

sometimes with playful gaiety, replied to her attacks. Though her manner

varied, however, her determination never did.
Mr. Collins, meanwhile, was meditating in solitude on what had passed.

He thought too well of himself to comprehend on what motive his cousin

could refuse him; and though his pride was hurt, he suffered in no other

way. His regard for her was quite imaginary; and the possibility of her

deserving her mother’s reproach prevented his feeling any regret.
While the family were in this confusion, Charlotte Lucas came to spend

the day with them. She was met in the vestibule by Lydia, who, flying to

her, cried in a half whisper, “I am glad you are come, for there is such

fun here! What do you think has happened this{143} morning? Mr. Collins has

made an offer to Lizzy, and she will not have him.”

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“they entered the breakfast room”

Charlotte had hardly time to answer before they were joined by Kitty,

who came to tell the same news; and no sooner had they entered the

breakfast-room, where Mrs. Bennet was alone, than she likewise began on

the subject, calling on Miss Lucas for her compassion, and entreating

her to persuade her friend Lizzy to comply with the wishes of her

family. “Pray do, my dear Miss{144} Lucas,” she added, in a melancholy tone;

“for nobody is on my side, nobody takes part with me; I am cruelly used,

nobody feels for my poor nerves.”
Charlotte’s reply was spared by the entrance of Jane and Elizabeth.
“Ay, there she comes,” continued Mrs. Bennet, “looking as unconcerned as

may be, and caring no more for us than if we were at York, provided she

can have her own way. But I tell you what, Miss Lizzy, if you take it

into your head to go on refusing every offer of marriage in this way,

you will never get a husband at all—and I am sure I do not know who is

to maintain you when your father is dead. I shall not be able to keep