the scheme. It should not be said, that the Miss Bennets could not be at

home half a day before they were in pursuit of the officers. There was

another reason, too, for her opposition. She dreaded seeing Wickham

again, and was resolved to avoid it as long as possible. The comfort to

her, of the regiment’s approaching removal, was indeed beyond

expression. In a fortnight they were to go, and once gone, she hoped

there could be nothing more to plague her on his account.
She had not been many hours at home, before she found that the Brighton

scheme, of which Lydia had given them a hint at the inn, was under

frequent discussion between her parents. Elizabeth saw directly that her

father had not the smallest intention of yielding; but his answers were

at the same time so vague and equivocal, that her mother, though often

disheartened, had never yet despaired of succeeding at last.{278}

CHAPTER XL.

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.
Miss Bennet’s astonishment was soon lessened by the strong sisterly

partiality which made any admiration of Elizabeth appear perfectly

natural; and all surprise was shortly lost in other feelings. She was

sorry that Mr. Darcy should have delivered his sentiments in a manner so

little suited to recommend them; but still more was she grieved for the

unhappiness which her sister’s refusal must have given him.
“His being so sure of succeeding was wrong,” said she, “and certainly

ought not to have appeared; but consider how much it must increase his

disappointment.{279}”
“Indeed,” replied Elizabeth, “I am heartily sorry for him; but he has

other feelings which will probably soon drive away his regard for me.