Chapter 51 302
apparently least to do , and least temptation to go . Conjectures as to the meaning of it , rapid and wild , hurried into her brain ; but she was satisfied with none . Those that best pleased her , as placing his conduct in the noblest light , seemed most improbable . She could not bear such suspense ; and hastily seizing a sheet of paper , wrote a short letter to her aunt , to request an explanation of what Lydia had dropt , if it were compatible with the secrecy which had been intended .
" You may readily comprehend ," she added , " what my curiosity must be to know how a person unconnected with any of us , and ( comparatively speaking ) a stranger to our family , should have been amongst you at such a time . Pray write instantly , and let me understand it--unless it is , for very cogent reasons , to remain in the secrecy which Lydia seems to think necessary ; and then I must endeavour to be satisfied with ignorance ."
" Not that I shall , though ," she added to herself , as she finished the letter ; " and my dear aunt , if you do not tell me in an honourable manner , I shall certainly be reduced to tricks and stratagems to find it out ."
Jane ' s delicate sense of honour would not allow her to speak to Elizabeth privately of what Lydia had let fall ; Elizabeth was glad of it ; --till it appeared whether her inquiries would receive any satisfaction , she had rather be without a confidante .