Chapter 54 321
Chapter 54
As soon as they were gone, Elizabeth walked out to recover her spirits; or in other words, to dwell without interruption on those subjects that must deaden them more. Mr. Darcy ' s behaviour astonished and vexed her.
" Why, if he came only to be silent, grave, and indifferent," said she, " did he come at all?"
She could settle it in no way that gave her pleasure.
" He could be still amiable, still pleasing, to my uncle and aunt, when he was in town; and why not to me? If he fears me, why come hither? If he no longer cares for me, why silent? Teasing, teasing, man! I will think no more about him."
Her resolution was for a short time involuntarily kept by the approach of her sister, who joined her with a cheerful look, which showed her better satisfied with their visitors, than Elizabeth.
" Now," said she, " that this first meeting is over, I feel perfectly easy. I know my own strength, and I shall never be embarrassed again by his coming. I am glad he dines here on Tuesday. It will then be publicly seen that, on both sides, we meet only as common and indifferent acquaintance."
" Yes, very indifferent indeed," said Elizabeth, laughingly. " Oh, Jane, take care."
" My dear Lizzy, you cannot think me so weak, as to be in danger now?"
" I think you are in very great danger of making him as much in love with you as ever."
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