Chapter XVII.

1. "They have both been deceived, I dare say, in some way or other, of which we can form no idea.»

2. "And now, my dear Jane, what have you got to say on behalf of the interested people who have probably been concerned in the business"?

3. "My dearest Lizzy, do but consider in what a disgraceful light it places Mr. Darcy, to be treating his father's favorite in such a manner, one whom his father had promised to provide for. It is impossible. "

4. "It is difficult indeed—it is distressing. One does not know what to think."

5. The two young ladies were summoned from the shrubbery, where this conversation passed, by the arrival of the very persons of whom they had been speaking;

6. To the rest of the family they paid little attention; avoiding Mrs. Bennet as much as possible, saying not much to Elizabeth, and nothing at all to the others.

7. They were soon gone again and hurrying off as if eager to escape from Mrs. Bennet's civilities.

8. Jane pictured to herself a happy evening in the society of her two friends, and the attentions of her brother

9. Elizabeth thought with pleasure of dancing a great deal with Mr. Wickham, and of seeing a confirmation of everything in Mr. Darcy's look and behavior.

10. Elizabeth's spirits were so high on this occasion

11. Elizabeth asked to Mr. Collins whether he intended to accept Mr. Bingley's invitation

12. I take this opportunity of soliciting yours, Miss Elizabeth, for the two first dances especially – he said.

13. Elizabeth felt herself completely taken in.

14. She had fully proposed being engaged by Mr. Wickham for those very dances; and to have Mr. Collins instead!

15. Mr. Collins' proposal accepted with as good a grace as she could.

16. The idea soon reached to conviction, as she observed his increasing civilities toward herself, and heard his frequent attempt at a compliment on her wit and vivacity; and though more astonished than gratified herself by this effect of her charms, it was not long before her mother gave her to understand that the probability of their marriage was extremely agreeable to HER

17. Elizabeth, however, did not choose to take the hint, being well aware that a serious dispute must be the consequence of any reply.