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_PRIDE AND PREJUDICE_
_A PLAY_
[Illustration: "_Mr. Darcy, I have never desired your good opinion, and
you have certainly bestowed it most unwillingly._"]
_PRIDE AND PREJUDICE_
_A PLAY_
_FOUNDED ON JANE AUSTEN'S
NOVEL_
_BY_
_MRS. STEELE MACKAYE_
[Illustration: colophon]
_NEW YORK_
_DUFFIELD AND COMPANY_
_1906_
COPYRIGHT, 1906, BY DUFFIELD & COMPANY.
Published September, 1906.
------
SPECIAL COPYRIGHT NOTICE.
This play is fully protected by copyright, all requirements of the
law having been complied with. Performances may be given only with
the written permission of Duffield & Company, agents for Mrs.
Steele Mackaye, owner of the acting rights.
Extract from the law relating to copyright:
"SEC. 4996. Any person publicly performing or representing any
dramatic or musical composition for which a copyright has been
obtained, without the consent of the proprietor of said dramatic or
musical composition or his heirs or assigns, shall be liable for
damages therefor, such damages in all cases to be assessed at such
sum not less than one hundred dollars for the first and fifty
dollars for every subsequent performance as to the Court shall
appear just. If the unlawful performance and representation be
wilful and not for profit, such person or persons shall be guilty
of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction be imprisoned for a period
not exceeding one year."
PERSONS OF THE PLAY
MR. DARCY--(OF PEMBERLEY, DERBYSHIRE). "_Possessed of a fine tall
person, handsome features, noble mien, and ... ten thousand a year
... clever ... haughty, reserved and fastidious; his manners,
though well-bred, were not inviting. 'Some people call him proud,'
said Mrs. Reynolds, the housekeeper at Pemberley, 'but I am sure I
never saw anything of it.... He is the best landlord and the best
master that ever lived.'_"
MR. BINGLEY--(OF NETHERFIELD, HERTFORDSHIRE, DARCY'S FRIEND).
"_Just what a young man ought to be; sensible and good-humoured,
lively ... such happy manners! So much ease, with such perfect good
breeding.... Also handsome, which a young man ought likewise to be
if he possibly can._"
COLONEL FITZWILLIAM--(COUSIN TO DARCY). "_About thirty, not
handsome, but in person and address most truly the gentleman._"
MR. BENNET--(OF LONGBOURN). "_An odd mixture of quick parts,
sarcastic humour, reserve and caprice. He was fond of the country
and of books, and from these tastes had arisen his principal
enjoyments._"
MR. COLLINS--(A COUSIN OF MR. BENNET, AND NEXT IN THE ENTAIL OF
LONGBOURN ESTATE.) "_A tall, heavy-looking young man of
five-and-twenty. His air was grave and stately, and his manners
very formal. His veneration for his patroness, Lady Catherine de
Bourg, mingling with a very good opinion of himself and of his
authority as a clergyman ... made him altogether a mixture of pride
and obsequiousness, self-importance and humility._"
SIR WILLIAM LUCAS--(AN INTIMATE FRIEND AND NEIGHBOUR OF THE
BENNETS). "_Formerly in trade in Meryton ... he had risen to the
honour of knighthood by an address to the King during his
mayoralty. The distinction had ... given him a disgust to his
business, and, ... quitting it, he had removed ... to Lucas Lodge,
where he could think with pleasure of his own importance, and ...
occupy himself solely in being civil to all the world._"
COLONEL FORSTER--(THE COLONEL OF THE REGIMENT STATIONED AT
MERYTON).
MR. WICKHAM--(AN OFFICER IN THE REGIMENT). "_Endowed with all the
best parts of beauty--a fine countenance, a good figure, and a very
pleasing address. As false and deceitful as he is insinuating._"
MR. DENNY--(ANOTHER OFFICER IN THE REGIMENT).
HARRIS--(THE BUTLER AT LONGBOURN).
MRS. BENNET--(THE WIFE OF MR. BENNET). "_A woman of mean
understanding, little information, and uncertain temper. When she
was discontented she fancied herself nervous. The business of her
life was to get her daughters married; its solace was visiting and
news._"
JANE--(ELDEST DAUGHTER OF MR. AND MRS. BENNET). "_She united with
great strength of feeling a composure of temper and a uniform
cheerfulness of manner. Her mild and steady candour always pleaded
allowances, and urged the possibility of mistakes._"
ELIZABETH--(THEIR SECOND DAUGHTER). "_Although not so handsome as
Jane, her face was rendered uncommonly intelligent by the beautiful
expression of her dark eyes. She had a lively, playful disposition,
which delighted in anything ridiculous, with more quickness of
observation and less pliancy of temper than her sister. There was a
mixture of sweetness and archness in her manner which made it
difficult for her to affront anybody._"
LYDIA--(THEIR YOUNGEST DAUGHTER). "_A stout, well-grown girl of
fifteen, with a fine complexion and a good-humoured countenance--a
favourite with her mother, whose affection had brought her into
public at an early age._"
LADY LUCAS--(THE WIFE OF SIR WILLIAM). "_Not too clever to be a
valuable neighbour to Mrs. Bennet._"
CHARLOTTE LUCAS--(DAUGHTER OF SIR WILLIAM AND LADY LUCAS). "_A
sensible, intelligent young woman, about twenty-seven, ...
Elizabeth's intimate friend._"
MISS BINGLEY--(SISTER OF MR. BINGLEY). "_A very fine lady ... but
proud and conceited._"
LADY CATHERINE DE BOURG--(AUNT OF DARCY AND PATRONESS OF MR.
COLLINS). "_A tall, large woman, with strongly marked features,
which might once have been handsome. Her air was not
conciliating.... Whatever she said, was spoken in so authoritative
a tone as marked her self-importance._"
HILL--(THE HOUSEKEEPER AT LONGBOURN).
MARTHA--(THE MAID AT MR. COLLINS'S PARSONAGE).
ACT I
THE DRAWING-ROOM AT LONGBOURN
ACT II
THE ORANGERY AT NETHERFIELD
ONE MONTH LATER
ACT III
MR. COLLINS'S PARSONAGE AT HUNSFORD
THREE MONTHS LATER
ACT IV
THE SHRUBBERY AT LONGBOURN
ONE WEEK LATER
PLACE: ENGLAND TIME: 1796
"In the novels of the last hundred years there are vast numbers of
young ladies with whom it might be a pleasure to fall in love,--but
to live with and to marry, I do not know that any of them can come
into competition with _Elizabeth Bennet_."--GEORGE SAINTSBURY.
Preface to the Peacock Edition of "Pride and Prejudice."
ACT I
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
A PLAY
ACT I
_The drawing-room at Longbourn. At the back, wide glass doors open upon
a terrace which overlooks an English landscape. It is winter, and coals
are burning in the fireplace. On each side of the glass doors are
rounded recesses with windows. On one side of the room a door opens into
the library. On the other side is a door to the hall--the chief entrance
of the house. The room is handsomely furnished in eighteenth century
style._ MR. _and_ MRS. BENNET _are discovered sitting on either side of
the table._ MRS. BENNET _is knitting--_MR. BENNET _reading._
MRS. BENNET.
[_After a slight pause and laying down her knitting._]
My dear Mr. Bennet, did not you hear me? Did you know that Netherfield
Park is let at last?
MR. BENNET.
[_Continues reading and does not answer._]
MRS. BENNET.
[_Impatiently._] Do not you want to know who has taken it?
MR. BENNET.
[_Ceases reading and looks up at her with an amused smile._] You want to
tell me, and I have no objection to hearing it.
MRS. BENNET.
[_With animation._] Why, my dear, you must know Lady Lucas says that
Netherfield is taken by a young man of large fortune from the North of
England. His name is Bingley, and he is _single_, my dear. Think of
that, Mr. Bennet! A single man of large fortune; four or five thousand
pounds a year. What a fine thing for our girls!
MR. BENNET.
How so? How can it affect them?
MRS. BENNET.
My dear Mr. Bennet, how can you be so tiresome! You must know that I am
thinking of his marrying one of them.
MR. BENNET.
Is that his design in settling here?
MRS. BENNET.
Design!--Nonsense! How can you talk so? But it is very likely that he
will fall in love with one of them, and therefore you must visit him as
soon as you can. Consider your daughters, Mr. Bennet! Only think what an
establishment it would be for one of them! Sir William and Lady Lucas
are determined to go merely on that account. Indeed you must go, for it
will be impossible for us to visit him if _you_ do not.
MR. BENNET.
[_Who has risen during this last speech and now stands with his back to
the fire, facing_ MRS. BENNET.] You are overscrupulous, surely. I dare
say Mr. Bingley will be very glad to see you, and I will send a few
lines to assure him of my hearty consent to his marrying whichever he
chooses of the girls--though I must throw in a good word for my little
Lizzy.
MRS. BENNET.
[_Sharply._] I desire you will do no such thing! Lizzy is not a bit
better than the others. She is not half as handsome as Jane, nor as
good-humoured as Lydia. But you are always giving her the preference.
MR. BENNET.
Not unless she deserves it, my dear. But in this particular instance my
poor little Lizzy is the only one who is unprovided for. Lydia and the
others belong in the schoolroom, and you tell me that Mr. Collins has
already spoken for Jane.
MRS. BENNET.
Oh, that odious Mr. Collins! I wish he had never come here. I wish I
might never hear his name again!
MR. BENNET.
Mr. Collins odious! You surprise me! I thought that he had won your full
approval.
MRS. BENNET.
[_Fretfully._] Oh, well, since he had to be your cousin, and since you
_will_ not do anything about the entail, I suppose it will be a mercy if
he does marry Jane. [_Half crying._] But I do think, Mr. Bennet, it is
the hardest thing in the world that we have no son of our own, so that
your property has to be entailed away from your own wife and children,
so if you should die, we may all be turned out of the house whenever
this Mr. Collins pleases. [_In bewailing tone._] He certainly does seem
to have all the luck in the world. Here he has just got this good living
from that grand Lady Catherine de Bourg.
MR. BENNET.
But, my dear, that will soon be _your_ luck, as well. You forget that
your daughter is to profit by it.
MRS. BENNET.
Well, perhaps. I don't know about _that_, but, [_With renewed
excitement._] I _do_ know that it is too monstrous that after you are
gone I shall be forced to make way for this man and live to see him
master in this house!
MR. BENNET.
My dear, do not give way to such gloomy thoughts. Let us hope for better
things. Let us flatter ourselves that I may be the survivor.
MRS. BENNET.
[_This is not very consoling to_ MRS. BENNET; _and therefore, instead of
making answer, she goes on as before._] If it was not for the entail I
should not mind it.
MR. BENNET.
What should not you mind?
MRS. BENNET.
I should not mind anything at all.
MR. BENNET.
Let us be thankful that you are preserved from a state of such
insensibility. But it certainly is a most iniquitous affair, and nothing
can clear Mr. Collins from the guilt of inheriting Longbourn. However,
you know he is doing his best to mend matters. He has not only
handsomely apologised for his fault, but he has now assured us of his
readiness to make every possible amends by marrying one of the girls.
Surely, my dear, you must acknowledge that this plan is excessively
generous on his part.
MRS. BENNET.
[_Dolefully._] Well, I suppose it might be worse.
MR. BENNET.
[_Cheerfully._] Decidedly worse. With Jane so well settled, and a single
man like Mr. Bingley in prospect, I think you should be quite cheerful.
MRS. BENNET.
[_Excited once more._] Mr. Bingley! We shall never know Mr. Bingley. Oh,
Mr. Bennet, you take delight in vexing me. You have no compassion on my
poor nerves.
MR. BENNET.
You mistake, my dear. I have a high respect for your nerves. They are my
old friends. I have heard you mention them with consideration these
twenty years at least.
MRS. BENNET.
Ah! You do not know what I suffer.
LYDIA.
[_Bursting into the room, followed by_ JANE.] Oh, that horrid practice!
[_Looking back at_ JANE.] Jane does so keep me at it. [_Throwing herself
into a chair._] La, I'm tired to death.
JANE.
[_Who sees that her mother is half crying, goes and stands behind her
chair, puts her hand affectionately on her shoulder, and bends over
her._] Does your head ache, mamma?
MRS. BENNET.
Of course my head aches. Your father is so teasing. I cannot persuade
him to call on Mr. Bingley at Netherfield, so I suppose we shall never
know him.
JANE.
[_Smiling._] But you forget, mamma, that we shall meet him at the
assemblies, and Lady Lucas has promised to introduce him.
MRS. BENNET.
I do not believe Lady Lucas will do any such thing. She has daughters of
her own. She is a selfish, hypocritical woman, and I have no opinion of
her.
MR. BENNET.
No more have I, and I am glad to find that you do not depend on her
serving you.
MRS. BENNET.
I may have to depend on her after all, Mr. Bennet, since you will do
nothing to help me. [_Fretfully to_ LYDIA, _who has been yawning and
coughing._] Don't keep coughing, Lydia, for Heaven's sake! Have a little
compassion on my nerves.
[LYDIA _pouts and looks unutterable things._]
MR. BENNET.
Lydia has no discretion in her coughs. She times them ill.
LYDIA.
I do not cough for my own amusement, papa. Jane, when is your next ball?
JANE.
To-morrow fortnight.
MRS. BENNET.
[_Starting excitedly._] Ay, so it is--and Lady Lucas does not come back
till the day before. So you see it will be impossible for her to
introduce Mr. Bingley, for she will not know him herself.
MR. BENNET.
Then, my dear, you may have the advantage of your friend, and _you_ can
introduce Mr. Bingley to _her_.
MRS. BENNET.
Impossible, Mr. Bennet, when I am not acquainted with him myself. How
can you be so teasing?
MR. BENNET.
I honour your circumspection. A fortnight's acquaintance is certainly
very little. But if _we_ do not venture, somebody else will, and if
_you_ decline the office _I_ will take it upon myself.
MRS. BENNET.
[_As the two girls stare at their father._] Oh, nonsense--nonsense! I am
sick of Mr. Bingley!
MR. BENNET.
I am sorry to hear that; but why did not you tell me so before? If I had
known as much a week ago, I certainly should not have called upon him.
MRS. BENNET.
[_Springing from her chair and throwing her arms about_ MR. BENNET'S
_neck._] What! You have really called upon him? Oh, how good in you, my
dear Mr. Bennet!
MR. BENNET.
It is very unlucky; but as I have actually paid the visit--and as he
will very likely return it at any time, and bring his friend, Mr. Darcy,
with him--we cannot now avoid the acquaintance of Mr. Bingley and his
party.
MRS. BENNET.
Oh, my dear Mr. Bennet, I was sure you loved your girls too well to
neglect such an acquaintance. [MR. BENNET _deftly takes her hands from
his shoulders. She stands looking fondly at him._] Well, how pleased I
am! And it was such a good joke that you should have already paid Mr.
Bingley a visit and never said a word about it.
MR. BENNET.
Yes. Yes. Well, I must go to the library. [_He goes to the door, but
stops for a moment._] Now, Lydia, you can cough as much as you choose.
[_He goes out._]
MRS. BENNET.
[_Looking after_ MR. BENNET.] What an excellent father you have, girls!
[_Turns to the girls._] I do not know how you will ever make him amends
for his kindness, or me either, for that matter. At our time of life it
is not so pleasant to be making new acquaintances every day. But for
your sakes we would do anything. [_Looking about her._] Where is Lizzy?
Lydia, my love, where is your sister?
LYDIA.
Oh, she is out walking with Charlotte Lucas and that dismal Mr. Collins.
MRS. BENNET.
Lizzy--out walking with Mr. Collins? Why didn't _you_ go, Jane?
JANE.
I had to practise with Lydia.
LYDIA.
I'm sure I would have excused you. But what is Mr. Collins here for,
mamma? I am sure I caught Mr. Wickham and Colonel Forster laughing at
him the day we went to Meryton. Why does papa have a cousin like that?
MRS. BENNET.
He really cannot help it. It is the entail, my love--[_Mysteriously._]
But I hope that all you girls will be very civil to him, Jane
especially.
JANE.
I--mamma?
MRS. BENNET.
[_Embarrassed._] Yes--my love.--You see----
[_She is interrupted by the sound of laughter outside, and_ ELIZABETH'S
_voice._]
ELIZABETH.
Very well, Mr. Collins.
[MRS. BENNET _makes a sudden awed gesture of silence to the girls, who
fail to understand._ ELIZABETH _enters by the glass doors. She is
dressed in winter walking costume: a large hat,--fur-trimmed pelerine,
and a large muff. She stops in the doorway and looks at_ MRS. BENNET,
_half puzzled and smiling._]
ELIZABETH.
Well, what is it, mamma? What is the matter?
MRS. BENNET.
Nothing. Hush! What have you done with Mr. Collins?
ELIZABETH.
[_Laughing._] Oh, Mr. Collins is safe! He has gone round to the
library.
MRS. BENNET.
[_With a sigh of relief._] How providential!
ELIZABETH.
[_Looking back._] But I have brought someone else with me.
[MR. WICKHAM _and_ CHARLOTTE LUCAS _come in gaily._]
ALL.
[_Exclaiming._] Oh, Mr. Wickham!
WICKHAM.
[_To_ MRS. BENNET.] How do you do, Mrs. Bennet? This is indeed a
pleasure. [_Going over to_ JANE.] Miss Bennet, I am _so_ glad to see
you. [_Reproachfully._] You were not with our party! [_To_ LYDIA.] Why
do you never come to Meryton, Miss Lydia? Mr. Denny is quite downcast.
LYDIA.
[_Pouting._] La, Mr. Denny!
WICKHAM.
And many others beside him, Miss Lydia.
[LYDIA _giggles._ WICKHAM _returns to_ MRS. BENNET.]
MRS. BENNET.
Well, 'tis an age since we saw you, Mr. Wickham. What _have_ you been
doing?
WICKHAM.
Colonel Forster keeps me so busy that I have no time for enjoyment.
ELIZABETH.
Yes, Mr. Wickham bears all the marks of an harassed and overworked man.
WICKHAM.
[_Bowing to_ ELIZABETH.] Thank you, Miss Elizabeth. You have given me
the very terms I needed. [_To_ MRS. BENNET.] You see before you, Mrs.
Bennet, an harassed and overworked man. Miss Elizabeth will bear witness
that I was on my way to a business appointment when I yielded to
temptation and went off for a walk with her and Miss Lucas and their
irreproachable escort.
ELIZABETH.
And Miss Elizabeth will also testify that you yielded with the celerity
and ease of long practice.
WICKHAM.
[_Laughing; to_ ELIZABETH.] But in this case who was the tempter?
ELIZABETH.
Oh, I will admit that Mr. Collins was partially responsible.
[_All laugh._]
MRS. BENNET.
Come, Lizzy, you have been talking to Mr. Wickham all the morning. Now,
let some of the rest of us have a chance. [_Turning to_ WICKHAM.] You
must stay to dinner, Mr. Wickham.
WICKHAM.
I wish I might. That is indeed a temptation. But you know Miss Elizabeth
has just reminded me of my duty.
MRS. BENNET.
Oh, nobody ever minds Lizzy!
WICKHAM.
Truly, I cannot to-day, Mrs. Bennet. It is too bad, but I am to meet
Colonel Forster [_Smiling at_ ELIZABETH] on important _business_ at the
Drake Farm.
MRS. BENNET.
Well, I am very sorry.
WICKHAM.
[_Hesitatingly._] I might perhaps bring Colonel Forster in for a few
moments on the way back--that is, if we return this way.
ALL.
Oh, yes, do.
MRS. BENNET.
Yes, indeed. Tell Colonel Forster we should be delighted to see him.
WICKHAM.
Thank you, I will. But now I really must be gone. [_Bowing brightly to_
JANE _and_ LYDIA.] Good morning.
[_To_ CHARLOTTE LUCAS.] Good morning, Miss Lucas. You must let me hear
more about those clever plans of yours. I am vastly interested in them.
[_To_ ELIZABETH.] Good morning, Miss Elizabeth. [_Laughing._] You must
try to temper your justice with mercy the next time I join you in a
walk. [_Pausing, he looks at_ MRS. BENNET, _who is standing between her
daughters._] Do you know, Mrs. Bennet, that you always remind me of one
of my old schoolboy phrases. _Filiæ pulchræ!--Mater pulchrior!_
Good-bye.
[_He runs off laughing. He has only gone a few steps when_ LYDIA, _who
has been standing close to the door, runs out and calls to him._]
LYDIA.
Oh, Mr. Wickham!
[WICKHAM _turns and_ LYDIA _runs up to him and whispers something in his
ear._ WICKHAM _laughs, then shakes his finger at her, still laughing,
and goes off._ LYDIA _stops outside and watches him._]
JANE.
Really, mamma, I think you should speak to Lydia. She is too forward.
MRS. BENNET.
Nonsense! You are jealous.
JANE.
Jealous! Of Lydia?
MRS. BENNET.
Well, she is no more forward than any of you. All you girls are crazy
about Mr. Wickham. [_Indulgently._] But I can't wonder at it. He
certainly is a most engaging young man. What were those French words he
said to me as he went out, Lizzy?
ELIZABETH.
They were Latin, dear. He paid a very charming compliment to our pretty
mamma. He said--The daughters are lovely, but the mother is lovelier.
You know papa always says that you are handsomer than any of us.
MRS. BENNET.
My dear Lizzy, I certainly have had my share of beauty, but I don't
pretend to be anything extraordinary now. [MR. COLLINS _enters._] Oh,
Mr. Collins, there you are.
MR. COLLINS.
[_Bowing profoundly._] I do not find Mr. Bennet in the library, Madam.
Do you know where he is?
MRS. BENNET.
Why, really, Mr. Collins, I can't imagine. Did you enjoy your walk?
MR. COLLINS.
Most assuredly, Madam. The beauties of nature, not only in the
landscape, but also [_Bowing to_ ELIZABETH _and_ CHARLOTTE LUCAS.] in
the blooming countenances of my fair companions, made our expedition a
peculiarly enjoyable one.
MRS. BENNET.
Well, I am very glad of it, I am sure. [_To_ JANE _and_ LYDIA.] Girls,
we haven't told Lizzy and Charlotte the news.
ELIZABETH.
What news, mamma?
MRS. BENNET.
[_Looking at_ CHARLOTTE _with an ill-concealed triumph_.] Oh, nothing of
consequence, Lizzy, only your father has just told us that we may expect
a visit at any time from our new neighbour, Mr. Bingley, and that friend
of his who is stopping with him.
ELIZABETH.
Oh, Mr. Bingley! That will be entertaining. [_Suddenly with mischief she
turns to_ MR. COLLINS, _who all through this latter conversation has
been staring at_ JANE _with solemn persistence_.] Do not you think so,
Mr. Collins?
MR. COLLINS.
[_Starting from his absorption._] Eh? What? [_Pompously again._] Excuse
me, Miss Elizabeth, on what subject did you ask my opinion?
ELIZABETH.
I asked you if you didn't think it was a very pleasant thing to meet new
neighbours.
MR. COLLINS.
Most assuredly, Miss Elizabeth, if those neighbours are possessed of
those qualifications which redound to their own credit, and to the
edification of their friends. Otherwise, as a clergyman, I must hesitate
in my approval. [_To_ MRS. BENNET.] You realise, I am sure, Madam, the
caution which should ever be exercised where my amiable young cousins
are concerned.
ELIZABETH.
Yes, mamma, you really should be cautious.
MRS. BENNET.
Nonsense! Why, my dear Mr. Collins, we have found out all about them.
Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy are connected with some of the most
respectable families in England.
MR. COLLINS.
[_In amazement._] Mr. Darcy? Mr. Fitzgerald Darcy! My dear Madam, can it
be possible that you are to be honoured by a visit from him? Respectable
indeed! Why, he is the nephew of my noble patroness, Lady Catherine de
Bourg. It is true that I have never yet had the honour of meeting
him--but he frequently visits his aunt, and she has promised to bring
him on some occasion to inspect my humble abode. I am surprised,
indeed, by this civility on his part. [_Anxiously._] I only fear there
may be some mistake, for Mr. Darcy has the reputation of possessing a
very natural pride of birth; but if your information is indeed to be
relied upon, I think Lady Catherine would consent to my approval of this
visit, provided my fair cousins will keep in mind the proper attitude of
respectful humility which should be assumed toward a person of his
superior station.
ELIZABETH.
We will promise you, Mr. Collins, never for one instant to forget either
Mr. Darcy's exalted position or our own insignificance.
MR. COLLINS.
[_Looking at her with admiration._] With that assurance, Miss Elizabeth,
I think even Lady Catherine would be satisfied. So I need no longer
withhold my sanction.
ELIZABETH.
[_Curtsying._] We thank you, sir.
MR. COLLINS.
This is the very attitude of mind I could desire. [_To_ MRS. BENNET.] I
think, with your permission, I will now retire again to the library.
[_Going over smilingly to_ JANE.] There was a volume of Fordyce's
sermons that you may remember I was reading to you in this room
yesterday. I do not find it in the library. Do you know where it is?
[_Looking about him._]
JANE.
I haven't seen it, Mr. Collins. I will try to find it for you. [_She
starts as if to go out of the room._]
MRS. BENNET.
[_Wishing to leave them together._] No--no, Lydia will find it. Lydia,
my love, go see if you can find the sermons for Mr. Collins.
[LYDIA, _with a grimace, rises slowly from her chair_.]
CHARLOTTE LUCAS.
Oh, Mrs. Bennet, I am quite sure that I saw the book in the hall. I will
go fetch it.
MRS. BENNET.
[_Sharply._] On no account, Charlotte. Lydia will find the book. Lizzy,
go and get the mud off your shoes.
MR. COLLINS.
Oh, I will not trouble any of you ladies.
MRS. BENNET.
It is no trouble, Mr. Collins. Charlotte, if you will come with me, I
have a parcel I should like to send your mother.
MR. COLLINS.
But I assure you, Madam----
[_As they go out_, MRS. BENNET--_looking daggers at_
CHARLOTTE--_tries to keep_ MR. COLLINS _with_ JANE.]
MRS. BENNET.
Lydia will find your book, Mr. Collins.
MR. COLLINS.
On no account, Madam----
[_With awkward gallantry_ MR. COLLINS _ushers out the
ladies_--LYDIA _rebellious_, CHARLOTTE _somewhat offended_.]
ELIZABETH.
[_With an amused smile, having watched the party vanish, turns to_ JANE
_and speaks to her in mock-heroic fashion_.] Miss Bennet! Do you realise
the honour which is so soon to fall upon our humble home, and our
gratefully humble selves?
JANE.
[_Smiling._] Oh, Lizzy!
ELIZABETH.
Do you really grasp in its full significance the fact that we may soon
be honoured by a visit from Mr. Bingley of Netherfield and Mr.
Fitzgerald Darcy, nephew of the Lady Catherine de Bourg?
JANE.
Oh, Lizzy, Mr. Collins is a little pompous, but he seems a very
well-meaning young man--indeed, sometimes quite agreeable.
ELIZABETH.
[_Looking quizzically, but affectionately, at her sister._] No one can
be anything but agreeable in the mind of our dear Jane. This time,
however, I quite agree with you, I am as delighted as papa with Mr.
Collins. I can see that his mixture of servility and importance promises
well.
JANE.
And I think Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy promise well. If the half of what
our neighbours say is true, Mr. Bingley will give us all sorts of
gaieties. [_Slyly._] Who knows? We may find him as entertaining as Mr.
Wickham.
ELIZABETH.
As Mr. Wickham? Then, dear Jane, we shall be rich indeed. [_Counting on
her fingers._] For hospitality--Mr. Bingley; for conversation--Mr.
Wickham; for grandeur--Mr. Darcy, and the agreeable Mr. Collins!
JANE.
Oh, Lizzy! Can not you let the poor man alone?
ELIZABETH.
With all my heart. I will gladly let him alone. You shall have him all
to yourself. [_Mischievously._] If only Mr. Collins knew your good
opinion of him! But he is too modest to find it out for himself.
JANE.
[_Playfully pulling_ ELIZABETH'S _ear_.] You are a tease!
HARRIS.
[_Entering._] The two gentlemen from Netherfield have just brought their
horses into the paddock, Madam.
JANE.
Show them in, Harris, and speak to Mrs. Bennet at once.
[HARRIS _bows and goes out_.]
JANE.
They have come soon, Lizzy. Really this is very civil in them.
ELIZABETH.
Uncommonly civil. Come with me, Jane. I must make myself tidy. Mud and
dirty petticoats for Mr. Darcy!--Oh, that would never do.
[_They run off, laughing. There is a short pause. Then_ MR. BINGLEY
_and_ MR. DARCY _enter. The latter is very quiet, with an air of
scornful hauteur_. BINGLEY, _on the contrary, has a gracious and
animated manner_. HARRIS _ushers them in, much impressed_.]
BINGLEY.
[_To_ HARRIS.] You will announce us to Mr. Bennet and the ladies.
[HARRIS _goes out_.]
Do you know, Darcy, I believe that was George Wickham we saw just now,
going toward the Drake Farm.
DARCY.
[_Quietly._] I think there is no doubt of it.
BINGLEY.
But what is he doing here?
DARCY.
[_With assumed indifference._] Probably it is his regiment which is
stationed at Meryton.
BINGLEY.
[_Excitedly._] No, Darcy! You don't mean it! Why, confound it, if I had
had any notion of that--I ... I....
DARCY.
[_Contemptuously._] I don't think we need mind Wickham.
BINGLEY.
But I do mind! To think that I should bring you into the neighbourhood
of that rascal----
DARCY.
He must live somewhere, I suppose.
BINGLEY.
Yes, unfortunately. But, Darcy, you are a puzzle to me.--You are,
indeed! How can you speak with any charity of a man who for years abused
the patience and generous kindness of your father, and who so lately has
attempted against your family the most dastardly action that----
DARCY.
[_Interrupting him with hauteur._] We have already said too much of
George Wickham. I prefer not to discuss him further.
[BINGLEY _turns away hurt and embarrassed_. DARCY _seeing the
effect of his words and manner, goes to him kindly, and speaks to
him in a changed voice_.]
Bingley, I entirely understand your indignation. Indeed, I share it so
fully that I dare not trust myself to think of the man's villainy. It is
better that I say nothing of him, even to you.
BINGLEY.
[_Moved._] I am sure, I beg your pardon, Darcy.
DARCY.
It is rather for me to ask yours.
[_There follows an awkward pause, which BINGLEY at length breaks by
speaking in a tone of forced gaiety_.]
BINGLEY.
Pretty place, this.
DARCY.
[_With a shrug._] Very small.
BINGLEY.
What has the size to do with it? I think we are in luck to have such
charming neighbours. You know we saw two of the young ladies going
through the lane the other day. Why, Darcy, one of them is the most
beautiful creature I ever beheld--and the other--the one with the dark
eyes--she is uncommonly pretty. Don't you think so?
DARCY.
She is tolerable, but fine eyes cannot change family connections.
BINGLEY.
[_Quickly._] What do you mean?
DARCY.
I think I have heard you say that their uncle is an attorney in
Meryton.
BINGLEY.
[_Shortly._] Yes.
DARCY.
And that they have another in London who lives somewhere near Cheapside.
BINGLEY.
[_With irritation._] If they had uncles enough to fill all Cheapside, it
wouldn't make them one jot less handsome.
DARCY.
But it must materially lessen their chances of marrying men of any
consideration in the world.
BINGLEY.
Of marrying? You go fast, Darcy.
DARCY.
Perhaps. But I am in no humour to give consequence to young ladies. I am
here to please you, Bingley--and--[_He smiles meaningly._] knowing your
disposition, I think it is just as well that I came.
[BINGLEY _is about to reply when the door opens and_ MRS. BENNET
_enters, followed by_ JANE _and_ ELIZABETH. _The two young men
make ceremonious bows._ MRS. BENNET _curtsies and then advances
with delighted fussiness_.]
MRS. BENNET.
Good morning, gentlemen. I am so sorry that Mr. Bennet has gone for his
walk.
[_As she looks a little puzzled from one to the other_, BINGLEY
_advances_.]
BINGLEY.
Good morning, Mrs. Bennet. I am Mr. Bingley, your new neighbour at
Netherfield. This is my friend, Mr. Darcy, of Pendleton, Derbyshire.
[_All bow and curtsy._] Mr. Bennet has been so kind as to call upon us,
and we are most happy to have the honour of waiting upon the ladies of
his family.
MRS. BENNET.
We are delighted to see you, I am sure! Mr. Bingley--Mr.
Darcy--[_Indicating_ JANE]--my eldest daughter, Miss Bennet.
[_Indicating_ ELIZABETH]--Miss Elizabeth Bennet.
[_The girls make low curtsies--the gentlemen bow._]
Will not you be seated, gentlemen? [_The guests and ladies seat
themselves._] I am sure you must like Netherfield, Mr. Bingley. I do not
know a place in the country that is equal to Netherfield. You will not
think of quitting it in a hurry, I hope, though you have but a short
lease.
BINGLEY.
Whatever I do is done in a hurry, Mrs. Bennet, and therefore if I should
resolve to quit Netherfield I should probably be off in five minutes. At
present, however, [_looking intently at_ JANE] I consider myself as
quite fixed here.
JANE.
It is very pleasant to have Netherfield open once more, although you
must both miss London. There is so much gaiety in London.
DARCY.
Yes, in a country neighbourhood you move in a confined and unvarying
society.
[MRS. BENNET _looks vexed at this speech_.]
ELIZABETH.
But people themselves alter so much that there is something new to be
observed in them forever.
[DARCY _turns and looks at_ ELIZABETH _with surprise and interest_.]
BINGLEY.
Then you are a student of character, Miss Elizabeth. It must be an
amusing study.
MRS. BENNET.
Yes, Lizzy always likes to watch people. [_Looking at_ DARCY.] And there
are plenty of people about, even if you do live in the country. The
country is a vast deal pleasanter than London, is not it, Mr. Bingley?
BINGLEY.
When I am in the country I never wish to leave it, and when I am in town
it is pretty much the same. They have each their advantages and I am
equally happy in either.
MRS. BENNET.
Ay--that is because _you_ have the right disposition. [_Looking at_
DARCY.] But that gentleman seemed to think the country was nothing at
all.
ELIZABETH.
[_Quickly._] Indeed, mamma, you are mistaken. You quite mistook Mr.
Darcy. He only meant that there is not such a variety of people to be
met with in the country as in town, which you must acknowledge to be
true.
MRS. BENNET.
Certainly, my dear, nobody said there was--but as to not meeting with
many people in this neighbourhood, I believe there are few
neighbourhoods larger. I know we dine with four-and-twenty families.
[_As all become embarrassed at this speech_, BINGLEY _comes to the
rescue_.]
BINGLEY.
Yes, there are many fine estates hereabout. Can you see Sir William
Lucas' place from the garden? I am not quite sure I have placed it.
MRS. BENNET.
Oh, yes, there is a fine view of the chimneys from the terrace. Sir
William is our nearest neighbour. Such an agreeable man--so genteel, and
so easy---- [_Rising, she goes toward the glass doors._] Come, Jane, we
must show Mr. Bingley Sir William's chimneys.
[MRS. BENNET, BINGLEY, _and_ JANE _go out upon the terrace_.]
ELIZABETH.
[_Smiling mischievously._] Would not you also like to see the chimneys,
Mr. Darcy?
DARCY.
Thank you. Like yourself, I prefer people to places.
ELIZABETH.
Did I say that?
DARCY.
Not precisely. But I have drawn that conclusion.
ELIZABETH.
[_Gathering her sewing materials, begins to embroider._] Well, I can
laugh at people better than places, and I dearly love a laugh.
DARCY.
Isn't that rather a dangerous trait, Miss Bennet? The wisest and the
best of men may be rendered ridiculous by a person whose first object in
life is a joke.
ELIZABETH.
Certainly. But I hope I never ridicule what is wise or good. Whims and
inconsistencies do divert me, I own, and I laugh at them whenever I can.
[_Mischievously._] But these, I suppose, are precisely what you are
without.
DARCY.
Perhaps that is not possible for anyone. But it has been the study of my
life to avoid those weaknesses which often expose a strong understanding
to ridicule.
ELIZABETH.
And in your list of weaknesses do you include such faults as vanity and
pride, for instance?
DARCY.
Yes, vanity is a weakness, indeed, but _pride_, where there is a real
superiority of mind--pride will be always under good regulation.
ELIZABETH.
I am perfectly convinced, Mr. Darcy, that you have no defect.
DARCY.
I have made no such pretension, Miss Bennet. I have faults enough. My
temper I dare not vouch for. I cannot forget the follies and vices of
others against myself. My good opinion once lost is lost forever.
ELIZABETH.
That is a failing, indeed. Implacable resentment _is_ a shade in a
character. But you have chosen your fault well. I really cannot laugh at
it. You are safe from me.
DARCY.
There is, I believe, in every disposition a tendency to some particular
evil--a natural defect which not even the best education can overcome.
ELIZABETH.
And your defect is a propensity to hate everybody.
DARCY.
[_Smiling._] And yours to wilfully misunderstand them.
[_Voices are heard outside._ ELIZABETH _applies herself to her
embroidery_. BINGLEY, JANE, _and_ MRS. BENNET _return from the
terrace_.]
BINGLEY.
The surrounding country is really charming, Mrs. Bennet.
MRS. BENNET.
_We_ think so. But you must give us a ball at Netherfield, Mr. Bingley,
and then you will see that some of the people who live here are worth
knowing.
ELIZABETH.
[_Distressed._] Oh, mamma!
JANE.
Mamma!
BINGLEY.
Certainly, Mrs. Bennet. I had already decided upon it. I told Mr. Darcy
only yesterday that as soon as my sister, Miss Bingley, arrived, and
Nicholas could make white soup enough, I should send out my cards. Did
not I, Darcy?
DARCY.
[_Very stiffly._] I believe you did.
MRS. BENNET.
Well, that is vastly good in you, Mr. Bingley; and then, perhaps, your
friend may change his mind about the country. [_To_ DARCY.] You didn't
come to admire Sir William's chimneys, Mr. Darcy.
DARCY.
I was admiring your daughter's work, Madam.
MRS. BENNET.
Oh, you should see Jane's work. Lizzy is all for books, like her father.
She is a great reader and has no pleasure in anything else. Jane, show
your embroidered parrot to Mr. Bingley.
JANE.
I do not think Mr. Bingley would be interested, ma'am.
BINGLEY.
[_Eagerly._] Oh, indeed, I should, Miss Bennet; I am very much
interested in parrots.--Pray show it to me.
MRS. BENNET.
Yes, and the new hand-screen. I will find it for you.
[_All three withdraw, leaving_ ELIZABETH _and_ DARCY _together_.]
DARCY.
And so you are a great reader and take no pleasure in anything else?
ELIZABETH.
Mamma does not understand. I deserve neither such praise nor such
censure. I am _not_ a great reader, and I have pleasure in many things.
DARCY.
So I should have thought.
BINGLEY.
[_Looking at the screen which he holds in his hand._]
It is amazing to me how young ladies can have patience to be so very
accomplished as they are; to think how you all paint tables and cover
screens and net purses. It is quite wonderful.
ELIZABETH.
Do you agree with your friend, Mr. Darcy?
DARCY.
His list of the common extent of accomplishments has too much truth. But
I cannot boast of knowing more than half a dozen young ladies in the
whole range of my acquaintance that are really accomplished.
ELIZABETH.
Then you must comprehend a great deal in your idea of an accomplished
woman.
DARCY.
Perhaps. To deserve the word, a woman must have a thorough knowledge of
music, singing, drawing, dancing, and the modern languages. She must
also possess a certain something in her air and manner of walking--the
tone of her voice--her address and expression, and to all this she must
yet add something more substantial--[_With a little bow to_ ELIZABETH.]
in the improvement of her mind by extensive reading.
ELIZABETH.
[_Laughing._] I am no longer surprised at your knowing only six
accomplished women! I rather wonder at your knowing any.
HARRIS.
[_Enters and announces._] Colonel Forster and Mr. Wickham.
[_The gentlemen enter, smiling._]
WICKHAM.
Here I am again, Mrs. Bennet. I found that Colonel Forster had a message
for the young ladies.
MRS. BENNET.
I am delighted to see you. You are just in time to meet our new
neighbours. [_Introducing the gentlemen._] Colonel Forster, Mr.
Wickham--Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy.
[_As the gentlemen enter_, MR. DARCY _has his back turned to them
in conversation with_ ELIZABETH. _At the sound of_ WICKHAM'S _voice
he starts and turns so that he faces the latter just in time for
the introduction. At sight of_ DARCY, WICKHAM _starts and is
greatly confused_. DARCY _stiffens and scarcely nods when_ WICKHAM
_is introduced. The whole situation is so marked that everyone
looks on with an astonishment to which_ MRS. BENNET _gives audible
expression_.]
MRS. BENNET.
Well, well! If ever there was a proud, stiff man----
JANE.
[_In a dismayed whisper._] Mamma!
BINGLEY.
[_Looking distressed, speaks hurriedly._] Oh, Mrs. Bennet, I'm sorry
that we cannot wait for Mr. Bennet. We--we--were on the way to meet my
steward--and we are already late for the appointment.
MRS. BENNET.
[_Effusively._] I am very sorry you must go, Mr. Bingley. But I hope you
will come again. We must engage you soon for dinner.
BINGLEY.
[_In an absent and worried way._] It will be a pleasure.
[_Then with bows, the party moves toward the door._]
MRS. BENNET.
[_Bustling._] Your best way to the paddock is by the terrace.
[_The gentlemen have almost reached the glass doors when_ MR.
COLLINS _comes in excitedly, putting himself directly in the way
of_ BINGLEY _and_ DARCY.]
MR. COLLINS.
My dear Miss Elizabeth, I have this moment found out by a singular
accident that there is now in this room a near relation of my patroness
Lady Catherine de Bourg. Will you present me?
[_He looks enquiringly from one to the other of the young men._]
ELIZABETH.
Mr. Bingley, allow me to present my cousin, Mr. Collins--Mr. Darcy--Mr.
Collins.
MR. COLLINS.
[_Taking almost no notice of_ MR. BINGLEY, _he greets_ MR. DARCY _with
servile effusion_.] My dear sir--I trust you will pardon me for not
having paid my respects before. My total ignorance of your presence here
must plead my apology. [_Looking severely about him at the ladies._] I
was not informed of it. Is there any message, sir, which I could take
from you to my honoured patroness--your aunt, or to your fair
cousin--Miss de Bourg?
DARCY.
[_Stiffly._] Thank you, I will not trouble you so far.
MR. COLLINS.
It would be no trouble--but an honour and a privilege.
DARCY.
[_Disgusted, turns from him to_ BINGLEY.] We are already very late,
Bingley.
BINGLEY.
Yes,--we have no time to lose.
[DARCY _and_ BINGLEY _give passing bows and go out by the glass
doors_. MR. COLLINS _keeps by_ DARCY'S _side and, as they pass out
of sight, is seen still talking to him, to his evident annoyance.
All the time that the party is bidding good-bye to_ BINGLEY _and_
DARCY, WICKHAM _has been moodily standing by the fireplace_.
ELIZABETH _has evidently been concerned about him, for throughout
the foregoing interview with_ MR. COLLINS, _she has looked at_
WICKHAM _from time to time_.]
HILL.
[_Enters at the door leading to the hall._] May I speak to you, Madam?
MRS. BENNET.
Yes, Hill, yes. [_To the gentlemen._] Excuse me for a moment. I will
return directly. [MRS. BENNET _and_ HILL _go out_.]
COLONEL FORSTER.
Oh, Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth! Your aunt, Mrs. Phillips, has sent word
by me that her card-party is to be on Wednesday. She hopes you will
surely be there.
ELIZABETH.
[_In a pre-occupied way, looking towards_ WICKHAM.] Oh, yes, we shall
go.
COLONEL FORSTER.
[_As he passes the piano, and looking at some music which is on the
rack._] Ah! Here is the song you have promised to sing to me. Pray sing
it now, Miss Elizabeth.
ELIZABETH.
Really, Colonel Forster, you must excuse me for to-day. Jane will play
for you, instead.
JANE.
Indeed, I cannot, Lizzy.
ELIZABETH.
[_Looking meaningly at her._] _Please_, Jane.
COLONEL FORSTER.
Oh, do, I beg--Miss Bennet.
[_All through the following interview between_ ELIZABETH _and_
WICKHAM, _the tinkle of the instrument is heard. During their
conversation_ JANE'S _back is_ _turned--also_ COLONEL FORSTER'S _as
he looks over her music--so that_ ELIZABETH _and_ WICKHAM _are
practically alone_. ELIZABETH _returns to her embroidery. There is
an awkward pause for a moment._ WICKHAM _finally breaks it_.]
WICKHAM.
How long has Mr. Darcy been in Hertfordshire, Miss Elizabeth?
ELIZABETH.
Only for a very short time, I believe. He comes from Derbyshire, I
understand, and has a very large property there.
WICKHAM.
Yes, his estate is a noble one. A clear ten thousand per annum. I am
well informed on this head---- [_Hesitates._] I have been connected with
Mr. Darcy's family in a particular manner since my infancy.
ELIZABETH.
[_Surprised._] Indeed?
WICKHAM.
You may well be surprised, Miss Elizabeth, at this assertion after
seeing the very cold manner of our meeting just now. [_After a pause._]
Are you much acquainted with Mr. Darcy?
ELIZABETH.
No. Though I have heard of him, I met him for the first time to-day, but
even on this short acquaintance I should take him to be an ill-tempered
man.
WICKHAM.
[_As if he had come to a sudden decision._] Miss Elizabeth, you have
been a witness of Mr. Darcy's treatment of me to-day, and therefore I
feel that I must, for my own justification, acquaint you with the facts
of my past connection with him.
ELIZABETH.
I shall respect your confidence, Mr. Wickham.
WICKHAM.
I am sure of it. [_After a short pause._] Mr. Darcy and I were born in
the same parish. My own father, who, to be frank, was steward of the
Darcy estates, gave up everything to serve the interests of the Darcy
family. Mr. Darcy's father was excessively attached to me:--indeed, I
was his godson. He meant to provide for me amply, and thought he had
done so. I was destined for the church and Mr. Darcy's father left to me
a most valuable living. But the present Mr. Darcy chose to ignore his
father's will and gave the living to another man. This closed for me the
career for which I was most fitted and left me with almost no means of
support.
ELIZABETH.
Good heavens! But how could that be? Why did not you seek legal redress?
WICKHAM.
There was an informality in the terms of the will which gave me no hope
from the law. Mr. Darcy's father had relied implicitly upon the honour
of his son.
ELIZABETH.
But--this is quite shocking. Mr. Darcy deserves to be publicly
disgraced!
WICKHAM.
Sometime or other he will be, but not by me. Till I can forget his
father, I can never defy or expose him.
ELIZABETH.
This feeling does you honour. But what can have induced Mr. Darcy to
behave so cruelly?
WICKHAM.
I must attribute it in some measure to his jealousy. His father's
uncommon attachment to me irritated him, but the fact is, Miss
Elizabeth, as you can see, we are very different men, and he hates me.
ELIZABETH.
His disposition must be dreadful.
WICKHAM.
I will not trust myself on that subject.
ELIZABETH.
To treat in such a manner the godson--the friend--the favourite of his
father! How abominable!
WICKHAM.
And yet, Miss Elizabeth, we must try to be just to him. Mr. Darcy has
many good qualities. He can be both liberal and generous. He has also a
brother's affection and pride which makes him a careful guardian of his
sister.
ELIZABETH.
Oh, he has a sister?
WICKHAM.
Yes. You will hear him cried up as the most attentive and best of
brothers. Oh, Mr. Darcy can please when he chooses. Among those who are
his equals he is a very different man from what he is to the less
prosperous.
ELIZABETH.
Contemptible!
COLONEL FORSTER.
[_Interrupting._] Wickham!
WICKHAM.
[_Starting._] Yes, Colonel Forster.
COLONEL FORSTER.
I fear we must be going.
WICKHAM.
[_Hurriedly to Elizabeth._] Thank you for listening to me. It is hard to
be misjudged.
ELIZABETH.
Thank you for your confidence. It is well to know the truth.
COLONEL FORSTER.
Well, Miss Elizabeth, I hope we shall see you all at your aunt's on
Wednesday. Good morning. [_To_ JANE.] Good morning, Miss Bennet. Thank
you for the music. Please present my respects to Mrs. Bennet. I am sorry
that we cannot wait longer.
WICKHAM.
[_Effusively._] Yes, Miss Bennet, be sure to give your mother my best
regards. Good morning--[_All bow and curtsy. As he is leaving he speaks
aside._] Oh, Miss Elizabeth, may I entreat----
ELIZABETH.
You may depend upon my sympathy.
WICKHAM.
[_Looking at her with an understanding smile._] I am most grateful.
[_The gentlemen go out of the door._ JANE _and_ ELIZABETH _go into
the recess and look from the window. There is a short pause._]
MRS. BENNET.
[_Enters, flurried, and looks about her._] Well, have they gone?
[MR. COLLINS _enters through the glass doors at the center. He
sees_ MRS. BENNET.]
MR. COLLINS.
Oh, Madam, I am just returned from attending on Mr. Darcy. Such a
privilege! He was most condescending. I was able to tell him that Lady
Catherine was very well on Saturday sennight. He is very like Lady
Catherine. I am sure you must have been impressed by his distinguished
manners.
MRS. BENNET.
Well, really, Mr. Collins!
[_A titter is heard from the recess where the girls are seated, and
then_ JANE'S _voice_.]
JANE.
Oh, Lizzy, hush!
MR. COLLINS.
[_Hearing this, turns and discovers the two girls. Then he speaks to_
MRS. BENNET _with lowered voice, as if an idea had just come to him_.]
This meeting is most opportune. Will you kindly step this way for a
moment? [_He draws_ MRS. BENNET _aside_.] May I hope, Madam, for your
interest with your fair daughter Jane, in the matter on which we were
speaking yesterday? I would solicit the honour of a private audience
with her this morning.
MRS. BENNET.
Certainly, Mr. Collins. [_Hesitating._] But there have been some changes
since then. Some things have happened--I think it is right you should
know, that--that Jane is very likely to be soon engaged.
[_Encouragingly._] But there is Elizabeth. I cannot take it upon myself
to say--I cannot possibly answer--but I do not know of any prepossession
in her case, and I am sure she can have no objection to listen to you.
[MRS. BENNET _goes to the fire and stirs it_.]
MR. COLLINS.
[_As soon as she has finished._] Then Miss Elizabeth let it be, Madam. I
was struck by her attitude of respectful awe when I mentioned the Lady
Catherine de Bourg. Such modesty and humility of mind cannot but
recommend her to my patroness.
MRS. BENNET.
[_Looking rather astonished at this last speech, but recovering
herself._] Yes, my daughter Elizabeth knows what is proper. She will be
very happy to listen to you. Shall I call her now?
MR. COLLINS.
I think, Madam, there should be no further loss of time, as my leave of
absence extends only to the coming Saturday.
MRS. BENNET.
Very well--[_She goes to the recess where the two girls are talking
together._] Jane, I want you upstairs. Lizzy, Mr. Collins has something
he wishes to say to you.
ELIZABETH.
[_Suspicious and dismayed._] Dear ma'am, Mr. Collins must excuse me. I
was just going away myself.
MRS. BENNET.
Now, no nonsense, Lizzy! I desire you will stay. Mr. Collins has
something _very_ particular to say to you. [_As_ ELIZABETH _tries to
escape_.] Lizzy, I insist upon your staying and hearing Mr. Collins.
Come, Jane--[MRS. BENNET _and_ JANE _go out_.]
MR. COLLINS.
[_Approaching_ ELIZABETH, _who does not move from the place where her
mother left her_.] Believe me, my dear Miss Elizabeth, your modesty so
far from doing you any disservice rather adds to your other perfections.
But allow me to assure you that I have your respected mother's
permission for this address. [_He escorts_ ELIZABETH _with clumsy
gallantry to the sofa, then brings a chair and seats himself opposite to
her_. ELIZABETH _has recovered herself sufficiently to begin to enjoy
the humour of the situation_.] My fair cousin, you must have at least
surmised that I am about to ask you to become the companion of my life.
And perhaps I had better begin by stating my reasons for this decision
before I am run away with by my feelings on this subject. [ELIZABETH _is
so overcome with laughter at this idea that she can hardly speak, or
keep a decent countenance_.]
ELIZABETH.
Oh, I beg, Mr. Collins----
MR. COLLINS.
One moment. My reasons for marrying are, first,--that I think it a right
thing for every clergyman to set the example of matrimony to his parish;
second, I am convinced it will add very greatly to my happiness; third,
it is the particular advice of that very noble lady whom I have the
honour of calling patroness.
ELIZABETH.
[_With more command of her voice._] Believe me, Mr. Collins----
MR. COLLINS.
Excuse me--one moment. It remains only to be told why my views were
directed to Longbourn instead of to my own neighbourhood. The fact is
that, being as I am to inherit this estate after the death of your
father (who, however, may live many years longer), I could not satisfy
myself without resolving to choose a wife from among his daughters, that
the loss to them might be as little as possible, when the melancholy
event took place. This has been my motive, my fair cousin, and I flatter
myself it will not sink me in your esteem.
ELIZABETH.
Mr. Collins,--I----
MR. COLLINS.
[_Rising and approaching nearer to_ ELIZABETH.] Still one moment more!
And now nothing remains for me but to assure you, in the most animated
language, of the violence of my affection. To fortune I am perfectly
indifferent, and you may assure yourself that no ungenerous reproach on
that score shall ever pass my lips when we are married.
ELIZABETH.
[_Rising in her turn._] You are too hasty, sir! You forget that I have
made no answer. Accept my thanks for the compliment you are paying me. I
am very sensible of the honour of your proposals, but it is impossible
for me to do otherwise than decline them.
MR. COLLINS.
[_With another formal wave of the hand._] I am not unmindful of the fact
that sometimes a young lady's refusal is repeated a second or even a
third time. I am, therefore, by no means discouraged by what you have
just said, and I shall hope to lead you to the altar ere long.
ELIZABETH.
Upon my word, sir, your hope is rather an extraordinary one after my
declaration! You must pay me the compliment of believing what I say. I
wish you very happy, and very rich, and, by refusing your hand, do all
in my power to prevent your being otherwise. This matter may be
considered, therefore, as definitely settled.
[_She is about to leave the room when_ MR. COLLINS _detains her_.]
MR. COLLINS.
One moment. When I do myself the honour of speaking to you next on this
subject, I shall hope to receive a more favourable answer.
ELIZABETH.
[_Becoming angry._] Really, Mr. Collins, you puzzle me exceedingly. I
know not how to express my refusal in such a way as may convince you of
its being one.
MR. COLLINS.
You must give me leave to flatter myself, my dear cousin, that your
refusals of my address are merely words, of course. I shall choose to
attribute them to your wish of increasing my love by suspense, according
to the usual practice of elegant females.
ELIZABETH.
[_Very decidedly._] Please do not consider me now as an 'elegant
female'; I would rather be paid the compliment of being believed
sincere. To accept your proposal is absolutely impossible. Can I speak
plainer?
MR. COLLINS.
[_With awkward gallantry._] You are uniformly charming; but I am
persuaded that when my proposals are sanctioned by both your parents
they will not fail of being acceptable. Meanwhile I may perhaps best
serve my cause by leaving you to consider the matter by yourself for a
while.
[_He bows and withdraws to the door._ ELIZABETH _with a gesture as
if she gave the whole matter up in despair, and yet half amused,
goes to the fireplace. Just as_ MR. COLLINS _reaches the door_ MRS.
BENNET _opens it_.]
MRS. BENNET.
Well, Mr. Collins, are we to congratulate each other? [_Looking
doubtfully at_ ELIZABETH.] Has all gone as you could wish?
MR. COLLINS.
I have every reason to be satisfied, Madam. My cousin has indeed
steadily refused this, my first offer, and with considerable warmth, but
this refusal would naturally flow from her bashful modesty. With your
influence behind me, I have no doubt of my ultimate success.
MRS. BENNET.
Yes, you may depend upon me, Mr. Collins. I will speak to Lizzy myself
directly. She is a very headstrong, foolish girl and does not know her
own interest. But I will make her know it.
MR. COLLINS.
[_Alarmed._] Pardon me, Madam, but if she is really headstrong and
foolish, I know not whether she would altogether be a very desirable
wife to a man in my situation. If, therefore, Miss Elizabeth persists in
rejecting my suit, perhaps it were better not to force her into
accepting me.
MRS. BENNET.
[_Alarmed in her turn._] Sir, you quite misunderstand me. Lizzy is only
headstrong in such matters as these. In everything else she is as
good-natured a girl as ever lived. Let me see her alone for a moment.
That will be the best.
MR. COLLINS.
But Madam--I----
MRS. BENNET.
[_Almost forcing_ MR. COLLINS _out of the room_.] Oh, I shall very soon
settle it with her, I am sure. [MR. COLLINS _goes out_. MRS. BENNET
_goes quickly to_ ELIZABETH.] Lizzy, what is the meaning of all this?
Have you refused Mr. Collins?
ELIZABETH.
Yes, mamma, but please listen----
MRS. BENNET.
[_Angrily._] No, I will not listen. 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. I am going at once to the
library and speak to your father. You will listen _to him_ perhaps.
[MRS. BENNET _starts to go when she sees_ MR. BENNET _outside
passing the glass doors. He is just returning from his walk and
carries a book under his arm_.]
MRS. BENNET.
Oh, there he is now! [_She runs to the door, and opens it._] Oh, Mr.
Bennet--Mr. Bennet! [MR. BENNET _turns_. MRS. BENNET _runs out, takes
him by the arm, and tries to pull him into the room by main force_. MR.
BENNET, _puzzled, submits_.]
MRS. BENNET.
[_While she draws_ MR. BENNET _into the room_.] Oh, Mr. Bennet, you are
wanted immediately. We are all in an uproar. You must come and make
Lizzy marry Mr. Collins, for she vows she will not have him, and, if you
do not make haste, Mr. Collins will change his mind and not have _her_.
MR. BENNET.
I have not the pleasure of understanding you. Of what are you talking?
MRS. BENNET.
Of Mr. Collins and Lizzy! Lizzy declares she will not have Mr. Collins,
and Mr. Collins begins to say he will not have Lizzy.
MR. BENNET.
Lizzy? I thought it was Jane.
MRS. BENNET.
No--no--It's Lizzy now!
MR. BENNET.
Ah! And what am I to do on the occasion? It seems a hopeless business.
MRS. BENNET.
Speak to Lizzy. There she is. [_Pointing to_ ELIZABETH _at the
fireplace_.] Tell her that you insist upon her marrying him.
MR. BENNET.
[_Turning to_ ELIZABETH.] Come here, child. [ELIZABETH _goes to her
father_.] This is an affair of importance. I understand that Mr. Collins
has made you an offer of marriage. Is this true?
ELIZABETH.
Yes--papa--it--is.
MR. BENNET.
Very well--and this offer of marriage you have refused.
ELIZABETH.
I have, sir.
MR. BENNET.
We now come to the point. Your mother insists upon your accepting him.
Is it not so, Mrs. Bennet?
MRS. BENNET.
Yes, or I will never see her again!
MR. BENNET.
An unhappy alternative is before you, Elizabeth. From this day, you must
be a stranger to one of your parents. Your mother will never see you
again, if you do _not_ marry Mr. Collins; and _I_ will never see you
again if you _do_.