第107章[第4页/共4页]

Though her brother and sister were persuaded that there was no real occasion for such a seclusion from the family,they did not attempt to oppose it,for they knew that she had not prudence enough to hold her tongue before the servants,while they waited at table,and judged it better that one only of the household,and the one whom they could most trust should comprehend all her fears and solicitude on the subject.

But Mr. Gardiner, though he assured her again of his earnest endeavours in the cause, could not avoid recommending moderation to her,as well in her hopes as her fear;and after talking with her in this manner till dinner was on the table,they all left her to vent all her feelings on the housekeeper,who attended in the absence of her daughters.

“And till Colonel Forster came himself, not one of you entertained a doubt,I suppose,of their being really married?”

“And was Denny convinced that Wickham would not marry? Did he know of their intending to go off?Had Colonel Forster seen Denny himself?”