第113章[第1页/共5页]

“If we were ever able to learn what Wickham's debts have been,”said Elizabeth,“and how much is settled on his side on our sister, we shall exactly know what Mr. Gardiner has done for them, because Wickham has not sixpence of his own.The kindness of my uncle and aunt can never be requited.Their taking her home, and affording her their personal protection and countenance, is such a sacrifice to her advantage as years of gratitude cannot enough acknowledge. By this time she is actually with them! If such goodness does not make her miserable now,she will never deserve to be happy!What a meeting for her,when she first sees my aunt!”

Mr.Bennet made no answer,and each of them,deep in thought, continued silent till they reached the house.Their father then went on to the library to write, and the girls walked into the breakfast-room.

“Their conduct has been such,”replied Elizabeth,“as neither you,nor I,nor anybody can ever forget.It is useless to talk of it.”

“For we must attribute this happy conclusion,”she added,“in a great measure to his kindness.We are persuaded that he has pledged himself to assist Mr.Wickham with money.”

“Just as you please.”

“My dear, dear Lydia!”she cried.“This is delightful indeed! She will be married!I shall see her again!She will be married at sixteen!My good,kind brother!I knew how it would be.I knew he would manage everything!How I long to see her!and to see dear Wickham too!But the clothes,the wedding clothes! I will write to my sister Gardiner about them directly.Lizzy,my dear, run down to your father,and ask him how much he will give her. Stay,stay,I will go myself.Ring the bell,Kitty,for Hill.I will put on my things in a moment.My dear,dear Lydia!How merry we shall be together when we meet!”