Dame Julie Andrews

A report of a most alarming nature reached me two days ago.

I was told that not only your sister was on the point of being most advantageously married, but that you, that Miss Elizabeth Bennet, would, in all likelihood, be soon afterwards united to my nephew, my own nephew, Mr.

Darcy."

Though I know it must be a scandalous falsehood, though I would not injure him so much as to suppose the truth of it possible, I instantly resolved on setting off for this place, that I might make my sentiments known to you.

If you believed it impossible to be true, said Elizabeth, colouring with astonishment and disdain, I wonder you took the trouble of coming so far.

What could your ladyship propose by it?

At once to insist upon having such a report universally contradicted, replied Lady Catherine.

Your coming to Longbourn to see me and my family, said Elizabeth coolly, will be rather a confirmation of it, if, indeed, such a report is in existence.

If?

Do you then pretend to be ignorant of it?

Has it not been industriously circulated by yourselves?

Do you not know that such a report is spread abroad?'

"'I never heard that it was,' replied Lizzie.

"'And can you likewise declare that there is no foundation for it?

"'I do not pretend to possess equal frankness with your ladyship.

"'You may ask questions which I shall not choose to answer.'

This is not to be borne.

Miss Bennet, I insist on being satisfied.

Has he, has my nephew made you an offer of marriage?

Your ladyship has declared it to be impossible.