"I honour your circumspection," said Elizabeth, "and I could wish, for the honour of your acquaintance, that you did not make yourself so very unhappy."
"I am not sorry to hear that you do not mean to be unhappy," replied Miss Bingley; "and it is a great deal to know that you have too much sense to fall in love with Sir William."
"I confess," said Elizabeth, "that I have very little inclination to do so. But I hope you will not think me impertinent for asking why I am to be prevented from doing it."
"Because," replied Miss Bingley, "he is a fellow of so little mind, that you would be tired of him in a fortnight."
"And what if I should be tired of him in a fortnight?" said Elizabeth.
"Then," replied Miss Bingley, "you would be very silly indeed. But I dare say you will not be so silly as to give him any cause to think so."
"I cannot think it any great compliment to be told that I am the only handsome girl in company, without my sex being mentioned."
"I am sure you are very handsome," said Miss Bingley; "and I have no doubt that you will be married before any of the others."
"I am much obliged to you for your good opinion," said Elizabeth; "and I shall hope to be married, as well as yourself."
"And so you may," replied Miss Bingley; "but I must leave you to enjoy your own opinion of yourself."
"I will not be so easily tempted," said Elizabeth. "But I have been here too long. I must go and find my mother."
"Indeed you must," replied Miss Bingley; "for your mother will be very sorry to see you so much the worse for your walk."
Elizabeth smiled, and bowed. She then took her leave, and went to her mother.