And so saying,he turned back with them,and walked towards the house.
“Well,and what news does it bring―good or bad?”
“That is very true,”said Elizabeth;“though it had not occurred to me before.His debts to be discharged,and something still to remain!Oh!it must be my uncle's doings!Generous,good man,I am afraid he has distressed himself.A small sum could not do all this.”
“And they must marry!Yet he is such a man!”
“Money!My uncle!”cried Jane,“what do you mean,sir?”
“No;but it must be done soon.”
“EDW.GARDINER.”
“Then it is as I always hoped,”cried Jane;“they are married!”
“My dear Brother,
“And have you answered the letter?”cried Elizabeth.
“What do you mean,Hill?We have heard nothing from town.”
Elizabeth impatiently caught it from his hand.Jane now came up.“Read it aloud,”said their father,“for I hardly know myself what it is about.”
“What is there of good to be expected?”said he, taking the letter from his pocket.“But perhaps you would like to read it.”
Most earnestly did she then entreaty him to lose no more time before he wrote.