It was a fortnight since Mrs.Bennet had been downstairs;but on this happy day she again took her seat at the head of her table, and in spirits oppressively high. No sentiment of shame gave a damp to her triumph.The marriage of a daughter,which had been the first object of her wishes since Jane was sixteen,was now on the point of accomplishment, and her thoughts and her words ran wholly on those attendants of elegant nuptials,fine muslins, new carriages, and servants. She was busily searching through the neighbourhood for a proper situation for her daughter,and, without knowing or considering what their income might be, rejected many as deficient in size and importance.
That it would be done with such trifling exertion on his side, too, was another very welcome surprise; for his wish at present was to have as little trouble in the business as possible.When the first transports of rage which had produced his activity in seeking her were over, he naturally returned to all his former indolence.His letter was soon dispatched;for,though dilatory in undertaking business,he was quick in its execution.He begged to know further particulars of what he was indebted to his brother, but was too angry with Lydia to send any message to her.