She had not been many hours at home before she found that the Brighton scheme,of which Lydia had given them a hint at the inn,was under frequent discussion between her parents.Elizabeth saw directly that her father had not the smallest intention of yielding; but his answers were at the same time so vague and equivocal,that her mother,though often disheartened,had never yet despaired of succeeding at last.
With such kinds of histories of their parties and good jokes,did Lydia,assisted by Kitty's hints and additions,endeavour to amuse her companions all the way to Longbourn. Elizabeth listened as little as she could, but there was no escaping the frequent mention of Wickham's name.
“How nicely we are all crammed in,”cried Lydia.“I am glad I bought my bonnet, if it is only for the fun of having another bandbox!Well, now let us be quite comfortable and snug, and talk and laugh all the way home.And in the first place,let us hear what has happened to you all since you went away.Have you seen any pleasant men?Have you had any flirting?I was in great hopes that one of you would have got a husband before you came back. Jane will be quite an old maid soon,I declare.She is almost three-and-