Chapter 1(3/3)

" I desire you will do no such thing. Lizzy is not a bit better than the others; and I'm sure she is not half so handsome as Jane, nor half so good-humoured as Lydia. But you are always giving HER the preference. "

" They are all silly and ignorant like other girls, " replied he, " but Lizzy has something more of a quickness than her sisters . "

" Mr. Bennet, how CAN you abuse your own children in such a way? You take delight in vexing me. You have no compassion on my poor nerves. "

" You mistake me, my dear. I have a high respect for your nerves . They are my old friends. I have heard you mention them with consideration these 20 years at least . "

Mr. Bennet was so odd a mixture of quick parts, sarcastic humour, reserve, and caprice that the experience of three-and-twenty years had been insufficient to make his wife understand his character.

HER mind was less difficult to develop. She was a woman of mean understanding, little information, and uncertain temper. When she was discontented, she fancied herself nervous. The business of her life was to get her daughters married. Its solace was visiting and news.