It now occurred to the girls that their mother was in all likelihood perfectly ignorant of what had happened.They went to the library,therefore,and asked their father whether he would not wish them to make it known to her. He was writing and, without raising his head,coolly replied:
“Just as you please.”
“Take whatever you like,and get away.”
“I comfort myself with thinking,”replied Jane,“that he certainly would not marry Lydia if he had not a real regard for her. Though our kind uncle has done something towards clearing him, I cannot believe that ten thousand pounds,or anything like it,has been advanced.He has children of his own,and may have more. How could he spare half ten thousand pounds?”
“We must endeavour to forget all that has passed on either side,”said Jane:“I hope and trust they will yet be happy. His consenting to marry her is a proof,I will believe,that he is come to a right way of thinking.Their mutual affection will steady them;and I flatter myself they will settle so quietly,and live in so rational a manner,as may in time make their past imprudence forgotten.”
Mrs.Hill began instantly to express her joy.Elizabeth received her congratulations amongst the rest,and then,sick of this folly, took refuge in her own room,that she might think with freedom.