She could settle it in no way that gave her pleasure.
On Tuesday there was a large party assembled at Longbourn;and the two who were most anxiously expected,to the credit of their punctuality as sportsmen, were in very good time.When they repaired to the dining-room, Elizabeth eagerly watched to see whether Bingley would take the place,which,in all their former parties,had belonged to him, by her sister. Her prudent mother, occupied by the same ideas,forbore to invite him to sit by herself. On entering the room, he seemed to hesitate;but Jane happened to look round,and happened to smile: it was decided. He placed himself by her.
“Now,”said she,“that this first meeting is over,I feel perfectly easy.I know my own strength,and I shall never be embarrassed again by his coming. I am glad he dines here on Tuesday. It will then be publicly seen that, on both sides, we meet only as common and indifferent acquaintance.”