To Pemberley,therefore,they were to go.
Elizabeth said no more―but her mind could not acquiesce. The possibility of meeting Mr. Darcy, while viewing the place, instantly occurred.It would be dreadful!She blushed at the very idea,and thought it would be better to speak openly to her aunt than to run such a risk. But against this there were objections;and she finally resolved that it could be the last resource,if her private inquiries to the absence of the family were unfavourably answered.
The Gardiners stayed only one night at Longbourn, and set off the next morning with Elizabeth in pursuit of novelty and amusement. One enjoyment was certain―that of suitableness of companions; a suitableness which comprehended health and temper to bear inconveniences―cheerfulness to enhance every pleasure―and affection and intelligence, which might supply it among themselves if there were disappointments abroad.
The period of expectation was now doubled. Four weeks were to pass away before her uncle and aunt's arrival. But they did pass away,and Mr.and Mrs.Gardiner,with their four children,did at length appear at Longbourn.The children, two girls of six and eight years old, and two younger boys, were to be left under the particular care of their cousin Jane, who was the general favourite, and whose steady sense and sweetness of temper exactly adapted her for attending to them in every way―teaching them,playing with them,and loving them.