Miss Darcy and her brother appeared, and this formidable introduction took place.With astonishment did Elizabeth see that her new acquaintance was at least as much embarrassed as herself. Since her being at Lambton, she had heard that Miss Darcy was exceedingly proud; but the observation of a very few minutes convinced her that she was only exceedingly shy. She found it difficult to obtain even a word from her beyond a monosyllable.
In seeing Bingley,her thoughts naturally flew to her sister;and, oh!how ardently did she long to know whether any of his were directed in a like manner. Sometimes she could fancy that he talked less than on former occasions,and once or twice pleased herself with the notion that, as he looked at her, he was trying to trace a resemblance.But,though this might be imaginary,she could not be deceived as to his behaviour to Miss Darcy,who had been set up as a rival to Jane. No look appeared on either side that spoke particular regard. Nothing occurred between them that could justify the hopes of his sister. On this point she was soon satisfied; and two or three little circumstances occurred ere they parted,which,in her anxious interpretation,denoted a recollection of Jane not untinctured by tenderness,and a wish of saying more that might lead to the mention of her,had he dared. He observed to her,at a moment when the others were talking together,and in a tone which had something of real regret,that it“was a very long time since he had had the pleasure of seeing her;”and,before she could reply,he added,“It is above eight months. We have not met since the 26th of November,when we were all dancing together at Netherfield.”