Jane Austen
immediately and in silence withdrew; determined, if he persisted in considering her
repeated refusals as flattering encouragement, to apply to her father, whose negative might
be uttered in such a manner as to be decisive, and whose behaviour at least could not be
mistaken for the affectation and coquetry of an elegant female.
Chapter 20
Mr. Collins was not left long to the silent contemplation of his successful love; for Mrs.
Bennet, having dawdled about in the vestibule to watch for the end of the conference, no
sooner saw Elizabeth open the door and with quick step pass her towards the staircase, than
she entered the breakfast-room, and congratulated both him and herself in warm terms on
the happy prospect or their nearer connection. Mr. Collins received and returned these
felicitations with equal pleasure, and then proceeded to relate the particulars of their
annaabi.ee 
