Jane Austen
very great ill-usage, and most painful regrets at his being what he is. His father, Miss
Bennet, the late Mr. Darcy, was one of the best men that ever breathed, and the truest friend
I ever had; and I can never be in company with this Mr. Darcy without being grieved to the
soul by a thousand tender recollections. His behaviour to myself has been scandalous; but I
verily believe I could forgive him anything and everything, rather than his disappointing the
hopes and disgracing the memory of his father."
Elizabeth found the interest of the subject increase, and listened with all her heart; but the
delicacy of it prevented further inquiry.
Mr. Wickham began to speak on more general topics, Meryton, the neighbourhood, the
society, appearing highly pleased with all that he had yet seen, and speaking of the latter
with gentle but very intelligible gallantry.
"It was the prospect of constant society, and good society," he added, "which was my
annaabi.ee 
