Jane Austen
their marriage put an end to all real affection for her. Respect, esteem, and confidence had
vanished for ever; and all his views of domestic happiness were overthrown. But Mr.
Bennet was not of a disposition to seek comfort for the disappointment which his own
imprudence had brought on, in any of those pleasures which too often console the
unfortunate for their folly or their vice. He was fond of the country and of books; and from
these tastes had arisen his principal enjoyments. To his wife he was very little otherwise
indebted, than as her ignorance and folly had contributed to his amusement. This is not the
sort of happiness which a man would in general wish to owe to his wife; but where other
powers of entertainment are wanting, the true philosopher will derive benefit from such as
are given.
Elizabeth, however, had never been blind to the impropriety of her father's behaviour as a
husband
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