Jane Austen
, who, instantly taking the
alarm, set off from B. intending to trace their route. He did trace them easily to Clapham,
but no further; for on entering that place, they removed into a hackney coach, and dismissed
the chaise that brought them from Epsom. All that is known after this is, that they were seen
to continue the London road. I know not what to think. After making every possible inquiry
on that side London, Colonel F. came on into Hertfordshire, anxiously renewing them at all
the turnpikes, and at the inns in Barnet and Hatfield, but without any success--no such
people had been seen to pass through. With the kindest concern he came on to Longbourn,
and broke his apprehensions to us in a manner most creditable to his heart. I am sincerely
grieved for him and Mrs. F., but no one can throw any blame on them. Our distress, my dear
Lizzy, is very great. My father and mother believe the worst, but I cannot think so ill of
him
annaabi.ee 
