“They battled it together for a long time,which was more than either the gentleman or lady concerned in it deserved.But at last your uncle was forced to yield, and instead of being allowed to be of use to his niece,was forced to put up with only having the probable credit of it,which went sorely against the grain;and I really believe your letter this morning gave him great pleasure, because it required an explanation that would rob him of his borrowed feathers, and give the praise where it was due. But, Lizzy,this must go no farther than yourself,or Jane at most.
“But I must write no more.The children have been wanting me this half hour.
“Mr.Darcy was punctual in his return,and as Lydia informed you, attended the wedding. He dined with us the next day, and was to leave town again on Wednesday or Thursday.Will you be very angry with me,my dear Lizzy,if I take this opportunity of saying (what I was never bold enough to say before) how much I like him. His behaviour to us has, in every respect, been as pleasing as when we were in Derbyshire. His understanding and opinions all please me; he wants nothing but a little more liveliness,and that,if he marry prudently,his wife may teach him. I thought him very sly;―he hardly ever mentioned your name. But slyness seems the fashion.
“They met again on Sunday,and then I saw him too.It was not all settled before Monday:as soon as it was,the express was sent off to Longbourn. But our visitor was very obstinate. I fancy, Lizzy,that obstinacy is the real defect of his character,after all. He has been accused of many faults at different times,but this is the true one.Nothing was to be done that he did not do himself;though I am sure(and I do not speak it to be thanked,therefore say nothing about it),your uncle would most readily have settled the whole.