Mr. Bennet raised his eyes from his book as she entered, and fixed them on her face with a calm unconcern which was not in the least altered by her communication.

     "I have not the pleasure of understanding you," said he, when she had finished her speech. "Of what are you talking?"

     "Of Mr. Collins and Lizzy. Lizzy declares she will not have Mr. Collins, and Mr. Collins begins to say that he will not have Lizzy."

     "And what am I to do on the occasion? It seems an hopeless business."

     "Speak to Lizzy about it yourself. Tell her that you insist upon her marrying him."

     "Let her be called down. She shall hear my opinion."

     Mrs. Bennet rang the bell, and Miss Elizabeth was summoned to the library.

     "Come here, child," cried her father as she appeared. "I have sent for you on an affair of importance. I understand that Mr. Collins has made you an offer of marriage. Is it true?" Elizabeth replied that it was. "Very well--and this offer of marriage you have refused?"

     "I have, sir."