After a short silence, the lady first spoke.

She wished him to know that she had been assured of his absence before she came to the place, and accordingly began by observing, that his arrival had been very unexpected--"for your housekeeper," she added, "informed us that you would certainly not be here till to-morrow; and indeed, before we left Bakewell, we understood that you were not immediately expected in the country." He acknowledged the truth of it all, and said that business with his steward had occasioned his coming forward a few hours before the rest of the party with whom he had been travelling.

"They will join me early to-morrow," he continued, "and among them are some who will claim an acquaintance with you--Mr.Bingley and his sisters." Elizabeth answered only by a slight bow.

Her thoughts were instantly driven back to the time when Mr.Bingley's name had been the last mentioned between them; and, if she might judge by his complexion, _his_ mind was not very differently engaged.
"There is also one other person in the party," he continued after a pause, "who more particularly wishes to be known to you.

Will you allow me, or do I ask too much, to introduce my sister to your acquaintance during your stay at Lambton ?" The surprise of such an application was great indeed; it was too great for her to know in what manner she acceded to it.