“This is a most unfortunate affair, and will probably be much talked of.But we must stem the tide of malice,and pour into the wounded bosoms of each other the balm of sisterly consolation.”
“Do not give way to useless alarm,”added he;“though it is right to be prepared for the worst,there is no occasion to look on it as certain.It is not quite a week since they left Brighton.In a few days more,we may gain some news of them;and till we know that they are not married,and have no design of marrying,do not let us give the matter over as lost.As soon as I get to town I shall go to my brother,and make him come home with me to Gracechurch Street;and then we may consult together as to what is to be done.”
“Oh! my dear brother,”replied Mrs. Bennet,“that is exactly what I could most wish for.And now do,when you get to town, find them out,wherever they may be;and if they are not married already,make them marry.And as for wedding clothes,do not let them wait for that,but tell Lydia she shall have as much money as she chooses to buy them,after they are married.And,above all things,keep Mr.Bennet from fighting.Tell him what a dreadful state I am in,that I am frighted out of my wits―and have such tremblings,such flutterings,all over me―such spasms in my side and pains in my head,and such beatings at heart,that I can get no rest by night nor by day.And tell my dear Lydia not to give any directions about her clothes till she has seen me,for she does not know which are the best warehouses.Oh,brother,how kind you are!I know you will contrive it all.”