[Smiling.] But you forget, mamma, that we shall meet him at the assemblies, and Lady Lucas has promised to introduce him.

Mrs. Bennet.

I do not believe Lady Lucas will do any such thing. She has daughters of her own. She is a selfish, hypocritical woman, and I have no opinion of her.

Mr. Bennet.

No more have I, and I am glad to find that you do not depend on her serving you.

Mrs. Bennet.

I may have to depend on her after all, Mr. Bennet, since you will do nothing to help me. [Fretfully to Lydia, who has been yawning and coughing.] Don't keep coughing, Lydia, for Heaven's sake! Have a little compassion on my nerves.

[Lydia pouts and looks unutterable things.]

Mr. Bennet.

Lydia has no discretion in her coughs. She times them ill.