[Smiling.] I assure you she was not, Lady Catherine.
Lady Catherine.
Then who taught you? Without a governess you must have been neglected.
Elizabeth.
Such of us as wished to learn, never wanted the means, Madam.
Lady Catherine.
Well, if I had known your mother, I should have advised her most strenuously to engage a governess. I should have seen to it myself. [To Charlotte.] Go on with your work, Mrs. Collins. A clergyman's wife should set an example of industry. [Looking at Charlotte's embroidery with disapproval.] I will send you some more of the parish petticoats to hem, Mrs. Collins. [To Elizabeth.] Go on with your work, Miss Bennet. Young ladies should never be idle. [Both Elizabeth and Charlotte go on with their embroidery. Looking hard at Elizabeth.] Pray what is your age, Miss Bennet?
Elizabeth.
I am not one and twenty.
Lady Catherine.