Jane.

I had to practise with Lydia.

Lydia.

I'm sure I would have excused you. But what is Mr. Collins here for, mamma? I am sure I caught Mr. Wickham and Colonel Forster laughing at him the day we went to Meryton. Why does papa have a cousin like that?

Mrs. Bennet.

He really cannot help it. It is the entail, my love—[Mysteriously.] But I hope that all you girls will be very civil to him, Jane especially.

Jane.

I—mamma?

Mrs. Bennet.

[Embarrassed.] Yes—my love.—You see——