Wickham.
Here I am again, Mrs. Bennet. I found that Colonel Forster had a message for the young ladies.
Mrs. Bennet.
I am delighted to see you. You are just in time to meet our new neighbours. [Introducing the gentlemen.] Colonel Forster, Mr. Wickham—Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy.
[As the gentlemen enter, Mr. Darcy has his back turned to them in conversation with Elizabeth. At the sound of Wickham's voice he starts and turns so that he faces the latter just in time for the introduction. At sight of Darcy, Wickham starts and is greatly confused. Darcy stiffens and scarcely nods when Wickham is introduced. The whole situation is so marked that everyone looks on with an astonishment to which Mrs. Bennet gives audible expression.]
Mrs. Bennet.
Well, well! If ever there was a proud, stiff man——
Jane.
[In a dismayed whisper.] Mamma!
Bingley.