[Looking meaningly at her.] Please, Jane.
Colonel Forster.
Oh, do, I beg—Miss Bennet.
[All through the following interview between Elizabeth and Wickham, the tinkle of the instrument is heard. During their conversation Jane's back is turned—also Colonel Forster's as he looks over her music—so that Elizabeth and Wickham are practically alone. Elizabeth returns to her embroidery. There is an awkward pause for a moment. Wickham finally breaks it.]
Wickham.
How long has Mr. Darcy been in Hertfordshire, Miss Elizabeth?
Elizabeth.
Only for a very short time, I believe. He comes from Derbyshire, I understand, and has a very large property there.
Wickham.
Yes, his estate is a noble one. A clear ten thousand per annum. I am well informed on this head—— [Hesitates.] I have been connected with Mr. Darcy's family in a particular manner since my infancy.