Miss Bingley.
[Sarcastically.] Oh, I fear not—[Elizabeth and Colonel Forster, with others, enter from the ball-room—Mrs. Bennet with Lady Lucas from the drawing-room.] Here comes the fair one—[Seeing Mrs. Bennet.]—and mamma-in-law as well. I will not intrude on the family party.
[She goes off laughing and mingles with the guests. Colonel Forster bows and leaves Elizabeth with her mother. Bingley enters with Jane from the drawing-room. He sees Darcy, who is standing where Miss Bingley left him, and comes to him.
Bingley.
I thought this next dance was the one you liked so much, Darcy. Let me find you a partner.
Darcy.
[Starting, as if from a reverie..] So it is. Thank you—I have a partner.
[He goes to Elizabeth, bows, and they go into the ball-room together. Mrs. Bennet and Mrs. Long follow them.]
Bingley.
[Looking after Darcy with a smile, turns to Jane.] You must be tired, Miss Bennet. I propose that we sit quietly through this dance. Do you agree?