[She goes out.]
Elizabeth.
Insolent girl! You are much mistaken if you expect to influence me by such a paltry attack at this. I see nothing in it but your own wilful ignorance and the malice of Mr. Darcy.
[Footmen now come in with small tables, which they place about the stage. Bingley comes in and directs them. Darcy follows him.]
Bingley.
[To Elizabeth, Jane, his sister, and others who have entered.] I thought it would be pleasant to have some of the tables here. [To Jane.] We must have places together.
[With some bustle, all seat themselves. At the table on one side are seated Darcy, Elizabeth, Bingley and Jane: A little behind them are Miss Bingley with Colonel Forster, Charlotte Lucas with an officer. At the table on the opposite side is Mrs. Bennet with Sir William and Lady Lucas. Behind them are more tables at which other guests are seated.]
Lydia.
[Entering with Denny, much excited, goes to Mrs. Bennet.] Mamma, have you heard the news? Mr. Denny has just told me that the regiment is to leave Meryton, and go to Brighton! Good heavens! What is to become of us, mamma?
Mrs. Bennet.