Diary extracts from Elizabeth (Pride and Prejudice).

Diary extracts from Elizabeth (Pride and Prejudice).

EXTRACT ONE: The first ball

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A new gentleman arrived in the neighbourhood, and is now renting

Netherfield, a large house with extensive grounds. Of course my mother

is very eager for one of her daughters to marry him, as he is single,

and possesses a large fortune. Last night, at the ball it was evident

who he would marry out of my sisters, and that would be Jane, my

eldest sister. Not surprisingly he chose Jane, as she was by far the

best looking woman there and had the finest character.

Mr Bingley brought with him his friend, Mr Darcy, who we all agree to

be of bad character. He was so proud that he didn't dance with any of

the guests apart from Mr Bingley's close acquaintances. He was so

shameless that, when Mr Bingley asked him why he wasn't dancing, and

then indicated me as a suitable partner for him, he did not feel the

need to lower his voice or take into consideration my feelings. He

replied to Mr Bingley that I was "tolerable". If he had any

compassion, he would have asked me to dance or not said anything, but

now, his personality is very decided. He is proud, arrogant and

selfish.

EXTRACT TWO: At Netherfield

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I am at Netherfield, still waiting for my poor sister Jane to

recuperate. I suspect she will be well soon, and we shall both be able

to return home. Last night, I waited in the drawing room with the

Hursts, the Bingleys, and of course Mr Darcy. The evening passed with

interest, as I had ample time and opportunity to study the characters

of those who were with me. There were many amusing characters, but the

most amusing person had to be Miss Bingley, as I could not help but

notice that she was very obviously attempting to flirt with Mr Darcy,

and that Mr Darcy was ignoring her efforts deliberately. Whenever I

remarked to Mr Darcy on a matter, he became more interested in me than

her, even if it was a debateable comment, or even a rude one. I do not

know what to think of this. Surely Mr Darcy cannot be attracted to a

person such as me who is just "tolerable" I his eyes?

The Next day

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Jane joined the company last night in the drawing room, as she was

feeling much healthier. She and Mr Bingley were inseparable, and again

I had time to amuse myself watching Miss Bennet and Mr Darcy. I think

that she was a little hurt when Mr Darcy and I got into a debate,