With my new job, I have decided I don't have time to both re-read the novel and read as many posts here as I want to, so I am listening to my abridged P&P on tape during my morning commute instead. Listening to the novel gives another view to it - I notice things that haven't caught my attention before.

One such today was how Mrs. Bennet with one breath manages to contradict what she said with her previous breath. An example, when she is visiting Netherfield to see Jane and Elizabeth asks about Charlotte to try to find a safe topic of conversation:

"Did Charlotte dine with you?"

"No, she would go home. I fancy she was wanted about the mince-pies. For my part, Mr. Bingley, I always keep servants that can do their own work; my daughters are brought up differently. But everybody is to judge for themselves, and the Lucases are very good sort of girls, I assure you. It is a pity they are not handsome! Not that I think Charlotte so very plain -- but then she is our particular friend."

"She seems a very pleasant young woman," said Bingley.

"Oh! dear, yes; -- but you must own she is very plain. Lady Lucas herself has often said so, and envied me Jane's beauty. I do not like to boast of my own child, but to be sure, Jane -- one does not often see anybody better looking.