The astonishment of the ladies was just what he [Mr. Bennet] wished; that of Mrs. Bennet perhaps surpassing the rest; though, when the first tumult of joy was over, she began to declare that it was what she had expected all the while.
Mr. B withheld the information that he went to see Mr. Bingley, in order to surprise his family. I have to wonder if it was worth it to listen to Mrs. B's sulks until then.