Teasing
Posted by Linda on November 19, 1997 at 13:55:57:
In response to Mr. Bennet's Temper, written by Linda Ann on November 18, 1997 at 14:25:18
] Chapter 1 -
]
] ". . .as you are as handsome as any of them, Mr. Bingley might like you the best of the party.''
]
] ``My dear, you flatter me. I certainly have had my share of beauty, but I do not pretend to be any thing extraordinary now. When a woman has five grown up daughters, she ought to give over thinking of her own beauty.''
]
] ``In such cases, a woman has not often much beauty to think of.''
]
] How much is sarcasm and how much old-fashioned chilvary? The feelings Mr. Bennet has for Mrs. have waned, but this exchange seems very flattering to a woman for whom flattery is very important. I didn't remember it from previous readings, but it strikes me now. It softens Mr. Bennet's temper as I interpret it.
]
] And, of course, it's humorous - take the five girls over to Netherfield, let Bingley have his pick, and who knows? He may prefer you, my wife.
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