VERNON. Fit as a fiddle--your new mistress.

Fanny has risen. Bennet turns to her. For a moment his back is
towards the other three. Fanny alone sees his face.

BENNET. We shall endeavour to do our duty to her ladyship. [He
turns to Vernon.] I had arranged for a more fitting reception -

VERNON. To tell the honest truth, Bennet, the very thing we were
afraid of--why we walked from the station, and slipped in by the side
door. [Laughing.] Has the luggage come?

BENNET. It has just arrived. It was about that I came to ask. I
could not understand -

The Misses Wetherell have also risen. Fanny's speechless amazement
is attributed by them and Vernon to natural astonishment at discovery
of his rank.

THE YOUNGER MISS WETHERELL. You will be wanting a quiet talk
together. We shall see you at dinner.

VERNON. What time is dinner?

THE YOUNGER MISS WETHERELL. Half past seven.

[To Fanny] But don't you hurry, dear. I will tell cook to delay it
a little. [She kisses her.]