FANNY. You see, it's almost bound to creep out sooner or later, and
then -

BENNET. We will make it as late as possible [He crosses and rings
the bell], giving you time to prove to his lordship that you are not
incapable of learning.

FANNY [she drops back on the settee. She is half-crying.] Some
people would be pleased that their niece had married well.

BENNET. I am old-fashioned enough to think also of my duty to those
I serve. If his lordship has done me the honour to marry my niece,
the least I can is to see to it that she brings no discredit to his
name. [Mrs. Bennet, followed by Jane Bennet, a severe-looking woman
of middle age, has entered upon the words "the least I can do."
Bennet stays them a moment with his hand while he finishes. Then he
turns to his wife.] You will be interested to find, Susannah, that
the new Lady Bantock is not a stranger.

MRS. BENNET. Not a stranger! [She has reached a position from where
she sees the girl.] Fanny! You wicked girl! Where have you been
all these years?

BENNET [interposing]. There will be other opportunities for the
discussion of family differences. Just now, her ladyship is waiting
to dress for dinner.

MRS. BENNET [sneering]. Her ladyship!

JANE [also sneering]. I think she might have forewarned us of the