After walking some time in this way， the two ladies in front， the two gentlemen behind， on resuming their places， after descending to the brink of the river for the better inspection of some curious water-plant，there chanced to be a little alteration. It originated in Mrs.Gardiner，who，fatigued by the exercise of the morning， found Elizabeth's arm inadequate to her support， and consequently preferred her husband's. Mr. Darcy took her place by her niece， and they walked on together.After a short silence， the lady first spoke. She wished him to know that she had been assured of his absence be