Page:A memoir of Jane Austen (Fourth Edition).pdf/372

 Dinner came, and except when Mrs. Robert looked at her husband’s head, she continued gay and flippant, chiding Elizabeth for the profusion on the table, and absolutely protesting against the entrance of the roast turkey, which formed the only exception to ‘you see your dinner.' ‘I do beg and entreat that no turkey may be seen to-day. I am really frightened out of my wits with the number of dishes we have already. Let us have no turkey I beseech you.’

‘My dear, replied Elizabeth, ‘the turkey is roasted, and it may just as well come in as stay inthe kitchen. Besides, if it is cut, I am in hopes my father may be tempted to eat a bit, for it is rather a favourite dish.’

‘You may have it in, my dear, but I assure you I shan’t touch it.’

Mr. Watson had not been well enough to join the party at dinner, but was prevailed on to come down and drink tea with them.

‘I wish he may be able to have a game of cards, to-night,’ said Elizabeth to Mrs. Robert, after seeing her father comfortably seated in his arm-chair.

‘Not on my account, my dear, J beg. You know Iam no card-player. I think a snug chat infinitely better. I always say cards are very well sonietimes to break a formal circle, but one never wants them among friends.’

‘I was thinking of it’s being something to amuse my father,’ said Elizabeth, ‘if it was not disagreeable to you. He says his head won't bear whist, but perhaps if we make a round game he may be tempted to sit down with us.