The importance of being Ernest

Camille Bruère, T.L

Write a dialogue between the two characters of Pride and Prejudice : Mrs. Long and Mrs. Bennet.

While Mrs Long is on the way to the market, she met Mrs. Bennet, a friend she hasn’t seen for a long time. Mrs Long made her aware of Mr. Bingley, a new rich man in the neighbourhood who took possession of Netherfield Park.

“Oh my dear it has been a long time since I last saw you.“, Mrs Long said while she was walking to the market.

“Well I know but we can catch up wasted time now. What are the gossips which circulate in the neighbourhood? I know you are always aware of that kind of things … Tell me ! I absolutely want to know everything my dear.“ Mrs Bennet replied impatiently.

“Oh you are not aware…“ she said with a shocked look, starring at Mrs. Bennet “Did you ear about Mr. Bingley ?“

“Not at all, who is he ?“ Mrs Bennet asked.

“Let me tell you, Netherfield Park is now taken by a young and beautiful man who has a large fortune, from the north of England ; on Monday he came down in a chaise and four to see the place. As you see, he is what we call a bourgeois from the high society. He was very enchanted and charmed by the place that he immadiately agreed with Mr. Morris and he will be in Netherfield before Michaelmas. Apparently, some of his servants will be in the house by the end of next week. Here is the gossip my dear ! Therefore, I haven’t told you but I saw him in the flesh, and … oh god ! He is such a dandy.“ Mrs Long said proudly.

“What is his name you said ?“ Mrs Bennet asked.

“Mr. Bingley my dear“

“Oh very interesting, And his future house will be at Netherfield Park, all right ?“ Mrs Bennet blurted out. She seemed absent-mindedly.

“For sure !“ Mrs Long repeated without hesitation.

“Well, er… I need to go, my husband is waiting for me.“ grumble Mrs. Bennet with a little nervous and friendly laugh.

“Hum, so …bye…“. Mrs. Long snaped scornfully.

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