While settling this point , she was suddenly roused by the sound of the door-bell , and her spirits were a little fluttered by the idea of its being Colonel Fitzwilliam himself , who had once before called late in the evening , and might now come to enquire particularly after her . But this idea was soon banished , and her spirits were very differently affected ,

when , to her utter amazement , she saw Mr. Darcy walk into the room . In an hurried manner he immediately began an enquiry after her health , imputing his visit to a wish of hearing that she were better . She answered him with cold civility . He sat down for a few moments , and then getting up , walked about the room . Elizabeth was

surprised , but said not a word . After a silence of several minutes , he came towards her in an agitated manner , and thus began : “ In vain I have struggled . It will not do . My feelings will not be repressed . You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you. ” Elizabeth ’ s astonishment was beyond expression .