Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen The invitation was accepted of course, and at a proper hour they joined the party in Lady Catherine's drawing room. Her ladyship received them civilly, but it was plain that their company was not exactly wanted; she was, in fact, almost engrossed by her nephews, Fitzwilliam and Darcy, speaking to them, especially to Darcy, much more than to any other person in the room. Colonel Fitzwilliam seemed really glad to see them; anything was a welcome relief to him at his aunt's; and Elizabeth Bennet had moreover caught his fancy very much. He now seated himself by her, and talked so agreeably of Kent and Hertfordshire, of traveling and staying at home, of new books and music, that Elizabeth had never been half so well entertained in that room before; and they conversed with so much spirit, as to draw the attention of Lady Catherine herself, as well as of Mr. Darcy. His eyes had been soon and repeatedly turned toward them with a 100k Of curiosity; and that her ladyship, after a while, shared the feeling, was more openly acknowledged, for she did not hesitate to call out: "What is that you are saying, Fitzwilliam? What is it you are talking of? What are you telling Miss Bennet? Let me hear what it is." "We are speaking of music, madam," said he, when no longer able to avoid a reply. "Of music! Then pray speak aloud. It is of all subjects my delight. I must have my share in the conversation if you are speaking of music. There are few people in England, I suppose, who have more true enjoyment of music than myself, or a better natural taste. If I had ever learnt, I should have been a great musician "l often tell young ladies that no excellence in music is to be acquired without constant practice. I have told Miss Bennet several times, that she will never play really well unless she practices more; and though Mrs. Collins has no instrument, she is very welcome, as I have often told her, to come here every day and play on the piano. She would be in nobody's way, you know, in that part of the house." Mr. Darcy looked a little ashamed of his aunt's ill-breeding. Adapted from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, 1813. 1 Select the correct answer.
What is Lady Catherine most like?
A. A gracious hostess who makes her guests feel comfortable and wanted
B. A braggart who thinks she knows everything even though she doesn't
C. A shy woman who is greatly admired by her guests and her nephews