Language In Clarissa, Evelina And Pride And Prejudice

not want to draw attention to his true self and feelings.
Wickham knows his physical good looks and charm are
enough to draw the attention of marriageable young women
and their mothers. His congenial manner dupes many young
men, as well, especially his fellow officers, most of
whom are younger sons whose portions have paid for their
commissions. They understand and can commiserate with
Wickham regarding his "inheritance," and they provide
introductions into households holding promise for George
Wickham's marriage plans.
Talking with Elizabeth at Mrs. Phillip's house,
Wickham reveals his circumstances and Darcy' s alleged
part in them. He works Elizabeth's experience with Darcy
to his favor. He enhances his own standing, humbly and
discreetly, putting the onus on Darcy: "I have no right
to give my opinion . . . as to his being agreeable or
otherwise. I am not qualified to form one" (67). He
goes on, saying he has no reason to avoid Darcy, but if
Darcy does not want to see him, then Darcy must be the
one to leave their company. He ends by telling
Elizabeth, "I will not trust myself on the subject . . .
I can hardly be just to him" (69).
His circuitous reasoning leaves Elizabeth with an
incredibly false impression of his status. Wickham tells