noon
Sir William Lucas , and his daughter Maria , a good-humoured girl , but as empty-headed as himself , had nothing to say that could be worth hearing , and were listened to with about as much delight as the rattle of the chaise . Elizabeth loved absurdities , but she had known Sir William 's too long . He could tell her nothing new of the wonders of his presentation and knighthood ; and his civilities were worn out , like his information . It was a journey of only twenty-four miles , and they began it so early as to be in Gracechurch Street by noon . As they drove to Mr. Gardiner 's door , Jane was at a drawing-room window watching their arrival ; when they entered the passage she was there to welcome them , and Elizabeth , looking earnestly in her face , was pleased to see it healthful and lovely as ever . On the stairs were a troop of little boys and girls , whose eagerness for their cousin 's appearance would not allow them to wait in the drawing-room , and whose shyness , as they had not seen her for a twelvemonth , prevented their coming lower . All was joy and kindness .