But she soon became more cheerful,and determined to enjoy the ball in spite of Wickham's absence.Unfortunately,the first two dances,with Mr Collins,were painfully embarrassing,as her cousin had no idea how to dance,and moved extremely awkwardly.She was relieved to leave him,and have the third dance with an officer,who gave her great pleasure by talking about Wickham and his popularity in the regiment.Alter this, she was very surprised to be approached by Mr Darcy and invited to dance.She was so astonished,in fact,that she accepted him without thinking,and found herself standing opposite him on the dance floor.‘What an honour for me,to be allowed to dance with Mr Darcy!’she thought.They danced for some time in silence,and then she made a remark.He replied,and was silent again.After a pause,she spoke again.