I am now convinced, my dear aunt, that I have never been much in love; for had I really experienced that pure and elevating passion, I should at present detest his very name, and wish him all manner of evil. But my feelings are not only cordial towards him; they are even impartial towards Miss King.
– Jane Austen
Pride and Prejudice, Chapter 26. Elizabeth writes a letter to Mrs. Gardiner, on her losing George Wickham to Miss Mary King. Wickham’s romantic attentions have now turned to Miss King, who has just inherited a large fortune. Elizabeth jokingly tells her aunt that she couldn’t have loved Wickham, because she doesn’t hate him now that he is with someone else.