You either choose this method of passing the evening because you are in each other’s confidence, and have secret affairs to discuss, or because you are conscious that your figures appear to the greatest advantage in walking; if the first, I would be completely in your way, and if the second, I can admire you much better as I sit by the fire.
– Jane Austen
Pride and Prejudice, Chapter 11. As Caroline Bingley and Elizabeth walk up and down the room together, Darcy refuses an invitation to join them, saying they could only have two motives for doing this. This passage is Darcy’s reponse, when asked by Caroline what these motives are.