It certainly was Mr.Crawley's wish that the bishop should entangle himself.

He, therefore, replied very meekly, "It has been most unfortunate, my lord." "I have felt for Mrs.Crawley very deeply," said Mrs.Proudie.

Mr.
Crawley had now made up his mind that as long as it was possible he would ignore the presence of Mrs.Proudie altogether; and, therefore, he made no sign that he had heard the latter remark.
"It has been most unfortunate," continued the bishop.

"I have never before had a clergyman in my diocese placed in so distressing a position." "That is a matter of opinion, my lord," said Mr.Crawley, who at that moment thought of a crisis which had come in the life of another clergyman in the diocese of Barchester, with the circumstances of which he had by chance been made acquainted.
"Exactly," said the bishop.

"And I am expressing my opinion." Mr.
Crawley, who understood fighting, did not think that the time had yet come for striking a blow, so he simply bowed again.