Pride and Prejudice

The chapter opens with the ironic declaration that a wealthy single man is assumed by neighboring families to be in want of a wife. Mrs. Bennet tells her husband that Netherfield Park has been let to Mr. Bingley, a single young man from the north of England with an income of four or five thousand pounds a year. She immediately treats his arrival as a possible opportunity for one of their five daughters and presses Mr. Bennet to call on him so the family can become acquainted.

Mr. Bennet answers with sarcasm and repeatedly teases his wife, even suggesting that Bingley might prefer Mrs. Bennet herself. Their exchange names Jane, Elizabeth, and Lydia and shows Mr. Bennet's preference for Elizabeth's quickness. Mrs. Bennet complains that he enjoys vexing her and has no compassion for her nerves.

The narrator closes by describing Mr. Bennet as intelligent, sarcastic, reserved, and capricious, while Mrs. Bennet is described as having little understanding or information and an uncertain temper. Her chief concern is getting her daughters married, and she takes pleasure in visits and news.

Mr. Bennet has already called on Mr. Bingley without telling his family, despite continuing to assure Mrs. Bennet that he would not go. The evening after the visit, he begins teasing the family by remarking that he hopes Bingley will like the hat Elizabeth is trimming. Mrs. Bennet complains that they cannot know Bingley's tastes because they have not been introduced, while Elizabeth points out that they expect to meet him at an assembly.

The conversation moves through Mrs. Bennet's distrust of Mrs. Long, Kitty's coughing, and the fact that the next ball is a fortnight away. Mr. Bennet jokes about introductions and calls on Mary, described as a young woman who reads and makes extracts, to offer an opinion, but she cannot produce one.

Mr. Bennet finally reveals that he has already visited Bingley. His wife and daughters are astonished, and Mrs. Bennet quickly becomes delighted. After Mr. Bennet leaves the room, she praises him and tells Lydia that Bingley may dance with her at the next ball. Lydia replies that she is not afraid because, though the youngest, she is the tallest. The family spends the rest of the evening wondering when Bingley will return the visit and when they should invite him to dinner.

Despite the efforts of Mrs. Bennet and her daughters to extract information about Mr. Bingley from Mr. Bennet, they must rely on Lady Lucas's favorable second-hand account. Mr. Bingley makes a brief visit to Mr. Bennet but doesn't meet the ladies, who only manage to glimpse his blue coat and black horse from an upper window. When the Bennets extend a dinner invitation, Mr. Bingley's business in town forces him to decline, causing Mrs. Bennet considerable distress until Lady Lucas suggests he might be gathering a party for the upcoming assembly ball.

The much-anticipated assembly ball finally arrives, with Mr. Bingley bringing a smaller party than initially rumored - just his two sisters, his brother-in-law Mr. Hurst, and his friend Mr. Darcy. While Bingley immediately charms the assembly with his pleasant manners and enthusiastic participation, Mr. Darcy creates a starkly different impression. Though initially admired for his handsome appearance and remarkable income of ten thousand a year, Darcy's proud and aloof behavior quickly turns public opinion against him.

The evening takes a particularly unpleasant turn when Elizabeth overhears a conversation between Bingley and Darcy. While Bingley praises the assembly and its attendees, particularly Jane's beauty, Darcy dismisses Elizabeth as merely 'tolerable' and not handsome enough to tempt him to dance. Elizabeth, displaying her characteristic wit, transforms this slight into an amusing story for her friends. The evening concludes positively for most of the Bennets - Jane receives marked attention from Mr. Bingley, who dances with her twice, while his sisters also show her favor. Upon returning home, Mrs. Bennet gives her husband a detailed account of Jane's success and Mr. Darcy's behavior. Mr. Bennet impatiently interrupts her long list of Bingley's dance partners and refuses to hear a description of the ladies' finery.

Jane and Elizabeth retreat into private conversation to share their impressions of Mr. Bingley and his party. Jane, characteristically reserved in her praise until now, expresses her genuine admiration for Mr. Bingley's character, describing him as sensible, good-humored, and well-mannered. Elizabeth playfully teases her sister about her tendency to see the good in everyone, while agreeing that Bingley is indeed worthy of Jane's regard. The sisters' different personalities emerge clearly in their discussion, with Jane's careful optimism contrasting with Elizabeth's more discerning nature.

The true nature of the Bingley sisters is revealed through Elizabeth's keen observations and the narrator's insights. Despite Jane's charitable view that they are 'very pleasing women,' Elizabeth remains unconvinced of their sincerity based on their behavior at the assembly. The sisters, though well-educated and wealthy with twenty thousand pounds each, are exposed as proud and conceited women who take pleasure in looking down on others. Their pretensions to superiority are particularly ironic given that their family fortune, like their brother's, was made in trade - a fact they prefer to forget.

The chapter delves deeper into Mr. Bingley's background and his relationship with Mr. Darcy. Bingley's recent inheritance of nearly one hundred thousand pounds and his casual approach to settling at Netherfield reveal his easygoing nature. His friendship with Darcy is explored as an unlikely but steady alliance between opposite personalities - Bingley being open and agreeable, while Darcy is clever but haughty. Their contrasting reactions to the Meryton assembly further highlight their differences: Bingley found everyone pleasant and was particularly struck by Jane's beauty, while Darcy saw little to admire and criticized even Jane for 'smiling too much.' Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley agree that Jane is pretty, admire and like her, and call her a 'sweet girl' whom they would be willing to know better.

The Lucas family visits Longbourn the morning after the assembly ball to discuss the previous evening's events. Charlotte Lucas, Elizabeth's closest friend, reveals that she overheard Mr. Bingley declaring Jane to be the prettiest woman at the assembly without question. The conversation shifts to Mr. Darcy's behavior, with Mrs. Bennet complaining about his treatment of Mrs. Long, whom he allegedly ignored for half an hour. Jane attempts to defend Darcy by relating Miss Bingley's claim that he is very agreeable among intimate acquaintances, but Mrs. Bennet dismisses this, attributing his behavior to pride and snobbery about Mrs. Long's lack of a private carriage.

The visit culminates in an interesting discussion about the nature of pride, sparked by Mr. Darcy's behavior at the ball. Charlotte offers a pragmatic defense of Darcy's pride, suggesting it's natural given his advantages in life, while Elizabeth declares she could forgive his pride had he not wounded hers. Mary Bennet then delivers a philosophical discourse on the difference between pride and vanity, demonstrating her tendency toward moralistic observations. The visit concludes with an exchange between an unnamed young Lucas and Mrs. Bennet after the boy says that, if he were as rich as Darcy, he would keep foxhounds and drink a bottle of wine a day.

The ladies of Longbourn visit Netherfield and receive a return visit. Jane's manners increase the goodwill of Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley, who want to know Jane and Elizabeth better while finding Mrs. Bennet intolerable and dismissing the younger sisters. Elizabeth still perceives condescension in their behavior, although she values their kindness to Jane because she believes it probably reflects Bingley's admiration.

Elizabeth tells Charlotte Lucas that Bingley clearly admires Jane and that Jane is beginning to care for him, though Jane's composure makes her feelings difficult for outsiders to detect. Charlotte argues that Jane should show more affection than she feels so Bingley will understand her preference. Elizabeth replies that Jane is not acting strategically and has known him too briefly to judge his character. Charlotte answers that happiness in marriage is largely a matter of chance and that knowing a future spouse's defects in advance offers little guarantee of happiness.

Meanwhile Darcy's opinion of Elizabeth changes. After initially criticizing her looks, he becomes struck by the expression of her eyes, finds her figure pleasing, and is attracted by the playfulness of her manners. At a gathering at Lucas Lodge, he listens to her conversation with Colonel Forster. Sir William Lucas later tries to pair Elizabeth and Darcy for a dance. Darcy is willing, but Elizabeth refuses, and the source states that her resistance does not hurt her in his estimation. When Miss Bingley later asks what occupies his thoughts, Darcy says he has been considering the pleasure given by the fine eyes of a pretty woman and identifies Elizabeth. Miss Bingley responds by teasing him about marriage, while Darcy remains composed and indifferent to the teasing.

Crucial background information about the Bennet family's financial situation reveals Mr. Bennet's estate of two thousand a year is entailed to a distant male relation, while Mrs. Bennet brought four thousand pounds to the marriage from her father, a Meryton attorney. The family's connections to the nearby town of Meryton are established through Mrs. Bennet's sister, who is married to Mr. Phillips, her father's successor in the law practice.

The arrival of a militia regiment in Meryton provides new excitement for the youngest Bennet daughters, Kitty and Lydia, who frequently visit their aunt Mrs. Phillips to gather gossip about the officers. Their obsession with the military men leads to Mr. Bennet openly calling them the 'silliest girls in the country,' sparking a debate with Mrs. Bennet about their daughters' sense and behavior. Mr. Bennet calls Catherine and Lydia two of the silliest girls in the country, while Mrs. Bennet objects to his judgment and recalls her own fondness for officers.

Jane receives an invitation to dine at Netherfield with the Bingley sisters, prompting Mrs. Bennet to orchestrate a scheme by sending Jane on horseback rather than by carriage, despite the threat of rain. Her manipulation succeeds as Jane is caught in the downpour, falls ill and remains at Netherfield at her hosts' insistence. Elizabeth, concerned for her sister, walks three miles through muddy fields to reach Netherfield, arriving with a glowing complexion and dirty stockings. While Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley are astonished by her muddy solitary walk and Elizabeth believes they hold her in contempt, Mr. Darcy finds himself torn between admiration for her complexion and concern about the propriety of her solitary journey. The chapter concludes with Elizabeth accepting an invitation to stay at Netherfield to nurse her sister, whose condition has worsened to include fever and headache.

Elizabeth remains at Netherfield while Jane is ill. At dinner, Bingley's concern for Jane is noticeably stronger than that of the others, and his kindness keeps Elizabeth from feeling entirely unwelcome. Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley express concern about Jane but quickly turn their attention elsewhere, while Mr. Hurst is chiefly interested in food, drink, and cards.

After Elizabeth leaves the dining room, Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley criticize her manners, appearance, muddy petticoat, and decision to walk alone through the country. Bingley says he thought Elizabeth looked remarkably well, and Darcy says the exercise brightened her eyes. The conversation shifts to the Bennets' family connections. Bingley says that even many Cheapside uncles would not make Jane and Elizabeth less agreeable, while Darcy says such connections would materially reduce their chances of marrying men of consequence.

Later Elizabeth declines to join the card game and looks at books instead. Discussion turns to Bingley's library, Pemberley, Miss Darcy, and the meaning of an accomplished woman. Miss Bingley lists music, singing, drawing, dancing, languages, and polished manners; Darcy adds extensive reading. Elizabeth says she has never seen all those qualities united in one woman. After Elizabeth leaves, Miss Bingley accuses her of undervaluing women to attract men. Darcy replies more generally that any art of captivation resembling cunning is despicable, which does not satisfy Miss Bingley. When Jane worsens, Bingley wants Mr. Jones sent for and directs that every attention be paid to Jane and Elizabeth, while his sisters recommend a London physician and later play duets after supper.

Elizabeth spends the night tending to Jane at Netherfield, and in the morning sends word about her sister's condition to Mr. Bingley and his sisters. She also requests that her mother visit to assess Jane's situation. Mrs. Bennet arrives with Kitty and Lydia, and upon seeing that Jane is not in serious danger, deliberately downplays her daughter's ability to travel in hopes of prolonging her stay at Netherfield. Mr. Jones, the apothecary, supports this decision, leading to Jane's continued residence there.

The morning's interactions reveal stark differences in manners and social awareness among the gathered party. While Mr. Bingley shows genuine concern for Jane's welfare, Miss Bingley's civility is notably cold. Mrs. Bennet embarrasses Elizabeth with her effusive praise of Netherfield, her comparisons of town and country society, and her comments about Jane's beauty and a past admirer. The tension escalates when Mrs. Bennet takes offense at Mr. Darcy's comment about the limited society in country neighborhoods, leading to an awkward exchange that highlights the social gulf between the families.

The visit concludes with several revealing exchanges. Elizabeth and Darcy exchange remarks about poetry's effect on love after Mrs. Bennet recounts that a former admirer once wrote verses about Jane. Meanwhile, Lydia demonstrates her forward nature by demanding that Mr. Bingley fulfill his promise to host a ball at Netherfield. Bingley agrees to arrange the ball once Jane recovers, much to Mrs. Bennet's delight. The chapter ends with Elizabeth returning to Jane's side while the Bingley sisters and Darcy discuss the Bennets' behavior, though Darcy notably refuses to join in criticizing Elizabeth despite Miss Bingley's attempts to draw him into their censure.

The day at Netherfield continues much like the previous one, with Jane slowly recovering and Elizabeth joining the party in the drawing room. The evening's entertainment reveals the complex social dynamics through several pointed exchanges. Miss Bingley attempts to engage Mr. Darcy's attention while he writes a letter to his sister, but her excessive flattery and interruptions are met with his cool indifference, much to Elizabeth's private amusement.

A spirited debate develops between Darcy and Bingley about the latter's impulsive nature, particularly regarding his claim that he could leave Netherfield at five minutes' notice. Darcy criticizes this as a form of indirect boasting, suggesting that Bingley's actions are more dependent on chance and the influence of others than he admits. Elizabeth joins the discussion, defending Bingley's good nature, while Darcy argues about the proper balance between friendship and conviction in decision-making.

The evening concludes with several revealing interactions that highlight the growing tension between various parties. When music is requested, Miss Bingley eagerly takes to the pianoforte, while Elizabeth notices Darcy watching her intently. Their subsequent exchange about dancing a reel demonstrates their evolving dynamic, with Elizabeth cleverly deflecting what she perceives as an attempt to mock her, and Darcy finding himself increasingly attracted to her despite his concerns about her social connections. Miss Bingley, sensing this attraction, attempts to discourage it through pointed mockery of the Bennet family while walking with Darcy the next day. The chapter ends with Elizabeth cleverly extricating herself from an awkward walking arrangement, while noting that Jane's recovery means they will soon be able to return home.

The evening at Netherfield continues as Elizabeth accompanies Jane to the drawing room after dinner. The Bingley sisters show uncharacteristic pleasantness toward Elizabeth while the men are absent, demonstrating their ability to be entertaining company when it suits them. However, their attention quickly shifts once the gentlemen join them, with Miss Bingley immediately focusing on Mr. Darcy while Bingley devotes himself entirely to Jane's comfort, even rearranging her seating to protect her from drafts.

The group settles into various activities, with attempts at organizing card games thwarted by Miss Bingley's knowledge that Darcy prefers reading. Mr. Hurst resorts to sleeping on the sofa, while Darcy and Miss Bingley take up books. Miss Bingley's pretense at reading is exposed as she constantly interrupts Darcy and eventually abandons the charade altogether, declaring her love of reading while clearly demonstrating her disinterest in it. The discussion turns to Bingley's planned ball, which Miss Bingley attempts to discourage, though her brother remains determined to host it.

The evening's most revealing exchanges occur when Miss Bingley invites Elizabeth to walk about the room, hoping to attract Darcy's attention. This leads to a spirited discussion about motives and manners, with Darcy engaging in witty banter about their reasons for walking. The conversation evolves into a deeper discussion of character flaws, with Darcy admitting to his resentful nature and Elizabeth demonstrating her quick wit in response. The evening concludes with Miss Bingley calling for music because she is tired of a conversation in which she has no share. After a few moments' reflection, Darcy is not sorry for the interruption and begins to feel the danger of paying Elizabeth too much attention.

Elizabeth writes to Mrs. Bennet requesting the carriage to bring her and Jane home from Netherfield, but their mother, hoping to extend their stay until Tuesday to complete Jane's full week there, refuses the request. Her response suggests that if the Bingleys press them to stay longer, she would have no objection. Elizabeth, however, is determined to leave, concerned about overstaying their welcome, and convinces Jane to mention their original plan of departure and request Mr. Bingley's carriage.

The announcement of their intended departure produces varied reactions among the Netherfield party. Mr. Bingley expresses genuine sorrow and attempts to persuade Jane to stay longer, citing concern for her health. Miss Bingley, despite having suggested a delay, regrets this move as her dislike of Elizabeth outweighs her affection for Jane. Mr. Darcy, meanwhile, welcomes the news of their departure, finding himself increasingly drawn to Elizabeth against his better judgment. He deliberately maintains a cold distance from her throughout Saturday, barely speaking ten words and steadfastly avoiding her gaze even when they are left alone together.

The departure finally occurs on Sunday after morning service, with Miss Bingley showing a sudden increase in civility toward Elizabeth and excessive affection for Jane. Upon returning home, the sisters receive a mixed welcome - their mother expresses displeasure at their early return and worry about Jane's health, while their father, though reserved, is genuinely pleased to see them. The chapter concludes by noting how much the family conversation had lost in Jane and Elizabeth's absence. Mary remains occupied with music and moral extracts, while Kitty and Lydia supply recent news about the regiment, including a flogged private and a rumor that Colonel Forster may marry.

The morning after Jane and Elizabeth's return from Netherfield, Mr. Bennet announces an expected visitor to his family. After playfully building suspense, he reveals that his cousin Mr. Collins, the heir to the Longbourn estate through the entail, has written to announce his visit. This news prompts Mrs. Bennet's usual complaints about the unfairness of the entail, which will leave her daughters destitute upon Mr. Bennet's death.

Mr. Collins's letter reveals much about his character before his arrival. Recently ordained as a clergyman, he has received the patronage of Lady Catherine de Bourgh and now wishes to mend the family breach that existed between his late father and Mr. Bennet. His writing style is pompous and obsequious, particularly in his references to Lady Catherine, and he awkwardly attempts to apologize for his position as heir to Longbourn while proposing to arrive on Monday, November 18 and remain until the Saturday of the following week.

When Mr. Collins arrives, he proves to be exactly as his letter suggested - a formal, stately man of twenty-five whose manners are marked by a mixture of servility and self-importance. He immediately begins complimenting the beauty of his cousins and examining and praising the house and its furnishings, which irritates Mrs. Bennet because she imagines him viewing them as his own future property, despite her being somewhat mollified by his excessive praise. His social awkwardness becomes apparent during dinner when he assumes the Bennet daughters cook the meals, leading to a mortifying exchange with Mrs. Bennet that results in a quarter-hour of apologies.

Mr. Bennet deliberately draws his guest into conversation about Lady Catherine de Bourgh, knowing it will reveal the full extent of his cousin's obsequious nature. Mr. Collins eagerly launches into effusive praise of his patroness, detailing her various condescensions toward him, including invitations to dine at Rosings Park and her advice regarding his marriage prospects. His excessive flattery and self-importance become increasingly apparent as he describes even the most basic courtesies from Lady Catherine as remarkable acts of generosity.

The conversation turns to Lady Catherine's daughter and heiress, Miss de Bourgh, whom Mr. Collins describes in terms of exaggerated praise despite her apparently delicate health. His description reveals his habit of offering calculated compliments, which he proudly explains are sometimes pre-planned but delivered with an artificial air of spontaneity. Mr. Bennet's dry inquiry about whether these compliments are rehearsed or spontaneous only serves to further expose Mr. Collins's ridiculousness, much to Mr. Bennet's private amusement.

The evening takes an even more revealing turn when the family moves to the drawing room for tea. When offered a circulating-library novel to read aloud, Mr. Collins starts back, says that he never reads novels, and instead selects Fordyce's Sermons. His pompous reading is quickly interrupted by Lydia's irreverent outburst about local gossip, leading to his offended withdrawal from the activity. Though the family apologizes, Mr. Collins says that he bears Lydia no ill will and will not treat her interruption as an affront before retreating to play backgammon with Mr. Bennet, having firmly established himself as a man of absurd formality and limited social awareness.

Mr. Collins's character and background come into sharper focus, revealing how his upbringing under an illiterate and miserly father, combined with his unexpected prosperity as Lady Catherine's protégé, has created his peculiar mixture of pride and obsequiousness. His true purpose at Longbourn is revealed - he intends to marry one of the Bennet daughters as a way to make amends for inheriting their father's estate. Initially setting his sights on Jane, he quickly shifts his attention to Elizabeth after Mrs. Bennet hints at Jane's likely engagement to Mr. Bingley.

Eager to escape Mr. Collins's endless talk about Hunsford, Mr. Bennet suggests his cousin join the young ladies on their walk to Meryton. The outing proves eventful when the group encounters a handsome newcomer, Mr. Wickham, who has just accepted a commission in the militia. The initial pleasantness of this meeting is disrupted by the arrival of Mr. Darcy and Mr. Bingley on horseback. A striking moment occurs when Darcy and Wickham recognize each other. Both change colour, one turning white and the other red; Wickham touches his hat, and Darcy barely returns the salute. Elizabeth is astonished by the encounter and longs to know what it means.

The social engagements continue as the party visits Mrs. Phillips, who warmly welcomes her nieces and is suitably impressed by Mr. Collins's excessive politeness. Plans are made for the following day's entertainment at the Phillipses', including an invitation for Mr. Wickham. Elizabeth shares her observations about the strange encounter between Darcy and Wickham with Jane, though neither can explain the men's behavior. The chapter concludes with Mr. Collins lavishing praise on Mrs. Phillips, declaring her the most elegant woman he's ever met, except for Lady Catherine and her daughter.

At the Phillipses' evening gathering, Mr. Collins compares the drawing room to a small summer breakfast parlour at Rosings and describes Lady Catherine's house at length. When Mr. Wickham joins the party, he eventually sits beside Elizabeth at the lottery-ticket table after Lydia becomes absorbed in the game. Wickham himself introduces the subject of Darcy and says that he has been connected with Darcy's family since childhood.

Wickham tells Elizabeth that the late Mr. Darcy was his godfather and intended to provide for him in the church. He claims that the late Mr. Darcy bequeathed him the next presentation of a valuable living, but that the present Mr. Darcy refused it when it became vacant, relying on an informality in the bequest and alleging extravagance and imprudence. Wickham attributes Darcy's treatment of him partly to jealousy of the late Mr. Darcy's affection for Wickham. Elizabeth accepts Wickham's account and condemns Darcy more strongly, while Wickham also says that Darcy's pride can lead him to generosity, hospitality, assistance to tenants and the poor, and careful guardianship of his sister.

Wickham further tells Elizabeth that Lady Catherine de Bourgh and the late Lady Anne Darcy were sisters, making Lady Catherine Darcy's aunt, and says that it is believed Darcy and Miss de Bourgh will unite their estates through marriage. Elizabeth thinks of Miss Bingley's attentions to Darcy. After the card games end, Wickham's manners continue to please the company. Elizabeth leaves with her thoughts occupied by Wickham and what he has told her, while Lydia talks about the lottery tickets and Mr. Collins recounts the evening's civilities and his losses at whist.

Elizabeth shares Wickham's shocking revelations with Jane, whose characteristic optimism leads her to seek a charitable explanation for the conflict between Darcy and Wickham. Elizabeth remains convinced by Wickham's detailed account and says that there was truth in his looks, while Jane suggests that both men may have been deceived or misrepresented to one another and cannot believe Darcy could be so unworthy of Bingley's friendship. Their discussion reveals their contrasting approaches to judgment - Jane's determined optimism versus Elizabeth's more decisive conclusions.

The conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Bingley and his sisters, who come to personally deliver invitations to the long-anticipated Netherfield ball, scheduled for the following Tuesday. During the brief visit, the Bingley sisters direct most of their attention to Jane, say little to Elizabeth, avoid Mrs. Bennet as much as possible, and say nothing to the other Bennet daughters. Their hasty departure, seemingly to escape Mrs. Bennet's effusive reception, further emphasizes the social divide between the families.

The prospect of the ball elicits varied reactions from the Bennet sisters, with Elizabeth particularly anticipating dancing with Wickham and observing Darcy's reaction to him. However, her plans are disrupted when Mr. Collins surprisingly requests her hand for the first two dances, forcing her to accept despite her preference for Wickham. This unwanted attention leads Elizabeth to realize that she has become the object of Mr. Collins's matrimonial intentions, a suspicion reinforced by his increasing civilities and her mother's obvious approval. The chapter concludes with the younger Bennets lamenting several days of rain that prevent their usual walks to Meryton, particularly frustrating their hopes of seeing the officers and gathering news about the upcoming ball.

Elizabeth arrives at the Netherfield ball expecting to see Wickham and is immediately disappointed by his absence. Denny says Wickham went to town on business and implies that he wished to avoid Darcy. Elizabeth takes this as further reason to blame Darcy and initially treats him with marked displeasure. Her first two dances with Mr. Collins are awkward and mortifying, but she later accepts Darcy's unexpected invitation to dance.

During their two dances, Elizabeth presses Darcy into conversation and brings up Wickham. Darcy says Wickham has manners that help him make friends but questions whether he can retain them. Sir William Lucas then alludes to the apparent prospect of Jane and Bingley marrying, which draws Darcy's serious attention toward the pair. Later Miss Bingley warns Elizabeth against Wickham and says that Bingley has learned from Darcy that Wickham has behaved badly. Jane separately reports that Bingley vouches for Darcy's character, believes Wickham has been imprudent and deserves less of Darcy's regard than he received, and thinks the promised living was conditional. Because Bingley does not know Wickham personally and received the account from Darcy, Elizabeth remains unconvinced and continues to believe Wickham.

The rest of the ball repeatedly embarrasses Elizabeth. Mr. Collins introduces himself to Darcy despite her warning against it. Mrs. Bennet audibly predicts Jane's marriage to Bingley while Darcy is within hearing. Mary sings twice until Mr. Bennet stops her, and Collins follows with a conspicuous speech about clerical duties. Collins then stays beside Elizabeth for much of the evening. The Longbourn party is the last to depart, and Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley show clear impatience while they wait for their carriage. Mrs. Bennet leaves convinced that Jane will soon marry Bingley and that Elizabeth will marry Collins.

The morning after the Netherfield ball, Mr. Collins wastes no time in making his matrimonial intentions clear. Finding Mrs. Bennet and Elizabeth together after breakfast, he formally requests a private audience with Elizabeth. Despite Elizabeth's protests and attempts to avoid the situation, Mrs. Bennet insists she stay and hear Mr. Collins out, then promptly leaves with Kitty to give them privacy.

Mr. Collins delivers the proposal in an orderly, formal manner and begins by listing his reasons for marrying. He methodically lists his reasons for marriage: his duty as a clergyman to set an example, his own happiness, and most importantly, Lady Catherine de Bourgh's direct advice on the matter. He extensively quotes Lady Catherine's matrimonial instructions and emphasizes the advantages of his connection to her. Collins also reveals his specific choice of a Bennet daughter stems from his desire to minimize the family's eventual loss of Longbourn, though he takes care to mention his indifference to Elizabeth's small fortune.

Elizabeth's firm rejection of the proposal leads to an increasingly frustrating exchange, as Mr. Collins refuses to accept her answer. Convinced that she is following the common practice of young ladies who reject proposals they secretly mean to accept, he persistently interprets her increasingly direct refusals as the conventional modesty of a woman who expects to accept a later proposal. Despite Elizabeth's rational appeals and explicit statements that she could never make him happy, Collins remains certain that her parents' approval will eventually secure her acceptance. The scene ends with Elizabeth's silent withdrawal, determined to seek her father's intervention if Collins continues to mistake her genuine refusal for feminine coquetry.

Mrs. Bennet enters the breakfast room expecting to congratulate Mr. Collins on his successful proposal, having anticipated Elizabeth's acceptance. Collins, still convinced that Elizabeth's refusal stems from 'bashful modesty,' relates the details of the proposal to Mrs. Bennet, whose shock and dismay lead her to promise she will force Elizabeth to accept. When Collins expresses doubts about marrying someone 'headstrong and foolish,' Mrs. Bennet hastily attempts to backtrack, assuring him that Elizabeth is otherwise good-natured.

The situation escalates as Mrs. Bennet rushes to Mr. Bennet in his library, demanding he intervene and force Elizabeth to marry Collins. Mr. Bennet confirms that Elizabeth has refused Collins and answers Mrs. Bennet's demand by saying he will never see Elizabeth again if she does marry Collins, while Mrs. Bennet says she will never see Elizabeth again if she does not. This creates what Mr. Bennet terms an 'unhappy alternative' for Elizabeth, though his satirical handling of the situation makes his true position clear. Mrs. Bennet's subsequent attempts to enlist Jane's help prove futile, as Jane refuses to interfere in the matter.

The chapter concludes with two parallel scenes that highlight the contrasting reactions to the failed proposal. Mr. Collins meditates alone on the rejection. The narrator says his pride is hurt, his regard for Elizabeth was imaginary, and the possibility that she deserved her mother's criticism prevents him from regretting the failed match. Meanwhile, Mrs. Bennet continues her dramatic lamentations about her nerves and her daughter's disobedience, Charlotte Lucas arrives during the dispute; after Lydia and Kitty tell her the news, Mrs. Bennet asks Charlotte to persuade Elizabeth, and Charlotte remains nearby partly from curiosity. The final conversation between Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins shows him formally withdrawing his suit with characteristic pomposity, while attempting to maintain his dignity through elaborate explanations of his resignation to this 'inevitable evil.'

After the rejected proposal, Collins treats Elizabeth with stiff manners and resentful silence and directs much of his attention to Charlotte Lucas. On a walk to Meryton, Wickham admits to Elizabeth that he deliberately stayed away from the Netherfield ball because he thought meeting Darcy for so long might produce an unpleasant scene. Elizabeth approves his explanation.

Jane then receives a letter from Caroline Bingley announcing that the Netherfield party has gone to London and that Caroline expects none of them to return to Hertfordshire that winter. Caroline also praises Georgiana Darcy and writes that she hopes Bingley may eventually marry her. Jane takes the letter as evidence that Caroline neither expects nor wants Jane to become her sister and worries that Bingley may not return.

Elizabeth interprets the letter differently. She argues that Caroline knows Bingley loves Jane, wants him to marry Georgiana, and is trying both to keep him in London and to persuade Jane that he is indifferent. Jane refuses to believe Caroline would deliberately deceive her and prefers to think Caroline may be mistaken. Elizabeth continues to expect Bingley's return and succeeds in restoring some of Jane's hope. They tell Mrs. Bennet only that the Netherfield family has left; she laments the departure but assumes Bingley will soon return and dine at Longbourn.

Charlotte Lucas takes it upon herself to keep Mr. Collins entertained during a dinner at Lucas Lodge after his rejected proposal to Elizabeth. While Elizabeth thanks her friend for this kindness, she remains unaware of Charlotte's true intentions. Charlotte's actual scheme is to secure Mr. Collins for herself, recognizing an opportunity for the security of marriage that she has long desired. Her plan succeeds remarkably quickly, as Mr. Collins secretly leaves Longbourn the next morning to propose to her.

The proposal and acceptance unfold with characteristic efficiency, matching both parties' practical approach to matrimony. Charlotte, at twenty-seven and without beauty or fortune, accepts Mr. Collins solely for the security of establishment, harboring no illusions about love or happiness. The Lucas family readily gives their consent, seeing it as an advantageous match for their daughter, while Lady Lucas begins calculating how long Mr. Bennet might live, and Sir William anticipates his daughter's future presentations at court. Mr. Collins departs Longbourn with barely concealed satisfaction, managing to keep the engagement secret despite his desire to announce it.

The news of the engagement, when revealed to Elizabeth the following morning, provokes a strong reaction of shock and dismay. Charlotte explains that she is not romantic and asks only for a comfortable home, believing that Collins's character, connections, and situation give her as fair a chance of happiness as most marriages offer. Elizabeth struggles to reconcile herself to the idea of her friend making such a choice, finding it impossible to imagine Charlotte achieving any happiness with Mr. Collins. The chapter ends with Elizabeth judging the match unsuitable, feeling that Charlotte has sacrificed better feelings to worldly advantage, and becoming convinced that her friend cannot be tolerably happy in the marriage.

The news of Charlotte and Mr. Collins's engagement spreads through the community when Sir William Lucas arrives at Longbourn to make the formal announcement. His revelation is met with disbelief and rudeness from Mrs. Bennet and Lydia, forcing Elizabeth to intervene and confirm the truth of the match. Despite Jane and Elizabeth's attempts to smooth the situation with congratulations and positive remarks about the match, Mrs. Bennet remains inconsolable, convinced that Elizabeth is to blame for this turn of events and that she herself has been cruelly wronged.

The engagement produces varied reactions throughout the community. Mr. Bennet finds sardonic amusement in discovering Charlotte Lucas to be 'as foolish as his wife,' while Jane maintains her characteristic optimism about the match. Lady Lucas, triumphant in having secured a good marriage for her daughter, makes frequent visits to Longbourn to express her joy, much to Mrs. Bennet's aggravation. The situation creates a painful distance between Elizabeth and Charlotte, with Elizabeth feeling that their friendship can never be the same.

Meanwhile, the Bingley situation continues to deteriorate as days pass without word of his return to Netherfield. Jane, having responded to Caroline's letter, counts the days until she might receive another, while Elizabeth begins to fear that Bingley's sisters and Darcy will succeed in keeping him away from Jane. When Mr. Collins returns to Longbourn for his courtship visits, Mrs. Bennet's distress reaches new heights. She becomes obsessed with the idea of Charlotte as the future mistress of Longbourn, interpreting every interaction between Charlotte and Mr. Collins as a plot to dispossess her family, and repeatedly laments to Mr. Bennet about the injustice of the entail that will give their home to Mr. Collins.

Caroline Bingley's next letter confirms that the Netherfield party is settled in London for the winter and says Bingley regrets not having had time to take leave of his Hertfordshire friends. Caroline again praises Georgiana Darcy, celebrates their increasing intimacy, and predicts the fulfillment of the hopes expressed in her earlier letter. Jane accepts that Bingley will not return that winter.

Elizabeth remains convinced that Bingley had genuine feelings for Jane. She angrily interprets his continued absence as evidence that his easy temper and lack of resolution have allowed his sisters and Darcy to influence him, although she also considers other possibilities, including that his affection may have faded or that he may never have understood Jane's feelings. Jane, after some time, tells Elizabeth that she intends to get over her disappointment and prefers to regard the episode as an error of her own fancy rather than blame Bingley.

The sisters also disagree about Charlotte's marriage. Elizabeth condemns Collins and judges Charlotte's choice harshly, while Jane urges allowance for differences of situation and hopes the couple may be happy. At Jane's request, Elizabeth stops pressing her theory that Bingley's sisters and Darcy deliberately separated them, and Bingley's name is thereafter rarely mentioned between the sisters. Mrs. Bennet continues to complain about his absence, while Mr. Bennet jokes about Jane being crossed in love. Wickham becomes a frequent visitor, and his accusations against Darcy are openly repeated throughout the neighborhood; almost everyone condemns Darcy, while Jane alone continues to suggest that unknown circumstances or mistakes may qualify Wickham's story.

Following his successful courtship of Charlotte Lucas, Mr. Collins departs Longbourn on Saturday, comforted by the knowledge that preparations for his marriage will soon begin. His departure coincides with the arrival of the Gardiners for their traditional Christmas visit to Longbourn, bringing a welcome change to the household atmosphere. Mr. Gardiner is described as sensible and gentlemanlike despite being in trade, while Mrs. Gardiner is described as amiable, intelligent, elegant, and especially close to Jane and Elizabeth.

Mrs. Bennet wastes no time in relating her grievances to Mrs. Gardiner, lamenting both Jane's failed romance with Bingley and Elizabeth's rejection of Mr. Collins. Her complaints focus particularly on the Lucas family's 'artfulness' in securing Mr. Collins for Charlotte. Mrs. Gardiner, already aware of these developments through correspondence with Jane and Elizabeth, skillfully redirects the conversation out of compassion for her nieces. In a private discussion with Elizabeth, she offers a more pragmatic view of Bingley's behavior, suggesting that such inconstancy in young men is common, though Elizabeth strongly disagrees with this assessment.

The Gardiners' week-long visit brings welcome social engagements, with constant entertainment from the Phillipses, Lucases, and officers. Mrs. Gardiner, noting Elizabeth's particular attention to Wickham, grows concerned about the prudence of such an attachment. Her connection to Derbyshire, where both Wickham and Darcy grew up, provides new context to the ongoing conflict between the two men. Through conversations about Pemberley and the late Mr. Darcy, Mrs. Gardiner tries to recall what she had heard of the younger Darcy and eventually remembers him being described as a proud, ill-natured boy, a recollection that appears consistent with part of Wickham's account. Observing Elizabeth and Wickham's evident preference for each other, Mrs. Gardiner resolves to warn Elizabeth before leaving Hertfordshire about the imprudence of encouraging an attachment when neither has much fortune.

Mrs. Gardiner privately cautions Elizabeth against encouraging an attachment to Wickham because neither has the fortune to make such a match prudent. Elizabeth says she is not in love with him, promises not to hurry herself into believing she is his first object, and agrees to do what she thinks wisest. Mrs. Gardiner accepts this assurance, and Elizabeth receives the advice without resentment.

Charlotte and Collins marry and leave for Kent. Before the wedding, Charlotte asks Elizabeth to visit Hunsford in March with Sir William and Maria Lucas, and Elizabeth agrees. Their correspondence remains regular afterward, but Elizabeth feels that their former intimacy is gone. Charlotte's letters are cheerful and praise her house, neighborhood, and Lady Catherine; Elizabeth reads them as saying much what she expected Charlotte would say.

Jane, meanwhile, goes to London with the Gardiners. Caroline does not seek her out, and after Jane calls at Grosvenor Street, Caroline delays returning the visit for a fortnight. When she finally comes, her visit is brief and formal. Jane then writes that she has been deceived in Caroline's regard, though she still pities Caroline and thinks anxiety for Bingley may explain her behavior. Jane also concludes that Bingley must know she is in London and that his failure to call ends her remaining hopes.

Elizabeth later reports to Mrs. Gardiner that Wickham's attention has shifted to Miss King after the young woman acquired ten thousand pounds. Elizabeth feels little pain, concludes that she was never much in love with Wickham, and does not blame either him or Miss King for the change.

Elizabeth's reluctance about visiting Charlotte gradually transforms into anticipation as March arrives, the distance having softened her disgust with Mr. Collins while strengthening her desire to see her friend again. The prospect of seeing Jane in London during the journey adds further appeal, though her father's reluctance to let her go creates a touching moment where he nearly promises to correspond with her.

Wickham's farewell is cordial and particularly attentive despite his current pursuit of Miss King. The narrator notes that Elizabeth had been the first to excite and deserve his attention, to listen and pity, and to be admired, and his manner leaves her with a sincere regard for him. Her traveling companions, Sir William Lucas and his daughter Maria, offer less engaging company during the twenty-four-mile journey, providing little beyond the tedium of Sir William's oft-repeated stories about his knighthood.

At the Gardiners' home in Gracechurch Street, Elizabeth finds Jane looking healthy and lovely, though Mrs. Gardiner later confides that Jane still experiences periods of dejection over Bingley. Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner discuss Wickham's pursuit of Miss King. Mrs. Gardiner worries that his sudden attention after Miss King's inheritance may be mercenary, while Elizabeth defends his need to seek a financially prudent match. The chapter concludes with Mrs. Gardiner extending an invitation for Elizabeth to join them on a summer tour to the Lakes, a prospect that immediately lifts Elizabeth's spirits and provides her with a welcome alternative to dwelling on disappointing men.

Elizabeth's spirits remain high as she approaches Hunsford, buoyed by both her recent reunion with Jane and anticipation of her planned northern tour. As they catch sight of Rosings Park's boundaries, she reflects with amusement on all she's heard about its inhabitants. Upon arrival at the Parsonage, they are greeted by Mr. Collins and Charlotte, with Collins maintaining his characteristic formality and immediately launching into detailed inquiries about the family.

The tour of the Parsonage reveals a neat, comfortable, if modest establishment, which Elizabeth observes with particular interest, noting how Charlotte manages her new domestic situation. Mr. Collins carefully displays the house and garden. Elizabeth imagines that he addresses his descriptions particularly to her, as if wishing her to feel what she lost by refusing him, but the source presents this as her interpretation. Elizabeth notices Charlotte's composure in managing her husband: Charlotte sometimes blushes at remarks that might embarrass her but generally behaves as though she has not heard them.

The visit's dynamic shifts when Mr. Collins proudly announces that Lady Catherine de Bourgh is still in the country, promising Elizabeth and Maria the honor of seeing her at church and likely receiving invitations to dine at Rosings. This discussion is interrupted by the appearance of Miss de Bourgh and Mrs. Jenkinson in a phaeton outside the Parsonage, causing great excitement among the party. Elizabeth observes Miss de Bourgh with particular interest, noting her sickly and cross appearance, and privately concluding she would make a suitable match for Mr. Darcy. The chapter concludes with news that the entire party has been invited to dine at Rosings the following day.

The long-anticipated dinner at Rosings finally occurs, with Mr. Collins taking immense pleasure in displaying Lady Catherine's grandeur to his guests. His excessive preparations include detailed instructions about dress code and repeated urgings about punctuality, as Lady Catherine abhors tardiness. The party makes their way across the park to Rosings, with Mr. Collins providing endless commentary about the estate's features and costs.

Elizabeth finds Lady Catherine authoritative and self-important and, after observing her through the day, concludes that she is exactly as Wickham had represented her. Elizabeth notices some resemblance between Lady Catherine and Mr. Darcy in countenance and deportment, while noting how sickly and insignificant Miss de Bourgh appears in person. The dinner itself is a formal affair marked by Mr. Collins's constant praise of every dish and Lady Catherine's gracious acceptance of their excessive admiration.

The evening's most revealing moments come after dinner, when Lady Catherine dominates the conversation with her opinions and interrogations. She subjects Elizabeth to a thorough questioning about her family, education, and accomplishments, expressing particular shock at the Bennets' lack of a governess and their allowing all five daughters to be 'out' in society simultaneously. Elizabeth handles the questioning with composed wit, even daring to give her opinion decisively and avoid directly stating her age, and Elizabeth privately suspects that she may be the first person who has dared to answer Lady Catherine's impertinent questions so playfully. The evening concludes with card games and Lady Catherine's weather predictions, followed by Mr. Collins's insistence that Elizabeth praise everything she has witnessed at Rosings.

After Sir William leaves Hunsford, the parsonage returns to its usual routine. Elizabeth notices that Charlotte uses the rear sitting room rather than the more pleasant front dining-parlour and concludes that the arrangement keeps Collins more often in his own front room. Collins spends much of his time gardening, reading, writing, watching the road, visiting Rosings, and reporting passing carriages. Lady Catherine also visits the parsonage, where she inspects the household and offers unsolicited directions, and she intervenes actively in village disputes and complaints.

Elizabeth spends the first fortnight comfortably enough, dining at Rosings about twice a week and taking frequent walks along a sheltered grove beside the park. As Easter approaches, Darcy is expected at Rosings. He arrives with Colonel Fitzwilliam, a younger son of one of Darcy's uncles. The next morning the two men accompany Collins to the parsonage.

Colonel Fitzwilliam converses easily, while Darcy is reserved. Elizabeth deliberately tells Darcy that Jane has been in London for three months because she wants to see whether he shows any awareness of what happened between Jane and Bingley. Darcy says he has not seen Jane; Elizabeth thinks he looks a little confused, but the source does not establish why. The subject goes no further before Darcy and Fitzwilliam leave.

On Easter Sunday, nearly a week after Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam arrive at Rosings, the Hunsford party is invited there for the evening. Lady Catherine gives most of her attention to her nephews. Colonel Fitzwilliam sits with Elizabeth and talks pleasantly with her about travel, books, and music, drawing the notice of both Lady Catherine and Darcy.

Conversation turns to music. Lady Catherine praises her own natural taste, says Anne would have been an excellent performer if health had allowed her to learn, and questions Darcy about Georgiana's practice. When Elizabeth later plays for Colonel Fitzwilliam, Darcy moves near the pianoforte to watch her. Elizabeth jokes that he means to frighten her, and their exchange develops into a discussion of Darcy's conduct at the Meryton assembly and his difficulty conversing with strangers. Elizabeth compares his explanation to her own failure to practise the pianoforte more diligently, and Darcy accepts the comparison.

Lady Catherine interrupts to criticize Elizabeth's playing and again praise Anne's unrealized abilities. Elizabeth watches Darcy's behavior toward Miss de Bourgh but cannot discern any sign of love. From what she observes, she concludes that Darcy might have been no more likely to marry Anne than Miss Bingley if Miss Bingley had been his relation.

While Charlotte and Maria are in the village, Darcy unexpectedly calls at the parsonage and finds Elizabeth alone. After an awkward start, Elizabeth asks about the Netherfield party's sudden departure and whether Bingley intends to return. Darcy says he has never heard Bingley say that he will not return, though he thinks Bingley may spend little time there and might give up the house if an eligible purchase becomes available. Elizabeth then drops the subject.

They discuss Charlotte's marriage and the distance between Hunsford and her family. Darcy calls the distance easy, while Elizabeth argues that nearly fifty miles is not especially near for a household without enough income for frequent travel. Darcy smiles and says her view shows a strong attachment to Hertfordshire. Elizabeth imagines that he may be thinking of Jane and Netherfield. After Darcy moves his chair nearer and remarks on Elizabeth's attachment to Longbourn, her surprised look is followed by a change in his manner; he draws back, takes up a newspaper, and changes the subject.

After Charlotte and Maria return, Darcy leaves. Charlotte first wonders whether his solitary call means he is in love with Elizabeth, but his silence makes that explanation uncertain. From then on Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam visit the parsonage frequently. Everyone finds Fitzwilliam's enjoyment of their company easy to understand, while Darcy's motive remains unclear because he often sits silently. Charlotte watches his repeated looks at Elizabeth and considers the possibility that he is attached to her, but she cannot determine what his expression means.

Elizabeth repeatedly encounters Darcy during solitary walks in the Rosings park. She tells him that the grove is a favorite route in hopes of preventing further meetings, but he continues to appear and sometimes turns back to walk with her. His questions about Hunsford, the Collinses, and future visits to Kent strike Elizabeth as odd, and she wonders whether he may be alluding to a possible future involving Colonel Fitzwilliam.

On another walk Elizabeth meets Colonel Fitzwilliam. He explains that, as an earl's younger son, he must consider money in marriage and tells her that he shares guardianship of Georgiana Darcy with Darcy. When the conversation turns to Bingley, Fitzwilliam says Darcy recently congratulated himself on saving a friend from an imprudent marriage. Fitzwilliam does not name the friend and repeatedly says that identifying Bingley is only his own conjecture.

Elizabeth nevertheless becomes convinced that the story concerns Jane and Bingley. She is angry at what she takes to be Darcy's interference and privately concludes that family connections and Darcy's pride were likely among his objections. Her agitation and tears bring on a headache, and she stays home from tea at Rosings rather than see Darcy.

Elizabeth rereads Jane's letters and notices the diminished cheerfulness in them, which intensifies her anger after Colonel Fitzwilliam's story. While she is alone at the parsonage with a headache, Darcy unexpectedly arrives, asks after her health, and after several minutes declares that he loves her and asks her to marry him.

Darcy's proposal includes both his strong attachment and his objections to Elizabeth's inferior connections and family circumstances. Elizabeth is initially astonished, but his language makes her angry. She rejects him and accuses him of having destroyed Jane's happiness by separating her from Bingley. Darcy explicitly admits that he did everything in his power to separate them and says he rejoices in his success.

Elizabeth then cites Wickham's account as another reason for despising Darcy and accuses him of depriving Wickham of the church living intended for him. Darcy reacts with contempt to the description of Wickham's misfortunes and with anger to Elizabeth's accusations, but he does not explain the history during this confrontation. He instead argues that his objections to her connections were natural and says he is not ashamed of having expressed them. Elizabeth tells him that no manner of proposal could have induced her to accept him and that his conduct from the beginning made him the last man she could marry. Darcy leaves, and Elizabeth spends the next half-hour crying and reviewing the encounter in agitation.

The morning after the proposal, Darcy intercepts Elizabeth during a walk and hands her a long letter. He says the letter will not renew his proposal but will answer the two accusations she made against him: separating Jane and Bingley, and ruining Wickham's prospects.

On Jane and Bingley, Darcy says he believed Bingley seriously attached to Jane but saw no sign that Jane returned that attachment. He also cites the conduct of Mrs. Bennet, the three younger Bennet sisters, and occasionally Mr. Bennet as objections to the connection, while explicitly exempting Jane and Elizabeth from that criticism. Darcy admits that he and Bingley's sisters encouraged Bingley to remain in London. He further admits that he knew Jane was in London and deliberately concealed that fact from Bingley, calling this concealment the one part of his conduct that he does not view with satisfaction.

Darcy then gives his own account of Wickham. He says his father supported Wickham's education and intended a valuable living for him if he entered the church. According to Darcy, Wickham instead renounced the living and accepted three thousand pounds, later spent the money, and then demanded the living when it became vacant. Darcy says he refused. He also alleges that Wickham later went to Ramsgate with the assistance of Mrs. Younge and persuaded fifteen-year-old Georgiana to consent to an elopement. Darcy says he interrupted the plan after Georgiana confessed it and believes Wickham was chiefly motivated by her fortune of thirty thousand pounds, with revenge against Darcy as another possible motive.

Darcy closes by saying Colonel Fitzwilliam can corroborate the history because he is Georgiana's co-guardian and an executor of the elder Darcy's will. The chapter presents these matters as Darcy's account; Elizabeth's evaluation of its credibility follows in the next chapter.

Elizabeth begins Darcy's letter strongly prejudiced against his explanations. She initially rejects his account of Jane and Bingley and is angered by his unapologetic tone. When she reaches the Wickham section, however, she is shaken by how closely parts of Darcy's account match facts Wickham himself had supplied, while differing sharply over the church living.

Elizabeth rereads the Wickham section repeatedly. She recognizes that she has no independent evidence of Wickham's virtue beyond his manners and popularity, remembers his inconsistent claims about being willing to face Darcy despite avoiding the Netherfield ball, and recalls that he spread his accusations more broadly only after Darcy left Hertfordshire. Darcy's account of Georgiana also gains credibility in Elizabeth's mind because Colonel Fitzwilliam had independently identified himself as her co-guardian and Darcy had offered Fitzwilliam as a witness. Elizabeth increasingly accepts Darcy's account and becomes ashamed of how readily she had trusted Wickham.

She then turns the criticism on herself, recognizing that Wickham's attention flattered her vanity while Darcy's initial slight offended it. She calls herself blind, partial, prejudiced, and absurd. After this change in her view of Wickham, she rereads Darcy's explanation of Jane and Bingley. She acknowledges that Jane's feelings were deeply held but little displayed and that Darcy could reasonably have mistaken her composure for indifference. She also concedes that Darcy's criticism of Mrs. Bennet, her younger sisters, and even some of Mr. Bennet's conduct at the Netherfield ball was painfully justified.

After about two hours of reflection, Elizabeth returns to the parsonage. She learns that Darcy had called briefly to take leave and that Colonel Fitzwilliam had waited for her for nearly an hour. She is relieved rather than disappointed to have missed Fitzwilliam because her attention is now entirely on Darcy's letter and the revision of her judgments it has forced.

Following Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam's departure from Rosings, Mr. Collins hastens to console Lady Catherine and her daughter, returning with an invitation for the entire party to dine at Rosings. During this visit, Lady Catherine's comments about Darcy's increased attachment to Rosings take on new meaning for Elizabeth, who silently reflects that she might have been presented as Lady Catherine's future niece had she accepted Darcy's proposal. The evening is filled with Lady Catherine's usual domineering behavior, though Elizabeth finds herself more contemplative than irritated by her hostess's manner.

Lady Catherine, noticing Elizabeth's subdued mood, insists that she extend her stay at Hunsford, refusing to accept Elizabeth's polite declination. When the topic turns to travel arrangements, Lady Catherine becomes particularly concerned about the propriety of young ladies traveling alone and cites Georgiana's journey to Ramsgate the previous summer as an example of proper attendance. The detailed questions about Elizabeth's journey require her attention while her mind remains occupied by recent events.

In her solitary moments, Elizabeth continues to grapple with the revelations from Darcy's letter, which she has nearly memorized through constant review. Her feelings toward him fluctuate between lingering indignation at his manner of proposal and growing compassion for his disappointed feelings, though she remains certain of her decision to refuse him. Her reflections lead to painful acknowledgment of her family's defects, particularly her father's passive approach to parenting and her mother's poor judgment, which have allowed Kitty and Lydia's behavior to become increasingly problematic. She also grieves anew for Jane's lost happiness, now understanding that Bingley's genuine affection was thwarted not by his inconstancy but by the very impropriety Elizabeth has come to recognize in her own family.

Mr. Collins seizes a private moment at breakfast to deliver his elaborate farewell speech to Elizabeth on the morning of her departure from Hunsford. He expresses exaggerated gratitude for Elizabeth's condescension in visiting their humble abode, while simultaneously boasting about their connection to Rosings Park and Lady Catherine. Elizabeth manages to respond with diplomatic politeness, though she finds his excessive self-importance as trying as ever.

The scene grows more revealing when Mr. Collins begins to speak of his marriage to Charlotte, insisting that they share one mind and one way of thinking. Elizabeth, while outwardly agreeing with his assessment of marital happiness, privately grieves for Charlotte's situation. Charlotte herself, though clearly regretting her visitors' departure, appears content enough with her chosen life, finding satisfaction in her domestic duties, parish responsibilities, and household management.

The departure itself is delayed by Mr. Collins's last-minute reminder about sending respects to the ladies at Rosings, after which Elizabeth and Maria begin their journey. Maria's innocent observation about how much has happened during their stay prompts Elizabeth to reflect on all she must conceal, particularly regarding Darcy's proposal and letter. Upon reaching the Gardiners' house in London, Elizabeth finds herself struggling with the temptation to tell Jane about Darcy's proposal, held back only by her uncertainty about how much to reveal and her fear of causing Jane additional pain by mentioning anything related to Bingley.

In the second week of May, Elizabeth, Jane, and Maria travel from the Gardiners' house toward Longbourn and meet Kitty and Lydia at an inn. Kitty and Lydia have spent more than an hour shopping and waiting for them. Lydia announces that they mean to provide luncheon but asks the older girls to lend them the money because she and Kitty have spent theirs. She displays a bonnet she plans to remake and enthusiastically describes the militia's coming move to Brighton, where she wants the whole Bennet family to spend the summer.

Lydia also reports that Mary King has gone to Liverpool to stay with her uncle, ending Wickham's courtship of her. Elizabeth answers that Mary King is safe from a financially imprudent match and is struck by how close Lydia's coarse judgment of the young woman is to sentiments Elizabeth herself had previously entertained. During the carriage ride, Lydia recounts recent parties and a prank at the Forsters' in which Chamberlayne was dressed in women's clothes to deceive several officers.

At Longbourn, the returning travelers receive a warm welcome and the Lucases gather to hear Maria's news. Lydia loudly recounts the journey and urges the sisters to go to Meryton that afternoon. Elizabeth refuses, both because she does not want the Bennet sisters immediately pursuing the officers and because she wants to avoid Wickham. She is relieved that the regiment will leave in two weeks, but soon learns that the idea of going to Brighton is already a recurring subject between her parents, although Mr. Bennet appears to have no intention of agreeing.

Elizabeth tells Jane about Darcy's proposal, while deliberately suppressing the parts of the affair that concern Jane herself. Jane is astonished and sorry for Darcy's disappointment but does not blame Elizabeth for refusing him. Elizabeth then tells Jane the contents of Darcy's letter concerning Wickham.

Jane is deeply distressed by the possibility of Wickham's misconduct and initially tries to imagine that both men may somehow be less at fault than the competing accounts suggest. Elizabeth explains that she now gives Darcy's account much greater credit and jokes about how completely her judgment has changed. The sisters discuss whether Wickham's conduct should be made public. Elizabeth decides against it because Darcy did not authorize disclosure, Georgiana's history was clearly confidential, the neighborhood is strongly prejudiced against Darcy, and Wickham will soon leave with the regiment. Jane agrees that exposing him could cause further harm.

Elizabeth does not tell Jane the portion of Darcy's letter concerning Bingley's sincere attachment, Jane's reserve, or Darcy's intervention in their relationship. She believes that information can only properly be disclosed if circumstances between Jane and Bingley change. Once home, Elizabeth observes that Jane still loves Bingley deeply and must actively restrain her regrets. Mrs. Bennet continues to complain about Bingley and later turns to questions about Charlotte's housekeeping and the Collinses' future inheritance of Longbourn.

The impending departure of the militia regiment from Meryton creates widespread dejection among the young ladies of the neighborhood, particularly affecting Kitty and Lydia Bennet. While Elizabeth and Jane maintain their composure, their younger sisters dramatically lament the officers' departure, with Mrs. Bennet encouraging their excessive behavior by reminiscing about her own similar experiences from twenty-five years ago. The situation takes an unexpected turn when Mrs. Forster, the colonel's young wife and Lydia's intimate friend of two months, invites Lydia to accompany her to Brighton, leading to rapturous joy from Lydia and bitter jealousy from Kitty.

Deeply concerned about the implications of this invitation, Elizabeth approaches her father privately to argue against allowing Lydia to go to Brighton. She describes Lydia's unguarded behavior, warns that Brighton will offer greater temptations, and argues that Lydia's conduct can damage the respectability of all the Bennet sisters. Mr. Bennet, though acknowledging Elizabeth's sincerity, dismisses her warnings with his characteristic ironic detachment, suggesting that Lydia's reduced importance in Brighton might actually prove beneficial, and that Colonel Forster's supervision will prevent any real mischief.

The chapter concludes with two significant scenes that highlight Elizabeth's evolved perspective. Her final encounter with Wickham reveals her complete disillusionment with his character, as she now detects affectation in the very qualities that once charmed her. Their last conversation becomes a subtle battle of wits when Elizabeth deliberately mentions Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy's presence at Rosings, causing visible discomfort to Wickham. The chapter ends with Lydia leaving for Brighton with Mrs. Forster. Mrs. Bennet urges her to enjoy herself as much as possible, Kitty cries from vexation and envy, and Elizabeth remains dissatisfied with her father's decision to let Lydia go.

Following Lydia's departure to Brighton, Elizabeth reflects deeply on her parents' marriage and its impact on the family. Her father's choice to marry Mrs. Bennet for her youth and beauty, despite her weak understanding, has resulted in a loveless union where he seeks refuge in books and country life while deriving amusement from his wife's foolishness. Elizabeth, though grateful for her father's affection toward her, recognizes more clearly than ever the damage done by his failure to properly guide his family and maintain respectability.

The departure of the militia brings mixed feelings to Longbourn. While Elizabeth is relieved by Wickham's absence, the loss of the regiment creates a gloomy atmosphere at home, with Mrs. Bennet and Kitty constantly complaining about the dullness of their lives. After several weeks, life gradually returns to normal, with Kitty slowly recovering from her dejection and local families returning from their winter stays in town. Mrs. Bennet returns to her usual querulous state, and Elizabeth begins to hope that by Christmas, Kitty might become reasonably composed.

Elizabeth's anticipated northern tour with the Gardiners faces an unexpected change when business obligations force them to modify their plans. Instead of visiting the Lakes, they must settle for a shorter trip to Derbyshire. This alteration, though initially disappointing to Elizabeth, takes on new significance when she realizes their proximity to Pemberley, Darcy's estate. When Mrs. Gardiner suggests visiting Pemberley, Elizabeth experiences inner turmoil about the possibility of encountering Darcy. After careful consideration and discrete inquiries confirming the family's absence, Elizabeth agrees to the visit, masking her complex emotions behind a show of indifference.

Elizabeth arrives at Pemberley with the Gardiners and is deeply impressed by the estate's natural setting and the restrained elegance of the house. She briefly reflects that she might have been mistress of Pemberley, then checks the thought by imagining that marriage to Darcy would have separated her from relatives such as the Gardiners.

The housekeeper, Mrs. Reynolds, shows them the house and speaks warmly of Darcy. She says she has never heard a cross word from him, calls him an excellent landlord and master, praises his generosity, and describes his devotion to Georgiana. She also identifies a miniature of Wickham and says she is afraid he has turned out wild. Elizabeth is astonished because Mrs. Reynolds's account differs sharply from the view she once held of Darcy and gives her additional reason to reconsider both men. In the portrait gallery she studies Darcy's likeness and feels greater gratitude and gentleness toward him than before.

As the visitors leave the house for the grounds, Darcy unexpectedly arrives a day earlier than expected. Both he and Elizabeth are visibly embarrassed, but Darcy speaks to her with unusual gentleness and civility. Later he approaches the party again, asks Elizabeth to introduce him to the Gardiners, converses with Mr. Gardiner, invites him to fish at Pemberley, and tells Elizabeth that he wants to introduce Georgiana to her. Elizabeth is surprised and pleased by conduct toward herself and her relatives that differs markedly from what she had expected after their confrontation at Hunsford.

Darcy and Georgiana visit Elizabeth and the Gardiners at Lambton earlier than Elizabeth expected. Elizabeth quickly discovers that Georgiana's reserve comes from extreme shyness rather than the pride she had heard attributed to her. Bingley soon joins them and greets Elizabeth with his familiar good humor.

The Gardiners watch Darcy and Elizabeth closely and become convinced that Darcy is strongly attached to their niece, though they remain less certain of Elizabeth's feelings. Elizabeth, meanwhile, watches Bingley for indications that he still thinks of Jane. She is pleased by his exact recollection of the date of the Netherfield ball and by his private inquiry about whether all her sisters are at Longbourn, but the narrative marks these meanings as Elizabeth's own anxious interpretation. She also sees no sign of particular attachment between Bingley and Georgiana.

Elizabeth is again struck by Darcy's civility toward the Gardiners and by how different his manner is from the hauteur and reserve she remembers. Darcy and Georgiana invite Elizabeth and the Gardiners to dine at Pemberley. After the visit, the Gardiners discuss Darcy favorably, find Mrs. Reynolds's testimony increasingly credible, and note that local reports accuse him chiefly of pride while also acknowledging his generosity and aid to the poor.

That evening Elizabeth tries to understand her own feelings. She recognizes that hatred and strong dislike have disappeared and that respect, esteem, gratitude, and concern for Darcy's welfare have taken their place. She remains uncertain whether she wants him to renew his proposal. She and Mrs. Gardiner agree to call on Georgiana the next morning, while Mr. Gardiner has arranged to fish at Pemberley.

Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner call on Georgiana at Pemberley and find her with Mrs. Hurst, Miss Bingley, and Mrs. Annesley. Georgiana remains shy but civil, while Mrs. Annesley helps sustain the conversation. Elizabeth notices that Miss Bingley watches her closely, especially when she speaks to Georgiana.

Darcy enters after spending time by the river with Mr. Gardiner. Elizabeth sees that the room is attentive to his behavior toward her. Miss Bingley then asks whether the militia has left Meryton. Elizabeth understands the question as an attempt to unsettle her by invoking Wickham and the regiment. The remark also distresses Georgiana because of her concealed history with Wickham, though Miss Bingley knows nothing of that history. Elizabeth answers calmly, and the immediate tension passes.

After Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner leave, Miss Bingley criticizes Elizabeth's appearance and manners to Georgiana and then to Darcy. Darcy answers that Elizabeth is only somewhat tanned from summer travel. When Miss Bingley presses the attack and recalls Darcy's earlier low opinion of Elizabeth's looks, he says that his first judgment changed months ago and that he now considers Elizabeth one of the handsomest women of his acquaintance. On the return to Lambton, Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner discuss the visit but avoid speaking directly about Darcy, although both are interested in the subject.

At Lambton, Elizabeth receives two letters from Jane. The first reports that Lydia has left Brighton with Wickham and that the family initially believes they are going to Scotland to marry. The second, written later, says Colonel Forster has traced them only as far as Clapham and that there is now serious reason to fear Wickham never intended to go to Gretna Green or marry Lydia. Mr. Bennet has gone to London to search for them, and Jane urgently asks for Mr. Gardiner's help.

Darcy arrives while Elizabeth is trying to summon her aunt and uncle. Seeing her distress, he stays and offers assistance. Elizabeth tells him that Lydia has eloped with Wickham and blames herself for not having disclosed enough of Wickham's history to her family. Darcy expresses grief and shock and asks what efforts have been made to find them.

As Darcy walks in thought, Elizabeth concludes that the disgrace must destroy whatever regard he still has for her. The belief makes her recognize more clearly than before that she could have loved him, although she treats any such possibility as now hopeless. Darcy eventually leaves after promising secrecy and expressing concern. Elizabeth herself then fears they will never again meet on the cordial terms they had established in Derbyshire.

When the Gardiners return, Elizabeth reads Jane's letters aloud. Mr. Gardiner promises his assistance, and they arrange to leave for Longbourn immediately. Elizabeth reflects bitterly on Lydia's upbringing and the consequences of neglect and indulgence while preparing for the hurried journey home.

During the journey to Longbourn, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner discuss whether Wickham might still intend to marry Lydia. Mr. Gardiner argues that the risks to Wickham's reputation and position in the regiment make deliberate abandonment seem unlikely. Elizabeth remains much less hopeful. She explains that she and Jane have learned enough to think very badly of Wickham, though she cannot disclose every circumstance behind that judgment.

At Longbourn, Jane has no new information. Mrs. Bennet remains in her room, blaming the Forsters and others for Lydia's situation and fearing that Mr. Bennet will be killed if he finds Wickham. Mr. Gardiner promises to go to London and assist in the search. Mary offers moral reflections about female reputation, while Kitty is more fretful than usual.

Later Jane gives Elizabeth further details. Colonel Forster had suspected some partiality, especially on Lydia's side, but nothing that alarmed him. Kitty admits that Lydia had written about being in love with Wickham for weeks. Jane also produces Lydia's note to Mrs. Forster, in which Lydia treats the elopement as an amusing journey to Gretna Green and expects soon to sign herself Lydia Wickham. Elizabeth takes the letter as evidence that Lydia herself intended marriage, whatever Wickham's intentions may have been.

Jane then explains Mr. Bennet's planned search through Epsom and Clapham for the hackney coach that carried Lydia and Wickham toward London. Elizabeth again regrets that she and Jane did not tell the family more about Wickham before Lydia left for Brighton.

Longbourn waits anxiously for news. Mr. Gardiner leaves for London to assist Mr. Bennet, while Mrs. Gardiner and the children remain temporarily in Hertfordshire. Mrs. Phillips visits often and brings increasingly damaging stories about Wickham. Meryton now abounds in claims that he owes local tradesmen and has pursued numerous intrigues, but the narrator notes that Elizabeth does not believe more than half of what is being said.

Mr. Gardiner reports that Mr. Bennet's inquiries at Epsom and Clapham have produced nothing and that they are searching London hotels. He asks Colonel Forster to investigate whether Wickham has relatives or close associates who might know where he is. Before further useful news arrives, Mr. Collins sends a letter condemning Lydia, saying her death would have been preferable to the family's disgrace, warning that the scandal may damage her sisters' prospects, and congratulating himself that Elizabeth did not marry him.

A later letter from Mr. Gardiner reports firmer information from Colonel Forster: Wickham has no known close relation likely to help locate him, has left substantial debts, and is believed to need more than a thousand pounds to clear his Brighton expenses, with gambling debts among the most serious. The unsuccessful search leads Mr. Bennet to return home while Mr. Gardiner continues efforts in London.

Back at Longbourn, Mr. Bennet tells Elizabeth that the situation is his own doing and admits that her earlier warning about Lydia was justified. He says he has learned to be cautious and declares severe new restrictions for Kitty, including no officers in the house and no outings until she becomes more rational. Elizabeth meanwhile recognizes that concern about Darcy makes Lydia's disgrace even harder for her to bear.

Two days after Mr. Bennet returns to Longbourn, an express letter arrives from Mr. Gardiner. He reports that Lydia and Wickham have been found and are not married, but says a marriage can be arranged if Mr. Bennet agrees to settle Lydia's equal share of the five thousand pounds secured to the Bennet children and to allow her one hundred pounds a year during his lifetime. Gardiner also states that, after Wickham's debts are paid, some money will remain to be settled on Lydia, and he asks for authority to complete the arrangements.

Mr. Bennet immediately suspects that the stated terms cannot be the whole cost. He tells Jane and Elizabeth that Wickham would be a fool to marry Lydia for less than ten thousand pounds and assumes Mr. Gardiner has supplied a substantial amount. Elizabeth reaches the same conclusion and worries that her uncle has burdened himself financially. Jane remains more hopeful about Wickham's motives and future happiness with Lydia.

When Jane and Elizabeth tell Mrs. Bennet, she moves at once from distress to exuberant joy over Lydia's coming marriage. She begins planning wedding clothes, housing, and announcements to neighbors without dwelling on Lydia's misconduct. Jane restrains some of the immediate spending plans. Elizabeth, after withdrawing to her room, remains doubtful about Lydia's future happiness but is grateful that the situation is better than the family had feared only hours earlier.

Mr. Bennet reflects that he should have saved part of his income to provide for his wife and daughters instead of relying for years on the expectation that a future son would help break the entail. He regrets that Lydia now appears indebted to Mr. Gardiner for whatever financial sacrifice has made her marriage possible. The formal terms themselves cost Mr. Bennet relatively little beyond what Lydia had already cost him each year, but he is determined to learn how much additional assistance his brother-in-law has supplied and repay it if possible.

Mrs. Bennet returns downstairs in high spirits and immediately plans houses, servants, and wedding arrangements for Lydia. Mr. Bennet initially declares that Lydia and Wickham will not be received at Longbourn and refuses to pay for new wedding clothes. Mrs. Bennet is more distressed by the lack of clothes and the prospect of Lydia living far away than by the earlier elopement.

Elizabeth regrets having told Darcy about the crisis, although she trusts his secrecy. She assumes that Lydia's marriage to Wickham makes any future connection between herself and Darcy impossible. At the same time, she now believes Darcy's disposition and abilities would suit her better than anyone else's and imagines that each could have benefited from the other's character.

Mr. Gardiner later writes that Wickham will leave the militia for an ensigncy in a regular regiment in the North and that arrangements are being made to pay his creditors. Lydia wants to visit Longbourn before leaving. Mr. Bennet first refuses, but Jane and Elizabeth persuade him that receiving the newly married couple will help Lydia's standing. He therefore agrees that Lydia and Wickham may come to Longbourn after the wedding.

Lydia and Wickham arrive at Longbourn after their wedding with none of the embarrassment Jane and Elizabeth had imagined. Mrs. Bennet welcomes them enthusiastically, while Mr. Bennet is grave and barely speaks. Lydia remains noisy, unabashed, and eager to display her new status, boasting about her ring, claiming precedence over Jane because she is married, and urging her sisters to go to Brighton to find husbands.

During the couple's short visit, Elizabeth observes that Lydia is much more openly attached to Wickham than he is to her. From what she knows of his financial distress and from his behavior, Elizabeth concludes that Lydia's affection was the stronger force in the elopement and that Wickham accepted her companionship when circumstances made flight from the regiment necessary. Lydia herself remains delighted with him and shows no regret for what has happened.

While recounting her wedding, Lydia accidentally mentions that Darcy was present at the ceremony and immediately remembers that his involvement was supposed to remain secret. Elizabeth is astonished and writes to Mrs. Gardiner asking for an explanation, while promising to accept silence if secrecy is truly necessary. Jane refuses to speculate privately about information Lydia was not supposed to reveal.

Mrs. Gardiner answers Elizabeth's inquiry with a detailed account of Darcy's role in finding Lydia and Wickham and arranging their marriage. She explains that Darcy left Derbyshire shortly after Elizabeth and the Gardiners departed Lambton and went to London because he believed his earlier secrecy about Wickham had helped leave others vulnerable to him.

Darcy used his knowledge of Mrs. Younge, Georgiana's former companion, to locate Wickham and Lydia. He tried first to persuade Lydia to leave Wickham, but she refused and remained convinced they would eventually marry. Darcy learned from Wickham that marriage to Lydia had not been his plan and that Wickham still hoped to improve his fortune through another marriage. Darcy and Wickham then met repeatedly until terms were reached.

Darcy brought the proposed arrangement to Mr. Gardiner, who wanted to bear the expense himself. Darcy insisted on taking financial responsibility for the principal settlement: Wickham's debts were to be paid, another thousand pounds was to be settled on Lydia in addition to her own money, and Wickham's new commission was purchased. Mr. Gardiner participated in the negotiations and allowed himself to receive public credit for the arrangement. Darcy later returned to London for the wedding and final money matters.

Elizabeth is overwhelmed by gratitude and shame when she learns what Darcy did. She suspects that lingering affection for her may have helped motivate him, though she also recognizes his stated sense of responsibility for having concealed Wickham's conduct. Soon afterward she meets Wickham. He probes about Pemberley, Darcy, Georgiana, and the church living. Elizabeth lets him know that she has learned a different account of the living and his decision not to take orders, then ends the discussion by proposing that, as brother and sister, they should not quarrel over the past.

After Lydia and Wickham leave for Newcastle, Mrs. Bennet is briefly dejected. Her attention soon shifts when Mrs. Phillips brings news that Bingley is returning to Netherfield for several weeks of shooting. Mrs. Bennet immediately revives her hopes and plans to invite him to dinner, while Mr. Bennet refuses to make another formal call on him.

Jane tells Elizabeth that she is unsettled mainly by knowing everyone will watch her reaction to Bingley and says she wishes his stay would soon be over. Elizabeth can see that the news affects Jane's spirits despite Jane's efforts at composure. On the third morning after Bingley's arrival, he rides to Longbourn accompanied by Darcy.

Jane and Elizabeth are both uncomfortable during the visit, each for different reasons. Elizabeth is surprised and briefly delighted that Darcy has voluntarily returned, but she waits to see how he behaves. Darcy is serious and quiet, more like his Hertfordshire manner than his recent conduct in Derbyshire. Mrs. Bennet receives Bingley warmly but treats Darcy with cold formality and repeatedly mentions Lydia's marriage, which causes Elizabeth particular shame because Darcy's assistance remains unknown to the family.

Bingley gradually directs more attention toward Jane, and Elizabeth observes his admiration returning strongly. Mrs. Bennet invites both men to dine at Longbourn in a few days. Elizabeth ends the visit disappointed by Darcy's reserve but encouraged by Bingley's renewed interest in Jane.

After Bingley and Darcy's first visit, Elizabeth remains puzzled and vexed by Darcy's silence and reserve. Jane, in contrast, says that the first meeting has made her feel easier and that she expects to meet Bingley as an ordinary acquaintance. Elizabeth teasingly warns that Jane may instead make Bingley as much in love with her as before.

At the Longbourn dinner party, Bingley hesitates on entering the dining room but takes the seat beside Jane when she looks around and smiles. Elizabeth notices that Bingley also glances toward Darcy with a half-laughing, uncertain expression, but the source does not explain what Bingley intends by it. During dinner, Bingley's guarded but clear admiration for Jane convinces Elizabeth that their happiness might soon be restored if he acts independently.

Elizabeth and Darcy sit far apart, and her mother's cold formality toward Darcy makes Elizabeth painfully conscious of the family's unacknowledged debt to him. After dinner, Elizabeth repeatedly hopes Darcy will approach her. Their only real exchange comes when he brings his coffee cup back and answers her questions about Georgiana and Mrs. Annesley. Other guests and then the whist tables prevent further conversation.

After the visitors leave, Mrs. Bennet is convinced Bingley will soon propose. Jane tells Elizabeth that she enjoyed his company and insists she has no wish beyond ordinary acquaintance. Elizabeth smiles and teases her about the difficulty of persuading others that she feels only what she says.

A few days after the Longbourn dinner, Bingley calls alone; Darcy has gone to London and is expected back in ten days. Mrs. Bennet immediately renews her efforts to create opportunities for Bingley and Jane to be alone. Her first attempt fails because Jane will not remain downstairs without one of her sisters, and later that evening Elizabeth quietly returns to the drawing room after Mrs. Bennet tries to remove her as well.

Bingley returns the next morning to shoot with Mr. Bennet and stays for dinner. That evening Elizabeth leaves the drawing room to write a letter. When she returns, she finds Jane and Bingley standing together by the hearth in an earnest conversation. Their embarrassed reaction makes the situation clear. Bingley leaves briefly to speak with Mr. Bennet, and Jane tells Elizabeth that they are engaged.

The family celebrates the engagement. Mr. Bennet expresses genuine pleasure and jokes that Jane and Bingley are both so easy and generous that they may struggle to make decisions or keep within their income. Mrs. Bennet is delighted, and Bingley becomes a daily visitor at Longbourn.

Jane later tells Elizabeth that Bingley had been completely unaware that she was in London the previous spring. Jane attributes the concealment to his sisters and explains that Bingley had believed her indifferent to him. Elizabeth is pleased that Bingley has not told Jane about Darcy's own part in separating them, since she thinks that knowledge would prejudice Jane against Darcy.

About a week after Jane and Bingley's engagement, Lady Catherine de Bourgh arrives unexpectedly at Longbourn. After a short and ungracious visit inside the house, she asks Elizabeth to walk with her privately.

Lady Catherine says she has heard a report that Elizabeth may soon marry Darcy and demands that Elizabeth contradict it. She insists that Darcy and Anne de Bourgh have been intended for one another since infancy by their mothers and describes this as a tacit family engagement. Elizabeth points out that such plans do not bind Darcy if he is neither honorably nor personally committed to Anne. When Lady Catherine asks directly whether Elizabeth is engaged to Darcy, Elizabeth truthfully says she is not.

Lady Catherine then demands a promise that Elizabeth will never enter such an engagement. Elizabeth refuses. Lady Catherine attacks Elizabeth's family connections, invokes Lydia's elopement and marriage to Wickham, and warns that Darcy's family and friends would reject the match. Elizabeth answers that she will act according to her own judgment of her happiness and will not be intimidated into making the requested promise.

Lady Catherine leaves angry and without customary farewells. Mrs. Bennet assumes that the visit concerned the Collinses, and Elizabeth conceals the actual subject of their conversation.

Elizabeth spends hours considering Lady Catherine's visit. She concludes that the engagement rumor probably grew from Jane's engagement to Bingley: because Darcy is Bingley's close friend and Elizabeth is Jane's sister, neighbors eager for another marriage could readily imagine one. Elizabeth supposes the report passed from the Lucases to the Collinses and then to Lady Catherine.

Elizabeth worries that Lady Catherine will repeat her objections directly to Darcy. She does not know how much weight Darcy gives his aunt's judgment and fears that arguments about unequal connections could appeal to his ideas of dignity, especially if he has been uncertain about renewing his proposal. She decides that if he now fails to return to Netherfield as promised, she will understand his absence as a sign that Lady Catherine has succeeded.

The next morning Mr. Bennet shows Elizabeth a letter from Mr. Collins. Collins congratulates Jane and Bingley and reports the rumor that Elizabeth may marry Darcy. He says he mentioned the supposed match to Lady Catherine, who strongly disapproved, and warns Elizabeth and her father against proceeding without her approval. He also condemns the Bennets for receiving Lydia and Wickham after their marriage.

Mr. Bennet treats the idea of Darcy marrying Elizabeth as absurd and reads the letter for amusement, joking about Darcy's supposed indifference and Elizabeth's supposed dislike of him. Elizabeth forces herself to laugh, although his remarks mortify her and leave her wondering whether she has mistaken Darcy's feelings.

Within a few days of Lady Catherine's visit, Bingley brings Darcy back to Longbourn. During a group walk, Bingley and Jane fall behind and Kitty leaves to call on Maria Lucas, leaving Elizabeth and Darcy alone.

Elizabeth thanks Darcy for everything he did for Lydia. Darcy says that if she thanks him, she should do so for herself: he does not deny that the wish to give Elizabeth happiness strengthened the other inducements that led him to act, and says that, although he respects her family, he believes he thought only of her. He then tells her that his affection and wishes are unchanged but asks her to say so at once if her feelings remain as they were in April. Elizabeth tells him that her sentiments have changed enough for her to receive his renewed assurances with gratitude and pleasure.

Darcy explains that Lady Catherine's attempt to stop the match actually gave him hope. His aunt repeated Elizabeth's refusal to promise never to marry him, and Darcy believed Elizabeth would have plainly admitted an irrevocable rejection if that were truly her position. Elizabeth and Darcy then discuss their earlier proposal, his letter, and the changes in their judgments. Darcy says Elizabeth's rebuke of his conduct forced him to recognize his pride and overbearing habits; Elizabeth acknowledges that her own earlier accusations were based partly on mistaken premises.

Darcy also explains that, at Pemberley, he deliberately tried to show Elizabeth that he had taken her criticism seriously and did not resent her rejection. He says he decided to follow her to London in search of Lydia before leaving the Lambton inn. Finally, he describes what he told Bingley before going to London: that his former interference was wrong, that Jane was not indifferent, and that he had knowingly concealed her presence in London. Bingley was initially angry about the concealment but forgave him after becoming convinced of Jane's affection.

After returning from the walk, Elizabeth tells Jane that she and Darcy are engaged. Jane is initially incredulous because she still remembers Elizabeth's former dislike of him and asks seriously whether Elizabeth loves him enough to marry him. Elizabeth assures her that her feelings have changed gradually and completely. Once convinced, Jane is delighted. Elizabeth then tells Jane about Darcy's role in arranging Lydia's marriage, ending the secrecy she had maintained about that part of the affair.

The next day Mrs. Bennet, still unaware of the engagement, complains about Darcy and conveniently sends Elizabeth walking with him so that Jane and Bingley can be alone. During the walk, Elizabeth and Darcy agree that Darcy will ask Mr. Bennet for consent that evening.

Mr. Bennet initially believes Elizabeth must still dislike Darcy and worries that she could not be happy in a marriage without genuine esteem. Elizabeth explains the gradual change in her opinion and assures him of her love for Darcy. She also tells him what Darcy did for Lydia. Mr. Bennet then accepts the match and says he could not have given Elizabeth to anyone less worthy.

Elizabeth next tells Mrs. Bennet. Her mother moves from stunned silence to intense delight over Darcy's wealth, position, appearance, and the prospect of Elizabeth's future household. On the following day Mrs. Bennet is restrained by her awe of Darcy, while Mr. Bennet makes an effort to know him better and tells Elizabeth that Darcy is rising in his esteem.

Elizabeth asks Darcy when and why he first began to love her. Darcy says he cannot identify a single moment and that he was already in the middle of the process before he realized it had begun. When Elizabeth asks whether her impertinence attracted him, he answers that it was the liveliness of her mind. Elizabeth then offers her own playful explanation that her refusal to flatter him distinguished her from women who constantly sought his approval.

They also discuss why Darcy had been reserved on his recent return to Longbourn. Darcy says Elizabeth's gravity and silence gave him no encouragement, and that a man who felt less might have spoken more freely. He explains that Lady Catherine's attempt to separate them removed his doubts and gave him enough hope to return to Netherfield with the real purpose of seeing whether Elizabeth might ever love him.

Darcy writes to Lady Catherine about the engagement, while Elizabeth finally writes Mrs. Gardiner and tells her that her earlier suspicions about Darcy and Elizabeth may now be indulged freely. Mr. Bennet sends Mr. Collins a short note announcing that Elizabeth will marry Darcy. Georgiana responds with sincere delight, while Miss Bingley's congratulations surrounding the marriages are described by the narrator as affectionate but insincere.

Lady Catherine reacts angrily to Darcy's news, and Charlotte and Mr. Collins temporarily leave Hunsford for Lucas Lodge. During the courtship Darcy endures Sir William Lucas's compliments and Mrs. Phillips's manners with composure. Elizabeth looks forward to their future family life at Pemberley.

Jane marries Bingley and Elizabeth marries Darcy, fulfilling Mrs. Bennet's strongest matrimonial hopes without changing her character. Mr. Bennet misses Elizabeth greatly and visits Pemberley more often than anything else can draw him from Longbourn.

Jane and Bingley remain at Netherfield for only a year before Bingley buys an estate in a county neighboring Derbyshire, leaving Jane and Elizabeth within thirty miles of one another. Kitty spends much of her time with her two elder sisters and improves away from Lydia's influence. Mary remains at Longbourn and is drawn into more social life because Mrs. Bennet cannot bear to be alone.

Lydia and Wickham do not become more prudent after the other marriages. They move frequently, spend beyond their income, and periodically ask Jane and Elizabeth for financial help. Wickham's affection for Lydia soon declines into indifference, while hers lasts somewhat longer. Darcy will not receive Wickham at Pemberley, though he assists him professionally for Elizabeth's sake, and Lydia sometimes visits without her husband.

Miss Bingley suppresses her resentment so she can continue visiting Pemberley. Georgiana makes Pemberley her home and grows very close to Elizabeth. Lady Catherine initially breaks off contact with Darcy after responding abusively to the marriage, but Elizabeth eventually persuades Darcy to seek reconciliation, and Lady Catherine later visits them at Pemberley. Elizabeth and Darcy remain especially close to the Gardiners and grateful that the Gardiners' Derbyshire trip brought Elizabeth back into Darcy's company.