Mr. Collins clearly missed the irony and continued, “It is a tragedy indeed, caused by your sister’s reckless behaviour. By comparison, your sister’s death would be a blessing. Even Lady Catherine agreed.”
“Mr. Collins,” Elizabeth replied angrily, “more than once I have disagreed with you and with Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and this is just one of the many occasions. We are all happy that Lydia is safe and sound, and her happiness is our main concern. We thank you for the visit, but, considering the circumstances, we understand your willingness to leave immediately.”
The clergyman looked puzzled and offended, and he attempted a reply, but in the end, he left with few further words.
After his departure, Elizabeth’s fury turned into torment; she imagined Lady Catherine’s response to the news of elopement.
The notion that her nephew would announce his intention to connect himself to the Bennet family seemed utterly impossible.
That evening, instead of the long-awaited letter from Mrs. Gardiner, Mr. Bennet unexpectedly returned home, causing an uproar among his family. He barely spoke a few words, mentioned Lydia was well but as yet unmarried, promised hewould provide more details later, and demanded privacy in his library.
“Lizzy, I wish to speak to you,” he said. “Lizzy alone — no one else! Now, please!”
