Pride and Prejudice

Elizabeth is fearful that Lady Catherine will come between her and Darcy by repeating to him all the concerns she has over their hypothetical marriage and that Darcy’s “notions of dignity” (334) will force him to conclude that her arguments “[contain] much good sense and solid reasoning” (335). She doesn’t know how much he depends on his aunt for guidance, but “[i]f he had been wavering before” about whether to attempt a relationship with her, Lady Catherine’s interference would “settle every doubt” and inspire him decide to “be as happy as dignity unblemished could make him” (335).

The next day, Mr. Bennet asks to speak to Elizabeth privately. He tells her, expressing his shock, that Mr. Collins has written to acknowledge that it appears Elizabeth is about to be married to Darcy and that Lady Catherine disapproves of the match. Mr. Bennet also expresses irritation that Mr. Collins chastises him for having received Lydia and Wickham in his house.

Mr. Bennet expects Elizabeth will be surprised by this news, telling her that Mr. Collins could not have picked a man less likely to marry Elizabeth, that if they had picked “any other man it would have been nothing” (338), but Darcy’s “perfect indifference” and Elizabeth’s “pointed dislike make it so delightfully absurd” (338).