Chapter 21
The next day, the Bennet girls go to Meryton, where Elizabeth sees Wickham. Wickham admits that he did not go to the ball, because he was avoiding Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth takes Wickham home and introduces her to Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. Then, Elizabeth receives a letter from Caroline, saying that the Bingleys have Netherfield and will not return. They are also going to meet Georgiana, Darcy's sister, whom Caroline wants Mr. Bingley to marry. Jane appreciates Caroline informing her. Elizabeth sees that what Caroline is really doing is backstabbing Jane. She says that she is trying to detach Jane and Bingley. Elizabeth is still confident in the strength of their relationship. They only tell the rest of the family about the leaving part, to avoid stressing Jane.
Chapter 22
Charlotte begins conversing with Mr. Collins, who proposes to her two days later, right before he leaves for home. Charlotte accepts the marriage for practical reasons. She knows that his career is safe. Charlotte is by this time 26, and knows that this may be her last chance. Her acceptance overjoys the Lucas family. Mr. Collins informs the Bennets that he intends to return shortly, making them think he is pursuing one of the younger girls. The next morning, however, they learn that Charlotte is engaged to Mr. Collins, surprising her. Charlotte explains that she said yes out of practicality. Elizabeth find sit hard to believe that Charlotte would do this. Elizabeth does not realize that she should have known all a long. After all, Charlotte had given many clues of her practicality regarding marriage.
Chapter 23
At the beginning of the chapter, Mrs. Bennet finds out about Charlotte's engagement, causing her to turn her back on the Lucases. Days pass where Bingley is not heard from. Jane becoems increasingly worried, especially when she hears that he will not be returning. Mrs. Bennet hates Charlotte, because she will be the mistress of the estate after Mr. Bennet dies.
Chapter 24
Jane receives a letter from Caroline, making it clear that Jane will not marry Bingley. Elizabeth questions this, knowing that they had something. She suspects his friend and sister's interference. Jane blames herself for the whole situation. Mr. Bennet jokes that Elizabeth will be the next with a broken heart, from Mr. Wickham, who has begun to spread rumors of Mr. Darcy. Characteristically, Jane refuses to condemn anyone- Darcy. Bingley, or Wickham.
Chapter 25
The Gardiners- Elizabeth's aunt and uncle- come to visit the Bennets, which Mrs. Bennet uses as an excuse to complain. Mrs. Gardiner expresses her concern about Jane, causing Elizabeth to realize the feelings involved were genuine. Mrs. Gardiner invites Jane to come stay with them in London, an invitation Jane gladly accepts. Mrs. Gardiner is uneasy about Wickham and Elizabeth, despite their similar backgrounds.