Chapter 36
When Elizabeth first reads the letter, she is still angry. Elizabeth reads the letter again and again. She then realizes that Wickham really is at fault for his own misfortunes. She also begins to see some of Wickham's misdeeds for what they really are. She also realizes that she has never seen anything truly bad in Darcy. Elizabeth begins to shame herself for her prejudice against Darcy, just as Darcy begins to shame himself for his pride. She realizes that Darcy was right in warning Bingley, since Jane wasn't obvious in her emotions and since her family's behavior was pretty embarrassing. When Elizabeth returns to the house, she learns that Fitzwilliam and Darcy have left.
Chapter 37
Lady Catherine soon invites Elizabeth over and urges her to stay longer in Hunsford. Elizabeth is still muddled over her feelings about Darcy. She feels sorry for him and yet, she is still angry. Elizabeth regrets the way she and her family have treated Darcy. She also begins to feel sad that Jane's happiness was ruined by her own family.
Chapter 38
Mr. Collins effusively send Elizabeth off. She stays a few days with the Gardiners, and then leaves for home, Jane in tow. Elizabeth decides to keep Darcy's letter secret to avoid upsetting her sister.
Chapter 39
On their way home, Jane and Elizabeth meet Kitty and Lydia at an inn. Lydia discusses Wickham, saying that the girl he was courting has left. On the way home, Elizabeth notices how often Lydia speaks of Wickham. When they get home, Elizabeth stops Lydia from going to Meryton, in an effort to avoid Wickham and gossip.
Chapter 40
Elizabeth finally tells Jane about the proposal, making Jane feel sorry for him. Elizabeth also tells Jane about Darcy's involvement with Wickham. Elizabeth also decides to keep the story private, to save the feelings of Miss Darcy. She also keeps the Bingley story secret to avoid hurting Jane. Mrs. Bennet tells Elizabeth how unhappy she is about losing her house to Charlotte, and Elizabeth laughs at her mother's stupidity regarding the entail.