CHAPTER X

Summary

• Elizabeth frequently encounters Mr. Darcy during her solitary walks in the park and finds it odd and bothersome that he seems to seek her out.
• Mr. Darcy walks with Elizabeth on several occasions but engages in minimal conversation, leaving her to wonder about his intentions.
• Elizabeth notices Darcy asking peculiar questions about her time in Kent, her walks, and Mr. and Mrs. Collins, leaving her puzzled about his motives.
• One day, during a walk, Elizabeth meets Colonel Fitzwilliam, who accompanies her back to the parsonage.
• During their conversation, Colonel Fitzwilliam informs Elizabeth that Mr. Darcy recently "saved a friend" from an imprudent marriage.
• Elizabeth realizes that Fitzwilliam is indirectly referring to Mr. Darcy’s interference in the relationship between Jane and Mr. Bingley, confirming her suspicions.
• Elizabeth grows indignant at the revelation, blaming Darcy’s pride and prejudices for Jane’s unhappiness.
• She reflects bitterly on the societal prejudices against her family’s connections, which she suspects Darcy used as justification for his actions.
• The emotional impact of this discovery leaves Elizabeth distressed and brings on a headache.
• Out of both physical discomfort and a wish to avoid Darcy, Elizabeth decides not to join her cousins at Rosings for tea that evening.
• Mrs. Collins supports Elizabeth’s choice to stay home, though Mr. Collins frets about Lady Catherine’s potential displeasure over her absence.