CHAPTER XV

Summary

• Elizabeth is highly unsettled and preoccupied following Lady Catherine's unexpected visit, which was aimed at breaking off her supposed engagement with Mr. Darcy.
• Elizabeth reflects on the origin of the engagement rumor, concluding it likely stemmed from gossip among the Lucases and Collinses, heightened by Jane's upcoming marriage to Bingley.
• She contemplates the potential consequences of Lady Catherine's interference, speculating that her objection may influence Darcy's decision regarding their relationship.
• Elizabeth fears Darcy may take his aunt's arguments seriously, particularly regarding the inequality of their social connections, which might lead him to abandon any intentions toward her.
• The Bennet family is surprised to learn of Elizabeth's peculiar visitor, but Elizabeth avoids excessive questioning by allowing them to assume it was related to Jane's engagement.
• The next morning, Mr. Bennet informs Elizabeth of a surprising letter he has received, heightening her curiosity.
• Elizabeth initially imagines the letter might be from Lady Catherine, but it turns out to be from Mr. Collins, offering his congratulations on Jane's engagement and commenting on Elizabeth's rumored engagement to Mr. Darcy.
• Mr. Collins implies that Darcy is an unlikely match for Elizabeth due to his noble status and hints at Lady Catherine's disapproval of such a union.
• Mr. Collins also expresses his moral objection to the Bennet family’s acceptance of Lydia and Wickham following their scandal but pivots to discuss his wife Charlotte's pregnancy, concluding his letter.
• Mr. Bennet finds Mr. Collins's letter amusing, making light of the absurdity of Elizabeth being paired with Darcy, whom he believes has always shown indifference toward her.
• Elizabeth struggles to hide her true feelings, feeling mortified by her father's remarks about Darcy and fearing that she may have misjudged Darcy's regard for her.