CHAPTER IX

Summary

• Elizabeth spends most of the night in Jane's room, and in the morning responds to inquiries from Mr. Bingley and his sisters about Jane's condition.
• Elizabeth sends a note to Longbourn requesting Mrs. Bennet's visit to assess Jane's health, and Mrs. Bennet promptly arrives at Netherfield with Lydia and Kitty.
• Mrs. Bennet is relieved that Jane's illness is not severe, but she insists Jane remain at Netherfield to recover rather than being moved home.
• Mr. Bingley and his sisters assure Mrs. Bennet that Jane will continue to receive excellent care at Netherfield.
• Mrs. Bennet praises Jane excessively in an attempt to highlight her qualities, makes flattering remarks about Netherfield, and subtly encourages Mr. Bingley to stay there long-term.
• During breakfast, Elizabeth engages in a playful conversation with Mr. Bingley about personal character, while Mrs. Bennet embarrasses her by addressing Mr. Darcy with unsolicited opinions about country life versus town life.
• Mrs. Bennet misinterprets Darcy's comments about the lack of variety in country society, leading to an awkward exchange where Elizabeth attempts damage control.
• Mrs. Bennet praises Charlotte Lucas but remarks on her plain appearance, contrasting her with Jane, whom she boasts is exceptionally beautiful.
• A discussion ensues about poetry and its influence on love, with Elizabeth humorously challenging Darcy's perspective.
• Mrs. Bennet continues thanking Mr. Bingley for his hospitality while Lydia abruptly reminds him of a promise to host a ball at Netherfield, pressuring him to uphold it.
• Mr. Bingley assures Lydia that the ball will take place once Jane is well, which pleases both Lydia and Mrs. Bennet.
• Mrs. Bennet and her daughters leave after their visit, while Elizabeth returns to care for Jane.
• After their departure, Miss Bingley mocks Elizabeth and her family, but Mr. Darcy does not join in the criticism and remains silent despite Miss Bingley’s attempts to engage him.