CHAPTER XV
Summary
- Elizabeth and Mr. Collins meet for breakfast on Saturday morning, before others join them, and Mr. Collins uses the moment to express gratitude for Elizabeth’s visit.
- Mr. Collins praises Lady Catherine’s attentions toward Mrs. Collins and insists on the benefits of being connected to Rosings, emphasizing the advantages of their humble situation.
- Mr. Collins awkwardly attempts to affirm the happiness and compatibility of his marriage to Charlotte, which Elizabeth politely acknowledges.
- Elizabeth reflects privately on the melancholy of Charlotte’s life but recognizes that Charlotte chose her circumstances with full awareness.
- The carriage arrives to take Elizabeth and Maria back to the Gardiners’ home after an affectionate farewell between Elizabeth and Charlotte.
- As they prepare to leave, Mr. Collins insists that Elizabeth send her respects and thanks to Lady Catherine and her daughters, which she agrees to.
- Maria comments on the eventfulness of their six-week stay, recalling their frequent visits to Rosings, while Elizabeth contemplates how much she will have to conceal rather than share of her experiences.
- The journey back to the Gardiners’ house is uneventful, and they arrive within four hours to spend a few days there.
- Elizabeth notices Jane appears well but has little time to gauge her emotions due to the engagements planned by their aunt.
- Elizabeth anticipates having time at Longbourn to observe Jane more closely and to share the surprising news of Mr. Darcy’s proposal.
- Elizabeth struggles with how much of Mr. Darcy’s proposal to reveal, fearing that discussing it could lead to mentioning Bingley, which might upset Jane further.