CHAPTER XVI

Summary

• Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy arrive together at Longbourn shortly after Lady Catherine's visit to Elizabeth.
• Bingley proposes a walk with the Bennet sisters, allowing him to spend time alone with Jane while the others walk together.
• Elizabeth and Darcy end up walking alone after Kitty visits the Lucases, giving Elizabeth the opportunity to thank Darcy for his role in resolving Lydia's scandal.
• Darcy reveals that his primary motivation in helping Lydia was his feelings for Elizabeth and expresses his unchanged affection for her.
• Elizabeth acknowledges that her feelings for Darcy have changed significantly since his first proposal, and she now accepts his affections with gratitude and pleasure.
• Darcy is overjoyed by Elizabeth's response and shares how Lady Catherine's visit gave him renewed hope that Elizabeth was not irrevocably opposed to him.
• They discuss their past misunderstandings and the personal growth they have undergone since Darcy's first proposal.
• Darcy reflects on how Elizabeth's earlier criticisms helped humble him and transform his behavior.
• Elizabeth reassures Darcy that his letter helped her overcome her initial prejudices against him and gain a better understanding of his character.
• Darcy credits Elizabeth for teaching him important lessons about humility and self-awareness, acknowledging his past selfishness and pride.
• They both express a desire to move forward, focusing on the present rather than dwelling on painful memories.
• Darcy reveals that his decision to pursue Lydia in London was made immediately after learning of her elopement, showing his commitment to Elizabeth's family.
• They discover how far they have walked and realize it is time to return home, wondering about the whereabouts of Bingley and Jane.
• Darcy confirms Bingley and Jane's engagement, expressing his delight and revealing that he encouraged Bingley by admitting his previous interference was a mistake.
• Darcy explains how he observed Jane's feelings during recent visits and assured Bingley of her affection, helping resolve Bingley's doubts.
• Darcy also admits to Bingley that he had concealed Jane's presence in London the previous winter, but Bingley has since forgiven him.
• Elizabeth refrains from teasing Darcy about his influence on Bingley, recognizing it is too early to make light of the situation.
• The chapter concludes with Darcy and Elizabeth returning to Longbourn, each anticipating the happiness of their loved ones and their future together.