CHAPTER XVII
Summary
- Elizabeth shares with Jane the details of Mr. Darcy's proposal and her subsequent rejection of him, while omitting particulars about Jane’s connection to the situation.
- Jane expresses sympathy for Mr. Darcy’s disappointment and acknowledges that his overconfidence in being accepted likely heightened his distress.
- Elizabeth reveals the contents of Mr. Darcy’s letter, particularly his defense against George Wickham’s accusations and his account of Wickham’s actions.
- Jane is deeply shocked and disheartened to learn of Wickham’s deceit and misconduct, as she struggles to reconcile the revelations with her previous impressions of him.
- Elizabeth discusses the conflict of credibility between Darcy and Wickham, musing that all the merit seems to rest with Darcy, whereas Wickham only has the appearance of goodness.
- Elizabeth reflects on her prior prejudice against Darcy and admits to Jane that she regrets her strong negative remarks and bitterness toward him.
- Elizabeth seeks Jane’s advice on whether to expose Wickham’s true character to the public. Jane advises against it, reasoning that it might ruin Wickham’s reputation permanently and could serve no immediate benefit.
- Elizabeth agrees that remaining silent is prudent, as Mr. Darcy entrusted her with confidential information, and the local populace's strong prejudice against Darcy would make them unlikely to believe the truth.
- Elizabeth feels relieved to have shared some of her burdens with Jane but keeps other parts of Darcy’s letter, such as his feelings for her, private.
- Elizabeth observes that Jane remains unhappy, still harboring feelings for Mr. Bingley with great tenderness and regret over their separation.
- Mrs. Bennet discusses Jane’s situation with Elizabeth, expressing frustration at Mr. Bingley’s apparent neglect and lamenting Jane’s unlikely chances of reuniting with him.
- Mrs. Bennet criticizes the Collinses, speculating bitterly that they likely view Longbourn as their future estate after Mr. Bennet’s death, though Elizabeth maintains neutrality on the subject.