CHAPTER VIII

Summary

• Colonel Fitzwilliam's pleasant manners were admired by the ladies at the parsonage, and they anticipated his presence at Rosings adding to their enjoyment.
• Lady Catherine did not extend an invitation to the parsonage right away, as she had other visitors; it was only on Easter-day, after church, that they were invited to Rosings.
• At Rosings, Lady Catherine was more focused on her nephews (particularly Darcy) than on Elizabeth and Maria, receiving them cordially but not enthusiastically.
• Colonel Fitzwilliam displayed genuine interest and engaged Elizabeth in an animated and agreeable conversation about various topics, capturing even Darcy’s and Lady Catherine’s attention.
• Lady Catherine interjected when the conversation turned to music, declaring her delight in the subject and offering unsolicited opinions about others’ musical abilities, including Elizabeth’s and Anne’s potential had she been healthier.
• Darcy praised his sister Georgiana's musical diligence, but Lady Catherine emphasized constant practice as crucial for excellence.
• Lady Catherine reminded Elizabeth that she was welcome to practice on the piano at Rosings despite Mrs. Collins lacking an instrument at the parsonage, in a way that hinted at condescension.
• When Elizabeth played at Colonel Fitzwilliam’s request, Darcy positioned himself to observe her closely, leading to a playful exchange between Elizabeth and him.
• Elizabeth teased Darcy about his reserved behavior at the Hertfordshire ball, and the conversation touched on his inability to easily engage with strangers.
• Darcy admitted he lacked the social talent to easily adapt to new acquaintances but admired Elizabeth's purposeful use of her talents.
• Their interaction was interrupted by Lady Catherine, who offered critiques and advice on Elizabeth’s playing, asserting that London training could improve her performance.
• Elizabeth endured Lady Catherine's condescending remarks with civility and continued playing at the gentlemen's request until it was time for the carriages to take them home.