CHAPTER XII

Summary

• Elizabeth reflects on Mr. Darcy’s confusing and vexing behavior during his recent visit, struggling to understand his conduct and resolve to think no more about him.
• Jane joins Elizabeth and expresses her ease after the first meeting with Bingley at Longbourn, confidently dismissing any potential embarrassment and emphasizing her indifference towards him.
• Elizabeth teases Jane about reigniting Bingley’s affection, but Jane assures her that she feels no danger of being emotionally involved.
• The Bennets host a large dinner party on Tuesday, with Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy in attendance. Bingley sits next to Jane, decided after a brief hesitation when Jane smiles at him.
• Elizabeth notices Bingley’s guarded admiration for Jane and reflects that, if left to himself, Bingley would quickly secure both his and Jane’s happiness.
• Elizabeth pays close attention to Darcy’s behavior and is disheartened by the formal and cold exchanges between Darcy and her mother, noting her mother’s ungraciousness.
• Elizabeth hopes for an opportunity to converse with Darcy during the evening, but circumstances prevent them from having any meaningful interaction.
• When the gentlemen join the ladies after dinner, Elizabeth briefly interacts with Darcy while serving coffee but struggles to maintain a conversation. Darcy eventually walks away.
• Elizabeth is frustrated when Darcy is drawn into playing whist with her mother’s guests, preventing any further opportunities for them to interact directly during the evening.
• Mrs. Bennet is in high spirits after observing Bingley’s behavior towards Jane, convinced that Jane will secure his proposal and enhance the family’s status.
• After the party, Jane insists to Elizabeth that she feels only friendly affection for Bingley and denies any deeper emotional attachment.
• Elizabeth teases Jane about her professed indifference, but Jane remains firm, attributing Bingley’s charm to good manners without any intention of engaging her emotions.