CHAPTER VIII

Summary

• Mr. Bennet regretted not saving money earlier in life for his family's future, as this would have prevented Lydia from relying on her uncle's financial support following her elopement with Wickham.
• He resolved to uncover the financial extent of his brother-in-law Mr. Gardiner's assistance and to repay the debt promptly.
• When Mr. Bennet and Mrs. Bennet first married, they anticipated having a son who would secure the family's financial future, but after having five daughters, they abandoned this expectation.
• Mr. Bennet reacted with relief that Lydia’s marriage arrangement incurred relatively little financial burden on him, requiring only a small yearly payment.
• Although initially active in searching for Lydia after her elopement, Mr. Bennet quickly reverted to his usual indifference and delegated much responsibility to others.
• Gossip about Lydia's marriage spread rapidly through their neighborhood, with some considering her union with Wickham a likely source of future misery.
• Mrs. Bennet, in high spirits upon hearing of Lydia’s impending marriage, obsessively began planning their future, including a grand home nearby, without regard for their actual circumstances.
• Mr. Bennet firmly declared that Lydia and Wickham would not be welcomed to live at Longbourn, despite Mrs. Bennet's objections, sparking a heated argument.
• Mrs. Bennet focused on the scandal of Lydia not having new clothes for her wedding more than on her daughter’s prior elopement, highlighting her misplaced priorities.
• Elizabeth felt deep regret for involving Mr. Darcy in their family troubles, fearing it would damage any remaining regard he might have for her.
• Elizabeth reflected on how well-suited she and Mr. Darcy could have been as a couple, but believed their association was now impossible due to Lydia’s dishonorable connection to Wickham.
• Mr. Gardiner informed Mr. Bennet that Wickham would leave the militia to join a regular army regiment in the North, which was deemed beneficial for distancing the couple from their familiar surroundings.
• Mr. Gardiner also took on the responsibility of settling Wickham’s debts and coordinating financial assurances for Wickham’s creditors.
• Mrs. Bennet lamented Lydia's move to the North, as she had hoped to enjoy her company in their local community and regretted the loss of her daughter’s acquaintances in the militia regiment.
• Jane and Elizabeth persuaded Mr. Bennet to allow Lydia and Wickham to visit Longbourn after their marriage, believing it was necessary for Lydia's sense of respectability.
• Mrs. Bennet eagerly anticipated showcasing Lydia as a married woman before her departure, while Elizabeth dreaded any interaction with Wickham.