CHAPTER IV

Summary

• Elizabeth eagerly anticipated receiving a letter from Jane but was repeatedly disappointed until the third day at Lambton, when she received two letters, one of which had been missent.
• The first letter detailed minor events but abruptly shifted tone, revealing shocking news: Lydia had eloped with Mr. Wickham, leaving the family in dismay.
• Lydia and Wickham were believed to have left for Scotland, but Jane later expressed concerns that Wickham may have no intention of marrying Lydia.
• Jane recounted Colonel Forster's efforts to track the couple, which traced them to Clapham but lost trail after they switched to a hackney-coach, raising doubts about their intentions.
• The news devastated the Bennet family. Mr. Bennet departed for London to search for Lydia, and Jane urged Elizabeth to return and bring their uncle’s assistance.
• Elizabeth, overwhelmed by distress and guilt for not warning her family about Wickham’s character, intercepted Mr. Darcy upon his unexpected arrival and disclosed the situation to him.
• Darcy displayed concern and shock but showed restraint while empathizing with Elizabeth's despair. She expressed her regret for not protecting her family from Wickham.
• Elizabeth reflected on the disgrace Lydia's actions would bring to her family, believing it would permanently damage her relationship with Darcy.
• Elizabeth longed to return home to support Jane and her family amidst the chaos, feeling urgent responsibility to act.
• Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner returned hurriedly upon Elizabeth’s summons, and after she explained the situation, Mr. Gardiner promised his full assistance.
• Elizabeth and her relatives quickly made arrangements to leave for Longbourn, while Elizabeth informed Darcy they could no longer meet his sister at Pemberley.
• The chapter concluded with Elizabeth reflecting on her family’s misfortune and her distress as their carriage departed for home.