Pride and Prejudice — Chapter Twenty (Abridged)

Mr. Collins asked Elizabeth to marry him. She was surprised, though she had noticed that he liked her. She listened politely to his long, pompous speech. Then she calmly but clearly refused him.

Mr. Collins did not believe her. He told her that young ladies often say no the first time but really mean yes. He reminded her of all his advantages — his house, his income, and his connection to Lady Catherine de Bourgh. He was sure she would change her mind.

Elizabeth repeated her answer firmly. She was not being modest or shy. She truly did not want to marry him. She asked him to say no more about it.

Mr. Collins was astonished. He still believed that once he spoke to her parents, the matter would be decided in his favour. He left to find Mrs. Bennet.

Mrs. Bennet was very upset when she heard the news. She hurried to Mr. Bennet's library and demanded that he make Elizabeth accept the proposal. Mr. Bennet listened quietly. Then he called Elizabeth in and gave her his answer with calm humour. He told her she had a difficult choice: her mother would never speak to her again if she refused Mr. Collins — and he would never speak to her again if she accepted him.

Elizabeth felt great relief. Her father's dry humour was exactly the support she needed.

Mrs. Bennet was furious. She complained about her nerves and said Elizabeth was throwing away a wonderful opportunity — a good home, a steady income, and a respectable husband.

Mr. Collins, however, kept his dignity. He told Mrs. Bennet he held no ill feelings toward Elizabeth. He believed her refusal showed a charming delicacy. He remained hopeful — at least for a while.

By the end of the day, it was clear that Elizabeth had not changed her mind. The matter was closed.