Pride and Prejudice — Chapter Twenty-Four (Abridged)

Miss Bingley's letter arrived and put an end to all doubt. The very first sentence confirmed that the whole party was settled in London for the winter. Her brother, it was said, had not had time to pay his respects in Hertfordshire before leaving the country. The rest of the letter was filled with praise for Miss Darcy, whose many attractions Caroline described with great enthusiasm. She boasted of their growing friendship and hinted that a marriage between Miss Darcy and Mr. Bingley was sure to follow.

Jane shared the news with Elizabeth, who heard it in silent indignation. She was certain that Mr. Bingley had genuine feelings for Jane, and she could not think of him without anger — not at his heart, but at his weakness. He had allowed his friends to lead him away from his own happiness and, worse, from Jane's. Elizabeth felt there was little point in further reflection, however. Whether Bingley's feelings had truly faded or had simply been suppressed by outside influence, her sister's peace was equally wounded either way.

A day or two passed before Jane found the courage to speak openly. When Mrs. Bennet finally left them alone, Jane said quietly, "I wish our mother had more command over herself. She has no idea how much pain her constant talk of him causes me. But I will not repine. He will be forgot, and we shall all be as we were before."

Elizabeth looked at her with concern but stayed silent.

"You doubt me," said Jane, "but you have no reason to. He may live in my memory as a most amiable man — and that is all. I have nothing to hope or fear, and nothing to reproach him with. I take comfort in knowing that the mistake was mine alone, and that no one else has been hurt by it."

"My dear Jane," said Elizabeth, "you are too good. I feel as if I have never given you the credit you deserve." She then turned more serious. "The more I see of the world, the less I think well of it. Every day strengthens my belief in the inconsistency of human character and the little trust that can be placed in outward appearances of goodness."

After that, Mr. Bingley's name was scarcely mentioned between them. Mrs. Bennet, however, continued to complain and wonder, finding her only comfort in the hope that he would return in the summer.

Mr. Bennet took a lighter view. "So, Lizzy," he said one morning, "your sister is crossed in love. I congratulate her. Next to being married, a girl likes to be crossed in love now and then — it gives her distinction. When is your turn? Let Wickham be your man. He is a pleasant fellow and would jilt you very creditably."

"Thank you, sir," Elizabeth replied, "but a less agreeable man would satisfy me."

In the weeks that followed, Mr. Wickham's company did much to lift the low spirits at Longbourn. He was seen frequently, and his story about Mr. Darcy's ill treatment of him became widely known. Everyone was ready to declare that they had always disliked Mr. Darcy. Jane alone remained cautious, gently suggesting there might be facts unknown to them. But she was the only one. By the rest of Hertfordshire, Mr. Darcy was condemned without hesitation as the worst of men.