My Pleasure Reading. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. Summary (pages 100 - 201)

     When Elizabeth rejects Mr. Collins, he proposes to her friend Charlotte Lucas, who, to everyone’s shock, accepts him. Mrs. Bennet is disappointed with Elizabeth’s rejection of Mr. Collins, because it is the only one opportunity for them to keep the Longbourn estate in the family. At the same time, a letter arrives for Jane from Miss Bingley, informing her that they have left for London and that Mr. Bingley is in love with Darcy's sister. However, Jane decides to go to London with her aunt and uncle, hoping to return Mr. Bingley back. Jane makes many attempts to get in touch with Mr. Bingley, but his sister Caroline does not even inform her brother about Jane’s presence in London. Though Jane is heartbroken she accepts her rejection.

     Elizabeth also leaves home to visit the newly married Charlotte. During her visit, Elizabeth receives a dinner invitation to Lady Catherine's estate, Rosings Park. There she meets Mr. Darcy, who tries to build a relationship with her. One day, he makes a shocking proposal of marriage, which Elizabeth refuses, mentioning his fault in Jane’s depression and Mr. Wickham’s problems. The next day, Darcy gives Elizabeth a letter, containing the truth about Mr. Wickham (he tried to elope with Mr. Darcy’s sister); and also explaining to her that he has not believed that Jane has been really in love with Bingley. The letter makes Lizzy to change her mind towards Mr. Darcy. She returns home and acts coldly towards Mr. Wickham. After a while, she finds out that her another sister Lydia is invited to follow the officers to their next station in Brighton. Elizabeth disapproves of the plan, but, in spite of it, Mr. Bennet allows Lydia to go.