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Pride and Prejudice

Pride and Prejudice

A picture-story retelling, after Jane Austen (1813)

A witty Regency-era family story. Keep Elizabeth lively and observant, Jane kind and steady, Darcy reserved but generous, and the Bennet parents distinct. Show courtship and social manners with warmth; handle Lydia’s elopement discreetly and without sensational detail.

The text of our illustrated edition, page by page. Read it with narration.

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife. So Mrs Bennet believed, as she hurried to tell her husband that Netherfield Park was let at last, to a young man of large fortune from the north of England.
1It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife. So Mrs Bennet believed, as she hurried to tell her husband that Netherfield Park was let at last, to a young man of large fortune from the north of England.
Mrs Bennet begged her husband to call on Mr Bingley at once, for how else could their daughters ever meet him? Mr Bennet teased her that he might write to say he gave his hearty consent to the young man marrying whichever girl he chose, though he must throw in a good word for his little Lizzy.
2Mrs Bennet begged her husband to call on Mr Bingley at once, for how else could their daughters ever meet him? Mr Bennet teased her that he might write to say he gave his hearty consent to the young man marrying whichever girl he chose, though he must throw in a good word for his little Lizzy.
Mr Bennet was among the first to wait on Mr Bingley, though he let his wife believe he would never go. That evening, as Elizabeth trimmed a hat, he remarked that he hoped Mr Bingley would like it. When the truth came out, Mrs Bennet was overjoyed, and called it such a good joke.
3Mr Bennet was among the first to wait on Mr Bingley, though he let his wife believe he would never go. That evening, as Elizabeth trimmed a hat, he remarked that he hoped Mr Bingley would like it. When the truth came out, Mrs Bennet was overjoyed, and called it such a good joke.
At the Meryton assembly, Mr Bingley was lively and unreserved, danced every dance, and danced twice with Jane. His friend Mr Darcy drew every eye with his fine, tall person and ten thousand a year, until his manners gave a disgust: he was proud, above his company, and above being pleased.
4At the Meryton assembly, Mr Bingley was lively and unreserved, danced every dance, and danced twice with Jane. His friend Mr Darcy drew every eye with his fine, tall person and ten thousand a year, until his manners gave a disgust: he was proud, above his company, and above being pleased.
When Bingley urged him to dance with Elizabeth, Darcy looked at her and said coolly that she was tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt him. Elizabeth, sitting close enough to overhear, felt no very cordial feelings towards him, yet told the story afterwards among her friends with great spirit.
5When Bingley urged him to dance with Elizabeth, Darcy looked at her and said coolly that she was tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt him. Elizabeth, sitting close enough to overhear, felt no very cordial feelings towards him, yet told the story afterwards among her friends with great spirit.
At home that night, Jane confessed how much she admired Mr Bingley: so sensible, so good-humoured, with such happy manners. Elizabeth teased her gently. Jane, she said, never saw a fault in anybody; all the world was good and agreeable in her eyes, and she had never heard her speak ill of a human being.
6At home that night, Jane confessed how much she admired Mr Bingley: so sensible, so good-humoured, with such happy manners. Elizabeth teased her gently. Jane, she said, never saw a fault in anybody; all the world was good and agreeable in her eyes, and she had never heard her speak ill of a human being.
Over tea, Charlotte Lucas allowed that Mr Darcy's pride did not offend her so much, since a man of such family and fortune had a right to be proud. Elizabeth laughed and agreed she could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified hers, and she vowed never to dance with him.
7Over tea, Charlotte Lucas allowed that Mr Darcy's pride did not offend her so much, since a man of such family and fortune had a right to be proud. Elizabeth laughed and agreed she could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified hers, and she vowed never to dance with him.
At a party at Lucas Lodge, Bingley's admiration for Jane was plain to everyone. Meanwhile Darcy, who had scarcely allowed Elizabeth to be pretty, began to find her face rendered uncommonly intelligent by the beautiful expression of her dark eyes, and he wished to know more of her.
8At a party at Lucas Lodge, Bingley's admiration for Jane was plain to everyone. Meanwhile Darcy, who had scarcely allowed Elizabeth to be pretty, began to find her face rendered uncommonly intelligent by the beautiful expression of her dark eyes, and he wished to know more of her.
Sir William Lucas took Elizabeth's hand to give it to Mr Darcy, who was not unwilling to receive it. She drew back and said she had no intention of dancing. Darcy was left to tell Caroline Bingley that he had been meditating on the great pleasure a pair of fine eyes could give.
9Sir William Lucas took Elizabeth's hand to give it to Mr Darcy, who was not unwilling to receive it. She drew back and said she had no intention of dancing. Darcy was left to tell Caroline Bingley that he had been meditating on the great pleasure a pair of fine eyes could give.
When Jane was asked to dine at Netherfield, Mrs Bennet sent her on horseback, because it looked like rain and she would have to stay the night. Her plan answered too well: Jane was soaked through, and a note arrived next morning to say she was unwell with a bad cold.
10When Jane was asked to dine at Netherfield, Mrs Bennet sent her on horseback, because it looked like rain and she would have to stay the night. Her plan answered too well: Jane was soaked through, and a note arrived next morning to say she was unwell with a bad cold.
Elizabeth was determined to go to her sister, though there was no carriage to be had. She walked the three miles across fields, jumping over stiles and springing over puddles, and arrived at Netherfield with weary ankles, dirty stockings, and a face glowing with the warmth of exercise.
11Elizabeth was determined to go to her sister, though there was no carriage to be had. She walked the three miles across fields, jumping over stiles and springing over puddles, and arrived at Netherfield with weary ankles, dirty stockings, and a face glowing with the warmth of exercise.
Elizabeth found Jane feverish and glad of her company, and she scarcely left her side. Bingley's sisters were kind to Jane, but behind Elizabeth's back they laughed at her petticoat, six inches deep in mud, and wondered aloud at her walking three miles alone, in such dirt.
12Elizabeth found Jane feverish and glad of her company, and she scarcely left her side. Bingley's sisters were kind to Jane, but behind Elizabeth's back they laughed at her petticoat, six inches deep in mud, and wondered aloud at her walking three miles alone, in such dirt.
In the evenings Elizabeth joined the party downstairs. Bingley asked after Jane with real anxiety, Caroline hovered over Darcy's book and his letters, and Darcy, reading by the fire, found it harder than he expected to keep his attention on the page with Elizabeth in the room.
13In the evenings Elizabeth joined the party downstairs. Bingley asked after Jane with real anxiety, Caroline hovered over Darcy's book and his letters, and Darcy, reading by the fire, found it harder than he expected to keep his attention on the page with Elizabeth in the room.
Mrs Bennet came with Kitty and Lydia to see Jane, and was satisfied she was not dangerously ill, which suited her, since she wished her to stay. She praised Jane's sweetness to Bingley and declared Longbourn society far better than the city's, while Elizabeth blushed for her mother.
14Mrs Bennet came with Kitty and Lydia to see Jane, and was satisfied she was not dangerously ill, which suited her, since she wished her to stay. She praised Jane's sweetness to Bingley and declared Longbourn society far better than the city's, while Elizabeth blushed for her mother.
Caroline Bingley tried every way to draw Darcy's notice: praising his letter-writing, his library, his sister. Darcy answered briefly. His eyes kept straying to Elizabeth, and he began to feel the danger of paying her too much attention, for he had never been so bewitched by any woman.
15Caroline Bingley tried every way to draw Darcy's notice: praising his letter-writing, his library, his sister. Darcy answered briefly. His eyes kept straying to Elizabeth, and he began to feel the danger of paying her too much attention, for he had never been so bewitched by any woman.
Elizabeth teased Darcy that he was a man without a fault, and he admitted that his temper was resentful: his good opinion, once lost, was lost forever. She called that a failing indeed. He smiled, returned to his book, and resolved to be more careful how he admired her.
16Elizabeth teased Darcy that he was a man without a fault, and he admitted that his temper was resentful: his good opinion, once lost, was lost forever. She called that a failing indeed. He smiled, returned to his book, and resolved to be more careful how he admired her.
Caroline invited Elizabeth to take a turn about the room, knowing Darcy would look up. He did. When Elizabeth said she dearly loved a laugh but hoped she never ridiculed what was wise or good, he took her answer seriously, and Caroline found the scheme had not worked as she intended.
17Caroline invited Elizabeth to take a turn about the room, knowing Darcy would look up. He did. When Elizabeth said she dearly loved a laugh but hoped she never ridiculed what was wise or good, he took her answer seriously, and Caroline found the scheme had not worked as she intended.
At last Jane was well enough to go home, and the sisters were glad to leave. Darcy was relieved too: Elizabeth attracted him more than he liked, and he had taken care that not one sign of admiration should escape him on her last day at Netherfield.
18At last Jane was well enough to go home, and the sisters were glad to leave. Darcy was relieved too: Elizabeth attracted him more than he liked, and he had taken care that not one sign of admiration should escape him on her last day at Netherfield.
Mr Collins arrived at Longbourn, the cousin who would inherit the estate after Mr Bennet's death because there was no son. He came, he said, with an olive branch, meaning to choose a wife among the daughters, and he bowed and apologised his way through every room in the house.
19Mr Collins arrived at Longbourn, the cousin who would inherit the estate after Mr Bennet's death because there was no son. He came, he said, with an olive branch, meaning to choose a wife among the daughters, and he bowed and apologised his way through every room in the house.
At dinner Mr Collins spoke of nothing so readily as his patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, her affability and condescension, and her advice on his shelves in the closet upstairs. Mr Bennet listened with keen enjoyment, and Elizabeth caught her father's eye more than once.
20At dinner Mr Collins spoke of nothing so readily as his patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, her affability and condescension, and her advice on his shelves in the closet upstairs. Mr Bennet listened with keen enjoyment, and Elizabeth caught her father's eye more than once.
In Meryton, the Bennet girls met Mr Wickham, newly come to join the militia, a young man with a fine countenance and a happy readiness of conversation. Lydia flirted with the officers, while Elizabeth noticed how Wickham and Darcy changed colour when they met in the street.
21In Meryton, the Bennet girls met Mr Wickham, newly come to join the militia, a young man with a fine countenance and a happy readiness of conversation. Lydia flirted with the officers, while Elizabeth noticed how Wickham and Darcy changed colour when they met in the street.
At an evening party Wickham sat beside Elizabeth and talked easily. He soon told her that he had known Darcy all his life: his own father had been steward to the late Mr Darcy at Pemberley, and he and the son had grown up together like brothers.
22At an evening party Wickham sat beside Elizabeth and talked easily. He soon told her that he had known Darcy all his life: his own father had been steward to the late Mr Darcy at Pemberley, and he and the son had grown up together like brothers.
Wickham said the late Mr Darcy had left him a good living in the church, but the son had given it to another, out of jealousy. Elizabeth was shocked. She thought he looked too honest to lie, and Darcy, it seemed, was even worse than she had imagined.
23Wickham said the late Mr Darcy had left him a good living in the church, but the son had given it to another, out of jealousy. Elizabeth was shocked. She thought he looked too honest to lie, and Darcy, it seemed, was even worse than she had imagined.
Bingley and his sisters called to invite the family to a ball at Netherfield, and Jane read the card with delight. When Elizabeth repeated Wickham's story, Jane would not believe ill of either man: there must be some mistake, she said, and both had perhaps been misrepresented.
24Bingley and his sisters called to invite the family to a ball at Netherfield, and Jane read the card with delight. When Elizabeth repeated Wickham's story, Jane would not believe ill of either man: there must be some mistake, she said, and both had perhaps been misrepresented.
The Netherfield ball filled every thought at Longbourn. Lydia and Kitty talked of nothing but the officers, Mrs Bennet saw Bingley's party as a compliment to Jane, and Elizabeth dressed with more than usual care, thinking she would dance half the evening with Mr Wickham.
25The Netherfield ball filled every thought at Longbourn. Lydia and Kitty talked of nothing but the officers, Mrs Bennet saw Bingley's party as a compliment to Jane, and Elizabeth dressed with more than usual care, thinking she would dance half the evening with Mr Wickham.
At the Netherfield ball, Bingley could look at no one but Jane. Wickham was not there, and Elizabeth blamed Darcy. Then Darcy asked her for a dance so suddenly that, without knowing what she did, she accepted him, and Charlotte warned her not to be a simpleton.
26At the Netherfield ball, Bingley could look at no one but Jane. Wickham was not there, and Elizabeth blamed Darcy. Then Darcy asked her for a dance so suddenly that, without knowing what she did, she accepted him, and Charlotte warned her not to be a simpleton.
As they danced, Elizabeth spoke of meeting Mr Wickham. Darcy answered coldly that Wickham was blessed with happy manners for making friends; whether he could keep them was less certain. She pressed him about his unforgiving temper, and they parted in silence, both dissatisfied.
27As they danced, Elizabeth spoke of meeting Mr Wickham. Darcy answered coldly that Wickham was blessed with happy manners for making friends; whether he could keep them was less certain. She pressed him about his unforgiving temper, and they parted in silence, both dissatisfied.
The officers filled the ballroom, and Lydia laughed loudly among them. Mrs Bennet talked openly of Jane marrying Bingley, Mary sang too long, and Elizabeth felt that her family had agreed to expose themselves as much as they could, with Darcy watching it all.
28The officers filled the ballroom, and Lydia laughed loudly among them. Mrs Bennet talked openly of Jane marrying Bingley, Mary sang too long, and Elizabeth felt that her family had agreed to expose themselves as much as they could, with Darcy watching it all.
The next morning Mr Collins asked for a private audience with Elizabeth and made his proposal, with reasons: Lady Catherine wished him to marry, and it would heal the entail. Elizabeth refused him plainly, but he took it for the usual modesty of elegant females.
29The next morning Mr Collins asked for a private audience with Elizabeth and made his proposal, with reasons: Lady Catherine wished him to marry, and it would heal the entail. Elizabeth refused him plainly, but he took it for the usual modesty of elegant females.
Mrs Bennet was horrified and appealed to her husband. Mr Bennet said that an unhappy alternative was before Elizabeth: her mother would never see her again if she did not marry Mr Collins, and he would never see her again if she did. Mr Collins, offended, withdrew his suit.
30Mrs Bennet was horrified and appealed to her husband. Mr Bennet said that an unhappy alternative was before Elizabeth: her mother would never see her again if she did not marry Mr Collins, and he would never see her again if she did. Mr Collins, offended, withdrew his suit.
Within three days Charlotte Lucas had accepted Mr Collins. She told Elizabeth calmly that she was not romantic and asked only a comfortable home. Elizabeth was astonished and grieved, sure that her friend could not be happy in the lot she had chosen.
31Within three days Charlotte Lucas had accepted Mr Collins. She told Elizabeth calmly that she was not romantic and asked only a comfortable home. Elizabeth was astonished and grieved, sure that her friend could not be happy in the lot she had chosen.
The engagement was soon known to everyone. Mr Collins was pleased with himself, Charlotte was composed and content, and Mrs Bennet was bitter that a Lucas would one day be mistress of Longbourn. Elizabeth wished her friend well, though she felt a distance growing between them.
32The engagement was soon known to everyone. Mr Collins was pleased with himself, Charlotte was composed and content, and Mrs Bennet was bitter that a Lucas would one day be mistress of Longbourn. Elizabeth wished her friend well, though she felt a distance growing between them.
Bingley's party left suddenly for London, and Caroline wrote that they would not return that winter. Jane hid her disappointment. After Christmas she went to stay with the Gardiners in London, while Mrs Bennet complained and Elizabeth suspected Bingley's sisters, and Darcy, of keeping him away.
33Bingley's party left suddenly for London, and Caroline wrote that they would not return that winter. Jane hid her disappointment. After Christmas she went to stay with the Gardiners in London, while Mrs Bennet complained and Elizabeth suspected Bingley's sisters, and Darcy, of keeping him away.
Jane's letters from London were gentle and brave. Caroline had called only once, coldly, and Bingley never came. Jane wrote that she had been deceived in her friend's regard, and Elizabeth, reading between the lines, felt every pang that her sister was too generous to complain of.
34Jane's letters from London were gentle and brave. Caroline had called only once, coldly, and Bingley never came. Jane wrote that she had been deceived in her friend's regard, and Elizabeth, reading between the lines, felt every pang that her sister was too generous to complain of.
Mr and Mrs Gardiner spent Christmas at Longbourn: he was sensible and gentlemanlike, she amiable and intelligent. Mrs Gardiner gently warned Elizabeth about Wickham, who had no fortune, and before she left she invited her niece to join them on a tour of the north in the summer.
35Mr and Mrs Gardiner spent Christmas at Longbourn: he was sensible and gentlemanlike, she amiable and intelligent. Mrs Gardiner gently warned Elizabeth about Wickham, who had no fortune, and before she left she invited her niece to join them on a tour of the north in the summer.
In March, Elizabeth travelled into Kent to visit Charlotte at Hunsford. The parsonage was neat and snug, and Rosings Park, Lady Catherine's great house, could be seen across the lane. Mr Collins took her round the garden and pointed out every view with tiresome minuteness.
36In March, Elizabeth travelled into Kent to visit Charlotte at Hunsford. The parsonage was neat and snug, and Rosings Park, Lady Catherine's great house, could be seen across the lane. Mr Collins took her round the garden and pointed out every view with tiresome minuteness.
Charlotte managed her household and her husband with quiet skill, encouraging him to work in his garden and keeping a back sitting-room for herself, where he seldom came. Elizabeth admired her friend's good sense, and Mr Collins explained how fortunate they were in their great neighbour.
37Charlotte managed her household and her husband with quiet skill, encouraging him to work in his garden and keeping a back sitting-room for herself, where he seldom came. Elizabeth admired her friend's good sense, and Mr Collins explained how fortunate they were in their great neighbour.
At Rosings, Lady Catherine received them with every grandeur. She asked Elizabeth how many sisters she had, whether any were out, whether they drew, and why they had never had a governess. Mr Collins praised every dish at dinner, and Lady Catherine delivered her opinion on everything.
38At Rosings, Lady Catherine received them with every grandeur. She asked Elizabeth how many sisters she had, whether any were out, whether they drew, and why they had never had a governess. Mr Collins praised every dish at dinner, and Lady Catherine delivered her opinion on everything.
Elizabeth answered Lady Catherine with good humour and without flattery, and even owned her age when pressed: not one-and-twenty. Lady Catherine was astonished to receive so decided an opinion from so young a person, and Charlotte watched her friend with quiet amusement.
39Elizabeth answered Lady Catherine with good humour and without flattery, and even owned her age when pressed: not one-and-twenty. Lady Catherine was astonished to receive so decided an opinion from so young a person, and Charlotte watched her friend with quiet amusement.
Mr Darcy came to Rosings to visit his aunt, bringing his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam, a pleasant, easy gentleman. They called at the parsonage the next morning. Darcy was as grave as ever, but the colonel talked so agreeably that Elizabeth enjoyed his company at once.
40Mr Darcy came to Rosings to visit his aunt, bringing his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam, a pleasant, easy gentleman. They called at the parsonage the next morning. Darcy was as grave as ever, but the colonel talked so agreeably that Elizabeth enjoyed his company at once.
Darcy began calling at the parsonage, sometimes finding Elizabeth alone. He would sit ten minutes without opening his lips, and leave. Charlotte wondered whether he might be in love with her friend, but Elizabeth only laughed at the idea; he seemed to come because he had nothing else to do.
41Darcy began calling at the parsonage, sometimes finding Elizabeth alone. He would sit ten minutes without opening his lips, and leave. Charlotte wondered whether he might be in love with her friend, but Elizabeth only laughed at the idea; he seemed to come because he had nothing else to do.
One evening at Rosings Elizabeth played the pianoforte, and Darcy came to stand by her. She told him he could not frighten her, and he answered that he knew she found great enjoyment in professing opinions which were not her own. Elizabeth laughed, though he looked at her very steadily.
42One evening at Rosings Elizabeth played the pianoforte, and Darcy came to stand by her. She told him he could not frighten her, and he answered that he knew she found great enjoyment in professing opinions which were not her own. Elizabeth laughed, though he looked at her very steadily.
Walking in the park, Elizabeth kept meeting Darcy. Then Colonel Fitzwilliam let slip that Darcy had lately saved a friend from a most imprudent marriage. Elizabeth knew at once that he meant Bingley and Jane, and she was so angry and unhappy that she could hardly think of anything else.
43Walking in the park, Elizabeth kept meeting Darcy. Then Colonel Fitzwilliam let slip that Darcy had lately saved a friend from a most imprudent marriage. Elizabeth knew at once that he meant Bingley and Jane, and she was so angry and unhappy that she could hardly think of anything else.
When Darcy found her alone, he declared that he admired and loved her ardently, but spoke also of her inferior connections. Elizabeth refused him. She accused him of ruining Jane's happiness and of cruelty to Wickham, and told him he was the last man in the world she could ever marry.
44When Darcy found her alone, he declared that he admired and loved her ardently, but spoke also of her inferior connections. Elizabeth refused him. She accused him of ruining Jane's happiness and of cruelty to Wickham, and told him he was the last man in the world she could ever marry.
The next morning Darcy put a letter into Elizabeth's hand, bowed, and was soon out of sight. He asked her to read it with justice. She took it without expecting pleasure, but with the strongest curiosity, and opened it as soon as she was alone.
45The next morning Darcy put a letter into Elizabeth's hand, bowed, and was soon out of sight. He asked her to read it with justice. She took it without expecting pleasure, but with the strongest curiosity, and opened it as soon as she was alone.
In the letter Darcy explained that he had thought Jane indifferent to Bingley. Then he told the truth about Wickham: he had been paid three thousand pounds instead of the living, spent it all, and then tried to elope with Darcy's sister Georgiana, only fifteen, for her fortune.
46In the letter Darcy explained that he had thought Jane indifferent to Bingley. Then he told the truth about Wickham: he had been paid three thousand pounds instead of the living, spent it all, and then tried to elope with Darcy's sister Georgiana, only fifteen, for her fortune.
Elizabeth read the letter again and again. Every line about Wickham could be proved, and she saw how she had been charmed by his manners. How despicably have I acted, she cried. Till this moment I never knew myself. She had prided herself on her judgment, and it had failed her.
47Elizabeth read the letter again and again. Every line about Wickham could be proved, and she saw how she had been charmed by his manners. How despicably have I acted, she cried. Till this moment I never knew myself. She had prided herself on her judgment, and it had failed her.
She walked for two hours along the lane, thinking it over. She could not approve Darcy's interference with Jane, but she understood him better, and felt that some of his remarks about her family's behaviour were just. Elizabeth returned to the parsonage a much humbler young woman.
48She walked for two hours along the lane, thinking it over. She could not approve Darcy's interference with Jane, but she understood him better, and felt that some of his remarks about her family's behaviour were just. Elizabeth returned to the parsonage a much humbler young woman.
Back at Longbourn, Elizabeth told Jane of Darcy's proposal and of his letter. Jane was astonished, and sorry for both men. The sisters agreed to say nothing about Wickham's true character, since he was leaving with the regiment and it might only do harm to expose him.
49Back at Longbourn, Elizabeth told Jane of Darcy's proposal and of his letter. Jane was astonished, and sorry for both men. The sisters agreed to say nothing about Wickham's true character, since he was leaving with the regiment and it might only do harm to expose him.
Lydia was invited to Brighton by Mrs Forster, the colonel's young wife, to follow the regiment. She was wild with delight and Mrs Bennet shared her joy, while Kitty sulked at being left behind. Elizabeth begged her father to forbid the visit, but he would not.
50Lydia was invited to Brighton by Mrs Forster, the colonel's young wife, to follow the regiment. She was wild with delight and Mrs Bennet shared her joy, while Kitty sulked at being left behind. Elizabeth begged her father to forbid the visit, but he would not.
In the summer Elizabeth set out with her aunt and uncle on their tour, travelling north into Derbyshire. Mrs Gardiner wished to see the village of Lambton, where she had lived as a girl, and they proposed visiting Pemberley, Mr Darcy's great house, only five miles away.
51In the summer Elizabeth set out with her aunt and uncle on their tour, travelling north into Derbyshire. Mrs Gardiner wished to see the village of Lambton, where she had lived as a girl, and they proposed visiting Pemberley, Mr Darcy's great house, only five miles away.
Darcy was away from home, so they toured Pemberley with the housekeeper, Mrs Reynolds. She showed them his portrait and said she had never had a cross word from him since he was four years old. He was the best landlord and the best master, and a most affectionate brother.
52Darcy was away from home, so they toured Pemberley with the housekeeper, Mrs Reynolds. She showed them his portrait and said she had never had a cross word from him since he was four years old. He was the best landlord and the best master, and a most affectionate brother.
From the windows and the grounds Elizabeth saw a large, handsome house, standing well on rising ground, with a stream before it and woods behind. She had never seen a place for which nature had done more, and she felt that to be mistress of Pemberley might be something.
53From the windows and the grounds Elizabeth saw a large, handsome house, standing well on rising ground, with a stream before it and woods behind. She had never seen a place for which nature had done more, and she felt that to be mistress of Pemberley might be something.
Suddenly Darcy himself came round the corner, arriving a day early. Their eyes met; both blushed deeply. Yet he spoke to her with perfect civility, asked after her family, and wished to be introduced to her aunt and uncle, whom he invited to fish in his stream.
54Suddenly Darcy himself came round the corner, arriving a day early. Their eyes met; both blushed deeply. Yet he spoke to her with perfect civility, asked after her family, and wished to be introduced to her aunt and uncle, whom he invited to fish in his stream.
The next morning Darcy brought his sister to the inn at Lambton. Georgiana was shy rather than proud, as Wickham had claimed, and Elizabeth liked her at once. Darcy watched them both, eager to please, and Mrs Gardiner saw that he was very much in love with her niece.
55The next morning Darcy brought his sister to the inn at Lambton. Georgiana was shy rather than proud, as Wickham had claimed, and Elizabeth liked her at once. Darcy watched them both, eager to please, and Mrs Gardiner saw that he was very much in love with her niece.
When Elizabeth returned the visit at Pemberley, Caroline Bingley asked spitefully whether the militia had left Meryton, hoping to embarrass her and Darcy. Elizabeth answered calmly. Darcy said only that he had come to think her one of the handsomest women of his acquaintance.
56When Elizabeth returned the visit at Pemberley, Caroline Bingley asked spitefully whether the militia had left Meryton, hoping to embarrass her and Darcy. Elizabeth answered calmly. Darcy said only that he had come to think her one of the handsomest women of his acquaintance.
At Pemberley the visitors were served cake and the finest fruits, and Darcy was all attention. Elizabeth watched him talk with her uncle and aunt as equals, so unlike the man who had once despised her connections, and wondered how much of the change was owing to her.
57At Pemberley the visitors were served cake and the finest fruits, and Darcy was all attention. Elizabeth watched him talk with her uncle and aunt as equals, so unlike the man who had once despised her connections, and wondered how much of the change was owing to her.
Walking with Darcy in the grounds, Elizabeth hardly knew what to say. He was easy and gentle where he had been proud. She felt gratitude, for his loving her still, and respect for his character; she began to wonder whether she wished him to renew his addresses after all.
58Walking with Darcy in the grounds, Elizabeth hardly knew what to say. He was easy and gentle where he had been proud. She felt gratitude, for his loving her still, and respect for his character; she began to wonder whether she wished him to renew his addresses after all.
At the inn two letters from Jane arrived together. Lydia had left Brighton with Wickham, and they had not gone to Scotland to marry; they were believed to be in London. Elizabeth's new hopes vanished in an instant, as she realised the disgrace that would fall on all her family.
59At the inn two letters from Jane arrived together. Lydia had left Brighton with Wickham, and they had not gone to Scotland to marry; they were believed to be in London. Elizabeth's new hopes vanished in an instant, as she realised the disgrace that would fall on all her family.
Darcy called just as she finished reading, and she told him everything; he left looking grave, and she was sure she had lost him. Mr Gardiner returned at once, promised all his help, and within the hour their bags were packed for the long journey home to Longbourn.
60Darcy called just as she finished reading, and she told him everything; he left looking grave, and she was sure she had lost him. Mr Gardiner returned at once, promised all his help, and within the hour their bags were packed for the long journey home to Longbourn.
At Longbourn, Mrs Bennet stayed in her room, crying that Wickham must make Lydia marry, and that Mr Bennet would be killed fighting him. Jane nursed her mother and managed the house, worn and pale, while Kitty, who had known of Lydia's attachment, sat silent and ashamed.
61At Longbourn, Mrs Bennet stayed in her room, crying that Wickham must make Lydia marry, and that Mr Bennet would be killed fighting him. Jane nursed her mother and managed the house, worn and pale, while Kitty, who had known of Lydia's attachment, sat silent and ashamed.
Mr Bennet came home from London without finding them. He told Elizabeth that she had been right about Lydia: Let me once in my life feel how much I have been to blame. It will pass away soon enough. He meant it as a joke, but he had never seemed so sad.
62Mr Bennet came home from London without finding them. He told Elizabeth that she had been right about Lydia: Let me once in my life feel how much I have been to blame. It will pass away soon enough. He meant it as a joke, but he had never seemed so sad.
Mr Gardiner wrote from London that the couple had been found. They were not married, nor was there any plan to marry, but Wickham would agree on modest terms. Everyone believed Mr Gardiner had paid a great deal to secure it, and no one guessed who had really found them.
63Mr Gardiner wrote from London that the couple had been found. They were not married, nor was there any plan to marry, but Wickham would agree on modest terms. Everyone believed Mr Gardiner had paid a great deal to secure it, and no one guessed who had really found them.
The news reached Longbourn by letter: Lydia and Wickham would be married. Mrs Bennet's distress turned instantly to rapture. Mrs Wickham, how well it sounds! she cried, and began planning wedding clothes. Jane rejoiced quietly, and Elizabeth wondered how much her uncle must have paid.
64The news reached Longbourn by letter: Lydia and Wickham would be married. Mrs Bennet's distress turned instantly to rapture. Mrs Wickham, how well it sounds! she cried, and began planning wedding clothes. Jane rejoiced quietly, and Elizabeth wondered how much her uncle must have paid.
Lydia and Wickham were married in London at St Clement's, with Mr and Mrs Gardiner present. Lydia thought only of her wedding clothes and of Wickham in his blue coat, and never once considered what her family had suffered, or how much her rescue had cost.
65Lydia and Wickham were married in London at St Clement's, with Mr and Mrs Gardiner present. Lydia thought only of her wedding clothes and of Wickham in his blue coat, and never once considered what her family had suffered, or how much her rescue had cost.
The newly married couple came to Longbourn. Lydia was untamed and unabashed, and showed off her ring to the servants; she took Jane's place at table because she was a married woman now. Wickham was all smiles. Mrs Bennet was delighted, and Elizabeth was sick at heart.
66The newly married couple came to Longbourn. Lydia was untamed and unabashed, and showed off her ring to the servants; she took Jane's place at table because she was a married woman now. Wickham was all smiles. Mrs Bennet was delighted, and Elizabeth was sick at heart.
Lydia chattered about her wedding and let slip that Mr Darcy had been there, to give Wickham away; then she cried out that it was a secret and she had promised not to tell. Elizabeth was astonished. Why should Darcy, of all people, have been at Lydia's wedding? She could not rest until she knew.
67Lydia chattered about her wedding and let slip that Mr Darcy had been there, to give Wickham away; then she cried out that it was a secret and she had promised not to tell. Elizabeth was astonished. Why should Darcy, of all people, have been at Lydia's wedding? She could not rest until she knew.
Elizabeth wrote at once to her aunt, and Mrs Gardiner's long reply told her everything. Darcy had followed Lydia and Wickham to London, searched them out himself, and spent days persuading Wickham to marry her, for he blamed his own pride for not having exposed Wickham's character long before.
68Elizabeth wrote at once to her aunt, and Mrs Gardiner's long reply told her everything. Darcy had followed Lydia and Wickham to London, searched them out himself, and spent days persuading Wickham to marry her, for he blamed his own pride for not having exposed Wickham's character long before.
Darcy had paid Wickham's debts, bought him a commission, and added a thousand pounds to Lydia's portion, insisting that all the credit go to Mr Gardiner. Elizabeth felt he had done it for her. Jane saw that the letter moved her, but Elizabeth could only press her sister's hand and keep the secret.
69Darcy had paid Wickham's debts, bought him a commission, and added a thousand pounds to Lydia's portion, insisting that all the credit go to Mr Gardiner. Elizabeth felt he had done it for her. Jane saw that the letter moved her, but Elizabeth could only press her sister's hand and keep the secret.
Sitting with Jane in the garden, Elizabeth spoke lightly of other things, though her heart was full. She knew now that Darcy was exactly the man who would most suit her, in temper and talents, and she feared that after Lydia's marriage he would never wish to be connected with Wickham.
70Sitting with Jane in the garden, Elizabeth spoke lightly of other things, though her heart was full. She knew now that Darcy was exactly the man who would most suit her, in temper and talents, and she feared that after Lydia's marriage he would never wish to be connected with Wickham.
Before they left for Wickham's new regiment in the north, Mr Bennet watched his son-in-law smile and simper and make love to them all. He was a fine fellow, said Mr Bennet drily: I am prodigiously proud of him. I defy even Sir William Lucas himself to produce a more valuable son-in-law.
71Before they left for Wickham's new regiment in the north, Mr Bennet watched his son-in-law smile and simper and make love to them all. He was a fine fellow, said Mr Bennet drily: I am prodigiously proud of him. I defy even Sir William Lucas himself to produce a more valuable son-in-law.
With Lydia gone, Mrs Bennet grew dull and restless. Then she heard that Mr Bingley was coming back to Netherfield for the shooting. Jane declared it made no difference to her, and Mrs Bennet declared she did not care either, though she talked of nothing else all week.
72With Lydia gone, Mrs Bennet grew dull and restless. Then she heard that Mr Bingley was coming back to Netherfield for the shooting. Jane declared it made no difference to her, and Mrs Bennet declared she did not care either, though she talked of nothing else all week.
Bingley arrived at Netherfield, and three days later rode to Longbourn with Darcy beside him. Jane coloured, and Elizabeth could hardly breathe. Darcy said little, and her mother's rudeness to him, contrasted with her fuss over Bingley, made Elizabeth ashamed.
73Bingley arrived at Netherfield, and three days later rode to Longbourn with Darcy beside him. Jane coloured, and Elizabeth could hardly breathe. Darcy said little, and her mother's rudeness to him, contrasted with her fuss over Bingley, made Elizabeth ashamed.
Mrs Bennet watched from the window and planned how to get Bingley alone with Jane. Jane insisted that they would meet only as common and indifferent acquaintances. Elizabeth laughed at her: Take care, she said, or you will be in danger of making him as much in love with you as ever.
74Mrs Bennet watched from the window and planned how to get Bingley alone with Jane. Jane insisted that they would meet only as common and indifferent acquaintances. Elizabeth laughed at her: Take care, she said, or you will be in danger of making him as much in love with you as ever.
Bingley called again, and Mrs Bennet began a comic campaign of winks and frowns to leave him alone with Jane, calling her other daughters out of the room on any excuse. Kitty asked innocently why her mother kept winking at her, and Elizabeth bit her lip.
75Bingley called again, and Mrs Bennet began a comic campaign of winks and frowns to leave him alone with Jane, calling her other daughters out of the room on any excuse. Kitty asked innocently why her mother kept winking at her, and Elizabeth bit her lip.
Left together at last, Jane and Bingley found their old ease again. He talked of his friends and his shooting and asked after everyone; she listened and smiled. The old awkwardness disappeared, and both understood that the separation had changed nothing between them.
76Left together at last, Jane and Bingley found their old ease again. He talked of his friends and his shooting and asked after everyone; she listened and smiled. The old awkwardness disappeared, and both understood that the separation had changed nothing between them.
Bingley came to Longbourn almost every day now, and walked in the garden with Jane, while Mrs Bennet watched from the window with the eagerness of a general. Elizabeth saw how happily they talked, and hoped that this time nothing would part them.
77Bingley came to Longbourn almost every day now, and walked in the garden with Jane, while Mrs Bennet watched from the window with the eagerness of a general. Elizabeth saw how happily they talked, and hoped that this time nothing would part them.
One evening Bingley asked Jane to marry him, and she accepted with joy. 'Tis too much! she said to Elizabeth. By far too much. I do not deserve it. Oh, why is not everybody as happy? She wanted to tell her mother at once, and Bingley went to Mr Bennet.
78One evening Bingley asked Jane to marry him, and she accepted with joy. 'Tis too much! she said to Elizabeth. By far too much. I do not deserve it. Oh, why is not everybody as happy? She wanted to tell her mother at once, and Bingley went to Mr Bennet.
Mrs Bennet could not say enough of her joy, and declared she had known how it would be. Elizabeth held her sister and rejoiced with all her heart, for Jane had found exactly the good-tempered, sensible husband she deserved, and nobody had ever been happier.
79Mrs Bennet could not say enough of her joy, and declared she had known how it would be. Elizabeth held her sister and rejoiced with all her heart, for Jane had found exactly the good-tempered, sensible husband she deserved, and nobody had ever been happier.
Mr Bennet called Jane in and congratulated her. You will be a very happy woman, he said. You are each of you so complying that nothing will ever be resolved on; so easy that every servant will cheat you; and so generous that you will always exceed your income.
80Mr Bennet called Jane in and congratulated her. You will be a very happy woman, he said. You are each of you so complying that nothing will ever be resolved on; so easy that every servant will cheat you; and so generous that you will always exceed your income.
Bingley told Jane later that Darcy had confessed everything before he came back to Netherfield: he had been wrong in thinking her indifferent, and he had kept from Bingley the news that she was in London that winter. Bingley had been angry, but soon forgave his friend.
81Bingley told Jane later that Darcy had confessed everything before he came back to Netherfield: he had been wrong in thinking her indifferent, and he had kept from Bingley the news that she was in London that winter. Bingley had been angry, but soon forgave his friend.
Darcy came with Bingley to Longbourn, but there was no chance for private talk: the room was full of Mrs Bennet and her daughters, and Mrs Bennet still ignored him. Darcy and Elizabeth exchanged glances across the parlour, each wondering what the other felt.
82Darcy came with Bingley to Longbourn, but there was no chance for private talk: the room was full of Mrs Bennet and her daughters, and Mrs Bennet still ignored him. Darcy and Elizabeth exchanged glances across the parlour, each wondering what the other felt.
Out in the garden Jane told Elizabeth she was the happiest creature in the world. If I could but see you as happy! If there were but such another man for you! Elizabeth answered that she could never be so happy without Jane's goodness; perhaps she might meet another Mr Collins in time.
83Out in the garden Jane told Elizabeth she was the happiest creature in the world. If I could but see you as happy! If there were but such another man for you! Elizabeth answered that she could never be so happy without Jane's goodness; perhaps she might meet another Mr Collins in time.
One morning a grand chaise and four drove up to Longbourn, and Lady Catherine de Bourgh swept out. She asked to walk with Elizabeth alone, and the family stared, while Mrs Bennet was flattered by the great lady's call and did not guess its purpose.
84One morning a grand chaise and four drove up to Longbourn, and Lady Catherine de Bourgh swept out. She asked to walk with Elizabeth alone, and the family stared, while Mrs Bennet was flattered by the great lady's call and did not guess its purpose.
In the garden Lady Catherine demanded to know if Elizabeth was engaged to her nephew. Darcy was meant for her own daughter, she said; they had been intended for each other from their cradles. She ordered Elizabeth to promise never to accept him, and Elizabeth refused.
85In the garden Lady Catherine demanded to know if Elizabeth was engaged to her nephew. Darcy was meant for her own daughter, she said; they had been intended for each other from their cradles. She ordered Elizabeth to promise never to accept him, and Elizabeth refused.
You are then resolved to have him? cried Lady Catherine. I am only resolved, said Elizabeth, to act in that manner which will constitute my happiness, without reference to you, or to any person so wholly unconnected with me. Lady Catherine had never been spoken to so in her life.
86You are then resolved to have him? cried Lady Catherine. I am only resolved, said Elizabeth, to act in that manner which will constitute my happiness, without reference to you, or to any person so wholly unconnected with me. Lady Catherine had never been spoken to so in her life.
Lady Catherine drove off in a fury, declaring that she would carry her point. Elizabeth watched the carriage go and wondered uneasily what she would say to Darcy. If he were persuaded by his aunt that the match would degrade him, she feared he might never come back.
87Lady Catherine drove off in a fury, declaring that she would carry her point. Elizabeth watched the carriage go and wondered uneasily what she would say to Darcy. If he were persuaded by his aunt that the match would degrade him, she feared he might never come back.
Elizabeth kept the visit to herself, even with Jane. Her sister talked happily of Bingley while Elizabeth sat thinking. Mr Bennet then read out a letter from Mr Collins warning against a match with Darcy, and laughed at the absurd idea, little knowing how near the truth it was.
88Elizabeth kept the visit to herself, even with Jane. Her sister talked happily of Bingley while Elizabeth sat thinking. Mr Bennet then read out a letter from Mr Collins warning against a match with Darcy, and laughed at the absurd idea, little knowing how near the truth it was.
Darcy came back to Longbourn with Bingley a few days later. When the party went walking, he and Elizabeth fell behind the others and found themselves alone, each of them wondering how to begin a conversation that both of them had longed for.
89Darcy came back to Longbourn with Bingley a few days later. When the party went walking, he and Elizabeth fell behind the others and found themselves alone, each of them wondering how to begin a conversation that both of them had longed for.
Elizabeth thanked Darcy for his kindness to Lydia. He said he had thought only of her. Then he told her his affections and wishes were unchanged, but one word from her would silence him for ever. She answered that her feelings had changed so much since April that she received his assurances with gratitude and pleasure.
90Elizabeth thanked Darcy for his kindness to Lydia. He said he had thought only of her. Then he told her his affections and wishes were unchanged, but one word from her would silence him for ever. She answered that her feelings had changed so much since April that she received his assurances with gratitude and pleasure.
Darcy was happier than he had ever been. They walked on, without knowing in what direction. He said his aunt's report of their talk had taught him to hope, for he knew enough of Elizabeth to be certain she would have said so plainly had she been absolutely decided against him.
91Darcy was happier than he had ever been. They walked on, without knowing in what direction. He said his aunt's report of their talk had taught him to hope, for he knew enough of Elizabeth to be certain she would have said so plainly had she been absolutely decided against him.
That night Elizabeth told Jane. Jane could not believe it at first: You are joking, Lizzy. This cannot be! When she was sure, she asked how long Elizabeth had loved him. It has been coming on so gradually, said Elizabeth, but I believe I must date it from my first seeing his beautiful grounds at Pemberley.
92That night Elizabeth told Jane. Jane could not believe it at first: You are joking, Lizzy. This cannot be! When she was sure, she asked how long Elizabeth had loved him. It has been coming on so gradually, said Elizabeth, but I believe I must date it from my first seeing his beautiful grounds at Pemberley.
Mrs Bennet sat quite still when she heard, and then cried out in rapture: Mr Darcy! Who would have thought it! Ten thousand a year, and very likely more! A house in town! Oh, Lizzy, how rich and how great you will be! She had disliked him for a year, and adored him in a minute.
93Mrs Bennet sat quite still when she heard, and then cried out in rapture: Mr Darcy! Who would have thought it! Ten thousand a year, and very likely more! A house in town! Oh, Lizzy, how rich and how great you will be! She had disliked him for a year, and adored him in a minute.
Mr Bennet sent for Elizabeth in his library, looking grave. Are you out of your senses? he asked. Have not you always hated him? She told him that she loved Darcy, that he had no improper pride, that he was perfectly amiable, and that her first opinion of him had been wrong.
94Mr Bennet sent for Elizabeth in his library, looking grave. Are you out of your senses? he asked. Have not you always hated him? She told him that she loved Darcy, that he had no improper pride, that he was perfectly amiable, and that her first opinion of him had been wrong.
Her father warned her that she could be neither happy nor respectable unless she truly esteemed her husband. Elizabeth then told him everything that Darcy had done for Lydia. Mr Bennet listened in astonishment: so Darcy had done it all, and he would offer to pay him back.
95Her father warned her that she could be neither happy nor respectable unless she truly esteemed her husband. Elizabeth then told him everything that Darcy had done for Lydia. Mr Bennet listened in astonishment: so Darcy had done it all, and he would offer to pay him back.
At last Mr Bennet gave his blessing, and Elizabeth leaned against him, laughing through tears. If any young men come for Mary or Kitty, he said, send them in, for I am quite at leisure. He had lost his favourite companion, but he could not have given her to anyone more worthy.
96At last Mr Bennet gave his blessing, and Elizabeth leaned against him, laughing through tears. If any young men come for Mary or Kitty, he said, send them in, for I am quite at leisure. He had lost his favourite companion, but he could not have given her to anyone more worthy.
Jane and Elizabeth were married on the same day. In the autumn the four walked together under the turning trees, and Elizabeth saw in Darcy's face how much his love had grown. Bingley was as gay as ever, and Jane as gentle; the sisters were happier than they had ever dreamed.
97Jane and Elizabeth were married on the same day. In the autumn the four walked together under the turning trees, and Elizabeth saw in Darcy's face how much his love had grown. Bingley was as gay as ever, and Jane as gentle; the sisters were happier than they had ever dreamed.
Georgiana came to live at Pemberley and grew to love Elizabeth as a sister. At first she was astonished at Elizabeth's lively, teasing way of talking to her brother, whom she had always respected almost more than loved, but she soon learned that a wife may take liberties a sister cannot.
98Georgiana came to live at Pemberley and grew to love Elizabeth as a sister. At first she was astonished at Elizabeth's lively, teasing way of talking to her brother, whom she had always respected almost more than loved, but she soon learned that a wife may take liberties a sister cannot.
Mrs Bennet was proud of having two daughters so well married, and visited often to talk of them. Mr Bennet missed Elizabeth exceedingly, and found his books a quiet refuge. Jane and Elizabeth wrote to each other constantly, as close in their new lives as they had been at home.
99Mrs Bennet was proud of having two daughters so well married, and visited often to talk of them. Mr Bennet missed Elizabeth exceedingly, and found his books a quiet refuge. Jane and Elizabeth wrote to each other constantly, as close in their new lives as they had been at home.
Darcy and Elizabeth often laughed together about their first months. He confessed he had been selfish and proud from a child, and that she had taught him a lesson. She owned that she had prided herself on her own judgment, and they agreed to think only of the past as its remembrance gave pleasure.
100Darcy and Elizabeth often laughed together about their first months. He confessed he had been selfish and proud from a child, and that she had taught him a lesson. She owned that she had prided herself on her own judgment, and they agreed to think only of the past as its remembrance gave pleasure.
Bingley sat by the fire at Pemberley and thanked his friend for bringing him back to Jane. Darcy admitted his error with good grace. He had meant to protect his friend, but he had misjudged Jane's reserve, and he was glad to see Bingley so happy in a wife so truly good.
101Bingley sat by the fire at Pemberley and thanked his friend for bringing him back to Jane. Darcy admitted his error with good grace. He had meant to protect his friend, but he had misjudged Jane's reserve, and he was glad to see Bingley so happy in a wife so truly good.
Georgiana gained confidence at Pemberley. She played the pianoforte in the morning room while Elizabeth listened and encouraged her, and their happy talk filled the house. Georgiana had the highest opinion in the world of Elizabeth, and Elizabeth found in her a gentle and loving sister.
102Georgiana gained confidence at Pemberley. She played the pianoforte in the morning room while Elizabeth listened and encouraged her, and their happy talk filled the house. Georgiana had the highest opinion in the world of Elizabeth, and Elizabeth found in her a gentle and loving sister.
When Jane and Bingley came to Pemberley, the four friends dined together by candlelight. Bingley talked and laughed as freely as ever, Jane smiled at him, and Darcy, once so silent at Netherfield, spoke easily now among the people he loved best.
103When Jane and Bingley came to Pemberley, the four friends dined together by candlelight. Bingley talked and laughed as freely as ever, Jane smiled at him, and Darcy, once so silent at Netherfield, spoke easily now among the people he loved best.
Jane and Bingley stayed at Netherfield only a year, for so near a neighbourhood to Mrs Bennet and the Meryton relations was not desirable even to his easy temper. Bingley bought an estate in a county next to Derbyshire, and the carriage was often on the road to Pemberley.
104Jane and Bingley stayed at Netherfield only a year, for so near a neighbourhood to Mrs Bennet and the Meryton relations was not desirable even to his easy temper. Bingley bought an estate in a county next to Derbyshire, and the carriage was often on the road to Pemberley.
Caroline Bingley was deeply mortified by Darcy's marriage, but she wished to keep the right of visiting at Pemberley. She dropped all her resentment, was fonder than ever of Georgiana, almost as attentive to Darcy as before, and paid off every arrear of civility to Elizabeth.
105Caroline Bingley was deeply mortified by Darcy's marriage, but she wished to keep the right of visiting at Pemberley. She dropped all her resentment, was fonder than ever of Georgiana, almost as attentive to Darcy as before, and paid off every arrear of civility to Elizabeth.
Lady Catherine was extremely indignant at her nephew's marriage, and wrote him a letter so abusive that all contact was broken off. At Rosings she held forth to Mr Collins, who bowed and agreed, while Charlotte kept her own counsel and waited for the storm to pass.
106Lady Catherine was extremely indignant at her nephew's marriage, and wrote him a letter so abusive that all contact was broken off. At Rosings she held forth to Mr Collins, who bowed and agreed, while Charlotte kept her own counsel and waited for the storm to pass.
In time, Elizabeth persuaded Darcy to seek a reconciliation, and Lady Catherine condescended to visit them at Pemberley, in spite of the pollution its woods had received. Elizabeth greeted her with civil good humour, and Darcy stood beside his wife.
107In time, Elizabeth persuaded Darcy to seek a reconciliation, and Lady Catherine condescended to visit them at Pemberley, in spite of the pollution its woods had received. Elizabeth greeted her with civil good humour, and Darcy stood beside his wife.
After the visit, Elizabeth and Darcy walked out together across Pemberley's lawns in the autumn sunshine. She still teased him, and he had learned to laugh at himself. Neither pride nor prejudice had any power now to come between them.
108After the visit, Elizabeth and Darcy walked out together across Pemberley's lawns in the autumn sunshine. She still teased him, and he had learned to laugh at himself. Neither pride nor prejudice had any power now to come between them.
With the Gardiners they were always on the most intimate terms. Darcy, as well as Elizabeth, really loved them, and both were sensible of the warmest gratitude towards the aunt and uncle who, by bringing Elizabeth into Derbyshire, had been the means of uniting them.
109With the Gardiners they were always on the most intimate terms. Darcy, as well as Elizabeth, really loved them, and both were sensible of the warmest gratitude towards the aunt and uncle who, by bringing Elizabeth into Derbyshire, had been the means of uniting them.
Lydia and Wickham moved from place to place in search of cheap lodgings, always spending more than they had. Lydia wrote asking Elizabeth for help, and visited Longbourn whenever her husband went to enjoy himself in London or Bath, while Mrs Bennet welcomed them warmly.
110Lydia and Wickham moved from place to place in search of cheap lodgings, always spending more than they had. Lydia wrote asking Elizabeth for help, and visited Longbourn whenever her husband went to enjoy himself in London or Bath, while Mrs Bennet welcomed them warmly.
Elizabeth never let Wickham into Pemberley, but she sent Lydia money from her own allowance, and Darcy helped Wickham in his profession for Elizabeth's sake. They talked over each new letter together, agreeing how to be generous to Lydia without encouraging her husband's extravagance.
111Elizabeth never let Wickham into Pemberley, but she sent Lydia money from her own allowance, and Darcy helped Wickham in his profession for Elizabeth's sake. They talked over each new letter together, agreeing how to be generous to Lydia without encouraging her husband's extravagance.
Kitty spent most of her time with her two elder sisters. In society so superior to what she had generally known, her improvement was great. She was no longer so irritable, so ignorant, or so silly, and Mr Bennet would never let her go to Lydia, whatever invitations came.
112Kitty spent most of her time with her two elder sisters. In society so superior to what she had generally known, her improvement was great. She was no longer so irritable, so ignorant, or so silly, and Mr Bennet would never let her go to Lydia, whatever invitations came.
At Pemberley, Kitty and Georgiana became good friends. They practised music together in the morning room while Elizabeth listened and laughed, and Kitty, away from Lydia's influence, grew sensible and pleasant, so that her sisters hardly recognised the girl who had once only coughed and complained.
113At Pemberley, Kitty and Georgiana became good friends. They practised music together in the morning room while Elizabeth listened and laughed, and Kitty, away from Lydia's influence, grew sensible and pleasant, so that her sisters hardly recognised the girl who had once only coughed and complained.
Mary was the only daughter left at home, and she was drawn into the world more than before, since Mrs Bennet could not bear to sit alone. Mary still loved her books and her moral reflections, but she found she could mix with company without comparing every sister's beauty to her own.
114Mary was the only daughter left at home, and she was drawn into the world more than before, since Mrs Bennet could not bear to sit alone. Mary still loved her books and her moral reflections, but she found she could mix with company without comparing every sister's beauty to her own.
Mr Bennet missed his second daughter so much that he delighted in going to Pemberley, especially when he was least expected. He spent long hours in Darcy's library, and he and his son-in-law came to understand each other well, for Mr Bennet saw how deeply Darcy loved his Lizzy.
115Mr Bennet missed his second daughter so much that he delighted in going to Pemberley, especially when he was least expected. He spent long hours in Darcy's library, and he and his son-in-law came to understand each other well, for Mr Bennet saw how deeply Darcy loved his Lizzy.
Sometimes the whole Bennet family came to Pemberley. Mrs Bennet admired every room and talked of the grand house to all her neighbours, while Mr Bennet found a quiet corner, and Darcy bore it all with patience, for Elizabeth's sake, and even with some amusement.
116Sometimes the whole Bennet family came to Pemberley. Mrs Bennet admired every room and talked of the grand house to all her neighbours, while Mr Bennet found a quiet corner, and Darcy bore it all with patience, for Elizabeth's sake, and even with some amusement.
Jane and Elizabeth walked together through Pemberley's grounds, by the stream and the stone bridge, as they had once walked the lanes at Longbourn. Their lives had changed beyond anything they had imagined in the days of the Meryton assembly, but their love for each other never changed.
117Jane and Elizabeth walked together through Pemberley's grounds, by the stream and the stone bridge, as they had once walked the lanes at Longbourn. Their lives had changed beyond anything they had imagined in the days of the Meryton assembly, but their love for each other never changed.
Whenever Bingley and Jane drove over, the four walked out together. Bingley talked eagerly of his new estate and how easily the two families could meet, and Darcy pointed out the best paths through his woods. Both couples knew their friendship would last as long as their marriages.
118Whenever Bingley and Jane drove over, the four walked out together. Bingley talked eagerly of his new estate and how easily the two families could meet, and Darcy pointed out the best paths through his woods. Both couples knew their friendship would last as long as their marriages.
Mrs Bennet never tired of telling how she had married off her daughters, and how she had always said Mr Darcy was a fine man. Mr Bennet read his book and enjoyed it all. I wish I could say, for the sake of her family, that the marriages made her a sensible woman; but they did not.
119Mrs Bennet never tired of telling how she had married off her daughters, and how she had always said Mr Darcy was a fine man. Mr Bennet read his book and enjoyed it all. I wish I could say, for the sake of her family, that the marriages made her a sensible woman; but they did not.
So the Bennet sisters, the Bingleys, Georgiana and the Darcys gathered on the lawns of Pemberley. What had begun at a country assembly with a proud word and a quick judgment ended in true affection, for each had learned to see the other clearly, and to forgive.
120So the Bennet sisters, the Bingleys, Georgiana and the Darcys gathered on the lawns of Pemberley. What had begun at a country assembly with a proud word and a quick judgment ended in true affection, for each had learned to see the other clearly, and to forgive.

Adapted from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, public domain. Pictures are AI illustrations drawn for this edition.