Pride and Prejudice Part 12

Summary

Jane Austen Stories: Pride and Prejudice Part 12
Narrated by Julie Andrews, Noiser Podcast Network
Release Date: November 7, 2025

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Overview

In Part 12 of "Pride and Prejudice," the narrative follows Elizabeth Bennet during her stay at the Hunsford parsonage with Charlotte and Mr. Collins. The episode delves into daily life at Hunsford, the imposing presence of Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and the arrival of Mr. Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam at nearby Rosings Park. Themes of societal expectation, personal pride, and burgeoning relationships are at the forefront, as Elizabeth navigates awkward visits, pointed conversations, and her evolving opinions of those around her. Julie Andrews brings Jane Austen’s original text to life with her signature warmth and wit.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

Life at the Hunsford Parsonage ([02:13]–[05:15])

• Adjustment to Routine:
  After the departure of Sir William Lucas, Elizabeth is grateful for the relative peace as Mr. Collins spends more time in his garden or study, minimizing interactions.
• Charlotte’s Ingenuity:
  Elizabeth appreciates Charlotte’s management of household arrangements, particularly choosing the parlor farthest from Mr. Collins’ usual haunts to strategically avoid him.
  • “She soon saw that her friend had an excellent reason for what she did, for Mr. Collins would undoubtedly have been much less in his own apartment, had they sat in one equally lively, and she gave Charlotte credit for the arrangement.” [03:22]
• Lady Catherine’s Overbearing Influence:
  Regular intrusions by Lady Catherine epitomize her micromanagement of the parish.
  • “…she was a most active magistrate in her own parish, the minutest concerns of which were carried to her by Mr. Collins.” [04:20]
  • Lady Catherine frequently finds faults with the Collin’s home and offers unsolicited advice, even about the size of roast joints and the arrangement of furniture.

Rosings Park and Anticipated Visitors ([05:30]–[09:52])

• Repetitious Entertainments:
  Dinners at Rosings become a regular but uninspiring affair for Elizabeth.
• Anticipating Mr. Darcy:
  A key moment is the news of Mr. Darcy’s impending visit and Lady Catherine's hope he will marry her daughter, Anne.
  • “…his coming would furnish one comparatively new to look at in their Rosings parties…” [07:10]
• Arrival of Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam:
  Mr. Collins excitedly rushes to announce their arrival; Charlotte jokes about Lizzie being the reason for Mr. Darcy’s early visit ([09:14]).
• First Encounters:
  Colonel Fitzwilliam is sociable and well-mannered, in contrast to Mr. Darcy’s reserved demeanor:
  • “Colonel Fitzwilliam entered into the conversation directly, with the readiness and ease of a well-read man, and talked very, very pleasantly.” [10:18]
  • Mr. Darcy exchanges only polite inquiries with Lizzie; a telling moment comes when she questions whether he’s seen her sister Jane in London, and he appears momentarily unsettled by the reference ([11:06]).

Drawing Room Dynamics & Lady Catherine's Interrogations ([13:08]–[25:07])

• Colonel Fitzwilliam’s Favorable Impression:
  The colonel’s easy conversation lifts the spirits of the ladies at Rosings.
• Music and Social Commentary: ([17:27]–[22:41])
  • Lady Catherine commandeers conversations, professing authority about music despite never learning it herself.
    • “There are few people in England, I suppose, who have more true enjoyment of music than myself, or a better natural taste. If I had ever learnt, I should have been a great proficient.” – Lady Catherine [18:40]
  • Lady Catherine publicly critiques Elizabeth’s piano playing and offers her the use of Rosings’ instrument—delivered as both a slight and a favor.
• Witty Banter with Darcy:
  A memorable scene unfolds at the pianoforte, where Elizabeth playfully accuses Darcy of intimidating her by his watchful presence:
  • “My courage always rises with every attempt to intimidate me.” – Elizabeth [20:35]
  • Darcy counters, suggesting she enjoys expressing contrary opinions:
    • “…you find great enjoyment in occasionally professing opinions which in fact are not your own.” – Mr. Darcy [20:56]
  • Their repartee is light, teasing, and full of mutual challenge—Austen’s signature style shining through.
• Social Skills & Self-Perception:
  The trio, Elizabeth, Darcy, and Fitzwilliam, dissect the challenges of social grace and self-presentation.
  • “I certainly have not the talent which some people possess, of conversing easily with those I have never seen before.” – Mr. Darcy [22:01]
  • “My fingers…do not move over this instrument in the masterly manner which I see so many women’s do…because I would not take the trouble of practicing.” – Elizabeth [22:38]
  • Lady Catherine continues to critique, comparing Elizabeth’s abilities unfavorably with Anne's potential.

Unexpected Visits and Shifting Affections ([26:41]–[38:06])

• Darcy’s Unannounced Call:
  The following morning, Darcy visits the parsonage and finds Elizabeth alone, leading to a tense and awkward conversation ([26:41]–[31:18]).
  • Elizabeth slyly probes Darcy about the abrupt departure of Bingley and his sisters from Netherfield, leaving Darcy momentarily uncomfortable but still guarded.
• Reflections on Distance and Attachment:
  A seemingly harmless discussion on whether the Collinses live “near” their family briefly turns personal.
  • “It is a proof…of your own attachment to Hertfordshire. Anything beyond the very neighbourhood of Longbourn, I suppose, would appear far.” – Mr. Darcy [30:28]
• Charlotte’s Speculation:
  Charlotte suggests Darcy’s frequent visits to the parsonage may signal affection for Elizabeth, but Lizzie is unconvinced:
  • “My dear Lizzie, he must be in love with you, or he would never have called on us in this familiar way.” – Charlotte [32:08]
• Colonel Fitzwilliam’s Interest:
  It is clear Fitzwilliam enjoys Elizabeth’s company, providing a pleasant counterpoint to Darcy’s more taciturn visits.

Teasers for the Next Episode ([38:06]–[39:23])

• Elizabeth’s rapport with Colonel Fitzwilliam continues to blossom.
• The colonel shares crucial news regarding Jane and Bingley.
• Tensions rise between Lizzie and Darcy, culminating in a revealing confrontation—and a shocking proposal.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Lady Catherine’s Meddling:
  “…she sallied forth into the village to settle their differences, silence their complaints, and scold them into harmony and plenty.” ([04:22])
• On Music & Accomplishments:
  “I have told Ms. Bennet several times that she will never play really well unless she practices more…” – Lady Catherine ([19:57])
• Lizzie’s Spirited Defiance:
  “My courage always rises with every attempt to intimidate me.” – Elizabeth ([20:35])
• On Darcy’s Social Awkwardness:
  “I certainly have not the talent which some people possess, of conversing easily with those I have never seen before.” – Mr. Darcy ([22:01])
• Charlotte’s Matchmaking:
  “My dear Lizzie, he must be in love with you, or he would never have called on us in this familiar way.” – Charlotte ([32:08])

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Key Segments & Timestamps

• [02:13]—Sir William's departure; parsonage routines
• [05:30]—Life in Lady Catherine’s shadow; Rosings dinners
• [07:10]—Anticipation of Mr. Darcy’s arrival
• [09:14]—Arrival of Darcy and Fitzwilliam; social calls at the parsonage
• [13:08]—Musical evening at Rosings; Lady Catherine’s criticisms
• [20:35]—Banter between Elizabeth and Darcy at the pianoforte
• [22:01]—Discussion of social talents and awkwardness
• [26:41]—Mr. Darcy's unexpected visit
• [32:08]—Charlotte speculates on Darcy’s intentions

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Tone & Style

The episode maintains Austen’s witty, gently satirical style, with Julie Andrews giving a nuanced, lively narration. Elizabeth’s independent spirit and quick wit play off the propriety and formality of Rosings, while simmering tensions with Darcy and the more lighthearted interest of Colonel Fitzwilliam keep the story moving briskly and engagingly.

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In summary:
This episode is filled with sparkling conversation, unspoken feelings, class dynamics, and social maneuvering, all set against the masterful backdrop of Austen’s world. Whether you’re a seasoned Austenite or new to the story, Andrews’ narration and the vibrant dialogue promise an immersive and charming listening experience.

Transcript

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Take a breath, you're not alone. Counseling helps you sort through the noise with qualified professionals. Get matched with a therapist online based on your unique needs and get help with everyday struggles like anxiety or managing tough emotions. Visit betterhelp.com randompodcast for 10% off your first month of online therapy and let life feel better. Welcome to Jane Austen Stories. I'm Julie Andrews and from the Noiser Podcast Network. This is Pride and prejudice part 12. In the previous episode, Elizabeth Bennet journeyed to Kent to stay with Charlotte and Mr. Collins in the picturesque rural parish of Hunsford. Though she found her cousin, Mr. Collins, as objectionable as ever, Lizzie was pleased to see that Charlotte, at least was happy. And while the parsonage where they live may be modest, it is clean and comfortable with a beautiful garden. That is Mr. Collins pride and joy. We also became acquainted with a far grander residence, Rosings park, home of the snobbish Lady Catherine Dubourg. Not only is she the aristocratic patron of Mr. Collins, but but Lady Catherine is also Mr. Darcy's aunt. It is not hard to see from whom he may have inherited his pride and arrogance. Though the dinner at Rosings was superb and the surroundings luxurious, the company was less pleasant. After dinner, Lady Catherine interrogated Elizabeth about her family background, her sisters and their education. Never one to back down from a confrontation, our heroine put up a spirited defense, but it appears the lady found her sadly lacking in all regards. Now we return to the parsonage's small drawing room as Lizzie settles into the second week of her stay and tries to avoid spending too much time with Mr. Collins. From the Noiza Podcast Network, this is Pride and prejudice, chapter 30. Sir William stayed only a week at Hunsford, but his visit was long enough to convince him of his daughter's being most comfortably settled and of her possessing such a husband and such a neighbour as were not often met with while Sir William was with them. Mr. Collins devoted his mornings to driving him out in his gig and showing him the country, but when he went away, the whole family returned to their usual employments, and Elizabeth was thankful to find that they did not see more of her cousin by the alteration. For the chief of the time between breakfast and dinner was now passed by him, either at work in the garden, or in reading and writing, and looking out of the window in his own book room, which fronted the road. The room in which the ladies sat was backwards. Elizabeth at first had rather wondered that Charlotte should not prefer the dining parlour for common use. It was a better sized room and had a pleasanter aspect. But she soon saw that her friend had an excellent reason for what she did, for Mr. Collins would undoubtedly have been much less in his own apartment, had they sat in one equally lively, and she gave Charlotte credit for the arrangement. From the drawing room they could distinguish nothing in the lane, and were indebted to Mr. Collins for the knowledge of what carriages went along and how often, especially Miss Debourg drove by in her phaeton, which she never failed coming to inform them of, though it happened almost every day. She not unfrequently stopped at the parsonage and had a few minutes conversation with Charlotte, but was scarcely ever prevailed on to get out. Very few days passed in which Mr. Collins did not walk to Rosings, and not many in which his wife did not think it necessary to go likewise, until Elizabeth recollected that their might be other family livings to be disposed of, she could not understand the sacrifice of so many hours. Now and then they were honoured with a call from her ladyship, and nothing escaped her observation that was passing in the room. During these visits. She examined into their employments, looked at their work, and advised them to do it differently, found fault with the arrangement of the furniture, or detected the housemaid in negligence, and if she accepted any refreshment, seemed to do it only for the sake of finding out that Mrs. Collins's joints of meat were too large for her family. Elizabeth soon perceived that though this great lady was not in the commission of the peace for the county, she was a most active magistrate in her own parish, the minutest concerns of which were carried to her by Mr. Collins. And whenever any of the cottagers were disposed to be quarrelsome, discontented, or too poor, she sallied forth into the village to settle their differences, silence their complaints, and scold them into harmony and plenty. The entertainment of dining at Rosings was repeated about twice a week, and allowing for the loss of Sir William, and there being only one card table in the evening, every such entertainment was the counterpart of the first. Their other engagements were few, as the style of living in the neighbourhood in general was beyond the Collins's reach. This, however, was no evil to Elizabeth and upon the whole she spent her time comfortably enough. There were half hours of pleasant conversation with Charlotte, and the weather was so fine for the time of year that she had often great enjoyment out of doors. Her favourite walk, and where she frequently went while the others were calling on Lady Catherine, was along the open grove which edged that side of the park, where there was a nice sheltered path which no one seemed to value but herself, and where she felt beyond the reach of Lady Catherine's curiosity in this quiet way. The first fortnight of her visit soon passed. Easter was approaching, and the week preceding it was to bring an addition to the family at Rosings, which in so small a circle must be important. Elizabeth had heard soon after her arrival that Mr. Darcy was expected there in the course of a few weeks, and though there were not many of her acquaintance whom she did not prefer, his coming would furnish one comparatively new to look at in their Rosings parties. And she might be amused in seeing how hopeless Miss Bingley's designs on him were by his behaviour to his cousin Anne Dubourg, for whom he was evidently destined by Lady Catherine, who talked of his coming with the greatest satisfaction, spoke of him in terms of the highest admiration for, and seemed almost angry to find that he had already been frequently seen by Miss Lucas and herself. His arrival was soon known at the parsonage, for Mr. Collins was walking the whole morning within view of the lodge's opening into Hunsford Lane, in order to have the earliest assurance of it, and after making his bow as the carriage turned into the the park, hurried home with the great intelligence. On the following morning he hastened to Rosings to pay his respects. There were two nephews of Lady Catherine, for Mr. Darcy had brought with him a Colonel Fitzwilliam, the younger son of his uncle, Lord Matlock, and to the great surprise of all the party, when Mr. Collins returned, the two gentlemen accompanied him. Charlotte had seen them from her husband's room, crossing the road and immediately running into the other, told the girls what an honour they might expect, adding, I may thank you, Lizzie, for this piece of civility. Mr. Darcy would never have come so soon to wait upon me. Elizabeth had scarcely time to disclaim all right to the Queen compliment before their approach was announced by the doorbell, and shortly afterwards the three gentlemen entered the room. Colonel Fitzwilliam, who led the way, was about 30, not handsome, but in person and address most truly. The gentleman Mr. Darcy looked just as he had been used to look in Hertfordshire, paid his compliments with his usual reserve to Mrs. Collins, and whatever might be his feelings towards her friend, met her with every appearance of composure. Elizabeth merely curtsied to him without saying a word. Colonel Fitzwilliam entered into the conversation directly with the readiness and ease of a well read man, and talked very, very pleasantly. But Mr. Darcy, after having addressed a slight observation on the house and garden to Mrs. Collins, sat for some time without speaking to anybody. At length, however, his civility was so far awakened as to inquire of Elizabeth after the health of her family. She answered him in the usual way, and after a moment's pause added, my eldest sister has been in town these three months. Have you never happened to see her there? She was perfectly sensible, that he never had, but she wished to see whether he would betray any consciousness of what had passed between the Bingleys and Jane, and she thought he looked a little confused as he answered that he had never been so fortunate as to meet Ms. Bennet. The subject was pursued no further, and the two gentlemen soon afterwards went away.

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See mintmobile.com chapter 31. Colonel Fitzwilliam's manners were very much admired at the parsonage, and the ladies all felt that he must add considerably to to the pleasure of their engagements at Rosings. It was some days, however, before they received any invitation thither, for while there were visitors in the house, they could not be necessary. And it was not till Easter Day, almost a week after the gentleman's arrival, that they were honoured by such an attention. And then they were merely asked, on leaving church, to come there in the evening. For the last week they had seen very little of either Lady Catherine or her daughter. Colonel Fitzwilliam had called at the parsonage more than once during the time. But Mr. Darcy they had only seen at church. The invitation was accepted, of course, and at a proper hour they joined the party in Lady Catherine's drawing room. Her ladyship received them civilly, but it was plain that their company was by no means so acceptable as when she could get nobody else. And she was in fact, almost engrossed by her nephews speaking to them, especially to Darcy, much more than to any other person in the room. Colonel Fitzwilliam seemed really glad to see them. Anything was a welcome relief to him at Rosings, and Mrs. Collins pretty friend had moreover, caught his fancy very much. He now seated himself by Lizzie, and talked so agreeably of Kent and Hertfordshire, of travelling and staying at home of new books and music, that Elizabeth had never been half so well entertained in that room before. And they conversed with so much spirit and flow as to draw the attention of Lady Catherine herself, as well as of Mr. Darcy. His eyes had been soon and repeatedly turned towards them with a look of curiosity, and that her ladyship after a while shared the feeling was more openly acknowledged, for she did not scruple to call out. What is it that you are saying, Fitzwilliam? What is it you are talking of? What are you telling Ms. Bennet? Let me hear what it is we were talking of. Music, madame, said he, when no longer able to avoid a reply of music. Then pray speak aloud. It is of all subjects my delight I must have my share in the conversation, if you are speaking of music. There are few people in England, I suppose, who have more true enjoyment of music than myself, or a better natural taste. If I had ever learnt, I should have been a great proficient. And so would Anne, if her health had allowed her to apply. I am confident that she would have performed delightfully. How does Georgiana get on, Darcy? Mr. Darcy spoke with affectionate praise of his sister's proficiency. I am very glad to hear such a good account of her, said Lady Catherine. And pray tell her from me, that she cannot expect to excel if she does not practise a great deal. I assure you, madame, he replied, that she does not need such advice. She practices very constantly. So much the better. It cannot be done too much. And when I next write to her, I shall charge her not to neglect it on any account. I often tell young ladies that no excellence in music is to be acquired without constant practice. I have told Ms. Bennet several times that she will never play really well unless she practices more. And though Mrs. Collins has no instrument, she's Very welcome, as I have often told her, to come to Rosings every day and play on the pianoforte in Mrs. Jenkins room. She would be in nobody's way, you know, in that part of the house. Mr. Darcy looked a little ashamed of his aunt's ill breeding and made no answer. When coffee was over, Colonel Fitzwilliam reminded Elizabeth of having promised to play to him, and she sat down directly to the instrument. He drew a chair near her. Lady Catherine, listened to half a song, and then talked as before to her other nephew, till the latter walked away from her, and, moving with his usual deliberation towards the pianoforte, stationed himself so as to command a full view of the fair performer's countenance. Elizabeth saw what he was doing, and at the first convenient pause turned to him with an arch smile and said, you mean to frighten me, Mr. Darcy, by coming in all this state to hear me, but I will not be alarmed, though your sister does play so well. There is a stubbornness about me that never can bear to be frightened at the will of others. My courage always rises with every attempt to intimidate me. I shall not say that you are mistaken, he replied, because you could not really believe me to entertain any design of alarming you. And I have had the pleasure of your acquaintance long enough to know that you find great enjoyment in occasionally professing opinions which in fact are not your own. Elizabeth laughed heartily at this picture of herself, and said to Colonel Fitzwilliam, your cousin will give you a very pretty notion of me and teach you not to believe a word I say. I am particularly unlucky in meeting with a person so well able to expose my real character in a part of the world where I had hoped to pass myself off with some degree of credit. Indeed, Mr. Darcy, it is very ungenerous in you to mention all that you knew, to my disadvantage in Hertfordshire, and give me leave to say very imprudent too, for it is provoking me to retaliate, and such things may come out as will shock your relations to hear. I am not afraid of you, said Mr. Darcy, smiling. Pray let me hear what you have to accuse him of, cried Colonel Fitzwilliam. I should like to know how he behaves among strangers. You shall hear then, said Lizzie, but prepare for something very dreadful. The first time of my ever seeing him in Hertfordshire, you must know, was at a ball, and at this ball, what do you think he did? He danced only four dances. I'm sorry to pain you, but so it was he danced only four dances, though gentlemen were scarce, and to my certain knowledge, more than one young lady was sitting down in want of a partner. Mr. Darcy, you cannot deny the fact. I had not at that time the honour of knowing any lady in the assembly beyond my own party, replied Mr. Darcy. True, said Lizzie, and nobody can ever be introduced in a ballroom. Well, Colonel Fitzwilliam, what do I play next? My fingers. Wait. Your orders perhaps, said Darcy. I should have judged better had I sought an introduction, but I am ill qualified to recommend myself to strangers. Shall we ask your cousin the reason of this? Said Elizabeth, still addressing Colonel Fitzwilliam. Shall we ask him why a man of sense and education, and who has lived in the world is ill qualified to recommend himself to strangers? I can answer your question, said Fitzwilliam, without applying to him it is because he will not give himself the trouble. I certainly have not the talent which some people possess, said Darcy, of conversing easily with those I have never seen before. I cannot catch their tone of conversation, or appear interested in their concerns, as I often see done. My fingers, said Elizabeth, do not move over this instrument in the masterly manner which I see so many womens do. They have not the same force or rapidity, and do not produce the same expression. But then I have always supposed it to be my own fault, because I would not take the trouble of practicing. It is not that I do not believe my fingers as capable as any other woman's of superior execution. Darcy smiled and said, you are perfectly right. You have employed your time much better. No one admitted to the privilege of hearing. You can think anything wanting. We neither of us performed to strangers here. They were interrupted by Lady Catherine, who called out to know what they were talking of. Elizabeth immediately began playing again. Lady Catherine approached and after listening for a few minutes, said to Darcy, miss Bennet would not play at all amiss if she practised more, and could have the advantage of a London master. She has a very good notion of fingering, though her taste is not equal to Anne's. Anne would have been a delightful performer, had her health allowed her to learn. Elizabeth looked at Darcy to see how cordially he assented to his cousin's praise. But neither at that moment nor at any other could she discern any symptom of love, and from the whole of his behavior to Miss Deborgh, she derived this comfort for Miss Bingley, that he might have been just as likely to marry her, had she been his relation. Lady Catherine continued her remarks on Elizabeth's performance, mixing them with many instructions on execution and take. Elizabeth received them with all the forbearance of civility and at the request of the gentleman, remained at the instrument till her ladyship's carriage was ready to take them all home.

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Chapter 32 Elizabeth was sitting by herself the next morning and writing to Jane while Mrs. Collins and Maria were gone on business into the village when she was startled by a ring at the door, the certain signal of a visitor. As she had heard no carriage, she thought it not unlikely to be Lady Catherine, and under that apprehension was putting away her half finished letter that she might escape all impertinent questions when the door opened and to her very great surprise, Mr. Darcy and Mr. Darcy only entered the room. He seemed astonished too on finding her alone, and apologized for his intrusion by letting her know that he had understood all the ladies to be within. Then they sat down and when her inquiries after Rosings were made seemed in danger of sinking into total silence. It was absolutely necessary therefore to think of something, and in this emergency Recollecting when she had seen him last in Hertfordshire, and feeling curious to know what he would say on the subject of their hasty departure, she how very suddenly you all quitted Netherfield last November, Mr. Darcy. It must have been a most agreeable surprise to Mr. Bingley to see you all after him so soon, for if I recollect right, he went but the day before. He and his sisters were well. I hope, when you left London. Perfectly so, I thank you. Lizzie found that she was to receive no other answer, and after a short pause added, I think I have understood that Mr. Bingley has not much idea of ever returning to Netherfield again. I have never heard him say so, replied Mr. Darcy, but it is probable that that he may spend very little of his time there in future. He has many friends, and he is at a time of life when friends and engagements are continually increasing. If he means to be but little at Netherfield, it would be better for the neighborhood that he should give up the place entirely, for then we might possibly get a settled family there. But perhaps Mr. Bingley did not take the house so much for the convenience of the neighbourhood as for his own, and we must expect him to keep or quit it on the same principle. I should not be surprised, said Darcy, if he were to give it up as soon as any eligible purchase offers. Elizabeth made no answer. She was afraid of talking longer of his friend, and, having nothing else to say, was now determined to leave the trouble of finding a subject to him. He took the hint, and soon began with, this seems a very comfortable house. Lady Catherine, I believe, did a great deal to it when Mr. Collins first came to Hunsford. I believe she did, and I'm sure she could not have bestowed her kindness on a more grateful object. Mr. Collins appears very fortunate in his choice of a wife, said Mr. Darcy. Yes, indeed. His friends may well rejoice in his having met with one of the very few sensible women who would have accepted him or have made him happy if they had. My friend has an excellent understanding, though I am not certain that I consider her marrying Mr. Collins as the wisest thing she ever did. She seems perfectly happy, however, and in a prudential light, is certainly a very good match for her, Mr. Darcy replied. It must be very agreeable to her to be settled within so easy a distance of her own family and friends. An easy distance, do you call it? It is nearly 50 miles, replied Lizzie. And what is 50 miles of good road, little more than half a day's journey? Yes, I call it A very easy distance. I should never have considered the distance as one of the advantages of the match, cried Elizabeth. I should never have said Mrs. Collins was settled near her family. It is a proof, said Mr. Darcy, of your own attachment to Hertfordshire. Anything beyond the very neighbourhood of Longbourn, I suppose, would appear far. As he spoke, there was a sort of smile which Elizabeth fancied she understood he must be supposing her to be thinking of Jane and Netherfield. And she blushed as she answered. I do not mean to say that a woman may not be settled too near her family. The far and the near must be relative and depend on many varying circumstances. Where there is fortune to make the expense of travelling unimportant, distance becomes no evil. But that is not the case here. Mr. And Mrs. Collins have a comfortable income, but not such a one as will allow of frequent journeys. And I am persuaded my friend would not call herself near her family under less than half the present distance. Mr. Darcy drew his chair a little towards her and said, you cannot have a right to such very strong local attachment. You cannot have been always at Longbourn. Elizabeth looked surprised. The gentleman experienced some change of feeling. He drew back his chair, took a newspaper from the table, and, glancing over it, said in a colder voice, are you pleased with Kent? A short dialogue on the subject of the country ensued on either side, calm and concise, and soon put an end to by the entrance of Charlotte and her sister just returned from their walk. The tete a tete surprised them. Mr. Darcy related the mistake which had occasioned his intruding on Miss Bennet, and after sitting a few minutes longer without saying much to anybody, went away. What can be the meaning of this? Said Charlotte, as soon as he was gone. My dear Lizzie, he must be in love with you, or he would never have called on us in this familiar way. But when Elizabeth told of his silence, it did not seem very likely, even to Charlotte's wishes, to be the case. And after various conjectures, they could at last only suppose his visit to proceed from the difficulty of finding anything to do which is the more probable. From the time of year all field sports were over. Within doors there was Lady Catherine, books and a billiard table. But gentlemen cannot be always within doors. And in the nearness of the parsonage, or the pleasantness of the walk to it, or of the people who lived in it, the two cousins found a temptation from this period of walking thither almost every day they called at various times of the morning, sometimes separately, sometimes together, and now and Then accompanied by their aunt, it was plain to them all that Colonel Fitzwilliam came because he had pleasure in their society, a persuasion which, of course, recommended him still more. And Elizabeth was reminded by her own satisfaction in being with him, as well as by his evident admiration of her former favourite, George Wickham. And though in comparing them she saw that there was less captivating softness in Colonel Fitzwilliam's manners, she believed he might have the best informed mind. But why Mr. Darcy came so often to the parsonage, it was more difficult to understand. It could not be for society, as he frequently sat there 10 minutes without opening his lips, and when he did speak, it seemed the effect of necessity rather than of choice. A sacrifice to propriety, not a pleasure to himself. He seldom appeared really animated. Charlotte knew not what to make of him. Colonel Fitzwilliam's occasionally laughing at his stupidity proved that he was generally different, which her own knowledge of him could not have told her. And, as she would have liked to believe, this changed the effect of love, and the object of that love, her friend Lizzie. She set herself seriously to work to find it out. She watched him whenever they were at Rosings and whenever he came to Hunsford, but without much success. He certainly looked at her friend a great deal, but the expression of that look was disputable. It was an earnest, steadfast gaze, but she often doubted whether there were much admiration in it, and sometimes it seemed nothing but absence of mind. She had once or twice suggested to Elizabeth the possibility of his being partial to her, but Elizabeth always laughed at the idea, and Charlotte did not think it right to press the subject from the danger of raising expectations which might only end in disappointment. For in her opinion, it admitted not of a doubt that all her friend's dislike would vanish if she could suppose him to be in her power. In her kind schemes for Elizabeth, she sometimes planned her marrying Colonel Fitzwilliam. He was beyond comparison, the pleasantest man. He certainly admired her, and his situation in life was much most eligible. But to counterbalance these advantages, Mr. Darcy had considerable patronage in the church, and his cousin could have none at all. In the next episode, Elizabeth's fun with Colonel Fitzwilliam continues, as does her frustration with Mr. Darcy. The colonel lets slip some important information about Jane and Mr. Bingley. During a heated argument, Lizzie finally tells Darcy how she really feels about him. And late one evening, she receives an unexpected visitor and a shocking proposal is made. That's next time on Jane Austen's stories, Pride and Prejudice. You can listen to the next two episodes of Pride and Prejudice right now without waiting by subscribing to Noiser plus, head to www.noiser.comscriptions for more information, click the link in the Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson star in Die My Love, a ferocious portrait of a woman engulfed by love and madness. Lawrence and Pattinson play a passionate couple who, after moving to an isolated house in the country, find their relationship unraveling following the birth of their first child. Vanity Fair hails Lawrence's performance as astonishing, and Time calls it the kind of performance you go to the movies for. From director Lynne Ramsey, Die My Love is now playing only in theaters. Rated R. Dear Career Ladder, you've had your moment. You're linear and one dimensional. Ambition doesn't just go up anymore. It zigs and zags and squiggles. We're CEOs, executives, founders. We're advising companies, launching side hustles, taking breaks, defining our nephew. Act ambition on our terms. The possibilities are endless. Chief Lead on join [e-mail].

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