Volume 3: Chapter 17 Summary

That evening they say nothing of their engagement to anybody, but that night Elizabeth opens her heart to Jane. Jane is incredulous, and at first does not believe her, knowing how much she has disliked Mr. Darcy in the past. She is finally able convince Jane of the seriousness of their attachment, and half the night is spent talking about everything that had previously been held back by Elizabeth. The following morning Mr. Darcy returns with Mr. Bingley, and Mrs. Bennet pressures Elizabeth to go out with him, so that he should not bother Mr. Bingley while he is with Jane. Elizabeth is amused and vexed by her mother's rudeness at the same time.

While they walk, they decide that Mr. Darcy should speak to her father that very evening. He goes into Mr. Bennet's study, and comes out after a...