Led on by Mr Bennet, Mr Collins praises his patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and her kindness to him, which he regards as unusual, given her rank. She has advised him to get married, and her interest in his welfare extends even to the improvement of his kitchen cupboards. Mr Bennet quietly makes fun of him. His ironic teasing is only shared by Elizabeth (and the reader).
Mr Collins is invited to read to the company. He chooses a book of sermons. Lydia is soon bored and rudely interrupts him. Collins is much offended and refuses to continue, preferring backgammon with Mr Bennet.
