Elizabeth is grateful to Charlotte for distracting Mr. Collins with conversation. He takes her interest in him seriously, throwing himself at her feet. Charlotte accepts him solely to have her own home. Lady Lucas begins to calculate how many more years Mr. Bennet was likely to live before Mr. Collins will inherit Longbourn estate. The younger Miss Lucas’ could now come out earlier and the boys were relieved from the apprehension of Charlotte dying an old maid. Practical Charlotte knows that her fiancé is irksome and his attachment must be imaginary. He was however, a pleasant preservative from want. Mr. Collins is asked not to publish his prosperous love. He leaves the next day for Kent wishing all of his fair cousins health and happiness, except Elizabeth. Charlotte tells Elizabeth of her engagement who finds it impossible to believe. Charlotte’s explanation is that she is not romantic and her chances at happiness with Mr. Collins are as fair as most. Elizabeth is amazed that Mr. Collins has made two offers of marriage within three days.
