Chapter 7 of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.
The chapter opens with details about Bennet’s finances, including the entail of the estate to a male Bennet heir, which will prevent any of the Bennet’s daughters from inheriting it. Mrs. Bennet’s family had lived comfortably on her father’s income as an attorney, but her money alone will not provide much for her grown children.
The latest news from the nearby town of Meryton is the arrival of the militia, whose presence fuels the excitement of the younger Bennet sisters.
Jane is invited to visit Netherfield, the Bingleys’ home. Mrs. Bennet sends Jane on horseback rather than in a carriage. The weather turns rainy, which delights Mrs. Bennet. Her ulterior motive was to ensure that if the weather turned bad, Jane would have to stay longer at Netherfield. Then the Bennets receive a letter saying that Jane is ill. Elizabeth becomes worried about her sister and goes to Netherfield in order to check on her. Her three-mile trek results in Elizabeth arriving with muddy skirts. Although the Bingley sisters are polite, Elizabeth senses their disapproval of her appearance. Darcy, however, is struck by her bright complexion, the result of her vigorous walk.
Elizabeth finds Jane to be quite ill and makes arrangements to stay at Netherfield to take care of her.
