The idea of Mr. Collins, with all his solemn composure, being run away with by his feelings, made Elizabeth so near laughing, that she could not use the short pause he allowed in any attempt to stop him further, and he continued:

Question

“My reasons for marrying are, first, that I think it a right thing for every clergyman in easy circumstances (like myself) to set the example of matrimony in his parish; secondly, that I am convinced that it will add very greatly to my happiness; and thirdly—which perhaps I ought to have mentioned earlier, that it is the particular advice and recommendation of the very noble lady whom I have the honour of calling patroness. Twice has she condescended to give me her opinion (unasked too!) on this subject; and it was but the very Saturday night before I left Hunsford—between our pools at quadrille, while Mrs. Jenkinson was arranging Miss de Bourgh’s footstool, that she said, ‘Mr. Collins, you must marry. A clergyman like you must marry. Choose properly, choos

Answer 1

e wisely, and marry for love, but also for the benefit of your parish.' And with that, I began to consider the matter earnestly.”

Elizabeth observes him, trying to suppress her smile, aware that his earnestness stems from a blend of social obligation and a rather inflated view of his own importance. Mr. Collins continues, unaware of her amusement, now delving into the moral implications of matrimony and the joy it brings, all while her mind wanders to the absurdity of his proposal.

“Well, my dear Miss Bennet,” he declares with an air of self-importance, “I have been thinking that, with your agreeable manner and familial connections, you would make a suitable match. I hope you do not think me too forward in expressing this.”

Elizabeth, caught off guard but unable to suppress the grin that spreads across her face, finally finds her voice. “Mr. Collins, I appreciate your kind words and your... thoughtfulness. However, you must understand, I cannot accept your proposal.”

“Ah, but surely, Miss Bennet, you must reconsider! A marriage with me would ensure financial stability and societal respect. I would provide for you in a way that your mother—”

“You misunderstand me, sir,” she interjects, attempting to maintain her composure. "While financial stability is important, I also value love and mutual respect in marriage. I do not believe we would make a compatible match.”

But Mr. Collins, ever insistent and oblivious to her objections, persists in listing the virtues of their potential union. Elizabeth finds it increasingly difficult to remain serious as he speaks, her thoughts dancing around the absurdity of the situation, and she marvels at how he so fervently believes that she would naturally succumb to his charms.

“Oh, but my dear Miss Bennet,” he finishes with a flourish, “imagine the future! A happy home and all the esteem of our community! Surely, you see the advantages?”

With that, Elizabeth can no longer hold back her laughter, much to his confusion.