January and February passed slowly at Longbourn. Life was quiet, with only cold walks to the nearby town of Meryton to break the routine. In March, it was time for Elizabeth to visit Charlotte at her new home in Hunsford. At first, Elizabeth had not been very excited about the trip, but now she looked forward to seeing her friend and having a break from her mother and sisters.
The plan was perfect: she would travel with Sir William Lucas and his daughter, Maria, and they would spend one night in London to visit Jane.
Before she left, Elizabeth said goodbye to Mr. Wickham. Their farewell was very friendly. Even though Wickham was now interested in a girl with a lot of money, he still acted as if Elizabeth were very special to him. He reminded her to watch out for Lady Catherine de Bourgh’s pride. When they parted, Elizabeth still thought he was the most charming man she had ever met.
The next day, Elizabeth began her journey. Sir William and Maria were not the most interesting travel companions. Sir William talked constantly about the time he met the King, and Maria was a bit silly. Elizabeth was glad when they finally reached the Gardiners’ house in London at noon.
Jane was waiting for them at the window. She looked healthy and beautiful, but Elizabeth watched her closely. Later, Mrs. Gardiner told Elizabeth that Jane was often very sad, even though she tried to hide it. Jane had finally given up on the Bingleys after their cold behavior.
Mrs. Gardiner also asked Elizabeth about Mr. Wickham. "Is he marrying for money, Lizzy?" she asked. "It seems strange that he only noticed Miss King after she became rich."
Elizabeth defended him. "A man with no money must be practical," she said. "If he couldn't marry me because I am poor, why should he marry another poor girl? I don't blame him for wanting to be comfortable."
"But it happened so quickly after she got the money," Mrs. Gardiner replied.
"I am tired of 'charming' young men anyway," Elizabeth joked. "I am going to Hunsford to see Mr. Collins. He has no good qualities at all! Perhaps stupid men are the only ones worth knowing."
Before Elizabeth left London, her aunt and uncle gave her wonderful news. They invited her to go on a summer trip with them to the North of England to see the mountains and lakes. Elizabeth was delighted. "What are men compared to rocks and mountains?" she cried happily. "I can't wait!"