The next day, Elizabeth told Jane everything Mr. Wickham had said. Jane was shocked. She found it hard to believe that Mr. Darcy could be so cruel to his father’s favorite. However, Jane always preferred to think well of everyone.
"They have both been deceived," Jane said. "Perhaps people have told lies about them. It is impossible to know the truth without blaming someone, and I do not want to do that."
"You are too kind, Jane," Elizabeth laughed. "I find it much easier to believe Mr. Wickham. He told me facts and names. If he is lying, Mr. Darcy should prove it. Besides, you can see the truth in Mr. Wickham’s face."
Jane was still worried. She hated the idea of Mr. Bingley being friends with a dishonest man.
Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of Mr. Bingley and his sisters. They came to invite the family to a ball at Netherfield the following Tuesday. Mrs. Bennet was delighted. She felt that the ball was a special honor for Jane.
Every girl in the family looked forward to the event. Jane wanted to spend the evening with Mr. Bingley. Elizabeth was excited to dance with Mr. Wickham. Even Mary, who usually preferred books, said she didn't mind going.
Elizabeth was so happy that she even spoke to Mr. Collins. She asked if he planned to go to the ball. She was surprised when he said yes.
"I do not think dancing is a sin for a clergyman," he said. "In fact, I hope to dance with all my cousins. Miss Elizabeth, I would like to ask you for the first two dances especially."
Elizabeth was very disappointed. she had hoped to save those dances for Mr. Wickham. Now she had to dance with the clumsy Mr. Collins instead! She also began to realize something worrying: Mr. Collins seemed to be choosing her as his future wife. He was constantly complimenting her and following her around. Elizabeth ignored his hints, hoping he would never actually ask her to marry him.
For the next few days, it rained constantly. The sisters were stuck inside and could not walk to Meryton to see the officers. Elizabeth was impatient, but she knew the ball on Tuesday would make up for everything.