Chapter XV.
1. Mr. Collins was not a sensible man, and the deficiency of nature had been but little assisted by education or society; the greatest part of his life having been spent under the guidance of an illiterate and miserly father… 2. The subjection in which his father had brought him up had given him originally great humility of manner; but it was now a good deal counteracted by the self-conceit of a weak head, living in retirement, and the consequential feelings of early and unexpected prosperity… 3. Having now a good house and a very sufficient income, he intended to marry… 4. His plan did not vary on seeing them. Miss Bennet's lovely face confirmed his views, and established all his strictest notions of what was due to seniority; and for the first evening SHE was his settled choice. 5. Mr. Collins had only to change from Jane to Elizabeth 6. Mrs. Bennet treasured up the hint, and trusted that she might soon have two daughters married… 7. Lydia's intention of walking to Meryton was not forgotten; every sister except Mary agreed to go with her; and Mr. Collins was to attend them, at the request of Mr. Bennet, who was most anxious to get rid of him, and have his library to himself;… 8. The attention of the younger ones was then no longer to be gained by him. 9. But the attention of every lady was soon caught by a young man, whom they had never seen before, of most gentlemanlike appearance, walking with another officer on the other side of the way. 10. Mr. Denny addressed them directly, and entreated permission to introduce his friend, Mr. Wickham… 11. His appearance was greatly in his favour; he had all the best part of beauty, a fine countenance, a good figure, and very pleasing address. 12. On distinguishing the ladies of the group, the two gentlemen came directly towards them, and began the usual civilities… 13. Mr. Denny and Mr. Wickham walked with the young ladies to the door of Mr. Phillip's house 14. Mrs. Phillips was always glad to see her nieces. 15. Elizabeth related to Jane what she had seen pass between the two gentlemen; but though Jane would have defended either or both, had they appeared to be in the wrong, she could no more explain such behaviour than her sister. 16. Something, Mr. Collins supposed, might be attributed to his connection with them, but yet he had never met with so much attention in the whole course of his life.
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