Plot Summary
Chapter 26 of Pride and Prejudice opens with Mrs. Gardiner's private conversation with Elizabeth, cautioning her against falling in love with Mr. Wickham. Mrs. Gardiner acknowledges Wickham's charm but warns that his lack of fortune makes any attachment imprudent. Elizabeth responds with characteristic wit, half-seriously promising not to rush into love, though she cannot guarantee wisdom if truly tempted. Her aunt is satisfied, and they part on good terms -- a rare instance of advice given without resentment.
Charlotte's Marriage and Departure
Mr. Collins returns to Hertfordshire, and his wedding to Charlotte Lucas approaches. On the eve of the ceremony, Charlotte asks Elizabeth to visit her at Hunsford, and Elizabeth reluctantly agrees. Charlotte's father and sister Maria plan to visit in March, and Charlotte hopes Elizabeth will join them. The wedding takes place without fanfare, and the newlyweds depart for Kent. Elizabeth continues to correspond with Charlotte but feels the intimacy of their friendship has been irrevocably altered by the marriage.
Charlotte's Letters from Hunsford
Charlotte's letters from her new home are cheerful and carefully composed, praising the house, neighborhood, and Lady Catherine de Bourgh's obliging behavior. Elizabeth recognizes the tone as a diplomatically softened version of Mr. Collins's own effusive descriptions and resolves to wait for her own visit to learn the full truth of Charlotte's situation.
Jane's Disappointment in London
Jane, now staying with the Gardiners in London, writes to Elizabeth about her failed attempts to see the Bingleys. After a week without contact, Jane visits Caroline Bingley, who claims never to have received Jane's last letter. Caroline is not in spirits and mentions that Bingley is constantly occupied with Mr. Darcy. Weeks pass, and when Caroline finally returns Jane's visit, her cold and altered manner makes it impossible for Jane to deceive herself any longer. Jane writes a heartfelt letter to Elizabeth acknowledging she has been "entirely deceived" in Miss Bingley's regard.
Elizabeth's Reflections and Wickham's Defection
Elizabeth feels pain at Jane's letter but takes consolation that her sister will no longer be duped by Caroline. Meanwhile, Wickham's attentions to Elizabeth have cooled -- he has turned his charm toward Miss King, who has recently inherited ten thousand pounds. Elizabeth accepts this philosophically, acknowledging her heart was only "slightly touched" and that Wickham's pursuit of financial security is perfectly natural. She writes to Mrs. Gardiner with self-aware humor, declaring she was never truly in love because she does not detest Wickham's name or hate Miss King.