Lizzie's horrified to learn her friend, Charlotte, is engaged to Mr Collins. Despite Lizzie's attempts to change her mind, Charlotte remains unmoved.
During a walk to Meryton, Lizzie bumps into Wickham. He reveals his attendance at the Netherfield ball could have caused an unnecessary scene with Darcy.
Jane is devastated to learn from Miss Bingley that her brother and his party have left for London with no intention of returning. Miss Bingley convinces Jane that Bingley will be in no hurry to leave London now that Darcy's sister's in town. Jane believes Bingley no longer has feelings for her.
Lizzie's attraction for Wickham intensifies at Mrs Philips' Christmas party. However, Wickham appears somewhat distracted by Miss King, a woman with a fortune of £10,000.
Meanwhile, Jane's aunt and uncle, Mr and Mrs Gardiner, entertain her in London, in the hope of brightening her spirits. Lizzie receives news from Jane revealing she was altogether deceived by Miss Bingley.
Winter soon passes and Lizzie's surprised to learn of Wickham's engagement to Miss King.
Lizzie visits Charlotte in Kent, where they are forced to endure the company of Darcy's overbearing aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
Darcy and his cousin, Colonel Fitzwilliam, pay their aunt an unexpected visit. Unknowingly, Lizzie continues to attract Darcy's attention.
Colonel Fitzwilliam reveals to Lizzie that Darcy boasts of having recently saved Bingley from 'the inconveniences of a most imprudent marriage' as there were strong objections to the lady. Lizzie's outraged to discover that Darcy was responsible for separating Jane and Bingley.
Lizzie returns to Hunsford to reflect on this bombshell when Darcy unexpectedly arrives. He appears uneasy. Darcy suddenly declares that he 'ardently admires and loves' Lizzie. He asks her to marry him 'against his own better judgement'. After insulting her at every turn, it's no surprise that Lizzie declines Darcy's proposal.
