Summarizing Books with Human Feedback

ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND
Lewis Carroll

THE MILLENNIUM FULCRUM EDITION 3.0

CHAPTER I. Down the Rabbit-Hole

Alice was beginning to get very tired of sitting by her sister on the bank, and of having nothing to do: once or twice she had peeped into the book her sister was reading, but it had no pictures or conversations in it, ‘and what is the use of a book,’ thought Alice ‘without pictures or conversations?’

So she was considering in her own mind (as well as she could, for the hot day made her feel very sleepy and stupid), whether the pleasure of making a daisy-chain would be worth the trouble of getting up and picking the daisies, when suddenly a White Rabbit with pink eyes ran close by her.

There was nothing so VERY remarkable in that; nor did Alice think it so VERY much out of the way to hear the Rabbit say to itself, ‘Oh dear! Oh dear! I shall be late!’ (when she thought it over afterwards, it occurred to her that she ought to have wondered at this, but at the time it all seemed quite natural); but when the Rabbit actually TOOK A WATCH OUT OF ITS WAISTCOAT-POCKET, and looked at it, and then hurried on, Alice started to her feet, for it flashed across her mind that she had never before seen a rabbit with either a waistcoat-pocket, or a watch to take out of it, and burning with curiosity, she ran across the field after it, and fortunately was just in time to see it pop down a large rabbit-hole under the hedge.

In another moment down went Alice after it, never once considering how in the world she was to get out again.

The rabbit-hole went straight on like a tunnel for some way, and then dipped suddenly down, so suddenly that Alice had not a moment to think about stopping herself before she found herself falling down a very deep well.

Either the well was very deep, or she fell very slowly, for she had plenty of time as she went down to look about her and to wonder what was going to happen next. First, she tried to look down and make out what she was coming to, but it was too dark to see anything; then she looked at the sides of the well, and noticed that they were filled with cupboards and book-shelves; here and there she saw maps and pictures hung upon pegs. She took down a jar from one of the shelves as she passed; it was labelled ‘ORANGE MARMALADE’, but to her great disappointment it was empty: she did not like to drop the jar for fear of killing somebody, so managed to put it into one of the cupboards as she fell past it.

‘Well!’ thought Alice to herself, ‘after such a fall as this, I shall think nothing of tumbling down stairs! How brave they’ll all think me at home! Why, I wouldn’t say anything about it, even if I fell off the top of the house!’ (Which was very likely true.)

Down, down, down. Would the fall NEVER come to an end! ‘I wonder how many miles I’ve fallen by this time?’ she said aloud. ‘I must be getting somewhere near the centre of the earth. Let me see: that would be four

thousand miles down, I think–’ (for, you see, Alice had learnt several things of this sort in her lessons in the schoolroom, and though this was not a VERY good opportunity for showing off her knowledge, as there was no one to listen to her, still it was good practice to say it over) ‘–yes, that’s about the right distance–but then I wonder what Latitude or Longitude I’ve got to?’ (Alice had no idea what Latitude was, or Longitude either, but thought they were nice grand words to say.)

Presently she began again. ‘I wonder if I shall fall right THROUGH the earth! How funny it’ll seem to come out among the people that walk with their heads downward! The Antipathies, I think–’ (she was rather glad there WAS no one listening, this time, as it didn’t sound at all the right word) ‘–but I shall have to ask them what the name of the country is, you know. Please, Ma’am, is this New Zealand or Australia?’ (and she tried to curtsey as she spoke–fancy CURTSEYING as you’re falling through the air! Do you think you could manage it?) ‘And what an ignorant little girl she’ll think me for asking! No, it’ll never do to ask: perhaps I shall see it written up somewhere.’

Down, down, down. There was nothing else to do, so Alice soon began talking again. ‘Dinah’ll miss me very much to-night, I should think!’ (Dinah was the cat.) ‘I hope they’ll remember her saucer of milk at tea-time. Dinah my dear! I wish you were down here with me! There are no mice in the air, I’m afraid, but you might catch a bat, and that’s very like a mouse, you know. But do cats eat bats, I wonder?’ And here Alice began to get rather sleepy, and went on saying to herself, in a dreamy sort of way, ‘Do cats eat bats? Do cats eat bats?’ and sometimes, ‘Do bats eat cats?’ for, you see, as she couldn’t answer either question, it didn’t much matter which way she put it. She felt that she was dozing off, and had just begun to dream that she was walking hand in hand with Dinah, and saying to her very earnestly, ‘Now, Dinah, tell me the truth: did you ever eat a bat?’ when suddenly, thump! thump! down she came upon a heap of sticks and dry leaves, and the fall was over.

Alice was not a bit hurt, and she jumped up on to her feet in a moment:

Alice is bored sitting by her sister on the bank, and she’s thinking about making a daisy chain when a white rabbit with pink eyes runs by. She’s surprised to see a rabbit with a waistcoat pocket and a watch, and she follows it down a rabbit hole. She falls down a deep well, and as she’s falling she takes note of the shelves and jars she passes. She thinks about how brave she’ll seem when she gets home, and how she’ll never tell anyone about her fall. She wonders how deep the well is and how many miles she’s fallen.

Alice thinks she’s fallen a thousand miles, and wonders what latitude or longitude she’s at. She wonders if she’ll fall right through the earth and what the name of the country she’ll emerge in is. She starts to get sleepy and starts to dream about walking hand in hand with her cat Dinah, asking her if she’s ever eaten a bat. Suddenly she lands on a heap of sticks and dry leaves, and she’s not hurt. Alice jumps up on her feet in a moment.

The Mouse tells Alice to pay attention, but Alice apologizes and says she was thinking about a knot. The Mouse gets angry and walks away, saying Alice insulted it. The other animals all ask the Mouse to come back and finish its story, but it only shakes its head and walks away. The Lory sighs, saying it’s a pity the Mouse left, and an old Crab tells its daughter that she should learn from this never to lose her temper.

Alice mentions her cat Dinah, who’s good at catching mice. This causes a reaction among the other animals, and they all start to leave. Alice realizes she shouldn’t have mentioned Dinah, and starts to cry again. Soon, the White Rabbit returns, looking for something. Alice figures it’s looking for the fan and gloves it dropped when it was reading the story, and starts looking for them. Soon, the Rabbit notices Alice, and starts looking around too.

Alice is delighted to find that her head is free at last, but then realizes that her shoulders are nowhere to be found. She looks down and sees an immense length of neck, and wonders what all the green stuff below her is. A pigeon then flies into her face, calling her a serpent. Alice tells it she’s not a serpent, but the pigeon continues to call her one, saying it’s been having trouble with serpents lately. Alice realizes that the pigeon is referring to the caterpillars.

Alice tells the pigeon that she’s not a serpent, but a little girl. The pigeon doesn’t believe her, and says that if she’s a little girl, she must have eaten eggs. Alice explains that she has eaten eggs before, but that doesn’t mean she’s a serpent. Alice then starts eating the mushroom again, and manages to shrink herself back to her normal size. She then wonders how to get into the garden, and comes across a little house. She decides not to approach it until she’s shrunk herself down to a smaller size.

The Hatter explains that ever since the Queen had him beheaded for murdering time, Time won’t do anything he asks. Alice asks why there are so many tea things on the table, and the Hatter explains that they keep moving around as the things get used up. The March Hare then suggests that the Dormouse tell them a story, and Alice agrees. The Dormouse starts telling a story about three sisters who lived at the bottom of a well and ate treacle. Alice asks why they lived there, and the Hatter suggests she take more tea.

Alice asks why the three sisters lived at the bottom of a well, and the Dormouse says it was because it was a treacle well. Alice says there’s no such thing, but the Hatter and the March Hare shush her. Alice then asks where they drew the treacle from, and the Hatter says that they could draw water from a water well, so they could draw treacle from a treacle well. Alice is confused by this answer, so she lets the Dormouse continue without interrupting.

The Mock Turtle continues his story, saying that they had the best education in the sea, and that they went to school every day. Alice says she’s been to a day school too, but the Mock Turtle says that hers wasn’t a good school, as it didn’t teach things like washing. The Mock Turtle then says that they also learned things like Reeling and Writhing, and Fainting in Coils. Alice asks what that is, but the Mock Turtle says he’s too stiff to show it to her, and the Gryphon says that it never learnt it either.

The Mock Turtle says that they used to do lessons for 10 hours a day, and that they’re called lessons because they lessen from day to day. Alice asks how they managed on the 11th day, but the Gryphon interrupts, saying that they should talk about the games instead. The Mock Turtle then starts talking about the Lobster Quadrille, saying that they form two lines along the sea-shore, clear the jellyfish out of the way, and then advance twice with a lobster as a partner. Alice asks what a lobster is, but the Gryphon says she probably never met one

Alice accidentally tips over the jury box, causing all the jurors to fall on the crowd below. She apologizes for the accident, thinking that the jurors must be collected and put back in the box immediately, otherwise they’ll die. The King says that the trial cannot proceed until all the jurors are back in their proper places. The King then reads out Rule 42, which says that all persons more than a mile high must leave the court. Everyone looks at Alice, who denies being a mile high. The King and Queen say she is.

Alice says she won’t leave the court, and that the rule isn’t a regular one. The King turns pale and tells the jury to consider their verdict. The White Rabbit announces that a letter has been found, written by the prisoner to someone. It’s not a letter, but a set of verses. The King asks the White Rabbit to read them. The verses are about someone being told that Alice had been to someone, and that she can’t swim. The King says that this proves the prisoner’s guilt. Alice disagrees, saying that it doesn’t prove anything.

Alice falls down a deep well and lands in a heap of sticks and leaves. She follows the White Rabbit down a long passage, but loses sight of it. She finds a bottle that says “Drink Me” on it and drinks it, shrinking to 10 inches tall. She grows to 9 feet tall and then shrinks again. She cries and grows larger again. A mouse appears and Alice asks it for help. The mouse agrees to tell Alice its story if she’ll take it to the shore. Once there, the animals discuss how to get dry again. The Dodo suggests a Caucus-race to get dry. Everyone crowds around Alice asking for prizes. Alice pulls out a box of comfits and hands them out as prizes. The Mouse then asks Alice if she has a prize for herself, and she says she only has a thimble. The Dodo takes the thimble and presents it to Alice, saying they all beg her acceptance

Alice grows larger after drinking a bottle she finds on a table. She stops growing before she gets too big. She then starts to miss being at home and wishes she hadn’t gone down the rabbit hole. She hears the Rabbit calling for her and realizes she’s now much bigger than the Rabbit, so she’s no longer afraid of it. Alice decides her first priority is to grow back to her normal size, and her second priority is to find her way into the garden. She doesn’t know how to do either of those things, however. She sees a Caterpillar smoking a hookah on a mushroom and asks him how she can grow back to her normal size. The Caterpillar tells her that one side of the mushroom will make her grow taller, and the other side will make her shorter. She starts eating the mushroom.

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
By Jane Austen

Chapter 1

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.

However little known the feelings or views of such a man may be on his first entering a neighbourhood, this truth is so well fixed in the minds of the surrounding families, that he is considered the rightful property of some one or other of their daughters.

“My dear Mr. Bennet,” said his lady to him one day, “have you heard that Netherfield Park is let at last?”

Mr. Bennet replied that he had not.

“But it is,” returned she; “for Mrs. Long has just been here, and she told me all about it.”

Mr. Bennet made no answer.

“Do you not want to know who has taken it?” cried his wife impatiently.

“You want to tell me, and I have no objection to hearing it.”

This was invitation enough.

“Why, my dear, you must know, Mrs. Long says that Netherfield is taken by a young man of large fortune from the north of England; that he came down on Monday in a chaise and four to see the place, and was so much delighted with it, that he agreed with Mr. Morris immediately; that he is to take possession before Michaelmas, and some of his servants are to be in the house by the end of next week.”

“What is his name?”

“Bingley.”

“Is he married or single?”

“Oh! Single, my dear, to be sure! A single man of large fortune; four or five thousand a year. What a fine thing for our girls!”

“How so? How can it affect them?”

“My dear Mr. Bennet,” replied his wife, “how can you be so tiresome! You must know that I am thinking of his marrying one of them.”

“Is that his design in settling here?”

“Design! Nonsense, how can you talk so! But it is very likely that he may fall in love with one of them, and therefore you must visit him as soon as he comes.”

“I see no occasion for that. You and the girls may go, or you may send them by themselves, which perhaps will be still better, for as you are as handsome as any of them, Mr. Bingley may like you the best of the party.”

“My dear, you flatter me. I certainly have had my share of beauty, but I do not pretend to be anything extraordinary now. When a woman has five grown-up daughters, she ought to give over thinking of her own beauty.”

“In such cases, a woman has not often much beauty to think of.”

“But, my dear, you must indeed go and see Mr. Bingley when he comes into the neighbourhood.”

“It is more than I engage for, I assure you.”

“But consider your daughters. Only think what an establishment it would be for one of them. Sir William and Lady Lucas are determined to go, merely on that account, for in general, you know, they visit no newcomers. Indeed you must go, for it will be impossible for us to visit him if you do not.”

“You are over-scrupulous, surely. I dare say Mr. Bingley will be very glad to see you; and I will send a few lines by you to assure him of my hearty consent to his marrying whichever he chooses of the girls; though I must throw in a good word for my little Lizzy.”

“I desire you will do no such thing. Lizzy is not a bit better than the others; and I am sure she is not half so handsome as Jane, nor half so good-humoured as Lydia. But you are always giving her the preference.”

“They have none of them much to recommend them,” replied he; “they are all silly and ignorant like other girls; but Lizzy has something more of quickness than her sisters.”

“Mr. Bennet, how can you abuse your own children in such a way? You take delight in vexing me. You have no compassion for my poor nerves.”

“You mistake me, my dear. I have a high respect for your nerves. They are my old friends. I have heard you mention them with consideration these last twenty years at least.”

“Ah, you do not know what I suffer.”

“But I hope you will get over it, and live to see many young men of four thousand a year come into the neighbourhood.”

“It will be no use to us, if twenty such should come, since you will not visit them.”

“Depend upon it, my dear, that when there are twenty, I will visit them all.”

Mr. Bennet was so odd a mixture of quick parts, sarcastic humour, reserve, and caprice, that the experience of three-and-twenty years had been insufficient to make his wife understand his character. Her mind was less difficult to develop. She was a woman of mean understanding, little information, and uncertain temper. When she was discontented, she fancied herself nervous. The business of her life was to get her daughters married; its solace was visiting and news.

Chapter 2

Mr. Bennet was among the earliest of those who waited on Mr. Bingley. He

Mrs. Bennet tells her husband, Mr. Bennet, that Netherfield Park has been leased to a single man of large fortune from the north of England. She assumes he will want to marry one of their daughters. Mr. Bennet doesn’t see the need to visit the man, but Mrs. Bennet insists that he do so, as it’s likely the man will fall in love with one of their daughters. Mr. Bennet says the girls can go visit him instead.

Mrs. Bennet continues to persuade Mr. Bennet to visit Mr. Bingley, insisting it would be good for their daughters. Mr. Bennet agrees to write a letter of introduction to Mr. Bingley, but Mrs. Bennet insists he visit him in person. Mr. Bennet is an odd mixture of quick parts, sarcasm, reserve, and caprice, and his wife has a difficult time understanding him. Her mind is mean and limited, and her life’s goal is to get her daughters married. Mr. Bennet visits Mr. Bingley early on.

The ladies of Longbourn soon visited those of Netherfield, and the visit was soon returned. Miss Bennet’s manners grew on Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley, but Elizabeth still found them to be supercilious. Jane was clearly attracted to Bingley, and Elizabeth thought it was likely that he felt the same way about her. However, Charlotte warned Elizabeth that Jane should show more affection towards Bingley, as he might not realize her feelings otherwise. Elizabeth countered that Bingley would surely realize Jane’s feelings if she showed more affection towards him.

Charlotte says that Jane should make the most of every opportunity to spend time with Bingley, as that is the best way to secure his affections. Elizabeth says Jane is not acting with intent to marry him, and that she has only known him for a fortnight. Charlotte says that happiness in marriage is a matter of chance, and that it doesn’t matter how well you know the other person beforehand. Elizabeth is unaware that Mr. Darcy is becoming interested in her. At first, he hardly thought her pretty, but now he is starting to find her attractive.

At 5pm, the two ladies retire to dress for dinner. Elizabeth is summoned to the dining room at 6pm. During dinner, Bingley asks her several questions, and she notices that he is more attentive to her than the others. After dinner, the ladies criticize Elizabeth’s manners and appearance. Miss Bingley says she looked dirty and untidy, and Mrs. Hurst adds that she looked wild. Bingley, however, defends Elizabeth, saying her affection for her sister is very pleasing.

Mrs. Hurst says she has a great regard for Jane, but that she is worried about her low connections. Bingley says that even if her family had more uncles, it would not make them any less agreeable. After dinner, Elizabeth stays with Jane until she falls asleep. When she goes downstairs, she finds the whole party playing cards. She declines to join them, saying she would rather read. Bingley offers to get her more books from his library.

The day passes much like the previous one, with Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley visiting Jane in the morning and Elizabeth joining them in the drawing room in the evening. Elizabeth observes the conversation between Darcy and Miss Bingley, who constantly compliments him on his handwriting and the length of his letter. Darcy replies to her comments with dry wit, and Bingley teases his sister about her excessive flattery. Miss Bingley then criticizes her brother’s handwriting, saying he leaves out words and blots the rest.

Darcy says that humility is often just carelessness of opinion, and an indirect boast. Bingley asks which of the two he considers his recent display of modesty to be. Darcy says it is an indirect boast, as Bingley is proud of his defects in writing because he considers them as a sign of quickness of thought. Elizabeth says that Darcy has shown Bingley off more than he did himself. Bingley says he is gratified that Elizabeth is converting what his friend said into a compliment on his temper.

Mr. Bennet tells his wife that he expects an addition to their family party that evening. Mrs. Bennet assumes it is Bingley, but her husband says it is a person he has never met before. Mrs. Bennet is shocked by this, and rails against the injustice of the entail, which prevents their estate from being inherited by their own children. Jane and Elizabeth try to explain the nature of an entail to her, but she is beyond reason on the subject. Mr. Bennet explains that the person is his cousin, Mr. Collins, who may inherit the estate when he dies.

Mr. Bennet explains that he has always wanted to reconcile with his late father, but was held back by his own doubts. However, now that he has been ordained as a clergyman, he feels it is his duty to promote peace in all families. He therefore wishes to reconcile with Mr. Bennet, and hopes that his being next in the entail of Longbourn estate will not be a problem. He also says that he plans to stay at their house for a week, from November 18th to November 24th. Mr. Bennet says that he expects him at four o’clock.

Mr. Collins is allowed to go out with the girls, and Mr. Wickham has also accepted the invitation to join them. Mr. Collins describes to Mrs. Phillips the grandeur of Lady Catherine’s mansion, and the improvements he is making to his own humble abode. Mrs. Phillips is very impressed by him, and listens to him with great interest. Mr. Wickham is the center of attraction among the ladies, and Elizabeth finds him very charming. Mr. Collins is also noticed by the ladies, but he is overshadowed by the officers and Mr. Wickham. He is however able to make

Mr. Collins agrees to play cards, and is seated at the table with the others. Mr. Wickham does not play cards, and instead joins Elizabeth and Lydia at their table. Elizabeth is curious to know more about Mr. Darcy, and Wickham starts talking about him. He says that he has known Darcy since childhood, and that he has a very large estate in Derbyshire. Elizabeth says that she has spent four days in the same house as Darcy, and that she finds him disagreeable. Wickham says that he cannot judge him fairly, as he has known him for too

Elizabeth enters the drawing room at Netherfield and looks around for Wickham, but does not see him. She dresses up with more care than usual, hoping to win his heart during the evening. However, she soon learns that Wickham is not present at the party, and that he had gone to town the previous day on some urgent business. Elizabeth becomes very upset by this, and feels that Darcy is responsible for Wickham’s absence. She then dances with Mr. Collins, who is awkward and clumsy. She is happy to be released from him. She then dances with an officer, and

After the dance, Elizabeth returns to Charlotte Lucas and is in conversation with her when Mr. Darcy suddenly approaches her and asks for her hand in marriage. She accepts him without thinking, and Charlotte tries to console her, saying that she might find him agreeable. When the dancing starts again, Darcy approaches Elizabeth to claim her hand. Charlotte warns her not to behave in a manner that would make her appear unpleasant in front of him. Elizabeth and Darcy start talking, and she teases him about his silence.

The next day, Mr. Collins formally declares his intentions to Elizabeth. He asks for a private audience with her, to which Mrs. Bennet agrees instantly. Elizabeth tries to stop her, but Mrs. Bennet insists that she stays and listens to what Collins has to say. Collins begins by saying that he has singled Elizabeth out as the companion of his future life. He then proceeds to explain his reasons for wanting to marry, and for coming to Hertfordshire to select a wife.

Collins continues to explain his reasons for wanting to marry, and says that he thinks it is a right thing for a clergyman to set an example of matrimony in his parish. He also says that he is convinced that it will add greatly to his happiness. He then says that Lady Catherine de Bourgh has advised him to marry, and that she has recommended Elizabeth as a suitable wife for him. He adds that he has chosen to marry from among the Bennet girls because he will inherit their father’s estate after his death.

Elizabeth thanks Charlotte for listening to Collins, and Charlotte assures her that she is happy to be of help. However, her kindness is not entirely selfless - she wants to secure Elizabeth from any further advances from Collins by encouraging him to pursue her instead. Collins then visits Charlotte, and the two quickly agree to get married. Sir and Lady Lucas are happy with the match, as they consider it to be a very good one for their daughter. They also believe that it will be beneficial for Collins to inherit the Longbourn estate. The entire family is happy with the match.

The entire family is happy with the match, and the younger girls hope to come out a year or two earlier than they would have otherwise. Charlotte herself is satisfied with the match, as she has always wanted to get married. She is also pleased that she will be able to provide for herself financially. Collins promises to visit the family again soon, and the entire family is surprised by this. Mr. Bennet then asks him if there is a danger of Lady Catherine’s disapproval, to which he replies that there is.

Mr. Collins leaves for his wedding, and hopes to soon return to Hertfordshire to marry Charlotte. Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner arrive at Longbourn to spend Christmas with the Bennets. Mr. Gardiner is a sensible and well-mannered man, while Mrs. Gardiner is an intelligent and elegant woman. Mrs. Bennet begins to complain to her sister about how poorly things have turned out since her last visit. She blames the Lucases for being manipulative and self-serving. Mrs. Gardiner listens to her sister’s complaints, and tries to comfort her nieces.

Mrs. Gardiner speaks to Elizabeth privately, and asks her about Bingley’s feelings for Jane. Elizabeth explains that Bingley was growing more and more attached to her sister, and that he had offended several other girls at his own ball by not asking them to dance. Mrs. Gardiner suggests that Jane might be persuaded to go back with them to London, in order to escape the gloom that has settled over Longbourn. Elizabeth is pleased by this suggestion. Mrs. Gardiner then suggests that Jane should not be influenced by Bingley’s feelings, as it is unlikely that they would ever meet again.

The next day’s journey is pleasant for Elizabeth, and she enjoys every new sight along the way. When they arrive at the Parsonage, Mr. Collins and Charlotte greet them at the door. Mrs. Collins welcomes her friend with great pleasure, and Elizabeth is satisfied with her decision to come. She observes that Mr. Collins’ behavior is unchanged since his marriage, and that he still behaves in a formal and ostentatious manner. Elizabeth wonders if Charlotte is aware of her husband’s faults, and notices that she blushes on occasion when he speaks inappropriately.

Mr. Collins takes the group on a tour of his garden, which he takes great pride in. Elizabeth admires the neatness and consistency of the garden, and notes that Charlotte seems to enjoy it as well. She learns that Lady Catherine is still in the country, and that she will be attending church the following Sunday. Mr. Collins explains that Lady Catherine will likely invite her and Maria to join her for dinner during their stay. Mr. Collins then praises Lady Catherine’s character and behavior.

The Collins family is very impressed by the manners of Colonel Fitzwilliam, and they are excited to receive an invitation to Rosings. When they arrive at Rosings, Lady Catherine is polite but clearly less interested in their company than she is in her nephews. Colonel Fitzwilliam is especially interested in Elizabeth, and spends much of the evening talking to her. Lady Catherine even asks him to speak louder so that she can hear what they are discussing. Mr. Darcy speaks highly of his sister’s musical abilities.

Lady Catherine explains that she encourages all of her guests to practice music, and that Mrs. Collins is welcome to come to Rosings to play the piano whenever she likes. After coffee, Colonel Fitzwilliam asks Elizabeth to play the piano for him, and she agrees. Lady Catherine listens to half a song before resuming her conversation with her other nephew. Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy exchange playful banter, and Elizabeth jokes that Mr. Darcy is trying to intimidate her by coming to hear her play. Elizabeth then threatens to retaliate by revealing things that will shock his relations.

Elizabeth continues to examine Jane’s letters, and notices that they contain no complaints or signs of suffering. However, Elizabeth does notice a lack of cheerfulness in Jane’s writing. Mr. Darcy unexpectedly arrives at the Parsonage, and Elizabeth is surprised to see him. He immediately inquires after her health, and then begins to profess his love for her. Elizabeth is shocked by his declaration, and is silent for a few moments. Darcy takes this as encouragement, and continues to speak passionately about his feelings for her.

Despite her dislike for him, Elizabeth cannot help but be impressed by Darcy’s declaration of love. However, she quickly becomes angry when he continues to speak, and she explains that she does not feel any gratitude towards him. Darcy appears surprised by her response, and becomes angry himself. He struggles to maintain his composure, and then says that he will accept her rejection. Elizabeth responds by asking why he chose to tell her that he liked her against his better judgment.

Elizabeth reads the letter with great interest, and is shocked by its contents. She is initially convinced that Darcy’s account of events is false, but eventually becomes convinced that some of the events described in the letter are true. Elizabeth is particularly disturbed by Darcy’s account of Mr. Wickham’s character, and by the fact that his account of events seems to corroborate Wickham’s own account of events. Elizabeth then reads the will, and becomes convinced that there is duplicity on one side or the other. Elizabeth continues to read the letter, but is unable to reach a definitive conclusion regarding the truth

Elizabeth is shocked by the extravagance and general profligacy that Darcy attributes to Mr. Wickham. She is unable to find any proof that these accusations are unjustified. Elizabeth then considers whether there is any virtue that might rescue Darcy from the accusations made by Mr. Darcy. However, she is unable to find any such virtue. Elizabeth then reads the account of Darcy’s attempts to pursue Miss Darcy, and is reminded of the conversation that she had with Wickham the previous evening. She is shocked by the impropriety of this conversation.

The three sisters set out from Gracechurch Street for the town of Hertfordshire, where they are to meet Mr. Bennet’s carriage. Upon arriving at the inn, they are greeted by Kitty and Lydia, who have been waiting for them. The two girls have been busy visiting a milliner and preparing a meal. Lydia then announces that she has some news about a certain person that they all like. Elizabeth is excited by the prospect of the news, and hopes that it is related to the regiment that is to be stationed nearby.

Lydia reveals that Mary King has gone to stay with her uncle in Liverpool, and that Wickham is therefore safe from an imprudent marriage. Jane asks if there is any strong attachment on either side, and Lydia assures her that there is not. After eating, the party prepares to depart in the carriage. Lydia expresses her hope that one of them will get married before Jane reaches the age of twenty-three. Elizabeth is shocked to realize that her own thoughts had been quite similar in coarseness. Lydia then begins to talk about a recent party they had attended at Colonel Forster

Elizabeth’s opinion of marriage and domestic comfort is based on her own family’s experience. Her father married a woman who was not a good match for him, and their marriage was unhappy. Elizabeth has always been aware of the impropriety of her father’s behavior as a husband, but she respects him and is grateful for his affection towards her. Elizabeth is not entirely satisfied with the regiment’s departure, as she feels that the parties they held were more enjoyable than those held by her mother and sister. She is looking forward to her trip to the Lakes, as it is her best consolation for the uncomfortable hours she

Elizabeth is confident that her expectations of pleasure will be fulfilled once her sister is gone. Lydia promises to write to her mother and Kitty often, but her letters are always short and contain little useful information. After a few weeks, the family’s mood improves, and Mrs. Bennet regains her usual serenity. However, a letter from Mrs. Gardiner postpones their northern tour, as Mr. Gardiner will be unable to join them until a later date. As a result, they are forced to shorten their tour and visit only Derbyshire.

Mr. Darcy invites Elizabeth to walk into the house, but she declines, saying she is not tired. They then stand together on the lawn, but find it very awkward to converse. Eventually, the Gardiners join them, and they all part ways after exchanging pleasantries. Upon returning to the house, the Gardiners express their admiration for Mr. Darcy, and say that he is very different from what they had expected. Elizabeth feels that they have misunderstood his character, but remains silent.

Elizabeth reflects on Mr. Darcy’s character, and thinks that he is not as bad as he is made out to be. She then informs the Gardiners of the negative things she had heard about Mr. Darcy from his relations in Kent, and how his actions were not as bad as they were made out to be. Mrs. Gardiner is surprised by this, but is too busy to think about it further, as she is busy pointing out the various places of interest to her husband. Elizabeth is too preoccupied with her thoughts about Mr. Darcy to pay much attention to the new friends she

Elizabeth is initially disappointed to find no letter from Jane upon their arrival at Lambton, but is later pleased to receive two letters from her sister at once. One of the letters is dated five days earlier, and contains news about their social engagements and other local news. However, the other letter, dated a day later, contains more serious news. It states that Lydia has run off to Scotland with Wickham. Elizabeth immediately reads the second letter, which contains more details about the incident. Elizabeth is shocked by the news, and does not know how to react.

The letter states that Colonel Forster had left Brighton the day before, having received news that Lydia and Wickham were not going to Scotland. He had traced them to Clapham, but could not find them after that. Mrs. Gardiner is very distressed by the news, and is currently ill in bed. Their father is also very upset by the news. Elizabeth is glad that she has been spared some of the distressing scenes, but now longs for her sister’s return.

Elizabeth and her aunt discuss the situation throughout the journey, and by the time they reach Longbourn, they are both exhausted from thinking about it. Upon their arrival, the Gardiner children are delighted to see them, and Jane greets Elizabeth affectionately. Elizabeth asks Jane if there has been any news of the fugitives, but Jane replies that there has not. Jane still holds out hope that everything will turn out well, and that her father will return with news of their marriage. Mrs. Bennet is still in her room, and is greatly distressed by the news.

Mrs. Bennet receives the Gardiners with tears and lamentations, blaming everyone but herself for the situation. She explains that if she had been able to take her family to Brighton, the incident would not have happened. Mr. Gardiner assures her that he will assist Mr. Bennet in finding Lydia and preventing her marriage to Wickham. He also promises to find them in London and make them marry. Mrs. Bennet then asks him to find them as soon as possible, and to prevent Mr. Bennet from fighting with Wickham.

Two days after Mr. Bennet’s return, Jane and Elizabeth are walking in the shrubbery behind the house when the housekeeper, Mrs. Hill, approaches them. She informs them that Mr. Gardiner has sent a letter for Mr. Bennet, and that he has received it. The girls rush to the house to find their father, and when they finally do, Elizabeth asks him if he has received any news. He hands her the letter, and she reads it aloud. The letter states that Mr. Gardiner has found out where Lydia and Wickham are, and that he has seen them both

Mr. Gardiner writes that he has seen both Lydia and Wickham, and that Wickham’s circumstances are not as hopeless as they are believed to be. He also informs Mr. Bennet that there will be some money left over to settle on Lydia, in addition to her own fortune. Mr. Bennet then decides to write back to Mr. Gardiner, informing him that he has full power to act in his name throughout the whole business. Elizabeth is shocked by the news, and wonders how Wickham could be considered worthy of marrying Lydia.

The day of the wedding arrives, and Jane and Elizabeth feel for their sister more than she feels for herself. The family is assembled in the breakfast room to receive Lydia and Wickham. Mrs. Bennet greets them with great joy, while Mr. Bennet remains impassive. Lydia and Wickham appear to be very happy, and Lydia is as wild and untamed as ever. She greets her sisters and asks after their acquaintances in the neighborhood. Elizabeth is disgusted by Wickham’s behavior, but is forced to admit that he is not as bad as she had previously believed.

Lydia is very excited about her marriage, and is eager to show off her new ring to everyone she meets. She is also very proud of her new husband, and brags about how charming he is. After the ceremony, Lydia is eager to show off her new status to all of her neighbors. She also expresses her desire to have her family visit her in Newcastle, where she and Wickham will be staying for the winter. Mrs. Bennet is concerned about Lydia’s move to the North, but Lydia assures her that she will be very happy there.

Wickham is very pleased with the conversation, and never brings it up again. The day of their departure soon arrives, and Mrs. Bennet is forced to bid farewell to her daughter. Mr. Wickham’s farewell is much more affectionate than Lydia’s, and Mr. Bennet expresses his pride in him as a son-in-law. Mrs. Bennet becomes quite depressed after Lydia’s departure, but is soon relieved when she hears news that Mr. Bingley is coming to Netherfield to stay for several weeks. Mrs. Bennet is not particularly interested in seeing him again, but

Mrs. Nicholls had told Mrs. Bennet that Bingley would be arriving soon, and that he would be coming alone. Miss Bennet becomes very nervous upon hearing this news, and explains to Elizabeth that she is not excited or upset by the news. She simply does not want to be the subject of gossip. Elizabeth is unsure whether Bingley is coming with permission or without it, and decides to leave him to himself. Mrs. Bennet then asks Miss Bennet if she will visit Bingley once he arrives, but she refuses, explaining that she does not want to be the subject of gossip.

A few days later, Bingley visits again, alone, as his friend has left for London. Mrs. Bennet invites him to dinner, but he explains that he has other plans. She invites him to come another time, and he accepts. Later that evening, Mrs. Bennet attempts to get Jane and Bingley alone together, but Jane refuses to go down without one of her sisters. Mrs. Bennet then calls for Elizabeth, and the two of them are left alone together.

Mrs. Bennet attempts to get Jane and Bingley alone together, but fails. Bingley is very charming throughout the evening, and agrees to shoot with Mr. Bennet the next morning. After this day, Jane no longer speaks of her indifference towards Bingley. The next morning, Elizabeth sees Jane and Bingley standing together in the drawing room. They quickly turn away from each other, and Elizabeth realizes that they must have been engaged in an intimate conversation. She feels very awkward about the situation.

The rest of the family is surprised to learn that Lady Catherine was the visitor. Elizabeth is spared from much teasing about the matter. The next morning, her father comes to her with a letter in his hand. He explains that he has received a letter from Mr. Collins, who congratulates her on her upcoming nuptials. Mr. Collins then proceeds to warn Elizabeth of the evils she may incur by marrying the gentleman in question. Elizabeth wonders who the gentleman in question could be.

Mr. Collins explains that his motive for writing is to caution Elizabeth about the rumored engagement. He reveals that the man in question is Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth tries to join in her father’s pleasantries, but can only force a reluctant smile. Mr. Collins then proceeds to explain that Lady Catherine has expressed her disapproval of the rumored engagement, and that she will never give her consent to it. He also expresses his disapproval of Elizabeth’s decision to allow Jane and Bingley to live together before their marriage. Elizabeth looks displeased by all of this.

Soon after Mr. Bennet withdraws to the library, Darcy follows him. Elizabeth becomes extremely agitated upon seeing this. She does not fear her father’s opposition, but worries that he will become unhappy because of her choice. Mr. Bennet questions Elizabeth about her choice, and she assures him that she truly loves Darcy. Her father then gives his consent to the marriage, but warns her that she must truly esteem her husband in order to be happy. Elizabeth assures him that she does esteem Darcy, and eventually convinces her father of her sincerity.

Mr. Bennet expresses his approval of Elizabeth’s choice, and is surprised to learn of Darcy’s involvement in the matter. He then decides to offer to pay Darcy the next day, and jokes about how Darcy will rant and storm about his love for Elizabeth. Elizabeth’s mind is then relieved of a heavy weight, and she is able to join the others with composure. That night, she informs her mother of the news, and her mother’s reaction is one of surprise and joy.

Mr. Bennet visits Mr. Bingley, who has leased Netherfield Park. Mrs. Bennet is determined to get one of her daughters married to him. At the ball, Mr. Bingley is well-liked, while Mr. Darcy is cold and disagreeable. Jane is happy to be singled out by Bingley. Mr. Bingley inherited a large fortune from his father, and has a steady friendship with Darcy, despite their very different personalities. The next morning, the Miss Lucases visit the Bennets to talk about the ball. Charlotte says Bingley’s first choice was Jane. Mrs. Bennet hopes Elizabeth won’t be upset by Darcy’s behavior.

Jane is clearly attracted to Bingley, and Elizabeth thinks he might feel the same way about her. Charlotte advises Jane to show more affection towards Bingley to secure his affections. Darcy begins to notice Elizabeth’s intelligence and starts to pay attention to her. The Bennet girls often visit a milliner’s shop in Meryton to see the officers of the nearby militia regiment. Mrs. Bennet receives an invitation to dine with Miss Bingley and her brother. Jane rides her horse to the dinner, but becomes ill and returns home. Miss Bingley then offers Elizabeth the use of her carriage to stay at Netherfield for a while.

Mr. Collins formally proposes to Elizabeth, and explains his reasons for wanting to marry her. He says that he chose to marry from among the Bennet girls because he will inherit their father’s estate after his death. Elizabeth rejects his proposal, saying that she is not the right woman for him. Collins says that he will wait for her reply, and hopes she will give him a more favourable reply the next time he asks her. Meanwhile, Charlotte Lucas arrives at Longbourn to spend the day with the family. She learns about Elizabeth’s refusal of Collins’ proposal. The next day, Collins and Mrs. Bennet remain in a bad mood, while Elizabeth hopes that his resentment might shorten his visit. However, he decides to stay till Saturday as planned. Jane receives a letter from Caroline Bingley, informing her that the Bingley party has left Netherfield and is on its way to town. Jane reads out the

Charlotte and Collins get engaged, and the entire family is happy with the match. However, Elizabeth feels that the match is unsuitable, and that Charlotte is making a mistake. Jane assures Elizabeth that she will get over Bingley soon, and that she does not harbor any ill feelings towards him. Elizabeth is amazed by Jane’s kindness and generosity of spirit, and feels that she has never truly appreciated her sister’s virtues. Mrs. Bennet is miserable, and complains to her husband about how she hates the idea of Charlotte becoming the mistress of Longbourn. Mr. Bennet tells Elizabeth that she should find a man to jilt her, as it would be good for her reputation. Mr. Wickham’s presence in the neighborhood helps to dispel the gloom that had settled over the Bennet household. Everyone openly discusses the details of Bingley’s departure, and condemns Mr. Darcy as a terrible

Elizabeth reads Darcy’s letter several times and becomes convinced that his account of events is true. She reflects on how foolish she had been to mistrust him. Lady Catherine insists that Elizabeth stay for another month, but Elizabeth declines the offer, explaining that she must return to town the following Saturday. Elizabeth reflects on how unjustly she had condemned Darcy, and feels compassion for his disappointed feelings. During the journey, Maria remarks that it seems like only a few days since they first arrived, and Elizabeth privately reflects that there is much that she will have to conceal. Upon reaching Mr. Gardiner’s house, Jane looks well, and Elizabeth has little opportunity to study her spirits. However, she intends to tell Jane about Darcy’s proposal once they reach Longbourn.

Lydia reveals that Mary King has gone to stay with her uncle in Liverpool, which means Wickham is safe from an imprudent marriage. Elizabeth tells Jane about Darcy’s proposal, and Jane is sympathetic towards him. Elizabeth explains that she believes Darcy’s feelings for her will soon fade. Elizabeth is relieved to learn that the regiment is to be removed in a fortnight, as she hopes that will put an end to her troubles with Wickham. Lydia receives an invitation to accompany Mrs. Forster, the wife of the colonel of the regiment, to Brighton. Elizabeth tries to dissuade her father from allowing Lydia to go, but he believes Lydia will behave better in Brighton than she does at home. On the last day of the regiment’s stay in Meryton, Wickham dines with the officers at Longbourn. Elizabeth and Wickham part on friendly terms.

Mr. Gardiner writes to Mr. Bennet informing him that he has found Lydia and Wickham, and that Wickham’s circumstances are not as hopeless as they are believed to be. He also informs him that there will be some money left over to settle on Lydia, in addition to her own fortune. Mr. Bennet agrees to the marriage, and quickly writes a letter to his brother-in-law expressing his eagerness to promote the welfare of his family. Mrs. Bennet is overjoyed by the news and begins to plan the wedding. However, Mr. Bennet refuses to allow Lydia and Wickham into his house, and refuses to provide any financial assistance for the wedding. Elizabeth regrets having told Mr. Darcy about her sister’s situation, as she now fears that he will learn of the unfavorable beginning of the elopement.

The day of the wedding arrives, and the family is happy to see Lydia and Wickham together. Lydia is very excited about her marriage and eager to show off her new ring to everyone she meets. After the ceremony, Lydia expresses her desire to have her sisters stay with her in Newcastle. Mr. Darcy pays off Wickham’s debts and provides Lydia with a generous settlement. He also attends the wedding. Elizabeth reflects on how grateful she is to Mr. Darcy for all that he has done for her family. Wickham asks Elizabeth if she saw his sister while she was in Lambton, and she confirms that she did. He then asks if she liked her. Elizabeth tells him that she did.

Mr. Bingley, a wealthy man, leases Netherfield Park and is well-liked by everyone. Jane is attracted to him, and Elizabeth thinks he might feel the same way about her. Darcy begins to notice Elizabeth’s intelligence and starts to pay attention to her. Mr. Collins, a clergyman, arrives to court one of the Bennet girls. He decides to choose Elizabeth, and after a conversation with Mrs. Bennet, he changes his mind to Jane. Darcy suddenly asks Elizabeth for her hand in marriage, and she accepts without thinking. Darcy and Elizabeth talk, and he says he hopes to see Bingley and Elizabeth together often. Mrs. Bennet is convinced that Jane will be the one to marry Bingley.

Mr. Collins proposes to Elizabeth, but she rejects him, saying she is not the right woman for him. Charlotte and Collins get engaged, and the entire family is happy with the match. However, Elizabeth feels that the match is unsuitable. Lady Catherine invites the group to dine at Rosings, and they are impressed by the grandeur of the house. Darcy unexpectedly declares his love for Elizabeth, and she explains that she has many reasons to dislike him. He explains that he had supported Mr. Wickham financially throughout his life, and that his sister, Georgiana, had been persuaded to elope with Mr. Wickham by Mrs. Younge.

ROMEO AND JULIET
by William Shakespeare

PERSONS REPRESENTED

Escalus, Prince of Verona. Paris, a young Nobleman, kinsman to the Prince. Montague,}Heads of two Houses at variance with each other. Capulet, } An Old Man, Uncle to Capulet. Romeo, Son to Montague. Mercutio, Kinsman to the Prince, and Friend to Romeo. Benvolio, Nephew to Montague, and Friend to Romeo. Tybalt, Nephew to Lady Capulet. Friar Lawrence, a Franciscan. Friar John, of the same Order. Balthasar, Servant to Romeo. Sampson, Servant to Capulet. Gregory, Servant to Capulet. Peter, Servant to Juliet’s Nurse. Abraham, Servant to Montague. An Apothecary. Three Musicians. Chorus. Page to Paris; another Page. An Officer.

Lady Montague, Wife to Montague. Lady Capulet, Wife to Capulet. Juliet, Daughter to Capulet. Nurse to Juliet.

Citizens of Verona; several Men and Women, relations to both houses; Maskers, Guards, Watchmen, and Attendants.

SCENE.–During the greater part of the Play in Verona; once, in the Fifth Act, at Mantua.

THE PROLOGUE

[Enter Chorus.]

Chor. Two households, both alike in dignity, In fair Verona, where we lay our scene, From ancient grudge break to new mutiny, Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean. From forth the fatal loins of these two foes A pair of star-cross’d lovers take their life; Whose misadventur’d piteous overthrows Doth with their death bury their parents’ strife. The fearful passage of their death-mark’d love, And the continuance of their parents’ rage, Which but their children’s end naught could remove, Is now the two hours’ traffic of our stage; The which, if you with patient ears attend, What here shall miss, our toil shall strive to mend.

ACT I.

Scene I. A public place.

[Enter Sampson and Gregory armed with swords and bucklers.]

Sampson. Gregory, o’ my word, we’ll not carry coals.

Gregory. No, for then we should be colliers.

Sampson. I mean, an we be in choler we’ll draw.

Gregory.

Ay, while you live, draw your neck out o’ the collar.

Sampson. I strike quickly, being moved.

Gregory. But thou art not quickly moved to strike.

Sampson. A dog of the house of Montague moves me.

Gregory. To move is to stir; and to be valiant is to stand: therefore, if thou art moved, thou runn’st away.

Sampson. A dog of that house shall move me to stand: I will take the wall of any man or maid of Montague’s.

Gregory. That shows thee a weak slave; for the weakest goes to the wall.

Sampson. True; and therefore women, being the weaker vessels, are ever thrust to the wall: therefore I will push Montague’s men from the wall and thrust his maids to the wall.

Gregory. The quarrel is between our masters and us their men.

Sampson. ’Tis all one, I will show myself a tyrant: when I have fought with the men I will be cruel with the maids, I will cut off their heads.

Gregory. The heads of the maids?

Sampson. Ay, the heads of the maids, or their maidenheads; take it in what sense thou wilt.

Gregory. They must take it in sense that feel it.

Sampson. Me they shall feel while I am able to stand: and ’tis known I am a pretty piece of flesh.

Gregory. ’Tis well thou art not fish; if thou hadst, thou hadst been poor-John.–Draw thy tool; Here comes two of the house of Montagues.

Sampson. My naked weapon is out: quarrel! I will back thee.

Gregory. How! turn thy back and run?

Sampson. Fear me not.

Gregory. No, marry; I fear thee!

Sampson. Let us take the law of our sides; let them begin.

Gregory. I will frown as I pass by; and let them take it as they list.

Sampson. Nay, as they dare. I will bite my thumb at them; which is disgrace to them if they bear it.

[Enter Abraham and Balthasar.]

Abraham. Do you bite your thumb at us, sir?

Sampson. I do bite my thumb, sir.

Abraham. Do you bite your thumb at us, sir?

Sampson.

The Chorus introduces the play as a story of star-crossed lovers whose tragic end brings an end to the feud between their parents. Sampson and Gregory enter armed with swords and bucklers. Sampson says they won’t carry coal, but if they are in a bad mood they will draw their swords.

Sampson and Gregory discuss how they will fight for their masters, the house of Montague. Sampson says he will be cruel to the maids once he has fought the men. Abraham and Balthasar approach, and Abraham asks Sampson if he is biting his thumb at them. Sampson replies that he is.

Romeo, Mercutio, Benvolio, and several other people arrive at the party. Romeo wonders if they should offer an excuse for their behavior or not. Benvolio says that they should not waste time with such things. Romeo says he is not in the mood to dance, and Mercutio suggests that he use Cupid’s wings to fly above his troubles. Romeo says he is too weighed down by his love troubles to do so. Mercutio puts on a mask and says that he will play the fool.

Mercutio says that they should not waste time and should get on with the party. Romeo says that he had a dream that night. Mercutio says that he also had a dream. Romeo asks Mercutio what his dream was, and he says that dreamers often lie. Mercutio describes Queen Mab, the fairies’ midwife, who rides through people’s brains at night and causes them to dream of love. Sometimes she causes people to dream of money, or of other things.

Friar Lawrence enters his cell with a basket of flowers. He says that the grey-eyed morn smiles on the night, and that darkness retreats from the path of the sun. Romeo enters the cell. Friar asks Romeo where he has been, and Romeo says that he has been feasting with his enemy. He says that he has been wounded by his enemy, and that his wounds can be healed by the help of the Friar. Romeo says that his heart’s dear love is set on the fair daughter of rich Capulet.

Romeo asks the Friar to marry him and Juliet so that their families’ rancor can turn to pure love. The Friar agrees to help him. Romeo says that he is in a hurry to leave. Mercutio asks where Romeo is. Benvolio says that he is not home. Mercutio says that Rosaline torments Romeo so much that he will surely go mad. Tybalt, the kinsman to Capulet, enters.

Benvolio says that it is hot outside and that the Capulets are out, so they should avoid any brawls. Mercutio says that Benvolio is like a man who enters a tavern and puts his sword on the table, saying that he doesn’t need it. Benvolio says that he is not as hot-tempered as Mercutio. Tybalt approaches them and asks them to follow him. Mercutio says that he is ready to fight if Tybalt wants to fight.

Benvolio tells Mercutio and Tybalt to go somewhere private to talk about their grievances, or else to leave. Romeo arrives, and Tybalt calls him a villain. Romeo says that the reason he loves Tybalt is enough to excuse his rage. Tybalt draws his sword and fights with Romeo. Mercutio draws his sword and fights with Tybalt. Romeo tells Benvolio to draw his sword and beat down their weapons. Tybalt and Mercutio exit with their men.