The day proceeds similarly to the previous one, with Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley spending their morning with Jane, who is gradually recovering.
In the evening, Elizabeth joins the group in the drawing-room, where various activities take place: Mr. Darcy is writing a letter, Miss Bingley observes him, Mr. Bingley and Mr. Hurst play cards, and Mrs. Hurst watches their game.
Elizabeth occupies herself with needlework while listening to the exchange between Mr. Darcy and Miss Bingley, where Miss Bingley admires every aspect of Darcy's letter-writing, while Mr. Darcy responds with polite indifference.
A lively discussion unfolds about writing styles, with Charles Bingley defending his careless style and Darcy critiquing it as a false humility disguising carelessness.
The conversation shifts to Bingley’s impulsive nature, with Darcy suggesting his actions rely more on chance than principle. Elizabeth skillfully turns Darcy’s critique into a compliment about Bingley’s good-naturedness.
Darcy expresses his opinion that yielding to persuasion without conviction lacks merit, leading Elizabeth to suggest his view undervalues the influence of friendship and affection.
Mr. Bingley tactfully ends the discussion by humorously deflecting the argument, and Elizabeth encourages Darcy to finish his letter.
Once the letter is completed, Darcy suggests music, prompting Miss Bingley to play the piano while Elizabeth observes Darcy watching her frequently.
Elizabeth debates whether Darcy’s attention stems from admiration or disapproval, ultimately deciding it may be due to her defying his notions of propriety.
Miss Bingley tries to ingratiate herself with Darcy by playing various songs, including Italian and Scotch tunes, while Darcy engages Elizabeth in light banter about dancing.
Elizabeth surprises Darcy by rejecting societal expectations, stating she refuses to agree just for his potential criticism, leaving Darcy even more captivated by her personality.
Miss Bingley grows jealous of Darcy's apparent interest in Elizabeth and conspires to subtly insult Elizabeth and her family, masking her remarks with feigned concern for Darcy’s happiness.
Darcy lightly entertains Miss Bingley’s jests but does not indulge her implications, maintaining his reserve.
The next day, Miss Bingley and Darcy take a private walk, during which Miss Bingley attempts to provoke disdain for Elizabeth by mocking her and her family.
Miss Bingley's insinuations escalate to a faux admiration of Elizabeth's supposed future family connections, but Darcy deflects her comments with measured responses.
During the walk, Elizabeth inadvertently comes across Darcy, Miss Bingley, and Mrs. Hurst, who had excluded her from their outing.
Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley rudely leave Elizabeth walking alone by linking their arms with Darcy, highlighting their exclusivity.
Darcy notices their rudeness and suggests a group arrangement, but Elizabeth gracefully declines, preferring independence over their company.
Elizabeth cheerfully departs alone, pleased to be leaving Netherfield soon and looking forward to returning home as Jane’s condition improves.
It is revealed that Jane is now well enough to leave her room for a short period that evening, signaling her recovery.