Elizabeth eagerly anticipated receiving a letter from Jane but was repeatedly disappointed until the third day at Lambton, when she received two letters, one of which had been missent.
The first letter detailed minor events but abruptly shifted tone, revealing shocking news: Lydia had eloped with Mr. Wickham, leaving the family in dismay.
Lydia and Wickham were believed to have left for Scotland, but Jane later expressed concerns that Wickham may have no intention of marrying Lydia.
Jane recounted Colonel Forster's efforts to track the couple, which traced them to Clapham but lost trail after they switched to a hackney-coach, raising doubts about their intentions.
The news devastated the Bennet family. Mr. Bennet departed for London to search for Lydia, and Jane urged Elizabeth to return and bring their uncle’s assistance.
Elizabeth, overwhelmed by distress and guilt for not warning her family about Wickham’s character, intercepted Mr. Darcy upon his unexpected arrival and disclosed the situation to him.
Darcy displayed concern and shock but showed restraint while empathizing with Elizabeth's despair. She expressed her regret for not protecting her family from Wickham.
Elizabeth reflected on the disgrace Lydia's actions would bring to her family, believing it would permanently damage her relationship with Darcy.
Elizabeth longed to return home to support Jane and her family amidst the chaos, feeling urgent responsibility to act.
Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner returned hurriedly upon Elizabeth’s summons, and after she explained the situation, Mr. Gardiner promised his full assistance.
Elizabeth and her relatives quickly made arrangements to leave for Longbourn, while Elizabeth informed Darcy they could no longer meet his sister at Pemberley.
The chapter concluded with Elizabeth reflecting on her family’s misfortune and her distress as their carriage departed for home.