My conversation with Mrs. Bennet

9:30 AM, Tuesday, September 22^nd, 1813:

Before breakfast I engaged Mrs. Bennet in a conversation about my hope of finding a wife here at Longbourn. She was most encouraging and very agreeable; however, when I spoke of Jane as being my first choice for my bride-to-be, she became quite cautionary and informed me that Jane was to be shortly engaged. How unfortunate it is that I did not present myself sooner at Longbourn and take up Jane, who clearly surpasses her sisters in beauty and agreeability. Despite all this, her sister, Elizabeth, will make an acceptable alternative and should be able to sufficiently prove to be a decent wife for myself and my household. Lady Catherine’s understanding and courteousness will enable her to accept anyone I choose to fill such a position and Elizabeth shall be no exception. After much consideration of the timing of my proposal, I have decided to allow my feelings to take over me at that present moment,whenever it maybe, and I will propose to Miss Elizabeth. I believe, with no doubt, she will accept my proposal as I am sure to be one of the few, if the only man, who proposes to her. I know my secure household and profession, not to mention my patronage with the esteemed Lady Catherine, will be of high regard to any woman I choose to propose to. I flatter myself that by marrying one of the daughters of the man I am intended to succeed they will forever feel indebted to me; however, I will never request any sort of payment in turn for such a kind deed. As a clergyman, I could never ask for even the most miniscule payment or compensation in return and shall set the example of selfless in my parish.