"Your list of the common extent of accomplishments," said Darcy, "has too much truth. The word is applied to many a woman who deserves it no otherwise than by netting a purse or covering a screen. But I am very far from agreeing with you in your estimation of ladies in general. I cannot boast of knowing more than half a dozen, in the whole range of my acquaintance, that are really accomplished."

Indeed, a desire to engage Lizzy in conversation would be an great reason for him to join them and as you point out this is his first real opportunity at Netherfield so his eagerness might be rather telling. Consider also that aside from the fact this is a more intimate party unlike at Lucas Lodge (6) there is no odious dancing to hinder his endeavor. If that was Darcy’s plan then it worked because something in his response, perhaps the little value he places on “netting a purse or covering a screen” which might be considered rather domestic, immediately caught Lizzy’s attention. I wonder what kind of needle work Lizzy does in Ch. 11 while Jane & Bingley have their tête-à-tête in the opposite corner. Do the Sisters Bingley ever do any kind of needle work? I can’t remember it if they do. (:D)