Ch.20: This is not exactly about gossip, but I can't help noticing that Charlotte's way of being absolutely sure Elizabeth's engagement to Mr. Collins is off, is one of the methods of information-gatherers everywhere! ;-)

"Charlotte, detained first by the civility of Mr. Collins, whose inquiries after herself and all her family were very minute, and then by a little curiosity, satisfied herself with walking to the window and pretending not to hear."

Ch.23:

"Kitty and Lydia were far from envying Miss Lucas, for Mr. Collins was only a clergyman; and (the engagement) affected them in no other way than as a piece of news to spread at Meryton."

"Day after day passed away without bringing any other tidings of (Bingley) than the report which shortly prevailed in Meryton of his coming no more to Netherfield the whole winter."