When I read these passages, I thought this would be a great subject for a new companion novel to P&P, with the story being told from Lady Lucas's point of view. :)

But, seriously, it is sick, isn't it? This isn't just hoping that your daughter is well-enough off and happy with her husband. It's sacrificing every better feeling to promote your child's future wealth and status. I imagine Lady Lucas is so tired of having to listen to Mrs. Bennet brag about her daughters over the years--especially about their beauty vs Charlotte's plainness--that she boils over.