My point was although Mr. Bennet could not do anything about the entail he could have done other things to improve his daughter’s chances of making a good match which I felt was germane to the subject. I think leaving the rearing of his daughters basically to a woman he has no liking or respect for is a terrible neglect. (:D) I have always thought Mrs. Bennet said this:

"There is some sense in what he says about the girls, however, and if he is disposed to make them any amends, I shall not be the person to discourage him." (13)

I do not think Mr. Bennet believes Mr. Collins owes him or his daughters anything, Kathleen Glancy explains it very well in post 46290. I find that particular quote to be much more along the lines of Mrs. Bennet’s view of the entail. If it was Mr. Bennet suggesting Mr. Collins makes some sense then why does he agree with Lizzy that he cannot be a sensible man?

"He must be an oddity, I think," said she, "I cannot make him out. There is something very pompous in his style. -- And what can he mean by apologizing for being next in the entail? -- We cannot suppose he would help it if he could. -- Can he be a sensible man, sir?"

"No, my dear; I think not. I have great hopes of finding him quite the reverse. There is a mixture of servility and self-importance in his letter, which promises well. I am impatient to see him."

Both Lizzy & Mr. Bennet (above) do not think he will be a sensible man only from his letter and I think they are right. I also think there was a lot to be learned about Mr. Collins from his letter and their initial meeting with him—that he is not sensible, pompous, disingenuous (making up compliments) and a complete toady.

Also Nan posted about his letter earlier in the group read. I have linked her post at the bottom of the page.

Really Mr. Collins invited himself to Longbourn and Mr. Bennet just acquiesced and hoped, with good reason, to have some fun at his expense which is exactly what he does at dinner by bringing up Lady Catherine. I see the following as sarcastic, that he did not think much of Mr. Collins and actually took some time to return his letter:

“About a month ago I received this letter; and about a fortnight ago I answered it, for I thought it a case of some delicacy, and requiring early attention. It is from my cousin, Mr. Collins, who, when I am dead, may turn you all out of this house as soon as he pleases.” (13).