In chapter 20, after mr Bennet disappointed mrs Bennet by allowing Lizzy to refuse mr Collins, Mrs Bennet starts her campaign to change Lizzies mind. But nothing will do. She ends up alone in the breakfast-room - catching her breath? - when Carlotte Lucas arrives. Her speech then is such an example of mrs Bennets selfcontradicting style.

..."Not that I have much pleasure, indeed, in talking to anybody. People who suffer as I do from nervous complaints can have no great inclination for talking. Nobody can tell what I suffer! But it is always so. Those who do not complain are never pitied."
After this speech she continues talking until mr Collins enters the room. Then she insists that her daughters - that has not said a word- will be silent so she can talk. I wonder if mr Bennets fondness for books is just an exuse to soundproof a room to get away.