Jane appears totally stressed out. I wonder if she was bearing the worst burden of the family. Not simply with her silent feelings for Bingley but all else. Looking after the Gardiner children may've helped take her mind off Bingley, but now with this crisis she must continue taking responsibility for them while also caring for the nerves of a hypochondriac mother. I doubt Aunt Phillips visits would give much practical help. Her gossip isn't a good influence on her silly sister. I almost see Jane's letter as a cry for help. Jane could have concealed the bad news from Lizzy and I think she felt inclined to do so but she desperately needed Lizzy home. Of course, Lizzy would be exepted to be informed of any serious trouble in the family. Late Ch.46 'She was wild to be home- to hear, to see,to be wholly on the spot, to share with Jane in the cares of a family so deranged; a father absent, a mother incapable of exertion, and requiring constant attendance; and though almost persuaded nothing could be done for Lydia,...the misery of her impatience was severe.' I wish this wasn't such an 'angsty' post but I think Jane and Lizzy as the main pillars of the Bennet family.