It seems odd to me that a man of Darcy´s stature would make a proposal of this kind without first discussing his intentions with a sympathetic confidant; someone he could trust to give him friendly objective reflections and advice. But who? Certainly not Mr Bingley whom Darcy had recently interfered with in Bingley's relationship with Jane. Probably not Lady Catherine. We know her personality. It seems rash and incongruous with Darcy's nature that he would allow himself to do this completely without friendly counsel.

It also seems a little odd to me that Darcy would consider the socializing he had done with Elizabeth up to this point (the proposal) as constituting a relationship. He had received no feedback from her at all about her feelings; just small talk. He does so now, in spades! To have a relationship, it would seem both people should know they are in it. I don't believe a relationship generally begins with a proposal, although it could. Certainly Jane's did not.

As far as he being a gentleman, or she a lady, my feeling is they both fit the bill. But, this is an ephiphany moment for each of them. An earthquake of emotion is suddenly released and I believe both the gentleman and the lady can be forgiven for momentarily losing their footing. The regaining is a pleasure indeed.

Chapter 34 is one of my favorite chapters.