If gratitude and esteem are good foundations of affection, Elizabeth's change of sentiment will be neither improbable nor faulty. But if otherwise--if regard springing from such sources is unreasonable or unnatural, in comparison of what is so often described as arising on a first interview with its object, and even before two words have been exchanged, nothing can be said in her defence, except that she had given somewhat of a trial to the latter method in her partiality for Wickham, and that its ill success might, perhaps, authorise her to seek the other less interesting mode of attachment.

Summary

This quote from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice discusses the change in the protagonist Elizabeth Bennet's feelings towards Mr. Darcy. It suggests that if gratitude and esteem form the basis of affection, then Elizabeth's change of sentiment is logical and acceptable. However, it also states that if affection is expected to arise instantly and without reason, as depicted in many tales of love at first sight, Elizabeth's shift in feelings might be seen as unnatural. The quote argues that Elizabeth had tried the latter method of attachment with Wickham and the failure of that relationship may have justified her seeking a more genuine and less superficial connection with Darcy.

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