Chapter 48: Still Riding The Ado Train
For the record, we are now going into the third straight chapter of "this is a pivotal moment in the story, let's all just sit around and wait for it to resolve itself".
The Bennets eventually get a letter from their uncle confirming that their father is, at least, not dead yet. On the other hand, the search for Wickham and Lydia had not borne fruit, either. We soon find out that Wickham's apparent need to stay hidden is likely not a result of the elopement; rather, it turns out that the villain is also running away from a bunch of gambling debts. I'd be more worried about an angry bookie than Mr. Bennet, too.
Jane and Elizabeth read a letter from Mr. Collins addressed to their father, where he essentially says, "Hey, heard about all the fuss! So sorry this is happening to you. Charlotte thinks Lydia turned out bad because she has bad parents, but I think the girl is just naturally awful. Anyway, I shared all the juicy details with Lady Catherine and she is equally as appalled. Also, you remember how I asked Elizabeth to marry me a few months ago, and I could have been a part of your family right now? Looks like I really dodged a bullet, huh! Love, Mr. Collins."
Mr. Bennet eventually returns home, leaving Uncle Bennet to continue the search on his own for a while. The book does not specify whether Mr. Bennet went on to spend some time at the shooting range, but I imagine it would have been high on his priority list. To Elizabeth he says, I apologize, I should have taken your advice on Lydia, you have a good head on your shoulders. And to Kitty he says, I'm sorry I have to punish you for your sister's actions, but you're basically never leaving the house ever again.