Some may take a moment to pause at the sight of Charles but few seem concerned. Indeed, he'll be receiving a few more intrigued looks than disdainful ones. A new gentleman, one with eccentric tastes in dress? Why he must have some money behind it all then.
It's only by chance that Mrs. Bennet herself doesn't set upon the man, too involved in keeping careful note of Jane's own progress with one Mr. Bingley. Elizabeth has wisely retreated for now to one side of the room, formerly engaged by Charlotte in conversation but abandoned as the other is asked to dance. The dark-haired woman looks somewhat bemused by this, having been left a wallflower for most of the event thus far. Even snubbed by the friend Mr. Bingley brought with him, who still stands to one side of the room looking obscenely proud.
It seems this is to be a night spent in idle watching then. So much the better, I would sooner gather dust than merely be less than tempting. Yes, that comment did bruise her spirits. She's all but settled herself upon this idea of watching until the night is through.