Mrs Younge

Mrs. Younge · Miss Darcy's former companion

The disgraced companion now keeps London lodgings and, after resistance, gives Darcy the clue that finds Wickham and Lydia.

Story so far

After her dismissal from Miss Darcy's charge, Mrs. Younge takes a large house in Edward Street and supports herself by letting lodgings. Mr. Darcy knows she remains intimately acquainted with Mr. Wickham and seeks her out as soon as he begins his London search for Wickham and Lydia Bennet.

Mrs. Younge initially withholds the information, apparently unwilling to betray Wickham without inducement, though he had called on her at their first arrival in London and would have lodged there had she had room. After two or three days she gives Darcy the direction he needs. Her cooperation is a crucial, morally compromised link in the chain that makes Lydia's rescue possible.

Appearance

The text gives no description of her age, face, hair, complexion, build, or clothing.

Role

She is the reluctant keeper of Wickham's London trail and the source of Darcy's decisive lead.

Relationships

Mr. Darcy — Mr. Darcy questions Mrs. Younge until she yields the address where Wickham and Lydia can be found.

Mr. Wickham — Mr. Wickham remains an intimate acquaintance who seeks Mrs. Younge on reaching London and relies on her discretion.

Miss Darcy — Miss Darcy was Mrs. Younge's young charge before Darcy removed her from the household.

Lydia Bennet — Lydia Bennet would have lodged with Mrs. Younge if her house had been able to receive the fleeing pair.

Sources — 2 recorded facts, by chapter

Chapter 33

Mrs. Younge is the disgraced companion whose secret connection with Wickham helped bring Georgiana near to an elopement at Ramsgate.

Chapter 50

The disgraced companion now keeps London lodgings and, after resistance, gives Darcy the clue that finds Wickham and Lydia.