Mister Collins says he's proposing to Elizabeth because
Elizabeth personality will display lady Catherine
Elizabeth as shown or affection for him
You know Elizabeth will inherit a lot of money
As the heir he feels responsible for the daughters
He knows that Elizabeth would never marry otherwise
It is most likely the following reasons are why Mr. Collins is proposing to Elizabeth:
1. Lady Catherine's Influence: Mr. Collins believes that Elizabeth's personality and behavior resemble that of Lady Catherine, whom he highly reveres. By marrying Elizabeth, he hopes to have a wife who reflects the qualities he admires in Lady Catherine.
2. Elizabeth's Display of Affection: Mr. Collins perceives Elizabeth's actions and behavior towards him as signals of affection or interest. He interprets her interactions as potential signs that she may be open to accepting his proposal.
3. Inheritance of Money: Mr. Collins is aware that Elizabeth is set to inherit a significant amount of money. Marrying her would secure financial stability and prosperity for him, which he sees as a practical and advantageous decision.
4. Sense of Responsibility: As the heir of the estate, Mr. Collins feels a responsibility to secure a suitable marriage for the female members of his family. By marrying Elizabeth, he believes he is fulfilling this duty by providing her with a home and social status.
5. Elizabeth's Unwillingness to Marry Otherwise: Mr. Collins might be aware that Elizabeth has expressed no interest in marrying him previously, which could indicate that she has no other marriage prospects. He may believe that she would be willing to accept his proposal out of necessity rather than genuine affection.