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The Living was very much in the hands of the landlord. S/he could choose anyone at all as long as he was ordained in The Church of England. This is why a younger son of a wealthy landed family usually considered the Church as a career. The Landlord had a considerable clout if the Living was awarded to someone like Mr Collins because it was possible to manipulate the amount the Clergyman received from Tithes, donations, etc.
If the Living were sold then the Cleric had far more independence--but even in this case--as in Mansfield Park--it went back to the family upon the death of the incumbent.
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