Mrs.Norris gave the particulars of the letters, and the subject was dropt; but after tea, as Miss Crawford was standing at an open window with Edmund and Fanny looking out on a twilight scene, while the Miss Bertrams, Mr.Rushworth, and Henry Crawford were all busy with candles at the pianoforte, she suddenly revived it by turning round towards the group, and saying, "How happy Mr.Rushworth looks! He is thinking of November." Edmund looked round at Mr.Rushworth too, but had nothing to say.
"Your father's return will be a very interesting event." "It will, indeed, after such an absence; an absence not only long, but including so many dangers." "It will be the forerunner also of other interesting events: your sister's marriage, and your taking orders." "Yes." "Don't be affronted," said she, laughing, "but it does put me in mind of some of the old heathen heroes, who, after performing great exploits in a foreign land, offered sacrifices to the gods on their safe return." "There is no sacrifice in the case," replied Edmund, with a serious smile, and glancing at the pianoforte again; "it is entirely her own doing." "Oh yes I know it is.

I was merely joking.

She has done no more than what every young woman would do; and I have no doubt of her being extremely happy.

My other sacrifice, of course, you do not understand." "My taking orders, I assure you, is quite as voluntary as Maria's marrying." "It is fortunate that your inclination and your father's convenience should accord so well.

There is a very good living kept for you, I understand, hereabouts." "Which you suppose has biassed me ?" "But _that_ I am sure it has not," cried Fanny.
"Thank you for your good word, Fanny, but it is more than I would affirm myself.