2/27 There was a languor, a want of spirits, a want of union, which could not be got over. They separated too much into parties. The Eltons walked together; Mr.Knightley took charge of Miss Bates and Jane; and Emma and Harriet belonged to Frank Churchill. It seemed at first an accidental division, but it never materially varied. Mr.and Mrs.Elton, indeed, shewed no unwillingness to mix, and be as agreeable as they could; but during the two whole hours that were spent on the hill, there seemed a principle of separation, between the other parties, too strong for any fine prospects, or any cold collation, or any cheerful Mr.Weston, to remove. |