He seems a most gentlemanlike man; and I think, Elinor, I may congratulate you on the prospect of a very respectable establishment in life." "Me, brother! what do you mean ?" "He likes you.

I observed him narrowly, and am convinced of it.

What is the amount of his fortune ?" "I believe about two thousand a year." "Two thousand a-year;" and then working himself up to a pitch of enthusiastic generosity, he added, "Elinor, I wish with all my heart it were TWICE as much, for your sake." "Indeed I believe you," replied Elinor; "but I am very sure that Colonel Brandon has not the smallest wish of marrying ME." "You are mistaken, Elinor; you are very much mistaken.

A very little trouble on your side secures him.

Perhaps just at present he may be undecided; the smallness of your fortune may make him hang back; his friends may all advise him against it.