(2) Over An Hour Soothing Storytelling-Sense And Sensibility

This is the second extended (over 1 and 1/4 hours) sleep track with the soothing voice of Stephanie Poppins. This is an authentic English Voice.

In Georgian-era England, the wealthy Mr. Dashwood dies, leaving his second wife and three daughters destitute. The ladies move to a modest cottage where the two older daughters vie for the attention of various suitors in search of true love.

Transcript

Hello. Welcome to Sleep Stories with Steph, Your go-to romantic podcast that guarantees you a calm and entertaining transition into a great night's sleep. Come with me as we immerse ourselves in a romantic journey to a time long since forgotten. But before we begin, Let's take a moment to focus on where we are now. Take a deep breath in through your nose and let it out with a long sigh. Now close your eyes and feel yourself sink deeper into the support beneath you. It is time to relax and fully let go. There is nothing you need to be doing now and nowhere you need to go. Happy listening. Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen Chapter Eight Mrs. Jennings was a widow with an ample jointure. She had only two daughters, Both of whom she had lived to see respectably married, And she had now therefore nothing to do but to marry all the rest of the world. She was remarkably quick in the discovery of attachments and this kind of discernment enabled her soon after her arrival at Barton decisively to pronounce that Colonel Brandon was very much in love with Marianne Dashwood. She rather suspected it to be so on the very first evening of their being together, From his listening so attentively while she sang to them. It would be an excellent match for he was rich and she was handsome. Mrs. Jennings had been anxious to see Colonel Brandon well married ever since her connection with Sir John first brought him to her knowledge and she was always anxious to get a good husband for every pretty girl. The immediate advantage to herself was by no means inconsiderable for it supplied her with an endless joke against them both. At the park she laughed at the Colonel and in the cottage at Marianne. To the former her railway was probably perfectly indifferent but to the latter it was at first incomprehensible and when its object was understood she hardly knew whether most to laugh at its absurdity or censure its impertinence for she considered it as an unfeeling reflection on the Colonel's advanced years and on his forlorn condition as an old bachelor. Mrs. Dashwood, Who could not think a man five years younger than herself so exceedingly ancient as he appeared to the youthful fancy of her daughter, Ventured to clear Mrs. Jennings from the probability of wishing to throw ridicule on his age. But at least, Mama, You cannot deny the absurdity of the accusation. Colonel Brandon is old enough to be my father and if he were ever animated enough to be in love must have long outlived every sensation of the kind. When is a man to be safe from such wit if age and infirmity will not protect him? My dearest child, Said her mother laughing, At this rate you must be in a continual terror of my decay and it must seem to you a miracle that my life has been extended to the advanced age of forty. I know very well that Colonel Brandon is not old enough to make his friends yet apprehensive of losing him in the course of nature. But thirty-five has nothing to do with matrimony. Perhaps, Said Eleanor, Thirty-five and seventeen had better not have anything to do with matrimony together. But if there should, By any chance, Happen to be a woman who is single at seven and twenty, I should not think Colonel Brandon's being thirty-five any objection to his marrying her. A woman of seven and twenty, Said Marianne, After pausing a moment, Can never hope to feel or inspire affection again and if her home be uncomfortable or her fortune small, I can suppose that she might bring herself to submit to the offices of a nurse for the sake of the provision and security of a wife. It would be impossible, I know, Replied Eleanor, To convince you that a woman of seven and twenty could feel for a man of thirty-five anything near enough to love him to make him a desirable companion to her. But I must object to your dooming Colonel Brandon and his wife to the constant confinement of a sick chamber, Merely because he chanced to complain yesterday of a slight dramatic feel in one of his shoulders. But he talked of flannel waistcoats, Said Marianne, And with me a flannel waistcoat is invariably connected with every species of ailment that can afflict the old and the feeble. Had he been only in a violent fever, You would not have despised him half so much. Confess, Marianne, Is there not something interesting to you in the flushed cheek, Hollow eye, And quick pulse of a fever? " Soon after this, Upon Eleanor's leaving the room, "'Ama, ' said Marianne, "'I have an alarm on the subject of illness which I cannot conceal from you. I am sure Edward Ferrars is not well. We have now been here almost a fortnight, And yet he does not come. '" "'Had you any idea of his coming so soon? ' said Mrs. Dashwood. "'I had none. On the contrary, If I have felt any anxiety at all on the subject, It has been in recollecting that he sometimes showed a want of pleasure and readiness in accepting my invitation when I talked of his coming to Barton. '" "'Does Eleanor expect him already? ' I have never mentioned it to her, But of course she must. "'I rather think you are mistaken, For when I was talking to her yesterday of getting a new grate for the spare bedchamber, She observed there was no immediate hurry for it, As it was not likely the room would be wanted for some time. '" "'How strange this is! What can be the meaning of it? ' "'But the whole of their behaviour to each other has been unaccountable. In Edward's farewell there was no distinction between Eleanor and me. It was the good wishes of an affectionate brother to both, And Eleanor, In quitting Norland and Edward, Cried not as I did. Even now her self-command is invariable. When is she dejected or melancholy? When does she try to avoid society or appear restless and dissatisfied in it? ' The Dashwoods were now settled at Barton with tolerable comfort to themselves. Sir John Middleton, Who called on them every day for the first fortnight, And who was not in the habit of seeing much occupation at his home, Could not conceal his amazement on finding them always employed. Their visitors were not many, For in spite of Sir John's urgent entreaties they would mix more in the neighbourhood, And repeated assurances of his carriage always being at their service, The independence of Mrs Dashwood's spirit overcame the wish of society for her children, And she was resolute in declining to visit any family beyond the distance of a walk. There were but few who could be so classed, And it was not all of them that were attainable. About a mile and a half from the cottage, The girls had discovered an ancient respectable looking mansion which interested their imagination and made them wish to be better acquainted with it. But they learned on enquiry that its possessor, An elderly lady of very good character, Was unfortunately too infirm to mix with the world, And never stirred from home. The whole country about them abounded in beautiful walks. The high downs which invited them, From almost every window of the cottage to seek the exquisite enjoyment of air on their summits, Were a happy alternative when the dirt of the valleys beneath shut up their superior beauties, And towards one of these hills did Marianne and Margaret one memorable morning direct their steps. They gaily ascended the downs, Rejoicing in their own penetration of every glimpse of blue sky. They pursued their way against the wind, Resisting it with laughing delight, When suddenly the clouds united over their heads and a driving rain set full in their face. Chagrined and surprised, They were obliged, Though unwillingly, To turn back, For no shelter was nearer than their own house. One consolation, However, Remained for them. It was that of running with all possible speed down the steep side of the hill which led immediately to their garden gate. They set off. Marianne had at first the advantage, But a false step brought her suddenly to the ground and Margaret, Unable to stop herself to assist her, Was involuntarily hurried along and reached the bottom in safety. A gentleman carrying a gun, With two pointers playing around him, Was passing up the hill and within a few yards of Marianne when her accident happened. He put down his gun and ran to her assistance. Her foot had been twisted in the fall and she was scarcely able to stand. The gentleman offered his services and, Perceiving that her modesty declined what her situation rendered necessary, Took her up in his arms and carried her down the hill. Then, Passing through the garden, He bore her directly into the house where the Margaret was just arrived, And quitted not his hold till he had seated her in a chair in the parlour. Eleanor and her mother rose up in amazement at their entrance, And while the eyes of both were fixed on him with evident wonder, He apologised for his intrusion by relating its cause in a manner so frank and so graceful that his person, Which was uncommonly handsome, Received additional charms from his voice and expression. Mrs Dashwood then begged to know whom she was obliged to. His name, He replied, Was Willoughby, And his present home was at Allenham, From whence he hoped she would allow him the honour of calling tomorrow to enquire after Miss Dashwood. The honour was readily granted and then he departed to make himself still more interesting in the midst of heavy rain. His manly beauty and more than common gracefulness were instantly the theme of general admiration. Marianne had seen less of his person than the rest, For the confusion which crimsoned over her face on his lifting her up had robbed her of the power of regarding him after their entering the house. But she had seen enough of him to join in all the admiration of the others, And with an energy which always adorned her praise. Every circumstance belonging to him was interesting. His name was good, His residence was in their favourite village, And she soon found out that of all manly dress, A shooting jacket was the most becoming. Sir John called on them as soon as the next interval of fair weather that morning allowed him to get out of doors. And Marianne's accident being related to him, He was eagerly asked whether he knew any gentleman of the name of Willoughby at Allanham. "'Willoughby? ' cried Sir John. "'What, Is he in the country? I will write over tomorrow and ask him to dinner on Thursday. ' "'You know him then? ' said Mrs Dashwood. "'Know him? To be sure I do. What sort of a young man is he? ' "'As good a kind of fellow as ever lived, I assure you. A very decent shot, And there's not a bolder rider in England. ' "'And is that all you can say for him? ' cried Marianne indignantly. "'But what are his manners on more intimate acquaintance? What his pursuits, His talents and genius? ' "'Upon my soul, ' said he, "'I do not know much about him as to all that. But he is a pleasant, Good-humoured fellow, And has got the nicest little black bitch of a pointer I ever saw. ' "'But who is he? ' said Eleanor. "'Where does he come from? Has he a house at Allanham? ' "'Sir John told them that Mr Willoughby had no property of his own in the country, That he resided there only while he was visiting the old lady at Allanham Court, To whom he was related, And whose possessions he was to inherit, ' adding, "'Yes, Yes, He is very well worth catching, I can tell you, Miss Dashwood. He has a pretty little estate of his own in Somersetshire. Besides, And if I were you, I would not give him up to my younger sister in spite of all this tumbling down hills. Miss Marianne must not expect to have all the men to herself. Brandon will be jealous if she does not take care. ' "'I do not believe, ' said Mrs Dashwood, With a good-humoured smile, "'that Mr Willoughby will be incommoded by the attempts of either of my daughters towards what you call catching him. I am glad to find, However, From what you say, That he is a respectable young man. ' "'He is as good a sort of fellow, I believe, As ever lived, ' repeated Sir John. "'I remember last Christmas, At a little hop at the park, He danced from eight o'clock till four, Without one sitting down. ' "'Did he indeed? ' cried Marianne, With sparkling eyes. "'And with elegance, With spirit? ' "'Yes, And he was up again, At eight, To ride to Covert. ' "'That is what I like. That is what a young man ought to be. ' "'Aye, Aye, I see how it will be, ' said Sir John, "'I see how it will be. "'You will be setting your cap at him now, And never think of poor Brandon. ' "'That is an expression, Sir John, ' said Marianne warmly, "'which I particularly dislike. I abhor every commonplace phrase by which wit is intended, And setting one's cap at a man, Or making a conquest, Are the most odious of all. ' Sir John did not much understand this reproof, But he laughed as heartily as if he did, And then replied, "'Aye, You will make conquests enough, I dare say, One way or the other. "'Poor Brandon! He is quite smitten already, And he is very well worth setting your cap at. "'I can tell you, In spite of all this tumbling about, And spraining of ankles. '" Chapter 10 Marianne's preserver called at the cottage early the next morning to make his personal inquiries. He was received by Mrs Dashwood with a kindness which her own gratitude prompted, And everything that passed during the visit tended to assure him of the sense, Elegance, Mutual affection and domestic comfort of the family to whom accident had now introduced him. Of their personal charms he had not required a second interview to be convinced. Miss Dashwood had a delicate complexion, Regular features, And a remarkably pretty figure. Marianne was still handsomer. Her face was so lovely that when in the common cant of praise she was called a beautiful girl, Truth was less violently outraged than usually happens. Her features were all good, Her smile was sweet and attractive, And in her eyes, Which were very dark, There was a life, A spirit, An eagerness which could hardly be seen without delight. From Willoughby their expression was first held back by the embarrassment which the remembrance of his assistants created. But when this passed away, When her spirits became collected, When she saw that to the perfect good breeding of a gentleman he united frankness and vivacity, And above all when she heard him declare that of music and dancing he was passionately fond, She gave him such a look of approbation as secured the largest share of his discourse to herself for the rest of his stay. They speedily discovered their enjoyment of dancing and music was mutual. Encouraged by this to a further examination of his opinions, She proceeded to question him on the subject of books. Their taste was strikingly alike, Or if any difference appeared, Any objection arose, It lasted no longer than till the force of her arguments and the brightness of her eyes could be displayed. He acquiesced in all her decisions, Caught all her enthusiasm, And long before his visit concluded they conversed with familiarity of a long established acquaintance. Well Marianne, Said Eleanor as soon as he had left them, For one morning I think you've done pretty well. You've already ascertained Mr. Willoughby's opinion in almost every manner of importance, But how is your acquaintance to be long supported under such extraordinary dispatch of every subject? You will soon have exhausted each favourite topic. Eleanor, Cried Marianne, Are my ideas so scanty? But I see what you mean, I have been too much at my ease, Too happy, Too frank. I have been open and sincere where I ought to have been reserved, Spiritless, Dull and deceitful. My love, Said her mother, You must not be offended with Eleanor, She was only in jest. I should scold her myself if she were capable of wishing to check the delight of your conversation with our new friend. Willoughby gave every proof of his pleasure in their acquaintance, Which an evident wish of improving it could offer. He came to them every day. He was a young man of good abilities, Quick imagination, Lively spirits and open affectionate manners. He was exactly formed to engage Marianne's heart, For with all this he joined not only a captivating person, But a natural ardour of mind which was now roused and increased by the example of her own, And which recommended him to her affection beyond everything else. In Mrs Dashwood's estimation he was as faultless as in Marianne's, And Eleanor saw nothing to censure in him, But a propensity of saying too much what he thought on every occasion, Without attention to persons or circumstances. In hastily forming and giving his opinion of other people, In sacrificing general politeness to the enjoyment of undivided attention where his heart was engaged, He displayed a want of caution which Eleanor could not approve. Marianne began now to perceive that the desperation which had seized her at sixteen and a half, Of ever seeing a man who could satisfy her ideas of perfection, Had been rash and unjustifiable. Willoughby was all that her fancy had delineated in that unhappy hour, And every brighter period is capable of attaching her, And his behaviour declared his wishes to be in that respect. As earnest as his abilities were strong. Her mother, Too, In whose mind not one speculative thought of their marriage had been raised by his prospect of riches, Was led before the end of the week to hope and expect it. Colonel Brandon's partiality for Marianne now first became perceptible to Eleanor, When it ceased to be noticed by them. She was obliged, Though unwillingly, To believe that the sentiments with which Mrs Jennings assigned him for her own satisfaction, Were now actually excited by her sister. She saw it with concern, For what could a silent man of five and thirty hope, When opposed by a very lively one of five and twenty? She liked him, In spite of his gravity and reserve. She beheld him an object of interest. His manners, Though serious, Were mild, And his reserve appeared rather the result of some oppression of spirits, Than of any natural gloominess of temper. Perhaps she pitied and esteemed him the more because he was slighted by Willoughby and Marianne, Who, Prejudiced against him from being neither lively nor young, Seemed resolved to undervalue his merits. Brandon is just the kind of man, Said Willoughby one day, Who everybody speaks well of and nobody cares about. That is exactly what I think of him, Cried Marianne. Do not boast of it, However, Said Eleanor, For it is injustice in both of you. He is highly esteemed by all the family at the park, And I never see him myself without taking pains to converse with him. That he is patronised by you, Replied Willoughby, Is certainly in his favour, But as for the esteem of the others, It is a reproach in itself. Who would submit to the indignity of being approved by such women as Lady Middleton and Mrs. Jennings that could command the indifference of anybody else? But perhaps the abuse of such people as yourself and Marianne will make amends for the ill-regard of Lady Middleton and her mother. If their praise is censure, Your censure may be praise, For they are not more undiscerning than you are, Prejudiced and unjust. In defence of your protégé, You can even be saucy. My protégé, As you call him, Is a sensible man and sense will always have attractions for me. He has seen a great deal of the world, Has been abroad, Has read, And has a thinking mind. I have found him capable of giving me much information on various subjects and he has always answered my enquiries with good nature. That is to say, Cried Marianne contemptuously, He has told you that in the East Indies the climate is hot and mosquitoes are troublesome. Perhaps, Said Willoughby, His observations may have extended to the existence of nabobs, Gold moors and palanquins. I may venture to say that his observations have stretched much further than your candour, But why should you dislike him? I do not dislike him. I consider him, On the contrary, As a very respectable man, Who has more money than he can spend and more time than he knows how to employ. Add to which, Cried Marianne, That he has neither genius, Taste, Nor spirit. You decide on his imperfection so much in the mass, Replied Eleanor, That the commendation I am to give of him is comparatively cold and insipid. I can only pronounce him to be a sensible man, Well-bred, Well-informed, Of gentler dress, And I believe possessing an amiable heart. Miss Dashwood, Cried Willoughby, You are endeavouring to disarm me by reason, But it will not do. You shall find me as stubborn as you can be artful. I have three unanswerable reasons for disliking Colonel Brandon. He has threatened me with rain when I wanted it to be fine. He has found fault with the hanging of my curricle, And I cannot persuade him to buy my brown mare. If it will be any satisfaction to you, However, To be told that I believe his character to be in other respects inapproachable, I am ready to confess it. And in return for an acknowledgement, Which must give me some pain, You cannot deny me the privilege of disliking him as much as ever. Chapter 11 Little had Mrs. Dashwood or her daughters imagined when they first came into Devonshire that so many engagements would arise to occupy their time. When Marianne was recovered, The schemes of amusement at home and abroad, Which Sir John had been previously forming, Were put in execution. The private balls at the park then began. Willoughby was included, And the ease and familiarity which naturally attended these parties were exactly calculated to give increasing intimacy to his acquaintance with the Dashwoods, To afford him opportunity of witnessing the excellencies of Marianne and of receiving, In her behaviour to himself, The most pointed assurance of her affection. Eleanor could only wish that it was less openly shown, And once or twice did venture to suggest the propriety of some self-command to Marianne. But Marianne abhorred all concealment, Where no real disgrace could attend unreserved. Willoughby thought the same, And their behaviour, At all times, Was an illustration of their opinions. When he was present, She had eyes for no one else. Everything he did was right, Everything he said was clever. If their evenings at the park were concluded with cards, He cheated himself and all the rest of the party to get her a good hand. If dancing formed the amusement of the night, They were partners for half the time, And when obliged to separate for a couple of dances, Were careful to stand together and scarcely spoke a word to anybody else. This was the season of happiness to Marianne. Her heart was devoted to Willoughby, And the fond attachment to Norland was more likely to be softened than she had thought it possible before the charms which his society bestowed on her present home. Eleanor's happiness was not so great. Her heart was not so much at ease, Nor her satisfaction in their amusement so pure. They afforded her no companion that could make amends for what she had left behind. Neither Lady Middleton nor Mrs Jennings could supply to her the conversation she missed, Although the latter was an everlasting talker. Lady Middleton was more agreeable than her mother, Only in being more silent. Eleanor needed little observation to perceive that her reserve was a mere calmness of manner with which sense had nothing to do. Her insipidity was invariable, And though she did not oppose the parties arranged by her husband, Provided everything were conducted in style and her two eldest children attended her, She never appeared to receive more enjoyment from them than she might have experienced in sitting at home. In Colonel Brandon alone, Of all her new acquaintance, Did Eleanor find a person who could give pleasure as a companion? Willoughby was out of the question. Her admiration and regard, Even her sisterly regard, Were all his own. But he was a lover. His attentions were wholly Marianne's. Colonel Brandon, Unfortunately for himself, Had no such encouragement to think only of Marianne, And in conversing with Eleanor he found the greatest consolation for the total indifference of her sister. Eleanor's compassion for him increased. As she had reason to suspect, The misery of disappointed love had already been known by him. This suspicion was given some words which accidentally dropped from him one evening at the park when they were sitting down together by mutual consent while the others were dancing. His eyes were fixed on Marianne, And after a silence of some minutes, He said with a faint smile, Your sister, I understand, Does not approve of second attachments? No, Replied Eleanor, Her opinions are all romantic. Or rather, As I believe, She considers them impossible to exist? I believe she does. A few years, However, Will settle her opinions on the reasonable basis of common sense and observation, And then they may be more easy to define and to justify than they are now, By anybody but herself. This will probably be the case, He replied, And I am sure she will and yet there is something so amiable in the prejudices of a young mind that one is sorry to see them give way to the reception of a more general opinion. I cannot agree with you there, Said Eleanor. There are inconveniences attending such feelings as Marianne's which all the charms of enthusiasm and ignorance of the world cannot atone for. After a short pause, He resumed the conversation by saying, Does your sister make no distinction in her objections against a second attachment? Or is it equally criminal in everybody? Those who have been disappointed in their first choice, Whether from the inconstancy of its object or the perverseness of circumstances, To be equally indifferent during the rest of their lives? Upon my word, I am not acquainted with the minutia of her principles. I only know that I never heard her admit any instance of a second attachment being pardonable. This, Said he, Cannot hold. But a change of sentiments? No, Do not desire it. For when the romantic refinements of a young mind are obliged to give way, How frequently are they succeeded by such opinions as are but too common? I speak from experience. I once knew a lady who in temper and mind greatly resembled your sister, Who thought and judged like her, But who from an enforced change, From a series of unfortunate circumstances. Here he stopped suddenly, Appeared to think that he had said too much, And by his countenance gave rise to conjectures which might not otherwise have entered Eleanor's head. The lady would probably have passed without suspicion had he not convinced Miss Dashwood that what concerned her ought not to escape his lips. As it was, It required but a slight effort of fancy to connect his emotion with a tender recollection of past regard. Chapter 12 As Eleanor and Marianne were walking together the next morning, The latter communicated a piece of news to her sister, Which, In spite of all she knew before of Marianne's imprudence and want of thought, Surprised her by its extravagant testimony of both. Marianne told her with the greatest delight that Willoughby had given her a horse. Without considering it was not in her mother's plan to keep any horse, That if she were to alter her resolution in favour of this gift, She must buy another for the servant, And keep a servant to ride it, And after all build a stable to receive them, She had accepted the present without hesitation. He intends to send his groom into Somersetshire immediately for it, She added, And when it arrives he will ride it every day. Imagine to yourself, My dear Eleanor, The delight of a gallop on some of these downs. Most unwilling was she to comprehend all the unhappy truths which attended the affair, And for some time she refused to submit to them. As to an additional servant, The expense would be a trifle, And any horse would do for him. As to a stable, The Mary's shed would be sufficient. Eleanor ventured to doubt the propriety of her receiving such a present from a man so little, Or at least so lately, Known to her. This was too much. You are mistaken, Eleanor, Said she warmly, In supposing I know very little of Willoughby. I am much better acquainted with him than any other creature in the world, Except yourself and mamma. I shall hold myself guilty of greater impropriety in accepting a horse from my brother than from Willoughby. Eleanor knew her sister's temper. Opposition on so tender a subject would only attach her the more to her own opinion. But by an appeal to her affection for her mother, By representing the inconveniences which that indulgent mother must draw on herself, If she consented to this increase of establishment, Marianne was shortly subdued, And she promised not to tempt her mother to such imprudent kindness by mentioning the offer, And to tell Willoughby it must be declined. She was faithful to her word, And when Willoughby called at the cottage the same day, Eleanor heard her express her disappointment to him in a low voice, On being obliged to forgo the acceptance of his present. His concern was very apparent, And after expressing it with earnestness, He added in the same low voice, But Marianne, The horse is still yours, Though you cannot use it now. I shall keep it only till you can claim it. When you leave Barton to form your own establishment in a more lasting home, Queen Mab shall receive you. This was all overheard by Miss Dashwood, And in the whole of the sentence she instantly saw an intimacy so decided, A meaning so direct, As marked a perfect agreement between them. From that moment she doubted not of their being engaged to each other, And the belief of it created no other surprise than that she, Or any of their friends, Should be left by temper so frank to discover it by accident. Margaret related something to her the next day, Which places matter in a still clearer light. Willoughby had spent the preceding evening with them, And Margaret, By being left some time in the parlour with only him and Marianne, Had had opportunity for observations, Which she communicated to her eldest sister, When they were next by themselves. Oh, Eleanor, She cried, I have such a secret to tell you about Marianne. I'm sure she will be married to Mr Willoughby very soon. You have said so, Replied Eleanor, Almost every day since they first met on Highchurch Down, And they had not known each other a week, I believe, Before you were certain Marianne wore his picture round her neck. But it turned out to be only the miniature of our great uncle. But indeed, This is quite another thing. I'm sure they will be married very soon, For he has got a lock of her hair. Take care, Margaret. It may only be the hair of some great uncle of his. But indeed, Eleanor, It's Marianne's. Last night after tea, When you and Mama went out of the room, He seemed to be begging something of her, And presently he took up her scissors and cut off a long lock of her hair, And folded it up in a piece of white paper, And put it into his pocket book. From such particular stated on such authority, Eleanor could not withhold her credit. Margaret's sagacity was not always displayed in a way so satisfactory to her sister. When Mrs Jellings attacked her one evening at the park, To give the name of the young man who was Eleanor's particular favourite, Margaret answered by looking at her sister and saying, I must not tell. May I, Eleanor? This of course made everybody laugh, And Eleanor tried to laugh too. But the effort was painful. She was convinced that Margaret had fixed on a person who name she could not bear with composure to become a standing joke with Mrs Jennings. Marianne felt for her most sincerely, But she did more harm than good to the cause by turning very red, And saying in an angry manner to Margaret, Remember that whatever your conjectures may be, You have no right to repeat them. Oh, Pray Miss Margaret, Let us know all about it, Said Mrs Jennings. What is the gentleman's name? I must not tell, Ma'am, But I know very well what it is, And I know where he is too. Yes, Yes, We can surely guess where he is. At his own house in Norland, To be sure. He's the curator of the parish, I dare say. No, That he is not. He's of no profession at all. Margaret, Said Marianne with great warmth, You know that there is no such person in existence. Well, Then he's lately dead, Marianne, For I'm sure there was such a man once, And his name begins with an F. Most grateful did Eleanor feel to Lady Middleton for observing at this moment that it rained very hard. The idea started by her was immediately pursued by Colonel Brandon, Who was on every occasion mindful of the feelings of others, And much was said on the subject of rain by both of them. Willoughby opened the pianoforte and asked Marianne to sit down to it, And thus, Amidst the various endeavours of different people to quit the topic, It fell to the ground. But not so easily did Eleanor recover from the alarm into which it had thrown her. A party was formed this evening for going on the following day to see a very fine place about 12 miles from Barton, Belonging to a brother-in-law of Colonel Brandon. The grounds were declared to be highly beautiful. They contained a noble piece of water, A sail on which was to form a great part of the morning's amusement. Cold provisions were to be taken, Open carriages only to be employed, And everything conducted in the usual style of a complete party of pleasure. To some few of the company it appeared rather a bold undertaking, Considering the time of year, And Mrs Dashwood, Who already had a cold, Was persuaded by Eleanor to stay at home. Chapter 13 By ten o'clock the whole party were assembled at the park. They were all in high spirits and good humour, Eager to be happy, And determined to submit to the great inconveniences and hardships rather than be otherwise. While they were at breakfast, The letters were brought in. Among the rest, There was one for Colonel Brandon. He took it, Looked at the direction, Changed colour and immediately left the room. In about five minutes he returned. No bad news, Colonel, I hope, Said Mrs Jennings as soon as he entered the room. None at all, Ma'am, I thank you. Was it from Avignon? I hope it's not to say that your sister is worse. No, Ma'am, It came from town, And is merely a letter of business which requires my immediate attendance. In town, Cried Mrs Jennings, What can you have to do in town at this time of the year? My own loss is great, He continued, In being obliged to leave so agreeable a party, But I am the more concerned as I fear my presence is necessary to gain your admittance and witwill. But if you write a note to the housekeeper, Mr Brandon, Said Marianne eagerly, Would it not be sufficient? He shook his head. We must go, Said Sir John, You cannot go to town till tomorrow, Brandon, That is all. I wish it could be so easily settled, But it is not in my power to delay my journey for one day. You would not be six hours later, Said Willoughby, If you were to defer your journey till our return. I cannot afford to lose one hour. Eleanor then heard Willoughby saying in low voice to Marianne, There are some people who cannot bear a party of pleasure. Brandon is one of them. I would lay 50 guineas if the letter was of his own writing. I have no doubt of it, Replied Marianne. There is no persuading you to change your mind, Brandon, I know of old, Said Sir John, But however, I hope you will think better of it. Consider, Here are the two Miss Curries come over from Newton, The three Miss Dashwoods walked up from the cottage, And Mr Willoughby got up two hours before his usual time on purpose to go to Whitwall. Colonel Brandon again repeated his sorrow at being the cause of disappointing the party, But at the same time declared it to be unavoidable. Well then, When will you come back again? I hope we shall see you at Barton, Added her ladyship, As soon as you can conveniently leave town, And we must put off the party to Whitwall until you return. You are very obliging, But it is so uncertain when I may have it in my power to return, That I dare not engage for it at all. Colonel Brandon's horses were announced, And he then took leave of the whole party. Is there no chance of seeing you and your sisters in town this winter, Miss Dashwood? I am afraid none at all. Then I must bid you farewell for a longer time than I should wish to. To Marianne he merely bowed and said nothing. Come, Colonel, Said Mrs Jennings, Before you go, Do let us know what you are going about. He wished her a good morning and, Attended by Sir John, Left the room. The complaints and lamentations which politeness had hitherto restrained now burst forth universally, And they all agreed again and again how provoking it was to be so disappointed. I can guess what his business is, However, Said Mrs Jennings exultingly. It's about Miss Williams, I'm sure. And who is Miss Williams? Asked Marianne. What, Do you not know who Miss Williams is? She's a relation of the Colonel's, My dear, A very near relation. Then lowering her voice a little, She said to Eleanor, She is his natural daughter. Indeed! Oh yes, And as like him as she can stare, I dare say the Colonel will leave her all his fortune. When Sir John returned, He joined most heartily in the general regret on so unfortunate an event, Concluding, However, By observing that as they were all going together, They must do something by a means of making them happy, And after some consultation it was agreed they might procure a tolerable composure of mind by driving about the country. The carriages were then ordered. Willoughby's was first, And Marianne never looked happier than when she got into it. He drove through the park very fast, And they were soon out of sight, And nothing more of them was seen till their return. They both seemed delighted with their drive, But said only in general terms they had kept in the lanes while the others went on the downs. It was settled there should be a dance in the evening. Some more of the carries came to dinner, And they had the pleasure of sitting down nearly twenty to a table. Willoughby took his usual place between the two elder Miss Dashwoods. Miss Jennings sat on Eleanor's right hand, And they had not long been seated before she leant behind her and Willoughby and said to Marianne, Loud enough for them both to hear, I have found you out in spite of all your tricks. I know where you spent the morning. Marianne coloured and replied very hastily, Where pray? Did you not know, Said Willoughby, That we had been out in my carricle? Yes, Yes, Mr Impudence, I know that very well, And I was determined to find out where you had been to. I hope you like your house, Miss Marianne. It's a very large one, I know, And when I come to see you, I hope you will have new furnished it. Marianne turned away in great confusion. Mrs Jennings laughed heartily, And Eleanor found that in her resolution to know where they'd been, She had actually made her own woman inquire of Mr Willoughby's groom, And that she had by that method been informed they had gone to Eleanor, And spent a considerable time there in walking about the garden and going all over the house. As soon as they left the dining room, Eleanor inquired of Marianne about it, And great was her surprise when she found out every circumstance related by Mrs Jennings was perfectly true. Why should you imagine, Eleanor, That we did not see the house? Is not it what you would have often wished to do yourself? Yes, Marianne, But I would not go while Mrs Smith was there, And with no other companion than Mr Willoughby. Mr Willoughby, However, Is the only person who can have a right to show that house, And as we went in an open carriage it was impossible to have any other companion. If there had been any other real impropriety in what I did, I should have been sensible of it at the time. But my dear Marianne, As it has already exposed you to some very impertinent remarks, Do you not now begin to doubt the discretion of your own conduct? I am not sensible of having done anything wrong in walking over Mrs Smith's grounds or in seeing her house. They will one day be Mr Willoughby's, And if they were one day to be your own, Marianne, You would not be justified in what you have done. She blushed at this hint, But it was even visibly gratifying to her, And after a 10 minutes interval of earnest thought, She came to her sister again and said, With great good humour, Perhaps, Eleanor, It was rather ill-judged in me to go to Allenham, But Mr Willoughby wanted particularly to show me the place, And it is a charming house, I assure you. Chapter 14 The sudden termination of Colonel Brandon's visit at the park, With his steadiness in concealing its cause, Filled the mind and raised the wonder of Mrs Jennings for two or three days. She wondered with little intermission what could be the reason of it, And thought over every kind of distress that could have befallen him, With a fixed determination that he should not escape them all. Something very melancholy must be the matter, I am sure, Said she. I could see it in his face. I do think he must have been sent for money matters, But what else can it be? I would give anything to know the truth of it. I would lay any wager it's about Miss Williams. I wonder what it could be. Maybe his sister is worse at Avignon, And has sent for him over. His setting off in such a hurry seems very like it. Well, I wish him out of his trouble with all my heart. And a good wife into the parking. So wondered, So talked Mrs Jennings. Eleanor, Though she felt really interested in the welfare of Colonel Brandon, Could not bestow all the wonder of his going so suddenly away, Which Mrs Jennings was desirous of her feeling. Her wonder was engrossed by the extraordinary silence of her sister and Willoughby on the subject, Which they must know to be peculiarly interesting to them all. As the silence continued, Every day made it appear more strange and more incompatible with the disposition of both. She could easily conceive that marriage might not be immediately in their power, For though Willoughby was independent, There was no reason to believe him rich. His estate had been rated by Sir John at about six or seven hundred a year, But he lived at an expense to which that income could hardly be equal. And he had himself often complained of his poverty. But for this strange kind of secrecy, Maintained by them relative to their engagement, She could not account, And it was so wholly contradictory to their general opinions and practice, That a doubt sometimes entered her mind of their being really engaged. Nothing could be more expressive of attachment to them all than Willoughby's behaviour. To Marianne, It had all the distinguishing tenderness which a lover's heart could give, And to the rest of the family it was the affectionate attention of a son and brother. One evening in particular, About a week after Colonel Brandon had left the country, His heart seemed more than usually open to every feeling of attachment to the objects around him. And on Mrs Dashwood's happening to mention her design of improving the cottage in the spring, He warmly opposed every alteration of a place which affection had established as perfect with him. "'What? ' he exclaimed. "'Improve this dear cottage. No, That I never consent to. ' "'Do not be alarmed, ' said Miss Dashwood. "'Nothing of the kind will be done, For my mother will never have money enough to attempt it. ' "'I am heartily glad of it, ' he cried. May she always be poor if she can employ her riches no better. "'Thank you, Willoughby. But you may be assured I would not sacrifice one sentiment of local attachment of yours, Or of anyone whom I love, For all the improvements in the world. But are you really so attached to this place as to see no defect in it? ' "'I am, ' said he. "'To me it is faultless, And were I rich enough, I would instantly pull Coombe down and build it up again in the exact plan of this cottage. ' "'With dark, Narrow stairs and a kitchen that smokes, I suppose, ' said Eleanor. "'Yes, ' cried he, In the same eager tone, ''with all and everything belonging to it. ' "'I flatter myself, ' replied Eleanor, ''that even under the disadvantage of better rooms and a broader staircase, You will hereafter find your own house as faultless as you do this. ' "'There certainly are circumstances, ' said Willoughby, ''which might greatly endear you to me. But this place will always have one claim on my affection which no other can possibly share. ' Mrs Dashwood looked with pleasure at Marianne, Whose fine eyes were fixed so expressively on Willoughby as plainly denoted how well she understood him. "'How often did I wish, ' added he, ''when I was at Allingham this time twelve month that Barton Cottage was inhabited. "'Oh, Little did I then think "'the very first news I should hear from Mrs Smith when I came into the country "'would be that Barton Cottage was taken, "'and I felt an immediate satisfaction and interest in the event. "'Which nothing but a kind of prescience "'of what happiness I should experience from it can't account for. "'Must it not have been so, Marianne? ' "'speaking to her in a lowered voice. "'Then continuing his former tone, He said, "'And yet this house you would spoil, Mrs Dashwood. "'You would rob it of its simplicity by imaginary improvement. "'And this dear parlour in which our acquaintance first began, "'you would degrade it to the condition of a common entrance. ' "'Mrs Dashwood again assured him "'no alteration of the kind should be attempted. "'You are a good woman, ' he warmly replied. "'Your promise makes me easy. "'Extend it a little further, And it will make me happy. "'Tell me that not only your house will remain the same, "'but that I should ever find you unchanged as your dwelling, "'and that you will always consider me with a kindness "'which has made everything belonging to you so dear to me. ' "'The promise was readily given, "'and Willoughby's behaviour during the whole of the evening "'declared at once his affection and happiness. ' "'Shall we see you tomorrow to dinner? ' "'asked Mrs Dashwood when he was leaving then. "'I do not ask you to come in the morning, "'for we must walk to the park to call on Lady Middleton. ' "'He engaged to be with them by four o'clock. ' Chapter 15 Mrs Dashwood's visit to Lady Middleton took place the next day, And two of her daughters went with her. But Marianne excused herself from being at the party under some trifling pretext of employment, And her mother, Who concluded a promise had been made by Willoughby the night before of calling on her while they were absent, Was perfectly satisfied with her remaining at home. On their return from the park they found Willoughby's curricle and servant waiting at the cottage, And Mrs Dashwood was convinced her conjecture had been just. They were no sooner in the passage than Marianne came hastily out of the parlour, Apparently in violent affliction, With her handkerchief at her eyes, And without noticing them, Ran upstairs. Surprised and alarmed, They proceeded directly into the room she'd just quitted, Where they found only Willoughby. "'Is anything the matter with her? ' cried Mrs Dashwood as she entered. "'Is she ill? ' "'I hope not, ' he replied, Trying to look cheerful, And with a forced smile he presently added, "'It is I who may rather expect to be ill, For I am now suffering under a very heavy disappointment. '" "'Disappointment? ' "'Yes, For I am unable to keep my engagement with you. Mrs Smith has this morning exercised the privilege of riches upon a poor dependent cousin by sending me on business to London. '" "'To London? And are you going this morning? ' "'Almost this moment. '" "'This is very unfortunate, But Mrs Smith must be obliged, And her business will not detain you from us long, I hope. '" Willoughby coloured as he replied, "'You are very kind, But I have no idea of returning to Devonshire immediately. My visits to Mrs Smith are never repeated within the twelve months. '" "'And is Mrs Smith your only friend? ' "'For shame, Willoughby! Can you wait for an invitation here? ' His colour increased, And with his eyes fixed on the ground he only replied, "'You are too good. '" Mrs Dashwood looked at Eleanor with surprise. Eleanor felt equal amazement. For a few moments everyone was silent. Mrs Dashwood first spoke. "'I have only to add, My dear Willoughby, That at Barton Cottage you will always be welcome, For I will not press you to return here immediately, Because you can only judge how far that might be pleasing to Mrs Smith. '" "'My engagements at present, ' replied Willoughby confusedly, "'are of such a nature that I dare not flatter myself. '" He stopped. Mrs Dashwood was too much astonished to speak, And another pause succeeded. This was broken by Willoughby, Who said with a faint smile, "'It is folly to linger in this manner. I will not torment myself any longer by remaining among friends whose society it is impossible for me now to enjoy. '" He then hastily took leave of them all and left the room. Mrs Dashwood felt too much for speech, And instantly quitted the parlour to give way in solitude to the concern and alarm which this sudden departure occasioned. Eleanor's uneasiness was at least equal to her mother's. Willoughby's behaviour in taking leave of them, His embarrassment and affectation of cheerfulness, And above all his unwillingness to accept her mother's invitation, Greatly disturbed her. One moment she feared no serious design had ever been formed on his side, And the next that some unfortunate quarrel had taken place between him and her sister, Though when she considered what Marianne's love for him was, A quarrel seemed almost impossible. In about half an hour her mother returned, And though her eyes were red, Her countenance was not uncheerful. "'Our dear Willoughby is now some miles from Barton, Eleanor, ' said she as she sat down to work. "'And with how heavy a heart does he travel? ' "'It is all very strange, So suddenly to be gone, ' said Eleanor. "'And last night he was with us so happy, So cheerful, So affectionate. "'And now, After only ten minutes' notice gone too without intending to return, "'something more than what he owned to us must have happened. "'What can it be? Can they have quarrelled? "'Why else should he have shown such unwillingness to accept your invitation here? ' "'He had not the power of accepting it. "'I've thought it all over, I assure you, "'and I can perfectly account for everything that at first seems strange to me as well to you, ' "'said her mother. "'Can you indeed? ' "'Yes, I have explained it to myself in the most satisfactory way. "'It will not satisfy you, Eleanor, I know, "'but you shall not talk me out of my trust in it. "'I am persuaded that Mrs Smith suspects his regard for Marianne, "'disapproves of it, And on that account is eager to get him away. "'He is moreover aware that she does disapprove the connection "'and he feels himself obliged, From his dependent situation, "'to give in to her schemes and absent himself from Devonshire for a while. "'You will tell me, I know, That this may or may not have happened, "'but I will listen to no cavil unless you can point out "'any other method of understanding the affair. "'As satisfactory as this. "'And now, Eleanor, What have you to say? ' "'Nothing, For you have anticipated my answer. "'Oh, Eleanor, How incomprehensible are your feelings! "'You had rather look out for misery for Marianne "'and guilt for poor Willoughby than an apology for the latter. "'It's nothing due to the man whom we have all so much reason to love "'and no reason in the world to think ill of. "'And after all, What is it you suspect him of? ' "'I can hardly tell you myself, ' said Eleanor, "'but suspicion of something unpleasant "'is the inevitable consequence of such an alteration as we've just witnessed in him. "'Willoughby may undoubtedly have very sufficient reasons for his conduct, "'and I will hope he has, "'but it would have been more like Willoughby to acknowledge them at once. "'Secrecy may be advisable, But still, "'I cannot help wondering at it being practised by him. "'Do not blame him, However, For departing from his character, ' said her mother, "'where the deviation is necessary. "'But you really do admit the justice of what I've said in his defence? ' "'Not entirely, ' said Eleanor. "'It may be proper to conceal their engagement, If they are engaged, From Mrs Smith, "'but this is no excuse for their concealing it from us. ' "'My dear child, Do you accuse Willoughby and Marianne of concealment? "'This is strange indeed, When your eyes have been reproaching them every day for incautiousness. ' "'I want no proof of their affection, ' said Eleanor, "'but of their engagement I do. ' "'My Eleanor, Is it possible to doubt their engagement? "'How is it to be supposed that Willoughby, Persuaded as he must be of your sister's love, "'should leave her, And leave her perhaps for months, Without telling her of his affection, "'that they should part without a mutual exchange of confidence? ' "'I confess, ' replied Eleanor, "'that every circumstance except one is in favour of their engagement, "'but that one is the total silence of both on the subject. ' "'How strange this is! ' said her mother. "'You must think wretchedly indeed of Willoughby, "'if, After all that has openly passed between them, "'you can doubt the nature of the terms on which they are together. "'Do you suppose him really indifferent to her? ' "'No, I cannot think that. "'He must and does love her, I am sure. ' "'But, ' said Mrs Dashwood, With a strange kind of tenderness, "'if he can leave her with such indifference, "'such carelessness of the future, As you attribute to him—' "'You must remember, My dear mother, That I have never considered this matter as certain. "'I have had my doubts, I confess, But they are fainter than they were. "'If we find they correspond, Every fear of mine will be removed. ' "'A mighty concession indeed! ' said Mrs Dashwood. "'If you were to see them at the altar, You would suppose they were going to be married, "'but I require no such proof. "'Nothing in my opinion has ever passed to justify doubt. "'You cannot doubt your sister's wishes. "'It must be Willoughby, Therefore, Whom you suspect. "'But why? Has there been any inconsistency on his side to create alarm? "'Can he be deceitful? ' "'I hope not, I believe not, ' cried Eleanor. "'I love Willoughby, Sincerely love him. "'I was startled, I confess, By the alteration in his manners this morning. "'He did not speak like himself, And did not return your kindness with any cordiality. "'But all this may be explained by such a situation of his affairs as you have supposed. "'He had just parted from my sister, Had seen her leave him in the greatest affliction, "'and if he felt obliged to resist the temptation of returning here soon, "'he might well be embarrassed and disturbed. "'In such a case, A plain and open avowal of his difficulties would have been more to his honour, I think, "'but I will not raise objections against anyone's conduct on so illiberal a foundation. ' "'You speak very properly, ' said her mother. "'Willoughby certainly does not deserve to be suspected. "'Had he been in a situation to act independently and marry immediately, "'it might have been odd he should leave us without acknowledging everything to me at once, "'but this is not the case. "'It is an engagement in some respects, Not prosperously begun, "'for their marriage must be at a very uncertain distance, "'and even secrecy, As far as it can be observed, May now be very advisable. ' They saw nothing of Marianne till dinner time, When she entered the room and took her place at the table without saying a word. Her eyes were red and swollen. She avoided the looks of them all, Could neither eat nor speak, And after some time on her mother's silently pressing her hand with tender compassion, Her small degree of fortitude was quite overcome. She burst into tears and left the room. This violent oppression of spirits continued the whole evening. The slightest mention of anything relative to Willoughby overpowered her in an instant, And though her family were most anxiously attentive to her comfort, It was impossible for them, If they spoke at all, To keep clear of every subject which her feelings connected with him.