Posted on Monday, 9 August 2004

Emma Woodhouse was pacing up and down by the front yard of Hartfield estate, fearful and extremely distraught. Mrs. Weston had hurried to comfort her dearest friend. Her adopted favorite daughter. As her former governess, she was always particularly occupied with Emma, who spoilt as she was-never saw a single fault.

"Emma child, what is the matter?" Asked Mrs. Weston as she embraced the tearful Emma and caressed her in an affection only a mother could bestow.

"Oh Mrs. Weston, I think I am unwell. I cannot fathom this excruciating pain that inflicts my soul. Oh Lord- help me!"

Mrs. Weston cleared pouring tears off Emma's reddened cheeks, and proceeded to ask her what the matter was?

"My child, please inform me of what the matter is. It most pains me to see you in this state. Should I fetch Mr. Weston?"

"No-I beg you- do not, Mrs. Weston. Come, I will tell you what the matter is." Emma held her by the hand, and guided her to a bench, under a sycamore tree, in the great garden estate.

"Mrs. Weston, Harriet Smith has just informed me of a most alarming news. Indeed, I never till knew, I mean not until Harriet's apparent confession."

"Confession? What is this to do with Harried Smith? What has she confessed to. Is she well? Has something happened?" Asked she with great cordiality of concern.

Emma looked up finally, having composed herself decently and continued with alacrity of voice and strength.

"Harriet has confessed she loves Mr. Churchill. My Mister Frank Churchill!! I have not till now, realized how much I adore & love Frank."

Mrs. Weston upon hearing the words, could not believe it herself. She who was certain there was nothing between Frank and Emma, who both seemed completely indifferent to each other. There was neither great discernment of affections nor peculiar disguise of romantic affections. Mrs. Weston, although delighted to know of the overt shared feelings, could not but help tear up herself. She could think of no one, but how Mr. Weston would receive the news. He who hoped for this union much earlier than she ever thought possible would be in fact be true now. Her felicity was beyond any words.

"My dear child, I am so delighted, this is indeed great news," said Mrs. Weston.

"Delighted? Great news? Have you been listening to my agony Mrs. Weston? Frank is not mine to claim. Have you not heard what I have said? Harriet has confessed to loving him and given me every indication of having her feelings reciprocated most agreeably. He has gone to London for business and will return in a fortnight. Oh Mrs. Weston, what shall I do? What will become of me?" Emma cried helplessly.