It seemed an unnecessary caution; Jane was wanting to give her words, not to Mrs. Elton, but to Miss Woodhouse, as the latter plainly saw. The wish of distinguishing her, as far as civility permitted, was very evident, though it could not often proceed beyond a look.

Mr. Elton made his appearance. His lady greeted him with some of her sparkling vivacity.

“Very pretty, sir, upon my word; to send me on here, to be an encumbrance to my friends, so long before you vouchsafe to come!⁠—But you knew what a dutiful creature you had to deal with. You knew I should not stir till my lord and master appeared.⁠—Here have I been sitting this hour, giving these young ladies a sample of true conjugal obedience⁠—for who can say, you know, how soon it may be wanted?”