Emma, Volume 2, Chapter 1 summary

What happens

1. Emma tries to distract Harriet from Mr. Elton by calling on Mrs. and Miss Bates.
2. Miss Bates welcomes them warmly, and Emma handles the conversation about Mr. Elton so Harriet need not speak.
3. Miss Bates announces that Jane Fairfax arrives next week for a stay of at least three months.
4. The Campbells plan to visit the Dixons in Ireland, but Jane chooses Highbury, where her friends hope her health improves.
5. Emma suspects something involving Jane and Mr. Dixon, who once saves Jane from falling into the sea.
6. Emma leaves before Miss Bates reads Jane’s letter aloud, pleased to escape despite hearing its contents.

In this chapter

What to notice

Emma questions Jane’s choice after forming a suspicion about Mr. Dixon. Her apparent interest in family arrangements also serves her private inquiry.

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