Sense and Sensibility, Chapter 26 summary
Chapter 26 of 50 · 10 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 26, Elinor and Marianne arrive in London with Mrs. Jennings, and Marianne sends a hurried note that Elinor believes is addressed to Willoughby. Colonel Brandon visits instead, and when Willoughby neither appears nor writes, Elinor grows uneasy about the secret engagement she assumes exists and considers asking their mother to investigate.
What happens
- During the three-day journey, Marianne withdraws into her thoughts while Elinor keeps Mrs. Jennings company and resolves to assess Willoughby.
- At Mrs. Jennings’s London house, Marianne sends a hurried note, leading Elinor to believe she and Willoughby are engaged.
- Marianne expects Willoughby at the door, but Colonel Brandon appears, and she leaves the room in disappointment.
- The next morning, Mrs. Palmer visits and takes the women shopping, while Marianne continually searches for someone and longs to return.
- Finding neither a visit nor a letter awaiting her, Marianne expresses disappointment, and Elinor considers urging their mother to investigate.
- That evening, Elinor helps arrange cards while Marianne abandons reading to pace and listen for a knock.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Elinor’s private question marks her growing concern. Marianne’s apparent certainty about Willoughby conflicts with his lack of contact.
Quick check
Who arrives when Marianne believes she hears Willoughby at the door?
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