‘Surprise, consciousness, and pleasure, appeared in each of the three on this unexpected

meeting; and as Edmund was come on the very same business that had brought Miss
Crawford, consciousness and pleasure were likely to be more than momentary in them. He
too had his book, and was seeking Fanny, to ask her to rehearse with him, and help him
prepare for the evening, without knowing Miss Crawford to be in the house; and great was
the joy and animation of being thus thrown together – of comparing schemes – and
sympathising in praise of Fanny’s kind offices.’
Mansfield Park, p. 123.

‘The point is underlined by the casting, for the actors play exaggerated versions of
themselves. Mr. Rushworth plays Count Cassel, a foolish and rejected suitor. Mary plays the
forward and free-thinking Amelia. Edmund plays a lovelorn clergyman. Maria plays a fallen
woman. The stage roles of all these imply not insincerity, but liberation.’
Marilyn Butler, Jane Austen and the War of Ideas, p. 232.

‘Miss Bingley made no answer; and soon afterwards got up and walked about the room. Her
figure was elegant, and she walked well; but Darcy, at whom it was all aimed, was still
inflexibly studious.’
Pride and Prejudice, p. 49.

‘“Really, Mr. Collins,” cried Elizabeth with some warmth, “you puzzle me exceedingly. If what
I have hitherto said can appear to you in the form of encouragement, I know not how to
express my refusal in such a way as may convince you of its being one.”’
Pride and Prejudice, p. 91.