Page:Austen - Mansfield Park, vol. I, 1814.djvu/301

 thinks it very fit for private representation."

"I am sorry for it," was his answer—"But in this matter it is you who are to lead. You must set the example,—If others have blunder'd, it is your place to put them right, and shew them what true delicacy is.—In all points of decorum, your conduct must be law to the rest of the party."

This picture of her consequence had some effect, for no one loved better to lead than Maria;—and with far more good humour she answered, "I am much obliged to you, Edmund;—you mean very well, I am sure—but I still think you see things too strongly; and I really cannot undertake to harangue all the rest upon a subject of this kind.—There would be the greatest indecorum I think."

"Do you imagine that I could have such an idea in my head? No—let your conduct be the only harangue.—Say that on examining the part, you feel